Nagaland Amur Falcons arrive at Nikhekhu roosting site

Amur Falcon, known as the longest migratory bird, has begun arriving at its annual roosting site in Nikhekhu village under Niuland district. The birds can be seen roosting in rubber, teak, and tea plantations adjacent to the Atoqa Tea Factory, and are expected to remain until the end of November or early December before continuing their journey.
According to Nikhekhu Village Council, the migratory birds—traveling over 22,000 km from China and Russia to South Africa—have once again chosen the village as a safe stopover. To ensure their protection, the council has mobilised youth volunteers and guides to prevent hunting and disturbances. It is also working closely with the district administration and forest department to safeguard the birds.
The council has appealed to the Nagaland government, particularly the departments of Tourism, Forest and Environment, and PWD (R&B), to urgently address the poor condition of the 3-km stretch leading from Niuland highway to the roosting site. It stated that the deplorable road condition is hindering tourist access and affecting birding tour operations.
Further, the council urged the Tourism department to create basic amenities and infrastructure to facilitate bird watchers and eco-tourism activities. It also announced plans to organise awareness and conservation events in collaboration with various stakeholders.
Welcoming tourists and educational visits to witness the extraordinary phenomenon, the council issued a strict advisory against hunting or any violation of conservation efforts, assuring full support and cooperation to visitors.