Migratory birds have made their first stop in the city at Kovalam creek.
What’s it about? At least 25 species of migratory birds have arrived in the city, with their first stop being the Kovalam creek. They travel from here to places like Pallikaranai and the Perumbakkam marshland.
- Among the species include the Eurasian curlew, Pacific golden plover, and the whimbrel. They migrate from Central Asia, travelling thousands of miles.
- Also among the flock were four ospreys or sea hawks. According to some birdwatchers, it’s unusual to see four of them in one place.
Expert speaks: KVRK Thirunaranan, the founder of Nature Trust, said the ospreys and the greater stone curlew are two rare species. They’re categorised as “near threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.