A Berry Special Haven: How a Humble Plant is Bringing Birds Back to Kuppa Dam

The serene waters of Kuppa Dam in the Sangla Valley are now alive with a winter symphony of wings and song. This season, the area has become a bustling paradise for migratory birds, thanks in large part to a native tree and the forward-thinking efforts of local wildlife guardians.

The key to this avian influx is the Malus Baccata, known locally as Gondli. This hardy tree produces clusters of bright berries that have become a vital, cold-weather feast for traveling birds. Recognizing this natural buffet, the local Wildlife Team, led by Deputy Range Officer Shri Santosh Thakur, took action.

After studying the birds’ feeding habits, the team began cultivating Gondli seedlings in their nursery. The goal is twofold: to consciously attract more migratory birds to the dam’s habitat and to share this natural wonder with visitors, boosting sustainable tourism in the beautiful Sangla Valley.

The plan is already bearing fruit. Among the feathered visitors now gracing the area are:

· The Red-throated Thrush, with its distinctive rusty breast
· The clever Yellow-billed Chough, soaring on mountain currents
· The striking White-collared Blackbird, a crisp contrast of dark feathers and a bright white bib

This initiative shows how understanding and nurturing a single link in the ecosystem—a berry-bearing tree—can revive a whole community of life. For birdwatchers and nature lovers, Kuppa Dam is fast becoming a must-visit winter destination.