Greater Flamingo, Common Sandpiper, Rosy Starling and Whiskered Tern were the rare sightings during the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) in the Kannankurichi Lake here recently.
The four-day event was held across the State recently in which naturalists, ornithologists, bird watchers and school students participated in large numbers.
Foreign countries
Birdwatcher S.V. Ganeshwar (19) who recorded 108 varieties of birds belonging to 46 families during the count said that over 10 per cent of the birds are from foreign countries that come here because of prevailing favorable climate.
‘Since day time is shorter in the European countries now, birds come here so that they have more time to search for food during day time’, he added.
The pink-feathered Flamingos are magnificent to watch. Apart from this Garganey, Northern Pintail and Grey Wagtail come in large numbers, he said.
Ganeshwar who is involved in the bird count for the last six years felt that the data will help scientists to investigate critical questions regarding migration of birds and their adaptation to various climates.
He claimed that the birds are not new to the lake as he had recorded a few varieties earlier too. Ganeshwar who is now engaged in creating awareness among school students about conservation of nature.
Sanctuary status
He also wants to obtain sanctuary status for the lake so that bird watching can cover more residents.
‘Counting birds is fun. It is also a family-friendly way to discover and help birds prevalent in your community.’ he added.
He added that Painted Stork, Oriental Darter and Black-Headed Ibis are slowly becoming endangered. People should realise this and strive to conserve them.
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