The skies over the Indian subcontinent have once again witnessed an extraordinary natural spectacle—the epic transoceanic migration of the Amur Falcons. These small but unbelievably resilient raptors embark on one of the longest and toughest journeys in the bird world, flying from Manipur’s forests all the way to Africa, crossing oceans, deserts, and continents without pause.
In 2025, three satellite-tagged falcons—Apapang, Alang, and Ahu—have captured global attention with their near-superhuman flights. Their journey represents courage, instinct, precision navigation, and an ancient migratory rhythm that continues to inspire conservationists and nature lovers worldwide.
The Latest Update: Where Are the Falcons Now?
🟠 Apapang (Orange Tag) — The Hero of 2025
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Distance: 6,100 km
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Duration: 6 days 8 hours
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Highlights: A single, unbroken journey across the Arabian Sea—one of the longest nonstop flights ever recorded for the species.
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Current Location: Kenya, after completing a flawless transcontinental arc.
🟡 Alang (Yellow Tag) — The Youngest With Big Grit
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Distance: 5,600 km
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Duration: 6 days 14 hours
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Halts:
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A night stop in Telangana
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A 3-hour rest in Maharashtra
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Current Location: Kenya, after rejoining the great migration wave.
🔴 Ahu (Red Tag) — Steady, Strong, and Determined
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Distance: 5,100 km
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Duration: 5 days 14 hours
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Route: A more northerly migration arc with a pause in western Bangladesh.
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Current Location: Northern Somalia, expected to continue toward Tsavo National Park (Kenya).
Together, these three falcons showcase the raw power of migration—a blend of instinct, endurance, wind patterns, and sheer willpower.
Why This Migration Matters
The Amur Falcon migration is celebrated worldwide for its:
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Extreme endurance (4,000–6,000 km nonstop flight)
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Cross-continental navigation
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Dependence on ecological balance across Asia and Africa
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Success story of conservation in Northeast India, where local communities played a huge role in protecting the species from hunting.
Their journey symbolizes resilience and the importance of protecting migratory species and flyways.
People Also Ask (PAA)
1. How far do Amur Falcons migrate?
They travel over 15,000 km annually, including a 4,000–6,000 km nonstop transoceanic flight over the Arabian Sea.
2. Where do Amur Falcons from India go?
They fly from Northeast India → Peninsular India → Arabian Sea → Somalia/Kenya → Southern Africa.
3. Why is their migration special?
It includes one of the longest nonstop sea crossings by any bird of prey and relies on perfect energy management.
4. What is the 2025 migration update?
Apapang and Alang have reached Kenya; Ahu is stationed in northern Somalia, en route to Tsavo National Park.
5. How are the birds tracked?
Researchers use lightweight satellite telemetry to record real-time flight paths.
FAQ Section
1. Who are the three tracked Amur Falcons in 2025?
Apapang, Alang, and Ahu—each fitted with satellite transmitters in Manipur.
2. Which falcon flew the longest nonstop distance?
Apapang, with a 6,100 km nonstop journey in just over six days.
3. Why do they stop in Kenya?
Kenya—especially Tsavo National Park—provides ideal feeding sites after the exhausting sea crossing.
4. What role does India play in their conservation?
Northeast Indian communities, particularly in Manipur and Nagaland, protect roosting sites, support research, and ensure the birds’ safe passage.
5. How risky is the Arabian Sea crossing?
Extremely. The falcons have no place to land for days, making weather and physical stamina crucial.
Major Official / Credible Sources for the Amur Falcon Migration
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Hindustan Times: report on the satellite-tagged Amur Falcons reaching Kenya and Somalia, quoting Dr Suresh Kumar from the Wildlife Institute of India.
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India Today: “5,000 km without a break … Two Amur Falcons complete non-stop flight to Somalia” — details from the Manipur Amur Falcon Tracking Project.
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EastMojo: “Three Amur Falcons with satellite transmitters released in Tamenglong” (Manipur Forest Division + WII)
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Mid-Day: update on Apapang, Alang, and Ahu’s journey “as part of the Manipur Amur Falcon Tracking Project”
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New Indian Express: “Amur Falcon covers 1,500 km, reaches Odisha …” after being tagged in Manipur by WII.
Conclusion
The 2025 migration of the Amur Falcons is shaping up to be one of the most inspiring wildlife events of the year. With Apapang’s heroic non-stop journey, Alang’s spirited grit, and Ahu’s steady strategic pace, these three birds are writing a remarkable chapter in the story of global bird migration.
As they continue their path across Africa, the world watches, learns, and celebrates the unmatched beauty of migration—a journey of survival, endurance, and pure instinct.
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