JALUKIE, NOVEMBER 24 (MExN): The 1st Amur Falcon Bird Festival was successfully organized by the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) in collaboration with Zycus Infotech and St. Xavier College, Jalukie, at the college campus on November 23.
The event aimed to raise awareness about the conservation of the Amur Falcon, a migratory bird species that roosts in large numbers at the college campus every year. Dr Francis S. Cheerangel, in his welcome address, emphasized the importance of community involvement in protecting the Amur Falcon and its habitat.
The festival featured a vibrant cultural dance performance by St Xavier College students, followed by a beautiful song by students from the Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry Department of Jalukie.
H. Sulanthung Humtsoe, Education Officer of BNHS Nagaland, delivered a short speech on the ongoing conservation efforts for the Amur Falcon. He highlighted the species’ status in Nagaland and called for continued support from government agencies and local organizations to ensure the long-term survival of the bird. He also stressed the importance of community ownership and engagement in conservation efforts.
Kenlumtatei, Range In-charge of the Forest Department in Jalukie Town, appreciated the community's past efforts in bird conservation. He emphasized the economic value of protecting birds and urged stakeholders to continue their efforts in safeguarding wildlife, not just Amur Falcons, but all species in the region.
Further speeches on the threats of hunting and the need for conservation were delivered by representatives from the Jalukie Town Municipal Council and the Zeliangrong Youth Organization.
The event continued at the Xavierite Botanical Garden with a range of interactive and educational activities, including hands-on workshop on bird conservation by BNHS-Zycus Infotech; waste disposal workshop conducted by the Nagaland Forest Management (DMU-Peren) and FNGO C-CERP, painting competition; bird watching activities and arious educational displays and exhibitions.
The festival attracted a diverse audience, including students from local schools and colleges, representatives from NGOs, the Forest Department, community leaders, and bird enthusiasts. The event not only celebrated the Amur Falcon but also emphasized the importance of ongoing conservation efforts to protect this migratory species and other wildlife in the region.
