Winter migratory birds start arriving in West Burdwan
The Statesman | 1 December 2025
With winter setting in and temperatures dipping to around 15°C in West Burdwan district, migratory birds have begun arriving in the region’s wetlands. Wildlife experts say that although the main winter migration will commence in another two weeks, the early arrivals indicate a very promising trend.
At the water bodies of Garh Jungle in Kanksa, one of West Burdwan’s major tourist attractions, these winged visitors from afar have already gathered in substantial numbers.
Various species of migratory birds, including Siberian ducks, different species of ducks, herons, cormorants, and many others, have transformed the Garh forest area into a paradise for bird lovers. From dawn to dusk, nature enthusiasts remain enthralled by the fluttering wings, graceful flights, and the tranquil sight of birds gliding over the water. The number of tourists, wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers visiting the area is increasing every day.
Meanwhile, with the rise in both bird and tourist activity, the forest department has stepped up surveillance around the water bodies to prevent illegal hunting. In addition to imposing restrictions on entering zones beyond designated tourist areas, the use of loud noises or firecrackers has been strictly prohibited.
Kishalay Mukherjee, forest officer of the Durgapur range, said, “All necessary arrangements have been made by the forest department to ensure a safe environment for our winter guests. There will be no shortcomings in their care. We are spreading awareness among people. Forest workers are always alert.”
Every year from mid-December, people from far-off places flock to Garh Jungle to witness the migratory birds. However, according to forest department sources, the number of birds this year is significantly higher than in recent years.
Speaking to The Statesman, Saptashi Mukherjee, president of the Wildlife Information and Nature Guides Society (WINGS), Durgapur, a wildlife NGO entrusted with conducting the annual migratory bird census along with Asansol-based Wild Tuskers, said he is highly optimistic about the early trend of arrivals.
“It is still early, as the full-fledged winter migration takes place between mid-December and mid-January, but this year the initial trend has been very positive. Packs of smaller migratory birds have already started arriving in large numbers in areas adjacent to the Damodar river. There are four categories of winter migratory birds – waders (smaller birds that reside on the banks near wetlands), ducks, raptors and flycatchers. Their arrival patterns vary, with waders coming first and ducks arriving last,” he said.
Ruddy Shelducks, Greater Cormorants, Red-crested Pochards, and various species of flycatchers, including Bluethroat and Siberian Rubythroat, have already been spotted. These species have been recorded in the wetlands of Gunjan Ecological Park in Asansol, the wetlands of Durgapur, and the Damodar, he added.