Mon Nov 04 17:29:14 UTC 2024: ## Chennai’s Birdlife Thrives: Bitterns, Cuckoos, and Pelicans Find Sanctuary in the City
**Chennai, November 4, 2024** – The Adyar river bund at Mugalivakkam continues to be a haven for a variety of bird species, with birders reporting sightings of black, yellow and cinnamon bitterns, grey-bellied cuckoos, and Indian pittas. The area’s unique location, nestled between military quarters, a reserve forest, and the airport, provides a secluded and safe environment for these avian visitors.
The bund itself is a popular walking and jogging track for residents of nearby colonies, adding to the area’s appeal.
Meanwhile, Perumbakkam wetland has become a temporary home for wintering raptors, including the greater spotted eagle. The majestic bird has even claimed an electricity pole as its own, a common practice among these species during their migratory season.
On the other side of the city, the NIOT campus in Pallikaranai has become a sanctuary for spot-billed pelicans. The campus’s conducive environment has fostered a thriving pelican population, which now boasts a large number of breeding pairs. The pelicans have even taken to using the pylons at the nearby Pallikaranai marsh as a resting spot, offering a spectacular sight during the crepuscular hours.
The increasing numbers of these birds in Chennai highlight the positive impact of creating safe and hospitable environments for wildlife. As the city continues to grow, maintaining these green spaces and preserving their biodiversity is crucial for both the well-being of the birds and the overall health of the city.
First Piper 