Migratory Birds

Chitral, in the North West Frontier Province, is on the migratory route or flyway of several globally important bird species. About 20% of approximately one million migratory birds passing through Chitral fall prey to hunting. WWF-P initiated efforts to reduce the hunting pressure in 1992. Awareness and education efforts proved quite successful when, in addition to reduced local hunting, communities also started establishing private bird refuges. The next phase of the project will develop formal conservation guidelines for these bird refuges and build the capacity of the locals to manage them effectively. In addition, WWF-P will continue the mobilisation of communities to establish private bird refuges, facilitate the establishment of conservation associations, establish nature clubs in high pressure hunting areas and enhance environmental awareness.