Hunting: Migratory birds skip Salt Range

Lack of tree cover in these plain areas do not leave sufficient spots for these birds to nestle in

JEHLUM: Once considered to be a haven for migratory birds, the lakes in the Salt Range near Jhelum now bear a deserted look.

Changing climatic patterns and excessive hunting in the region have forced these migratory birds, including the critically endangered Sociable Lapwing and endangered white-headed duck, flamingoes, cranes, partridges, black partridges, Mallards and Chukor to look for new homes.

The winter season used to see thousands of these birds swarm the Jehlum Salt Range, Sohawo, Dina, and Pind Dadankhan districts.

Most of these birds become victim to hunters looking for a flock of birds to hunt.

Lack of tree cover in these plain areas, owing to climate change and lumber activity also do not leave sufficient spots for these birds to nestle in. The sight of birds, flocking together on mounds of sand, are not uncommon.

Locals though blame the forest officials for failing to curb the hunting and illegal logging of forests.

Centuries ago, during the era of Mughal Emperor Akbar, trees were planted in Jehlum and over the centuries, they grew into thick forests.

However, the forest department, responsible for looking after these trees and protecting them, have allegedly allowed their felling for personal gains. As a result, barren land can be seen where there were once thick forests.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, March 12^th, 2018.