Vettangudi’s migratory birds arrive early and await rains
Migratory birds have arrived early at the Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary in Sivaganga, but the wetland remains dry due to a failed southwest monsoon. Local residents are concerned for the birds' survival and are hoping for rainfall from the northeast monsoon to fill the lakebed.
Why it matters
This illustrates the impact of climate variability on local ecosystems and the importance of community-led conservation efforts.
The wetland in Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary in Sivaganga district remains dry. | Photo Credit: L. Balachandar
At Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary in Sivaganga district, thousands of migratory and foreign birds arriving for their annual breeding season are instead met with a harsh, parched landscape and bone-dry lakebed.
Kollukudipatti tank and its surrounding bushes are a vital ecological hotspot, especially for birds. Home to around 217 resident and migratory bird species such as cattle egret, little grebe, garganey, grey heron, darter, openbill stork, Eurasian spoonbill, and painted stork, the area serves as a vibrant seasonal sanctuary.
These birds raise their chicks before migrating back to their native habitats around February - March. Showing remarkable community spirit, the local residents abstain from bursting firecrackers during festivals like Deepavali to protect the nesting birds from loud noises and stress.
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