72 species identified in Cherumukku-Venjali waterbird survey

As many as 72 species of birds were identified in a waterbird survey held at the Cherumukku-Venjali wetlands near Tirurangadi on Sunday (January 4, 2026). Bhumitra Sena Club of PSMO College, Tirurangadi, the Malappuram Social Forestry Division, Cherumukku Natukaryam Koottaima and Malappuram Birders conducted the survey for the fifth consecutive year as part of National Bird Day, which is observed on January 5.

In last year’s survey, 69 species were identified. However, as many as 80 species had been recorded in the region in previous years.

Photographer Vijesh Vallikkunnu inaugurated the survey, while Cherumukku Nattukaryam Koottaima president V.P. Khader Haji presided over the function. Secretary Mustafa Cherumukku welcomed the gathering.

A team of birdwatchers engaged in a waterbird survey at Cherumukku-Venjali wetlands near Tirurangadi on Sunday.

Bhumitra Sena Club faculty in-charge P. Kabeerali coordinated the survey. Bird watchers Vijesh Vallikkunnu, Najeeb Pulikkal, Afnida Thalappara, Abdulla Parambat and Mohammed Thasleeque led the effort.

Migrant waterbirds such as Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Brown-headed Gull, Coots, Grey-headed Lapwing, Greater Spotted Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Godwit, Yellow Wagtail, Golden Plover, Spot-billed Pelican, Painted Stork, Osprey and Strawberry Finch were among the species identified during the survey.

According to Mr. Kabeerali, the decline in bird species is attributed to increased visits by local tourists to the wetlands, human interference, and the impacts of climate change.