
Wed Oct 08 07:09:45 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
**Tamil Nadu Designates Nagamalai Hillock as Fourth Biodiversity Heritage Site**
**CHENNAI, October 8, 2025** – The Tamil Nadu government has officially declared the Nagamalai hillock in Erode district as the state’s fourth Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS). This designation, made under the Biological Diversity Act of 2002, underscores the region’s exceptional ecological and cultural significance.
Spanning 32.22 hectares, the Nagamalai hillock joins Arittapatti in Madurai district, Kasampatty in Dindigul district, and Elathur lake in Erode district as protected biodiversity areas. The hillock is a vital habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna, including 118 bird species (30 of which are migratory), 138 plant species, 7 species of mammals, 11 species of reptiles, 5 of spiders and 71 insect species. Key species include the Greater Spotted Eagle, Pallid Harrier, and Bonelli’s Eagle.
Beyond its rich biodiversity, Nagamalai hillock holds significant archaeological and cultural importance. Archaeological findings, including Iron Age cairn circles, rock shelters, and ancient artifacts, showcase the region’s historical depth. A 400-year-old stone carving of Lord Anjaneya further emphasizes its cultural heritage.
Biodiversity Heritage Sites are defined as areas unique in their ecological fragility. The Nagamalai declaration aims to conserve threatened species, preserve areas of evolutionary importance, and reinforce the cultural connections to nature within the region.
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