KSBB initiative lists 133 species at the lake and nearby wetlands

With more than 100 species of native and migratory birds, the avian diversity of the Vellayani freshwater lake and the adjoining wetlands in Thiruvananthapuram district has always enthralled researchers, birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and students.

Now, the Kerala State Biodiversity Board (KSBB) has come out with a comprehensive register on these birds. Named ‘Feathers of Vellayani,’ the register is part of an attempt launched by the KSBB to take up the conservation of the Vellayani lake as a biodiversity heritage site.

Authored by KSBB chairman Oommen V. Oommen, member secretary K.P. Laladhas, and Principal Scientific Officer Linda John, the book, running into 180 pages, lists 133 species of birds spotted at the lake and surrounding wetlands. These include 23 species of migratory birds such as the Glossy ibis, Common teal, Spot-billed pelican, Painted stork, Eurasian spoonbill, and Pacific swallow.

Printed in colour, the register has devoted one page each to describe a species with its picture, physical features, sound, preferred habitat, feeding, nesting and breeding habits, conservation status and scientific and vernacular names. The book outlines the threats posed to the avian diversity and the ecosystem by land reclamation, use of pesticides and poaching of birds. Last year, the KSBB had submitted a proposal to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change for the conservation of the Vellayani lake as a biodiversity heritage site for birds. The Rs.75-crore project seeks to acquire the fallow land under private ownership and provide incentives for protecting the biodiversity of the area from further degradation. It moots a participatory programme to prevent poaching of birds and protect nests with the involvement of local communities.

The project also involves promotion of ecotourism, conservation of fish stocks, sustainable livelihood options for local communities and capacity building for wise use of wetlands. Dr. Oommen said the KSBB was dependent on Central funds for the project since a large portion of the lake and its catchment area belonged to private parties. The government, he said, would have to buy the land from the owners.

source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Thiruvananthapuram / by T. Nandakumar / Thiruvananthapuram – May 16th, 2016