Amur Falcon

Each autumn, the skies above Nagaland darken with an avian spectacle unlike any other. Millions of Amur Falcons, making one of the longest migratory journeys of any raptor, descend upon the state, particularly around the Doyang Reservoir. This remarkable natural phenomenon transforms the region into a crucial stopover point for these small, agile birds as they travel from their breeding grounds in Siberia and Northern China to their wintering habitat in Southern Africa.

History & Context

For centuries, the arrival of the Amur Falcons was a seasonal event known to local communities. However, in the early 2010s, this annual migration gained international attention due to the scale of the birds' presence and the tragic hunting practices prevalent at the time. Conservationists, aided by local communities, documented the mass trapping and killing of the falcons for consumption and sale. This revelation brought global conservation efforts to Nagaland. A concerted campaign by the Nagaland Forest Department, conservation organizations like the Wildlife Protection Society of India (WPSI) and BirdLife International, and active participation from the local Lotha Naga community, transformed the narrative. What was once a 'killing field' became a model for community-led conservation, earning Nagaland the moniker 'Falcon Capital of the World'. The turnaround saw the enactment of strict prohibitions against hunting and the establishment of robust monitoring and awareness programs, fundamentally altering the falcons' fate in the region.

What Makes It Distinctive

The sheer numbers are what truly set the Amur Falcon stopover in Nagaland apart. Doyang Reservoir, specifically, hosts one of the largest congregation sites for any raptor species globally. Estimates have run into millions of individuals roosting concurrently, a truly breathtaking sight at dusk as they come in to roost and at dawn as they disperse to feed. The falcons are insectivorous, primarily feeding on termites and other insects abundant in the post-monsoon period. Their nocturnal migration over the Arabian Sea necessitates significant fat reserves, making the rich insect life of Nagaland a vital refueling station. This extraordinary dependency makes the continued protection of their stopover habitat critically important. Unlike many raptors, Amur Falcons undertake the bulk of their migration over water, making this terrestrial stop a unique and vital element of their survival strategy.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to witness the migration is typically from late October to mid-November. The falcons usually start arriving in late October, peak in early to mid-November, and begin their departure by late November or early December. Weather during this period is generally pleasant, with cooler temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for birdwatching and outdoor activities. Mornings and evenings are cool, requiring light layers, while daytime temperatures are mild.

How to Reach

To reach the Doyang Reservoir area in Nagaland:

• Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport (DMU) is the closest commercial airport, approximately 120-130 km from Wokha (the district headquarters near Doyang). The drive from Dimapur to Wokha takes about 4-5 hours.
• Nearest Railhead: Dimapur Railway Station is the main railhead in Nagaland, with connections to major Indian cities. From Dimapur, hire a taxi or take a shared sumo to Wokha.
• Road: Wokha is well-connected by road from Dimapur. The NH2 passes near the Doyang Reservoir. From Guwahati, Assam, it's roughly a 300 km drive, taking 8-10 hours depending on road conditions.

Permits & Entry

Indian citizens require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Nagaland. This can be obtained online from the Nagaland State Government website or in person from Nagaland Houses in Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, or Dimapur. Foreign nationals do not require an ILP but must register with the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) upon arrival. There is no specific entry fee for viewing the falcons around Doyang Reservoir, but local guides are highly recommended and often necessary for access to prime viewing spots and for community engagement. Information on guides and local arrangements can be made through the Forest Department or guesthouses in the area. Information is not officially published or may change. Visitors are advised to confirm locally before travelling.

Nearby Attractions

• Wokha Town: The district headquarters, offering a glimpse into Lotha Naga culture and daily life.
• Mount Tiyi: A revered peak in Lotha folklore, offering trekking opportunities and panoramic views.
• Mount Saramati: Though further afield (near the Myanmar border), it is Nagaland's highest peak and offers challenging treks for serious adventurers.
• Longkhum Village: Known as the 'Sentinel of the Aos', this Ao Naga village is rich in traditional culture and offers views of the surrounding hills.
• Khonoma Village: India's first green village, a two-hour drive from Kohima, showcasing community-led conservation unique to the Angami Naga.

Traveller Tips

1. ILP is mandatory for Indians: Ensure you have your Inner Line Permit well in advance, especially if applying offline.
2. Connectivity: Mobile network coverage (Jio, Airtel) exists but can be patchy around Doyang. Be prepared for limited internet access.
3. Accommodation: Options are basic but clean, consisting primarily of guesthouses and homestays in Wokha and nearby villages. Book in advance during peak migration season.
4. Local Guides: Engaging local guides is crucial for an enriching and responsible experience, as they understand the falcons' patterns and local customs.
5. Photography Ethics: Use long lenses and avoid disturbing the birds, especially during roosting. Flash photography is strictly discouraged.
6. Dress Code: Respect local customs; modest attire is appreciated, particularly when visiting villages. Carry warm clothing for cool mornings and evenings.
7. Cash: ATMs are available in Wokha, but carrying sufficient cash for smaller expenses and local purchases is advisable, as digital payments may not always be accepted.