A vibrant grassland along the banks of the Dikrong River in the Lakhimpur district of Assam is ready to host winter migrants — including some very rare bunting species. 

• Located at Pokadol, about 7 km from Bihpuria on the river’s downstream course, this site has gained attention for its avian diversity.
• The grassland attracts several migratory birds during winter. 
• Among the notable bunting species recorded are the Yellow‑breasted Bunting (Emberiza aureola), the Chestnut‑eared Bunting, the Black‑faced Bunting and the Little Bunting. 
• Yellow-breasted Bunting– IUCN Red List-Critically Endangered 
  • Its presence here (a migration route from far-off regions such as Scandinavia to the eastern Himalayas) is highly significant. 
• In addition, the grassland hosts other IUCN-listed species such as the Swamp Francolin (Ortygornis gularis), the Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) and the Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus). 
• Threats to the Grassland: Dry-vegetation burning by poachers, bird-hunting, and ongoing bank-erosion by the river are undermining the habitat. 
• Due to local community intervention, especially by a horticulturist protecting the site and volunteer vigilance, these threats have been notably reduced. 
• The grassland’s emergence as a bird-watching destination underscores its conservation importance and offers opportunities for eco-tourism, community-based monitoring and habitat management.

Prelims Question

Which one of the following bird species migrates to the Brahmaputra floodplain grasslands in winter and is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List?
A. Chestnut-eared Bunting
B. Yellow-breasted Bunting
C. Little Bunting
D. Black-faced Bunting

Answer: B. 

One-line wrap:
The Dikrong grassland in Assam is transforming from a local habitat into a vital winter stronghold for rare migratory buntings and grassland birds, demanding urgent habitat protection and community-based conservation.

https://epaper.assamtribune.com/full-page-pdf/epaper/pdf/2025/10/29/the-assam-tribune/7238