Assam GK Topic

Why Do Birds Commit Suicide In Assam Jatinga?

The phenomenon of birds "committing suicide" in Jatinga, a small village in Dima Hasao district of Assam, has puzzled locals and scientists for decades. Every year, especially during September to November, several bird species become disoriented and fly towards artificial village lights at night, leading to fatal collisions or becoming easy prey for villagers.

Use this topic to revise for APSC, SSC, and other competitive exams.

Detailed Notes

This strange behavior is caused mainly by environmental and atmospheric conditions — such as fog, high-altitude wind patterns, and low visibility — which confuse the birds during their migration. Contrary to the myth of "suicide," it is actually a natural disorientation triggered by lights and weather conditions. Jatinga remains one of the world’s most mysterious bird behavior hotspots, attracting ornithologists, tourists, and researchers from around the globe.