Rare bird spotted in Manipur for the first time

Imphal: Birdwatchers in Manipur were excited to discover the white-cheeked starling (Spodiopsar cineraceus) for the very first time in the state.

This migratory songbird, native to eastern Asia, was spotted by wildlife enthusiasts and members of Wildlife Explorer Manipur at the Lamphelpat wetland near Imphal.

The sighting of this bird species, new to Manipur, comes as the state government embarks on a major project to modernize the Lamphelpat Water Body with funding from the New Development Bank.

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This four-year project, valued at Rs 1,255 crore, aims to revitalize the wetland ecosystem.

Identified by Dr Raju, a former Director of the Bombay Natural History Society, the white-cheeked starling is known to winter in Japan, South Korea, southeastern China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

During summer months, these birds migrate to breeding grounds in Myanmar, Thailand, the Philippines, and now, it seems, Manipur.

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The white-cheeked starling typically breeds between March and July, laying two clutches of eggs during this period.

Their nests are built in cavities of trees, buildings, or artificial nest boxes. The incubation period lasts for 14-15 days, with chicks fledging after another 13-15 days.

These medium-sized birds reach about 24 cm in length. Adult males display dark grey-brown plumage with a lighter belly and a white band on the rump. Their heads are black with contrasting white cheeks and foreheads.

Additionally, they have a white border on their tails and white markings on their secondary wing feathers.

Ornithological reports describe their legs as pale orange and their bills as orange with black tips. Females share similar markings but appear duller and paler overall.