Tue Nov 19 15:16:12 UTC 2024: ## Coimbatore’s Full Tanks Threaten Migratory Bird Habitats
**COIMBATORE, November 19, 2024** – The brimming tanks of Coimbatore, fed by the Noyyal River, are raising concerns among birders and scientists about a potential decline in migratory shorebirds. A meeting held to commemorate the 128th birth anniversary of Dr. Salim Ali highlighted the destruction of crucial shore habitats due to beautification projects under the Smart Cities Mission.
Concretization and strengthening of tank bunds have eliminated vital foraging areas for waders and plovers. Even tanks untouched by beautification projects are suffering, as the lack of natural water drainage keeps shore areas submerged. Suhel Quader of the Nature Conservation Foundation emphasized the need to preserve the natural habitats of these water bodies.
City birders reported a dramatic decrease in bird sightings at Ukkadam Big Tank following beautification works, boating, and jet-skiing activities. Before the projects, 186 bird species were recorded there. P.R. Selvaraj of the Coimbatore Nature Society explained that the current full tanks lack the shallow shores necessary for many birds, potentially impacting migratory waders. However, ducks, pelicans, and cormorants are less affected.
Dr. Quader urged Coimbatore’s birding community to systematically monitor bird populations and publish their findings to advocate for habitat conservation to policymakers.
First Piper 