The tanks and wetlands in and around Trichy are rapidly gaining prominence as crucial seasonal habitats for a diverse array of migratory birds. This trend is highlighting the district's significant untapped potential for eco-tourism and birdwatching, offering new opportunities for nature enthusiasts and the local economy.
Comprehensive Census Reveals Stable Bird Populations
While renowned sites like Karaivetti, Vaduvur, and Point Calimere traditionally draw large flocks from October to January, local water bodies in Trichy are now establishing themselves as essential supplementary refuges. To document this phenomenon, the forest department conducted a detailed wetland bird census on December 27 and 28.
The survey was a collaborative effort involving department officials, experts, and students from Bishop Heber College, Jamal Mohamed College, and the Forest College and Research Institute. They were joined by staff from KMC Hospital, local birdwatchers, school students, and community members. Together, teams meticulously surveyed 20 wetland sites across the district.
The sites included prominent tanks such as:
- Keerambur and Alathidaiyanpatti
- Sikathambur and Thuraiyur
- Thiruthalaiyur and Koothappar
- Kiliyur, Thalakulam, and Kattayankulam
- Thayanur and Krishnasamuthram
Notable Findings and Species Diversity
The census yielded impressive results, recording 122 different bird species and a total count of 11,113 individual birds for the season. District Forest Officer S Krithiga noted that the findings indicate species diversity and bird numbers have remained consistent over recent years, a positive sign of habitat stability.
Officials pointed out that tanks managed by the Water Resources Department and the Rural Development & Panchayat Raj Department become lifelines for birds during their long journeys. When these water bodies are full and rich in natural food, they provide vital sustenance.
This season's notable sightings included a variety of aquatic birds and waders:
- Little grebe and Oriental darter
- Indian cormorant and Little cormorant
- Pheasant-tailed jacana and Northern pintail
- Northern shoveler and Whiskered tern
- Blue-winged teal and Garganey
Boosting Tourism and the Call for Conservation
The increasing arrival of birds has made birdwatching a popular hobby in the Trichy region, attracting enthusiasts and highlighting the critical importance of protecting these urban wetlands. K Saravanan, an associate professor at Nehru Memorial College in Trichy, explained that birds arrive during or after the monsoon to feed on fish and crustaceans and for breeding. Their presence supports birdwatching, tourism, and scientific research while strongly emphasizing the need for more robust wetland conservation.
Observers now frequently spot dozens of species even during short viewing sessions. M Thangamani, a 53-year-old material scientist and avid birdwatcher, shared insights on improving the experience. "Since most migratory birds here are aquatic species and waders, we often observe them from a distance using binoculars. Facilities like watch towers, elevated platforms, and toilets would greatly enhance birdwatching. Larger lakes could even be developed into full-fledged sanctuaries," he suggested.
DFO Krithiga provided updates on conservation efforts, revealing that a committee chaired by the district collector is actively demarcating wetland boundaries in the district. She highlighted that most wetlands lie outside reserve forest areas, making them vulnerable. "Wetland demarcation and ground-truthing will help prevent future encroachments and preserve biodiversity," she affirmed.
In a significant development, officials disclosed that Kiliyur lake has been proposed to the Tamil Nadu Biodiversity Board for recognition as a Biodiversity Heritage Site. DFO Krithiga clarified that this recognition would not change the water body's administration but would formally validate the rich avian biodiversity documented by the forest department, offering it greater protection and prestige.
