Weeks of heavy rainfall have led to large-scale accumulation of water in salt pans located in the suburban areas of Thoothukudi, transforming landscapes once used exclusively for salt production into temporary water bodies.
The unusual conditions have created a favourable habitat for a wide variety of water birds. The inundated salt pans have seen a sharp rise in small fish, insects and other aquatic organisms, drawing birds in large numbers to feed — a sight that is otherwise rare in these areas.
Groups of birds have been observed landing across the waterlogged pans, actively foraging for food. Their constant movement and feeding activity have turned the area into a visual spectacle, attracting local residents and nature enthusiasts alike.
Alongside this, the district has also witnessed the arrival of large flocks of Rosy Starling birds over the past few days. The birds have been seen flying in dense formations across the sky, creating striking patterns.
Ornithologists say Rosy Starlings migrate to southern India during winter from regions in Northwest Asia and Eastern Europe. They typically leave their breeding grounds around September–October and remain in the Indian subcontinent until March–April.
Apart from Tamil Nadu, the species is known to migrate to Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana and parts of North India. Experts attribute their migration to favourable climatic conditions and availability of food.
Rosy Starlings are omnivorous and tend to settle in areas rich in insects, such as grasslands and agricultural fields. Flocking together during migration also helps them evade predators, while their coordinated movement — known as murmuration — creates a calm and rhythmic visual display.
If the current water levels persist, ornithologists say the suburban salt pans of Thoothukudi are likely to continue serving as an important temporary congregation site for water birds this season.
(ANI)
