Thousands of Shorebirds Arrive in Chennai Estuaries

Thousands of migratory birds have gathered in Chennai's Muttukadu-Nemmeli estuarine habitats, anticipating the upcoming migratory season.

Species such as slender-beaked Marsh sandpipers and green-legged Common greenshanks are among the early arrivals. These birds undertake long journeys from northern countries, entering the city via the Kovalam-Kelambakkam backwaters. Many begin arriving in August, even before the official migratory season commences in October, and depart late in the spring.

Monitoring efforts by The Nature Trust and the forest department counted at least 5,568 waders and shorebirds in the estuary by September 30. This tally included over 1,000 Little Stints, 430 Greater Flamingos, and nearly 900 Garganeys, migratory ducks. The presence of these birds highlights the area's significance in the coastal migration network.

Environmentalists suggest that the temporary halt in work on a proposed reservoir may also have contributed to the birds' arrival. Seawater entering the Nemmeli area through the Muttukadu estuary, influenced by tidal patterns, creates a conducive environment for these avian visitors.