North India Statesman
News India Live, Digital Desk: As soon as the pink cold of December begins, a different glow has spread in Champaran, Bihar. If you pass by the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) these days, you will hear not only the roar of the tigers but also the melodious echoes of foreign guests coming from thousands of miles away in the sky.
Yes, thousands of birds from the snowy regions of Siberia and Russia have reached Bihar, risking their lives. This is not just a flight, but a struggle to survive which even a human being gets astonished by.
A journey of 20,000 kilometers… no joke!
Imagine, a small bird covers a distance of 20 thousand kilometers without any map or navigation. When temperatures in Russia and Siberia drop several degrees below zero and rivers freeze, these birds migrate to India in search of the warmth of the sun. There is so much life in their wings and so much flight in their courage that they cross high mountains like the Himalayas and land directly in the reservoirs and wetlands of Valmiki Tiger Reserve.
Why did VTR become their destination?
The forests of Valmiki Nagar and the water sources present there are no less than a ‘luxury resort’ for these birds. The peace present in the climate here and the abundance of food attracts them. These include many rare species of birds like pintail, common teal and brahminy duck. It is reassuring to see that while humans are divided across borders, these birds reach Bihar every year with the message of friendship.
Apple of eyes for tourists
Due to the arrival of these guest birds, the number of tourists in VTR has suddenly increased. Wildlife lovers and photographers are arriving early in the morning with cameras to capture the antics of these aquatic birds. When they form a group and dive together in the calm waters of the lake, the sight is such that you will not be able to forget it for the rest of your life.
A little carelessness can prove costly
Even though these birds have come here as guests, the responsibility of the forest department and the local people has increased. Loud noises or dirt may scare away these foreign guests. It is the duty of all of us to protect these precious gifts of nature so that every year these little angels can land on the soil of Bihar without any fear.
If you also want to spend some moments in nature and peace, then visit VTR this winter season and welcome these ‘International Travellers’.
