Chennai, March 19 (NationPress) Conservationists in Tamil Nadu have urged the state government to officially recognize the Samanatham water tank in Madurai as a protected site, highlighting its increasing significance as a sanctuary for migratory birds.

Notably, dedicated bird watcher A. Anparasu pointed out that the Samanatham water tank has become a vital refuge for migratory birds this season.

He observed that species such as flamingos, Eurasian spoonbills, Siberian stonechats, and streaked weavers have arrived in substantial numbers during the recent winter migration.

Anparasu stressed that designating the tank as a protected site would greatly enhance conservation efforts while also fostering eco-tourism in the area.

The latest annual bird survey in Madurai district reported over 21,000 birds across both wetland and terrestrial environments—an increase from the previous year.

In contrast, the 2024 bird survey recorded 12,670 birds specifically in Madurai’s wetlands. The census also highlighted the presence of common migratory species, including the common sandpiper, marsh sandpiper, barn swallow, northern pintail, rosy starling, and blue-tailed bee-eater.

Conducted in two phases, the bird survey monitors both resident and migratory bird populations. The terrestrial survey, which took place on March 15 and 16, recorded over 5,000 birds from 140 species across various locations, including Nagamalai Pudukottai, Arittapatti Biodiversity Heritage Site, Idayapatti sacred groves, Sirumalai South near Sholavandan, and Pasumalai. Among these locations, Sirumalai South near Sholavandan noted the highest number of species in the terrestrial category.

Meanwhile, the wetland survey conducted on March 8, covering 25 major water bodies in the district, documented over 16,000 birds. Significant sites surveyed included Samanatham, Sholavandan, and Kunnathur, with Nilaiyur and Samanatham tanks showcasing the highest diversity—each hosting more than 80 species.

In response to these findings, officials from the Tamil Nadu Forest Department have put forth a proposal to the Public Works Department, seeking a no-objection certificate to classify Samanatham tank as a protected sanctuary.

N. Ravindran, coordinator of the Iragugal Amrutham Nature Trust (ANT), which has been observing bird activity at Samanatham for the past five years, emphasized the site’s ecological significance.

"The tank accommodates more than 80 bird species from 17 orders and 52 families. Of these, 25 percent are winter visitors, underscoring its vital role in the migratory pathway," he stated.

According to ANT data, Samanatham is home to 84 commonly sighted bird species, while 23 species are categorized as rare.

In 2024, the tank recorded the highest bird count among wetlands, with 1,713 birds from 80 species. In terrestrial habitats, Mettupatti observed the highest count, with 3,483 birds from 55 species. Despite these flourishing avian populations, bird watchers express disappointment that Madurai district still lacks an official bird sanctuary. Conservationists remain hopeful that the increasing bird numbers and ecological significance of Samanatham will encourage the government to take appropriate action.