The bimaculate duck, a rare species found in Eastern Russia and East Asia, was recently spotted on the outskirts of Manipur's capital Imphal, captured by a team conducting the first Amur falcon census in Manipur.
Bimaculate duck, or Baikal Teal (Sibirionetta formosa), is a rare bird that breeds in Eastern Russia and spends the winters in East Asia. During this winter migratory bird season, the duck has been observed this winter on the outskirts of Imphal, the capital of Manipur, after 109 years at the Lamphelpat wetland. The lone species of this duck, called as "Surit-man" in Manipuri (Meiteilon), was photographed by the team that just carried out the first Amur falcon census in Manipur.
"The Bombay Natural History Society subsequently recognized the two shooting records of this species in the state, which date back to 16 March 1913 and 28 November 1915, respectively, by JC Higgins. WEM secretary E Premjit, who is also a member of the Indian Bird Conservation Network (IBCN), stated, "This sighting is significant and remarkable as there have been no other records from the state since then."
According to state coordinator RK Birjit of IBCN Manipur, the Baikal Teal has crossed the Asian flyway to reach the Lamphelpat wetland, which is outside of its migratory range. They may stay in these places temporarily. He explained, "That is the reason the species is rarely seen here."
Considering how rare sightings of the Baikal Teal duck are in the state, this sighting is noteworthy. The observation of the duck highlights how crucial it is to protect migrating birds' natural habitats. A prime example of the value of protecting migratory bird habitats is the Lamphelpat marsh, where the sighting of the Baikal Teal duck confirms its relevance.
Are there any other rare species found in Manipur?
Manipur, renowned for its rich biodiversity, is home to numerous rare and endangered species of plants and animals, including the state animal Sangai, Himalayan Yellow Throated Marten, Monitor Lizards, Hog Deer, Hog Badger, Binturong, and Slow Loris.
Yes, Manipur is known for its great biodiversity and is home to various rare and endangered species of flora and animals. There are more than 3,000 plant species in the state. The Sangai, or brow-antlered deer, is the state animal of Manipur and may be seen in the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park in the world.Manipur boasts a varied wildlife, with more than 500 species identified. Other uncommon and threatened animal species that can be found in Manipur are the Pangolin, Himalayan Yellow Throated Marten, Monitor Lizards, Hog Deer, Hog Badger, Binturong.,
The rich animals and flora of Manipur are invaluable assets that need to be protected. Among its various efforts to conserve the environment, the state government has created protected areas and implemented wildlife rules.
How many species of ducks are there in Manipur?
There are four species of ducks that have been observed in Manipur, according to the eBird database. Among them are:
- Lesser Whistling-Duck
- Gadwall
- Green-winged Teal
- Red-crested Pochard
Remember that not every species of duck found in Manipur may be included in the eBird database, which is not all-inclusive. Nevertheless, it can serve as a useful jumping off point for more study and is a trustworthy source of information about bird sightings.
What is the White-winged Duck?
The White-winged Duck, a large species native to South East Asia, is one of the world's most endangered birds, known as 'Deo Hans' or spirit duck in Assamese due to its ghostly call.
 |
| At Sylvan Heights Waterfowl Park, North Carolina, United States |
The duck known as the White-winged Large species of ducks native to South East Asia are called wood ducks (Asarcornis scutulata). The duck has a black body and a white head with several black spots. Its eyes are either red or orange, and it has noticeable white spots on its wings. Being one of the largest kinds of duck, the White-winged Duck is also one of the most endangered birds in the world. Its spectral call has earned it the Assamese name "Deo Hans," or spirit duck.
