Srinagar, Feb. 9 -- Hygam Wetland in north Kashmir has once again become a haven for migratory birds, with around 3 lakh avian visitors from more than 25 species flocking the area this winter, even as the anti-poaching squad is on high alert, officials said.

Wetland serves as a seasonal home to thousands of migratory birds including White Heeled Duck, Shoveller, Red-Crested Pochard, White-Eyed Pochard, Pintail, Mallard, Gadwall, Coot, and Graylag. It spans over 7.25 kilometres has around 1,400 hectares of land and is designed Ramsar site.

The officer concerned with Hygam Wetland, said, "During peak winter, when the water tends to freeze, the movement of birds helps keep some pathways open. However, we intervene where necessary to ensure...