SILIGURI, Nov. 13. - There has been a sharp drop in
the number of migratory birds arriving in North Bengal's lakes and
waterbodies, thanks to the efforts of pisciculturists to drive them
away in an effort to save fish.
Though ornithologists say that the gradual
decline in the number of migratory birds is a global phenomenon,
a recent survey shows that birds have been threatened by the increased
use of pesticides and fertilisers in agricultural lands and tea
gardens. According to a survey undertaken by the Salim Ali Centre
for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), migratory birds in
North Bengal are in danger of being constantly exposed to chemical
fertilisers and pesticides used in tea gardens.
The excessive use of chemical pesticides in agricultural lands
had claimed the lives of a large number of migratory birds and peacocks
in Rajasthan a couple of years ago when the state was experiencing
its fifth consecutive drought. The SACON survey, which was carried
out in 258 wetlands in the country, shows that birds in North Bengal
are threatened by the increased use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers.
Out of 258 wetlands, 21 are in North Bengal, covering more than
3,500 hectares. These are regularly visited by more than 200 species
of migratory birds, said an ornithologist based in North Bengal.
SACON director Mr VS Vijayan said that the decline in the bird population
of the region was a clear indication of alarming ecological changes.
If this problem was not addressed immediately, the bird population
in the entire North-east region would gradually go down, he said.
Indian Bird Conservation Network (IBCN) sources said that the
survival of migratory as well as other birds was under threat. According
to IBCN official and ornithologist Mr M Kulshrestha, a sharp reduction
in the number of local and migratory birds was a threat to the region's
bio-diversity.
The report said there has been a 50 per cent reduction in the
population of Pintail in the past few years in Rasikbill, one of
the largest wetlands in Cooch Behar. Mr Animesh Bose, a member of
the survey committee, expressed concern over the steep decline in
the number of migratory birds which regularly visit the Jalpaiguri
wetlands. Such birds include the Adjutant Stork, the Osprey and
the Greater Spotted Eagle.
IBCN sources said that the Common Woodshirik, the White-bellied
Drango, the Indian Tripai, the Blossom-headed Parakeet, the Crophesent,
the Nightjar, the Green Pheasant, the Woodpecker, the Coloured Scopsowl,
the Sikra and the Copper Smith were some of the rare birds which
had already become fewer in number in the region.
Mr R Sood, an amateur bird-watcher, said the decline in the population
of birds in North Bengal, particularly in Jalpaiguri, was a severe
threat to the region's bio-diversity. He felt a nationwide initiative
should be immediately taken to counter this threat. Some ornithologists
suggest that the government should step in to stop unauthorised
pesticides from being sold.
Courtesy
The Statesman |
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