Day 10 of the "virtual (digital) tour" of places known for unusual customs, practices, mysterious phenomena. This post is part of the A to Z Challenge and Blogchatter A2Z 2026
This typically occurs on moonless nights, between the months of September and November.
While local legends originally attributed these deaths to demonic spirits or supernatural forces, scientists say the birds are not consciously choosing death. Instead, they become disoriented and confused, which leads to fatal outcomes.
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| Image courtesy: Kaziranga National Park |
Jatinga is situated in a unique valley that experiences dense fog, strong winds, and low cloud cover, all of which interfere with the birds’ navigation systems. The surrounding hills and narrow valley often funnel winds and birds into a confined space, worsening the effect.
These confused birds are attracted to the artificial lights and lanterns of the villages. As they fly towards the light, they often collide with bamboo poles, trees, and buildings, leading to their death.
Apparently, this unique phenomenon has reportedly been observed for several decades, with local tribal communities being aware of it long before it caught wider attention.
Efforts such as reducing artificial lighting, launching awareness campaigns among locals, and interventions by the forest department and conservation groups have helped a lot.
Many birds are now rescued and released. While the problem has not been fully solved, the phenomenon is now far better understood than before.
(Information sources: The Times of India, Assam Government, Curly Tales, Wikipedia)
Previous posts in the series
I am glad that you are focusing on the North East in your posts. The North East is an ignored treasure trove. It is enchanting and mysterious.
ReplyDeleteThere is always a logical explanation, even if it hasn't been discovered.
ReplyDeleteHari OM
ReplyDeleteJinxed? Glad to know that there is some Juggling going on to ease the trouble. A serious matter and deserving of attention, thanks once again for bringing ours to it. YAM xx
Jarring, this Jatinga Jinx!
ReplyDeleteThose poor birds. I'm glad things are improving for them.
ReplyDeleteHow terrible. Glad that they're starting to figure out the issue so they can do something about it.
ReplyDeleteThose poor birds at least they are starting to improve things for them
ReplyDeleteAs if they didn't have enough to contend with already. I'm glad the humans are trying to help them.
ReplyDeleteInteresting that the history of this phenomenon goes back a long way...
ReplyDeleteGeography is a strangely powerful force. That
ReplyDeleteHey, I wasn't done typing my comment. Heh... I wanted to add that the geography surrounding certain airports around the world play a factor in many accidents.
DeleteI need to stop resting my wrists on my keyboard. lol
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