Rayagada: Residents of Bhaleri village under Gunupur block in Rayagada district are in a sigh of bliss with the arrival of thousands of winged guests flocking along the Bansadhara river bank and nearby wetlands.
Tourists have started visiting the village in large numbers with the arrival of migratory birds.
“The arrival of feathered guests begins during the beginning of the monsoon. During their stay in the area, these birds lay eggs on the trees until the onset of winter and nurture the hatchlings till they are able to fly,” said a local resident of the village.
“As we are keeping a close watch on the birds to save them from poachers, their numbers substantially goes up every year”, he said adding that these birds have been congregating in the village since last 10 years.
“The number of these migratory birds would further increase if the state government declares the area as a bird sanctuary.
“About 15,000 cranes have arrived at Bhaleri village this year. Discussion with the villagers is underway for the safety and protection of these birds”, said a forest official.