Increase in Migratory Bird Arrivals at Pallikaranai, TN After Encroachment Removal
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Chennai, Jan 13 (NationPress) With the eradication of encroachments, the Pallikaranai marshland in Tamil Nadu's Mettukuppam has experienced the arrival of over 10,000 birds from 100 distinct species, comprising 70 migratory species.
As noted by Gopikannan, a passionate bird enthusiast, this season has brought several rare migratory birds to the marshland. Among these are the Garganey, Northern Shoveler, Eurasian Teal, Eurasian Wigeon, Ruff, and Western Marsh Harrier. He linked their presence to the marshland’s plentiful food resources and suitable conditions.
“The presence of food and a thriving habitat makes Pallikaranai an ideal destination for migratory birds during this period,” he stated.
Tamil Nadu forest department officials confirmed the removal of 52 encroachments under the guidance of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), with the squatters being relocated.
This action has allowed the marshland to restore its natural environment, forming a sanctuary for both migratory and indigenous bird species.
Officials reported that more than 10,000 birds, representing 100 different species, have been observed in the Pallikaranai wetland. They emphasized that ongoing monitoring efforts by bird watchers and the forest department over the years have greatly enhanced their comprehension of the ecosystem.
Significant rainfall during the monsoon season contributed to strong water flow into the marshland, nurturing a vibrant habitat. As water levels started to decline, a range of waders joined the migratory birds, further enriching the marshland’s biodiversity.
The Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu has also indicated a significant uptick in migratory bird visits this season compared to previous years. Situated in the Kollukudipatti and Vettangudipatti villages along the Madurai-Karaikudi Highway, the sanctuary covers 36 hectares.
Officials disclosed that approximately 3,500 to 4,000 migratory birds visited the sanctuary in 2024, showing a remarkable increase from only 800 noted in 2023.
The Tamil Nadu forest department highlighted that around 20 bird species frequent the Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary annually, including the Egret, Indian Spot-Billed Duck, Darter, Asian Openbill Stork, and Black-Headed Ibis.
A senior official from the forest department shared that many of these birds travel thousands of kilometers from regions such as Australia, Europe, and Southeast Asia to nest and breed in the sanctuary.
Manikantan Thevar, a local resident and bird watcher, noted that migratory birds often offer clues regarding rainfall trends. He explained, “If these birds nest in lower areas, it suggests lighter rainfall, while nesting in higher grounds indicates heavier rain.” Regardless, the influx of migratory birds in substantial numbers has delighted both villagers and bird watchers alike.
