This has been the phenomenon in case of these feathered-friends, many from Pakistan. Wagtail birds have managed to make a mockery of man-made boundaries and growing self-imposed seclusion.
Not only do they traverse miles to nest and breed in the hills of West Khasi hills they also frequent Bangladesh in the day time for their daily nourishment - so much for cross border movements!
Blue, white and grey wagtails fly from Baluchistan and also from Western Himalayas to avoid the harsh winters in the northeastern region of India.
These 'unique' birds with their graceful walk style and tails continuously wagging, settle down near Nongnah village in West Khasi hills in the state of Meghalaya every year. The villagers consider an honour sighting these birds.
They are now urging the state government to convert the area into a community reserve forest to protect the winged-guests.
"We are concerned about the birds' safety," Poly Marwin, Secretary Maharam Syiemship Development Society from the area said. The villagers want the area converted into a community reserve forest, she adds.
The state forest department is certainly listening and interested in the idea. It has sent some formalities asking the villagers to follow, which is a perquisite to convert any area into a reserve forest.
"The villagers approaching the forest department and urging to convert it into a reserve forest is a unique gesture. Less heard off," states B K Reddy, Divisional forest officer, wildlife.
Conversion of the 3.5 acres in the area into a community reserve forest would bring the wagtails under the protective Indian Wild life Act.
Community forest or the absence of it, one thing is clear; wagtails epitomize the eternal spirit of freedom, which mankind continues to strive for.
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