Thousands of birds from Siberia flock to Pakistan’s wetlands, bringing color and life to the winter season
As the freezing Siberian winds sweep across northern Asia, thousands of migratory birds have begun arriving in Pakistan’s southern and coastal regions, seeking warmth and food during the long winter months.
Wildlife experts confirm that large flocks have been spotted across Karachi’s mangrove forests, Haleji Lake, Keenjhar Lake, and other wetlands in Sindh and Balochistan. The annual migration brings dozens of species including flamingos, cranes, pintail ducks, pelicans, and seagulls.
Officials from the Sindh Wildlife Department say the migration marks the start of a natural cycle that continues until March, when the birds return north as temperatures rise. This year’s early arrivals coincided with the post-cyclone weather effects of Cyclone Shakhti, creating spectacular scenes in Karachi’s skies where migratory flocks glide over cloudy horizons.
Environmentalists highlight that these birds play a vital ecological role, helping control pests and balancing aquatic ecosystems. However, they also warn that wetland pollution, urban expansion, and mangrove loss threaten safe habitats for many species.
