Examiner Bureau | Srinagar:
Ahead of the seasonal arrival of migratory birds in Kashmir’s wetlands, the Jammu and Kashmir Wildlife Protection Department has advised birdwatchers, wildlife photographers and visitors against sharing exact locations, GPS coordinates or other identifiable details of bird congregations on social media.
The advisory, issued by the Office of the Range Officer, Lakes Range Hokersar, Wetlands Division, Srinagar, seeks to protect migratory birds and their sensitive habitats from potential threats arising from the public disclosure of their locations.
The department said responsible wildlife photography and social media posts can play an important role in promoting awareness about Kashmir’s rich avian diversity and the ecological significance of its wetlands. However, it cautioned that sharing precise locations of bird gatherings could make them vulnerable to poachers, hunters and others involved in illegal wildlife activities.
Kashmir’s extensive wetland network serves as an important feeding and resting ground for migratory birds during their seasonal movements, with large congregations expected during the coming weeks.
The department has urged wildlife enthusiasts and visitors to exercise caution while documenting bird sightings and sharing photographs online. Particular care, it said, should be taken to ensure that images, captions and accompanying information do not reveal the precise locations of large bird gatherings or sensitive habitats.
The advisory comes during Wildlife Week, being observed from October 2 to 8, which aims to promote awareness about wildlife conservation and the protection of natural habitats.
The department’s appeal highlights the importance of responsible wildlife tourism and photography, stressing that protecting birds also requires safeguarding the places where they feed, rest and gather during their seasonal migration.
