Context: Recently, the Tamenglong district administration in Manipur imposed an immediate ban on hunting, catching, killing, and selling Amur falcons (Falco amurensis) in preparation for their arrival.

About Amur Falcons

• They are small and agile birds (raptors) locally known as ‘Kahuaipuina’ in Manipur and ‘Molulem’ in Nagaland (Amur Falcon capital of the world). 

• Their distinctive features include dark plumage, white wing linings, and reddish-orange eyes and feet. 

• Migration: They migrate from Northern China, Eastern Mongolia, and Far East Russia to South Africa, covering a distance of approximately 22,000 kilometres and passing through India. 

• Feeding: They are insectivorous but may also consume small vertebrates. 

• Threat:  They face threats from habitat loss, hunting, and illegal trapping. 

• Conservation Program: 

• In 2016, Manipur tagged Amur falcons with radio transmitters to monitor their migration routes. 

• An annual ‘Amur Falcon Festival’ is held in Tamenglong district to raise awareness and celebrate these birds. 

• Legal Protection: 

• IUCN Red List- Least Concern 

• Convention on Migratory Species (CMS): Appendix II 

• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule IV