Survey in Palakkad reveals surge in number of waterbirds

A recent survey of waterbirds across various locations in the district, conducted under the aegis of the Natural History Society of Palakkad, has revealed a significant increase in their numbers.

The survey, conducted from January 3 to 18 across a variety of water bodies, recorded over 4,200 waterbirds representing 44 species. Lijo Panangadan, secretary of the Natural History Society of Palakkad, said that there was a 22% increase in the waterbird population in Palakkad.

A total of 50 birdwatchers from across the district participated in the survey, which covered locations including Malampuzha, South Malampuzha, Kava, Vengalakkayam, Kampalathara, Kunnampidari, Mangalam Dam, Walayar, Kottekkad, Kalleppully, Kodumbu, Chulliyar, Kanhirapuzha, Bharathapuzha, Mayannur and Kalmandapam.

Citrine wagtail

While storks and cormorants showed an increase, the number of ducks declined. The survey was conducted in association with Wetlands International, the Bombay Natural History Society, the State Forest and Wildlife department, and the National and State Biodiversity Boards.

“We have recorded the Citrine wagtail in the district for the first time in 25 years during this survey,” said Mr. Panangadan. “Similarly, the sighting of the rare Grey-headed lapwing within the town underscores the importance of conserving our water bodies,” he added.

The Grey-headed lapwing is a migratory bird that breeds in northeast China and Japan during the summer and winters in wetlands across Southeast Asia, including India, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.