|
A Wetland Bird Survey was conducted in Pallikaranai Marsh, Kelambakkam Backwaters and Siruthavoor Lake by the Madras Naturalists’ Society between January and March 2001 to record as many species as possible which visit these waterbodies during the wintering months. The survey team also wanted to understand how birds react/behave in conditions like differences in water levels as Summer approaches. A water bird count was also done.
The following habitats were covered in the survey:
 Fresh/Saline water Marshland – Pallikaranai Marsh. |
 Saline Backwaters – Kelambakkam Backwaters. |
 Freshwater Lake – Siruthavoor Lake. |
It was found that the waterbird population in and around the city has increased tremendously over the last three years. Even though poaching, fishing and illegal burning of garbage are being carried out near the survey areas, the bird population has not taken a dip.
Here are some observations in brief, based on the survey results:
 The maximum numbers of Waders and Ducks were sighted (Pallikaranai Marsh) in the second and third weeks of February. The Pied Avocet and Grey Headed Lapwing population in particular was at the maximum compared to the last two years. |
 The Gull and Tern population peaked to a maximum (Kelambakkam Backwaters) in the first week of March. |
 Ospreys were regularly sighted at Pallikaranai, Kelambakkam and the Sozhinganallur end of the marsh, which is very close to human habitations. One of them was even spotted soaring over a 3-storey building near Pallikaranai Tollbooth. |
 Great Crested Terns, Sandwich Terns and Pallas's Gull were spotted in the Kelambakkam Backwaters for the first time in the last three years. |
 For the first time, a Baillon's Crake was spotted at the Pallikaranai Marsh. (Picture by P. Ramanan) |
(Courtesy: Madras Naturalists' Society Bulletin.)
|
