Flocks of cormorants spotted at estuary coastal area near TN's Thoothukudi port

Large flocks of cormorants have been spotted in recent days at the estuary coastal area near Thoothukudi Port in Tamil NaduThis estuarine region where seawater and freshwater converge offers a rich habitat with abundant fish and other aquatic organismsAs a result cormorants are gathering here in large numbers in search of food The sight of cormorants calmly floating on the waters surface and suddenly diving to catch fish has drawn the attention of nature enthusiastsEspecially during the early morning and evening hours these birds can be seen actively foraging in groups reflecting the rich biodiversity of the regionThe increase in the number of cormorants is considered a significant indicator that the Thoothukudi Port estuary coastal area continues to remain ecologically balanced and naturally abundantLast month thousands of migratory Rosy Starlings arrived in Tamil Nadus Thoothukudi district particularly around Perungulam and Thamirabarani River areas creating a spectacular aerial displaySpeaking to ANI District Forest Officer Ilaiyaraja said The Thoothukudi district being a coastal district encounters many migratory birds every winter Recently we have seen a large influx of Rosy Starlings in Perungulam and the surrounding areas Rosy Starling belongs to the starling family They breed in Central Asia and West Asian countries in steppe grasslands During winter since the weather is very harsh there from July to August till April and May they migrate to tropical regions like IndiaHe further said that starting from Gujarat down South the Rosy Starlings migration can be witnessed They stay here during the winter and go back to their native place after April and May Thoothukudi has wetlands Food availability and weather are the main reasons for their migration This wetland and agricultural land when combined provide a better habitat for these migratory birds We should be proud of that This year we can see that the count is largely increasing he saidHe further said that Rosy Starlings have to be protected As the birds are coming in large count the major prey is locusts and other insects Starlings feed on locusts they save the agricultural land of the farmers They are providing a huge contribution to farmers he addedThe coastal area near Thoothukudi Harbour has turned into a busy hub of bird activity with large flocks of water birds gathering in the estuary area of Thoothukudi Harbour BeachThis story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed agencies Midday accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability trustworthiness reliability and data of the text Midday managementmiddaycom reserves the sole right to alter delete or remove without notice the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever