Flocks of migratory birds, which have arrived at Kolleru bird sanctuary here for their annual sojourn in early winter, have been homebound along with their chicks.
However, birds which arrived in March are likely to stay here till the next season.
Half of the 6,000 pelicans, including around 1,500 chicks which grew enough to fly well, have left the sanctuary by April-end. Barely two flocks of pelicans which built nests on the trees in a mound, located in the heart of the sanctuary, are still enthralling the visitors.
Among the estimated 1,500 painted storks and chicks, a majority are homebound by the last week.
“At least 500 painted storks of all ages and injured birds are still around and will not leave till next summer,” bird watcher at the sanctuary Samiullah Khan told The Hindu .
“Despite rising mercury levels, availability of abundant water in the sanctuary and fish are helping the winged guests to survive the summer,” said Kaikalur Ranger B. Ram Mohan Singh.
The present water level in the pond is more than four feet deep that promises a better living environment and feed for the birds within sanctuary itself.
It is a beautiful season this year as we have witnessed many pelicans arrange nests on the ground providing a visual feast to the visitors, say forest staff.
