Tamil Nadu   

At Dhanushkodi, winged visitors from Russia

LINEUP: Flamingoes at Dhanushkodi in Rameswaram island.

RAMANATHAPURAM: It was a treat to watch the rows of elegant looking flamingos on the shore of Dhanushkodi in Rameswaram.

As expected, thousands of flamingoes, considered as one of the majestic wader birds, flocked Rameswaram island on Thursday.

Though the entire stretch from Rameswaram to Dhanushkodi is dotted with the winged visitors here and there, large congregation could be seen at Dhanushkodi, Arichamunai and Palam areas of the island.

According to officials of the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park (GMMNP), November, December and January comprise the migratory season for the birds. During this period, thousands of winged visitors from Russia and other European countries visit the lagoons of Gulf of Mannar and bird sanctuaries.

The winged visitors are identified as lesser flamingos. They look well-built with bright pink colouring. The legs are red. Wading through the shallow areas, they are seen enjoying food available under the water. Flamingos are considered as some of the rare creatures designed to survive in the caustic environment.

Following information about the arrival of flamingos for the first time in the season, a sizeable number of bird enthusiasts are visiting Dhanushkodi. Wading in the knee-deep water, some enthusiasts took a closer look of the birds, which are classified as highly endangered species.

“It is a treat to watch thousands of flamingos at the same place. This is the first time that I have seen a huge congregation of flamingos in one particular place. I think it will attract a number of ornithologists and birds lovers from different parts of the State,” said an enthusiast on Thursday.

Park officials said the birds should have come in November itself. Though their arrival was a little late, they would stay in the Gulf of Mannar region at least for a month.

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