Migratory birds face growing threats in Pakistan: WWF

Habitat loss, pollution and illegal hunting endanger species along Indus Flyway

KARACHI:

Migratory birds arriving in Pakistan from some of the world's coldest regions are facing mounting pressure due to shrinking temporary habitats, pollution, climate change and illegal hunting, WWF-Pakistan has warned.

The organisation marked World Migratory Bird Day under this year's theme, "Every Bird Matters, Your Observations Matter," emphasising the importance of citizen science and public participation in the conservation of migratory species.

In a statement, WWF-Pakistan said the day aims to encourage people from all walks of life to contribute to bird observation and monitoring efforts, which can help strengthen scientific understanding and conservation measures for migratory birds.

Highlighting Pakistan's significance along the Indus Flyway, the organisation stated that the country's wetlands, rivers and coastal habitats serve as vital stopover points for millions of birds travelling thousands of kilometres between Siberia, Central Asia, Europe and South Asia.

However, it said that habitat degradation, pollution, climate change and illegal hunting are exerting serious pressure on migratory bird populations and threatening the fragile ecosystems they rely on.

Every year, species including ducks, geese, cranes, bustards, raptors and shorebirds migrate to Pakistan from colder regions. These birds play a key role in maintaining ecological balance, indicating environmental health and supporting biodiversity as well as human livelihoods.

WWF-Pakistan warned that shrinking wetlands and growing environmental degradation are making migration increasingly difficult across the region, stressing that urgent protection of wetlands and natural habitats is essential to ensure safe passage and survival of migratory species.

WWF-Pakistan Senior Manager Jamshed Iqbal said Pakistan is an important global corridor for migratory birds, but declining habitats and illegal hunting continue to pose serious threats. He called for collective action by government institutions, conservation organisations, educational bodies, local communities and citizens to protect migratory birds.