KARACHI: Pakistan’s wetlands, once a thriving sanctuary for millions of migratory birds escaping Siberia’s harsh winters, are experiencing a sharp decline in visitors.
Experts attribute this drop to prolonged droughts, receding water levels, and increasing habitat degradation, warning that some migratory species may not return.
Sindh, a key region on the migratory route, has seen the steepest fall. The Sindh Wildlife Department’s 2024-25 survey shows migratory bird numbers plummeted from 1.2 million in 2023 to 603,900 in 2024, and further down to 545,000 this year—a drop of over 50% within two years.
The surge in 2023 followed the devastating 2022 floods, which temporarily revived lakes and wetlands across Pakistan, providing ideal stopover sites for birds traveling some 4,500 kilometers from Siberia to India via the Indus Flyway.
“Sindh has long been a refuge for migratory birds due to its unique biodiversity and numerous lakes and lagoons,” said Mumtaz Soomro of the Sindh Wildlife Department. He noted a gradual decline since 2023, linked to drought and water shortages.
The latest survey, covering 40% of Sindh, recorded significant water shortages at key habitats including Manchar, Keenjhar, Hamal and Haleji lakes, Nareri lagoon, and the Rann of Kutch sanctuary.
Migration occurs seasonally from late August to February, with over 50 species such as gulls, mallards, plovers, cranes, and storks recorded. The highest numbers were 112,000 at Nareri lagoon and 91,000 at Rann of Kutch, both lower than historic levels.
Karachi-based ornithologist Zohaib Ahmed said human activities like habitat destruction, pollution, and illegal hunting also contribute to the decline.
“Human interference, often in the name of development, threatens these fragile wetlands,” Ahmed said. He added that illegal bird markets, particularly in Karachi and the Kirthar range, continue to operate, undermining conservation.
Some officials downplay the threat from hunting, attributing the decline mainly to climate change. However, Ahmed disputed this, asserting hunting and trapping remain prevalent in Sindh and continue to harm bird populations.
The ongoing decline raises concerns over the future of Pakistan’s wetlands and the migratory birds that depend on them.
