Thu Apr 10 15:49:01 UTC 2025: ## Guindy National Park’s Polo Ground Gets a Green Makeover to Save Blackbucks
**Chennai, April 10, 2025** – A neglected area within Chennai’s Guindy National Park, known as the Polo Ground, is undergoing a significant restoration project aimed at preserving the habitat of blackbucks. The four-hectare site, formerly used for polo matches during British rule, has become overrun with invasive species. This restoration is crucial as the Polo Ground is the only substantial open grassland within the Guindy National Park-IIT-Raj Bhavan complex, providing vital grazing space for the endangered blackbuck population.
The restoration involves the removal of invasive plants like Mexican grass and the introduction of seven native grass species and legumes to improve soil fertility. Wildlife Warden of Chennai, Manish Meena, confirmed the initiative. Ecologist R.J. Ranjit Daniels praised the project, highlighting the critical role of grasslands in blackbuck survival. He noted that while blackbucks in other regions exhibit lek mating behaviors, this hasn’t been observed in Guindy, possibly due to habitat limitations. The restoration project is seen as a positive step towards ensuring the long-term survival of the blackbuck population within the park.
First Piper 