Cherumukku wetlands attract migrant birds in plenty

‘Availability of food in plenty the key factor attracting migrants to the area’

The sprawling wetlands of Vengalipadam, Cherumukku, and Kodinhi have turned into a haven of local and foreign migrant birds since October. Birders have identified 70-odd species in this semi and permanent wetland.

Buttressing the observations being made by serious birders, local people say that the birds reaching the wetlands near Tirurangadi have increased considerably in recent years.

“I have never seen so many before. The number has increased in recent years. It is a great sight to behold when these colourful winged visitors playfully move around beautiful water lilies,” said Mustafa Cherumukku, general secretary of Cherumukku Natukaryam Koottaima.

People from across the district reach Cherumukku during September-December to enjoy water lilies. For them, migrant birds are a bonus to watch.

Kabeerali P., associate professor and coordinator of Bhoomithra Sena Club at PSMO College, Tirurangadi, said migrant species like Black-headed gull, Lesser black-backed gull, Brown-headed gull, and Coots had been identified.

“But the number of local migrants reaching here is so many. We have birds like Grey-headed lapwing, Greater spotted eagle, Marsh harrier, Godwit, Yellow wagtail, Golden plover, Spot-billed pelican, Painted stork, Osprey, and Strawberry finch in plenty here,” said Mr. Kabeerali.

He has been frequenting wetlands along with his students from PSMO College as part of their birding certificate programme. “In fact, we have been amazed to find more diversity of birds here than in Kadalundi,” said Mr. Kabeerali.