Ruddy Shelduck: Europe's Golden Guest Arrives at Asan Barrage, Symbol of Love and Loyalty

• The Ruddy Shelduck, a golden-red bird, migrates thousands of miles from Central Asia, China, and Nepal to Asan Barrage, Uttarakhand, every October-November.
• Known as a symbol of love and loyalty, these birds choose one partner for life and are mentioned in Indian mythology, Puranas, and even the Rigveda.
• Folklore suggests the Ruddy Shelduck is blessed by Kubera, with its feathers believed to bring prosperity and remove poverty.
• The bird's unwavering bond is why couples place its image in bedrooms for marital harmony; Kabir Das also depicted its separation in his couplets.
• Found in North-West Africa, Ethiopia, and South-East Europe, they migrate to wetlands like Asan Barrage in Dehradun during winter for food and shelter, returning by March.

Why It Matters: The Ruddy Shelduck's annual migration to Asan Barrage symbolizes love, loyalty, and a rich cultural-ecological heritage.