Sun Oct 27 06:33:10 UTC 2024: ## Hidden in Plain Sight: Puzhuthivakkam Lake Becomes Birdwatcher’s Paradise

**Chennai, October 27, 2024:** A seemingly ordinary lake in Puzhuthivakkam, Chennai, has transformed into a vibrant haven for birdwatchers, thanks to the dedication of one man’s observation.

Aravind A.M., a resident of a nearby area, began incorporating the Puzhuthivakkam lake into his daily walks in 2017. Armed with binoculars and a telephoto lens, he started documenting the diverse avian life that thrived within the lake’s ecosystem.

What started as a weekly visit soon turned into a daily ritual, with Aravind’s dedication uncovering the lake’s hidden treasures. The number of bird species recorded at the lake has skyrocketed from 27 in 2017 to an impressive 93 today, highlighting the lake’s potential as a haven for diverse birdlife.

“The lake had been ‘underbirded’ for years,” says Aravind, emphasizing that the rich avian diversity was simply waiting to be discovered. He further notes that the lake’s proximity to the Pallikaranai marshland has fostered a vibrant exchange of bird species, adding to its ecological significance.

Notable sightings include the daily presence of the Indian Pitta during the wintering season, the recent arrival of Garganeys, and the active nesting activity of Asian Pied Starlings. Aravind’s meticulous observations even led him to identify the presence of the “vulnerable” Indian Flapshell turtle, which successfully nested this year.

Puzhuthivakkam lake, once overlooked, has become a testament to the power of dedicated observation and the hidden beauty that often goes unnoticed. Aravind’s dedication has not only unveiled the lake’s rich biodiversity but also inspired others to appreciate and protect this natural treasure.

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