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Pelicans Slain: Poaching Threatens Chennai Lake's Migratory Birds
10 Sep
Summary
- Two spot-billed pelicans died from pellet wounds at Korattur lake.
- Poaching incidents at Korattur lake threaten migratory bird populations.
- Pollution from sewage discharge exacerbates the ecological crisis.
Two spot-billed pelicans recently died at Chennai's Korattur lake due to suspected poaching. Conservationists alerted forest officials about injured birds about ten days ago. One pelican died shortly after rescue at Guindy's Children's Park, while another died at the Besant Memorial Animal Dispensary.
An autopsy on the second bird revealed embedded pellets. Wildlife authorities have intensified patrols at the lake to apprehend poachers responsible for these incidents. Conservationists fear that unchecked poaching could deter migratory birds from frequenting the waterbody.
Adding to the ecological distress, a large number of fish were found dead in the lake recently. Officials attribute this to pollution from untreated sewage and rising surface temperatures, which are degrading the water quality. Authorities are urged to address sewage inflow and implement protection measures.
Conservation groups are calling for Korattur lake to be declared a protected area to shield its fish, birds, and overall ecosystem from further decline. They highlight the dual threats of pollution and poaching that are impacting the lake's fragile environment.
