Explanation:

Recently, some 10-20 new or rare species of migratory birds have been witnessed in the region among lakhs of migratory birds that have arrived in the wetlands and lakes of Kashmir

The valley received widespread snowfall in December and January attracting the winged guests from Europe and Central Asia who keep their date with the Himalayan region by and large every winter.

More than 3.5 lakh birds are currently present at Srinagar’s biggest wetland, Hokersar while the number will be 2.5 lakh at Hygam wetland in north Kashmir’s Baramulla.

Last winter the water level at Hokersar reduced to alarming levels owing to excavation of a flood channel drying up a large part of the wetland.

Last year the arrival of birds was affected owing to lower water level at Hokersar but this year timely intervention has been made by undertaking of necessary work on bunding and breaches which helped in retention of water.

Kashmir has some 400 water bodies, out of which the officials and avian watchers observe birds in some 25 big and notified water bodies.