LAHORE: Punjab wildlife and parks department has urged people to act responsibly to protect habitats of wild animals, especially of the migratory birds annually visiting the wetlands in the province from September to April, warning them against indulging in activities causing pollution or disturbing these visitors during their stay here.

In a public awareness messagefor World Migratory Bird Day, which falls on Oct 10 (today), the department highlights the ecological importance and role of migratory birds, noting that they play a crucial part in balancing insect populations, dispersing seeds,and supporting plant growth.

As all waterfowl and desert birds are a guarantee of biodiversity and a healthy environment, they should be protected at all costs, it says.

The department urges people to keep their habitats, including water reservoirs, wetlands, lakes, rivers, streams and natural forests free from all kinds of pollution, and wherever these migratory birds roost, let them live in complete peace.

It warns against using firearms in these areas so that these birds are not frightened, and also against hunting, trapping and indiscriminate fishing, so that they can feed and carry out other activities with complete ease.

Due to its geographically important wetlands, Punjab is highly attractive for migratory birds – waterfowl and desert birds -- that visit every year at the beginning of winter, in September-October, after a long journey from the North-Central Asia and after staying for five to six months, return to their breeding grounds by March-April.

The migratory waterfowl that come here include various species of ducks, cranes, grebes, geese, pelicans and flamingos, besides desert and wild birds, including falcons, sand grouse, starlings, quails and houbara bustards etc.

Published in Dawn, October 10th, 2026