Amritsar, 27 January: Migratory bird sightings at Harike Pattan have hit a new low this season as changing climatic conditions and habitat degradation continue to impact one of India’s largest man-made wetlands.
Data compiled by researchers indicates a steady downward trend in the number of avian visitors traveling from Siberia, Central Asia, and Europe to the confluence of the Beas and Sutlej rivers.
The annual count has plummeted from nearly 74,869 birds in 2022 to approximately 45,000 this year. This decline coincides with a consistent rise in mean January temperatures and poor air quality across the region.
Experts have noted that the average air quality index has remained in the unhealthy category for several years, creating a challenging environment for the winged visitors that typically seek refuge in Punjab’s wetlands.
Dr. Astha, an agriculture scientist and dedicated bird-watcher, has been monitoring the shifts in the local ecosystem. She noted that the shrinking cold spells have fundamentally altered traditional migration cycles.
“The once vibrant sanctuary is gradually losing both the number and diversity of its winged visitors,” Dr. Astha said. “Global climatic shifts have reduced the need for long-distance migration, as milder winters in breeding regions allow birds to remain closer to their native habitats.”
The scientist further said that the local environment is facing significant pressure from invasive species and industrial runoff. Water hyacinth has reached alarming levels at the river confluence, while pollution in the Sutlej river—heavy with agricultural and industrial waste—has depleted the fish population.
This reduction in food sources, combined with human disturbances like illegal fishing and poaching, has made Harike a less attractive wintering ground.
“Persistent human disturbances have discouraged birds from settling at the sanctuary,” Dr. Astha mentioned. “The delayed onset of winter means birds that once arrived by October are now reaching Harike as late as December and departing early.”
Environmentalists suggest that the decreasing bird population serves as a biological indicator of a deeper ecological imbalance. The current data shows that rising minimum temperatures in northern breeding grounds are reducing the cold stress that usually drives birds south. In Punjab, stagnant winter air and smog from crop residue burning further complicate navigation and health for the species that do make the journey.
