Home / Environment / Rare Ducks Flock to Kerala Wetlands
Rare Ducks Flock to Kerala Wetlands
3 Sep
Summary
- Over 30 rare Fulvous whistling ducks sighted in Malappuram.
- This is the first reported sighting of the species in Malappuram.
- Cherumukku wetlands are a vital stopover for migratory birds.
Over 30 Fulvous whistling ducks, a species rarely documented in Kerala, have been observed at the Venjali wetlands near Cherumukku in Malappuram district. This marks the initial reported occurrence of these birds in Malappuram, with previous sightings noted in Kollam. These ducks are more commonly found in wetlands across Assam and other northeastern Indian states.
The Fulvous whistling duck typically arrives in Kerala around the start of the monsoon and departs by October. Birdwatchers Kabeerali P. and Fathima Sabeeha P.P. made the recent sighting. Distinguishing features include a blackish neck line, white throat patch, creamy-white rump, and a larger build compared to the common Lesser whistling duck.
The Cherumukku wetlands are a significant habitat, supporting numerous waterbirds and migratory species. Recent observations at Venjali wetlands also recorded 28 other species, including Cotton pygmy goose and Glossy ibis. Surveys over the past four years have identified 70 to 80 bird species in the wetland, highlighting its ecological importance as a stopover for long-distance avian travelers.
