The Amur falcon migrates from Europe and Asia to southern Africa and is famous for gathering in huge flocks in India.
This small falcon breeds in northeastern Asia, especially around southeastern Siberia and northern China. Before moving south, it passes through the Indian subcontinent, where enormous concentrations have been recorded around Nagaland and other northeastern Indian regions.
After crossing the Arabian Sea, the birds reach eastern and southern Africa. Their route is remarkable because it combines a long overwater crossing with a journey of many thousands of kilometres. They feed heavily on insects, particularly during migration, helping them build energy for the trip.
The species was once threatened by mass trapping in northeastern India. Conservation campaigns and local protection greatly reduced that pressure, turning the Amur falcon into a prominent conservation success story.