Climate Change Threatens Pakistan’s Migratory Bird Sanctuaries

Pakistan’s wetlands, critical stopovers for migratory birds along the Indus Flyway, are facing a severe decline in avian visitors due to climate shifts and habitat degradation, Anadolu Agency reported.

Data from the Sindh Wildlife Department reveals a 50% drop in bird numbers since 2023, with only 545,000 recorded in 2025 compared to 1.2 million two years ago. Key habitats like Manchar Lake and the Rann of Kutch sanctuary are drying up amid prolonged droughts and receding water levels.

While the 2022 floods temporarily revitalized wetlands, subsequent heatwaves and erratic monsoons have exacerbated water shortages. Experts warn that human activities—illegal hunting, pollution, and unchecked development—further endanger these ecosystems. Ornithologist Zohaib Ahmed highlights persistent poaching in Sindh, contradicting official claims of improved enforcement.

Punjab reports similar declines, linking the trend to climate-induced seasonal disruptions. Pakistan, among the top 10 climate-vulnerable nations, risks losing its status as a migratory hub if environmental neglect continues. Conservationists urge urgent action to preserve these biodiverse sanctuaries.