TEHRAN – On Wednesday, North Khorasan played host to a lively event, dedicated to bird-watching in the days in which the provincial wetlands welcomed special winged visitors.

A Garmeh county’s official in charge of tourism, speaking on Thursday, pinpointed that the one-day event, organized in celebration of National Cultural Heritage Week witnessed warm participation from birders.

Vahid Mahmoudifar noted that the vibrant tour took place in collaboration with North Khorasan’s Tour Leaders Association.

Regarding the location of the birdwatching event, the official stated that Kaftarak Dam, a haven for migratory birds, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a touch of adventure, was a selected area to conduct the tour.

“Since late March, more than 3000 migratory birds have made appearances to the region’s wetlands,” Mahmoudifar noted.

The winged visitors, he continued, comprising a diverse array of species including cranes, pelicans, ducks, geese, and flamingos have descended upon the province’s wildlife refuges.

This influx of migratory birds has been facilitated by the favorable spring rains, which have created optimal conditions, Mahmoudifar further elaborated.  Moreover, the official added that in the wake of recognizing the importance of preserving these habitats, necessary coordination has been established to ensure the continuous monitoring and protection of the wetland ecosystems by environmentalists and wildlife authorities.

Birdwatching, also known as birding, is a popular recreational activity and scientific pursuit centered around observing and identifying birds in their natural habitats. Dating back to the late 19th century, birdwatching has evolved from a casual pastime to a globally recognized hobby with dedicated enthusiasts spanning all ages and backgrounds.  Birdwatching gained widespread popularity in the mid-20th century, fueled by advances in optics and the publication of field guides that facilitated bird identification. Today, birdwatchers armed with binoculars, spotting scopes and field guides venture into diverse habitats ranging from forests and wetlands to urban parks in search of avian species.  Birdwatching offers a multitude of benefits beyond mere enjoyment. It promotes outdoor recreation, fosters a deeper connection with nature, and provides valuable data for scientific research and conservation efforts.

Bird counts and migration monitoring rely on the contributions of birdwatchers to track population trends and assess the health of bird populations worldwide.  Whether it's for leisure, education, or conservation, birdwatching continues to captivate and inspire people around the world, making it a timeless and rewarding pursuit.

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