A recent one-day bird survey across ten diverse locations in Thiruvananthapuram district has delivered a powerful reminder of the region's rich avian life, recording a total of 188 different bird species. The survey, a citizen science initiative, underscores the critical role of preserving wetlands, forests, and urban green spaces for biodiversity.
Survey Highlights and Key Findings
Organized under the banner of WINGS – Birds of India Nature Awareness Program, Thiruvananthapuram 2025, and coordinated by WWF-India, the survey took place on December 14. It involved 42 volunteers, including students, scientists, experienced birdwatchers, and forest guides from KFDC Arippa. The teams covered sites ranging from core city areas to remote forests and wetlands.
The survey revealed fascinating insights into the district's ecological health. A team within the city, covering the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo and Kesavadasapuram paddy fields, recorded 46 species. The presence of migratory birds like the Indian Pitta and Blue-throated Flycatcher at the zoo indicated the good ecological condition of urban green spaces.
Wetlands and Campuses as Biodiversity Havens
Urban and peri-urban wetlands proved to be vital habitats. The sighting of around 500 Lesser Whistling Ducks within the NCESS campus at Akkulam highlighted how institutional campuses can act as refuges in fast-changing urban landscapes.
The Vellayani-Punchakkari wetland, a known birding hub, yielded species including the Amur Falcon and Peregrine Falcon. Birdwatchers expressed hope that ongoing tourism-related developments would not harm its rich birdlife. Similarly, Kadinamkulam Lake, noted for reduced pollution, recorded 36 species, including the Eurasian Whimbrel and Stork-billed Kingfisher.
Forests Yield Highest Diversity, Inspiring Stories Emerge
The forested areas were the most prolific. Kottoor forests topped the list with 85 species, including the Changeable Hawk-Eagle and Common Buzzard. Arippa forests followed closely with 83 species, where teams, aided by KFDC guides, recorded the elusive Sri Lanka Frogmouth. Ponmudi recorded 67 species, though participants noted that loud tourist music could disturb wildlife.
An inspiring story came from Pazhanchira wetland near Attingal, where birder Devapriya Gowri, surveying alone with a fractured right hand, used her left hand to photograph and document 40 species, including Garganey and Black-winged Stilt.
Bonacaud recorded species like the Indian Pitta and Rufous Babbler, showing effective coexistence in well-maintained forest areas. The WINGS initiative, formerly known as India Bird Races, aims to popularize birdwatching and document avian diversity through community participation.
