Question

Read the following text:

(1)	Every year, countless flocks of birds take to the skies in one of nature’s most remarkable spectacles - migration. This incredible phenomenon involves the regular, long-distance movement of birds between their breeding and wintering grounds. Some species fly only a few hundred kilometers, while others travel across continents and oceans, covering tens of thousands of kilometers each year.
(2)	Migration is primarily driven by changes in seasons. When food becomes scarce during harsh winters, birds travel to warmer regions where they can find abundant insects, seeds, or fish. The Siberian crane, for instance, travels thousands of kilometers from the cold wetlands of Siberia to India’s warmer lakes such as Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur and Chilika Lake in Odisha. The Bar-headed goose, another amazing traveler, is known to fly over the towering Himalayas at heights where oxygen levels are dangerously low - a feat that astonishes even scientists.
(3)	How these small creatures navigate such long distances remains a fascinating mystery. Studies suggest that migratory birds use multiple cues: the position of the sun by day, the stars at night, and even the Earth’s magnetic field. Some, like homing pigeons, possess a memory-based instinct that helps them return to the same spot year after year with stunning accuracy.
(4)	Unfortunately, migration today is becoming more dificult. Expanding cities, pollution, and deforestation have destroyed vital wetlands and resting areas. Climate change has disrupted the timing of migration, confusing birds about when to travel or breed. Many species arrive too early or too late, missing the right conditions for nesting or feeding.
(5)	Conservationists worldwide are working to protect these travellers. International cooperation is essential since migratory routes cross national borders. Protected wetland sites, bird sanctuaries, and awareness programs encourage people to appreciate and safeguard these winged wanderers.
(6)	Migratory birds are not just symbols of endurance and freedom; they are vital to nature’s balance. They help in pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control. The survival of these birds is linked to the survival of ecosystems everywhere. Watching them reminds humanity of a powerful truth - the planet is shared, and the harmony of life depends on care, cooperation, and respect for nature’s rhythms.

Answer the following questions, based on the passage above:

1. In paragraph 1, what does the phrase ‘one of nature’s most remarkable spectacles’ refer to? 1
2. Complete the following with the correct option from the two given: 1
   Migration is primarily driven by changes in seasons as ______.
   
   1. they move to colder areas to hibernate
   2. they move to warmer places for food (paragraph 2)
3. What is unique about the Bar-headed goose? (paragraph 2) 2
4. Select the option that best explains the phrase ‘navigate such long distances remains a fascinating mystery’. (paragraph 3) 1
5. State whether the following statement is True or False: 1
   Because of rapid urbanization and clear direction, it has become easier for migratory birds to find their way. (paragraph 4) 
6. The writer mentions that conservationists worldwide are working to find solutions to give migratory birds safe travel. Based on the information given in the passage, which of the following will protect these travellers? 1
   1. creation of more wetland sites.
   2. making people aware about the eating habits of migratory birds.
   3. work in cooperation with other countries.
   4. create eating spots along the way.
7. List any two points according to the passage that illustrate that migratory birds play an important role in maintaining nature’s balance. (paragraph 6) 2
8. What message does the passage convey about life on Earth? (paragraph 6) 1
   1. Man must provide cues to clear traffic routes for migratory birds.
   2. Deforestation is essential to stop uncontrolled growth.
   3. Harmony between man and nature is essential.
   4. Climate change can be controlled only by technological intervention.

Answer 1

1. It refers to bird migration the regular, long-distance movement of birds between breeding and wintering grounds.
2. Migration is primarily driven by changes in seasons as they move to warmer places for food.
3. It is known to fly over the Himalayas at very high altitudes where oxygen levels are dangerously low.
4. The phrase “navigate such long distances remains a fascinating mystery” means that scientists do not fully understand how birds find their way over long migrations; they appear to use multiple cues (sun, stars, Earth’s magnetic field, memory), but the exact mechanisms are still not completely known.
5. False
6. work in cooperation with other countries.
7. Two ways migratory birds help maintain nature’s balance:
   • They help in pollination.
   • They aid seed dispersal (also help with pest control).
8. Harmony between man and nature is essential.