Where have all the birds disappeared?

Rapid urbanisation taking a toll on resident and migratory bird population.

Rapid urbanisation of Mysore and habitat destruction is posing a threat to both resident and migratory birds. Photo: M.A.Sriram

Rapid urbanisation of Mysore and the expansion of the city is taking a toll on the resident and the migratory bird population, some of which are no longer sighted in the region.

Coupled with encroachment of lakes and tanks and their gradual destruction, the bird population threatens to plummet further. Mysore plays host to nearly 180 to 200 species of birds – both resident and migratory – and some of the lakes like Lingambudi, Kukkarahalli and Karanji are recognised as important bird areas (IBA) which are significant from the conservation point of view.

However, there has been a systematic destruction of bird habitats with a human-centric approach to the development of lakes. “Lingambudhi Lake was one of the best habitats for both resident and migratory birds more than 10 years ago. But over the years, the habitat is losing its sheen for the birds,” C.S. Kulashekara, an amateur ornithologist with a passion for photographing birds.

“The lake is filled with sewage and though there are good rains and inflow into the water body this year, the relief will be temporary. In addition, civil work at Lingambudhi and Kukkarahalli disturbs the birds,” he added.

Rare passage migrants like Red-necked Phalorope used to be sighted at Lingamubdhi in the past but not longer, said Mr. Kulashekara. Tawny Eagle, Long-tailed Shrike, Bay-backed Shrike and Brown Shrike are a few other species that are becoming rare though they were commonly visible a few years ago.

Areas now witnessing rapid development like Dattagalli and Vijaynagara 4th Stage were an ideal habitat for Yellow-wattled Lapwing but their numbers have declined, according to Lokesh Mosale, an avid bird watcherr.

K. Manu of Mysore Amateur Naturalists pointed out that resident birds like Red-wattled Lapwing and Yellow-wattled Lapwing may become locally extinct as the habitat destruction continues. He said good rains has ensured that most lakes in the region are full. But a majority of them are disturbed due to fishing, lake encroachment and destruction of the foreshore areas which discourages shallow water birds. The use of heavy earthmoving equipments, boating activities, proposal for putting up lights at Kukkarahalli and at Chamundi Hills are a few examples of the human-centric approach to development which is harming the birds, he added.