MORE than 10,000 migratory birds of 34 bird species are taking shelter at the Moeyungyi Lake, the first Ramsar Site in January 2026 in Bago Region, according to the warden of the Moeyungyi Wildlife Sanctuary.
During last year’s winter season, over 3,700 migratory birds from 30 species were recorded at the sanctuary. This year, one further migratory bird species has been observed, and more than 22,000 birds of 57 migratory and resident species are currently inhabiting there. Bird species such as northern pintail, garganey, Asian openbill, red-wattled lapwing, black-winged stilt, river tern, Black-headed Ibis and American Golden-Plover can be found most. The migratory birds take shelter in Moeyungyi Lake in the last week of October, and return by the end of April and early May.
“The Moeyungyi Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the largest wetland areas in Bago Region and supports the livelihoods of nearby villages. As migratory water birds arrive annually and we cooperate with international flyway partnership organizations, it is important to ensure the long-term sustainability and ecosystem of Moeyungyi. Through cooperation among organizations, related departments, and the public, the ecosystem will become stronger and more sustainable, ensuring continuous livelihoods and the annual return of migratory water birds,” said the warden of the sanctuary.
Bird species that inhabit northern parts of the world migrate to the southern part during winter in search of sufficient food and warmer climates due to snowfall, heavy snow cover that makes food scarce, shorter daylight hours, reduced sunlight, and extreme cold. Moeyungyi provides abundant food, suitable habitats, and a safe, biodiverse ecosystem, making it a regular destination for these birds. The Moeyungyi Wildlife Sanctuary is Myanmar’s first Ramsar Site and has been internationally recognized as a Flyway Network Site by the East Asia-Australasian Flyway Partnership (EAAFP).
There are nine major migratory bird flyways. The migratory birds arrive in Myanmar through two flyways – the Central Asia Flyway and the East Asia Australasian Flyway – and take shelter at the Moeyungyi Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary also hosts 11 endangered waterbird species. — Thitsa (MNA)/KTZH
