STUDY ON MIGRATION OF BIRDS (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: Bird species in northeastern India have started shifting to higher elevations due to increasing temperatures owing to deforestation, a new study showed.

Highlights of Report

• Tropical Montane Forests: Ranging from 150-200 m to 3,500 m in altitude, are distinct ecosystems with a high level of biodiversity.

oEach species in tropical mountains occupies a specific niche, contributing to increased diversity within a confined space.

• Threats to Tropical Montane Forests: Forest loss and climate change pose significant threats to these ecosystems, impacting temperature-sensitive flora, fauna, and biodiversity concentration.

oDespite their ecological importance, there is limited research on the combined effects of forest loss and climate change on tropical montane forests.

• Impact of Temperature on Bird Species: Rising temperatures have led many bird species to migrate to higher elevations, with logged forests experiencing faster transitions due to higher temperatures and lower humidity.
• Study Area: The study focused on the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh, part of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot, known for its diverse bird species.
• Importance of Community Support in Research: Conducting studies in remote wildlife sanctuaries like Eaglenest requires essential support from local communities.

oThe challenging conditions, including lack of infrastructure and amenities, highlight the necessity of community cooperation for successful and sustained research efforts.