Tirupur is certainly known for its textile wealth, but many may not be aware that on the outskirts of this busy city there is a paradise for birds. Yes, the Nanjarayan tank, in 400 acres in the Koolipalayam area, is the abode for local and migratory birds. Its bird wealth amazes naturalists. They plead for establishing a bird sanctuary at Nanjarayan tank for the better conservation of these winged wonders.
Mr C.K. Ravindran, a well-known birdwatcher in Tirupur and executive committee member of Natural History Trust (NHT) here, who had been espousing the cause for avian conservation and establishment of a bird sanctuary, said, “The birdwatchers attached to NHT have been following the birds population in the tank for the past five years and found that xearly 118 species. One can find a variety of species of inland birds throughout the year. NHT also has recorded several winter migratory birds from northern Europe and Eurasia in large numbers.”
It is astounding that hundreds of avian species enjoy the Nanjarayan tank. The food and good breeding environment may be the reasons why these birds flock there.
One can find pelicans, painted storks, spoonbills, grey herons, purple herons, darters, black headed ibis, common coots and spot bill ducks in large numbers throughout the year. Winter migratory birds such as bar headed goose, sandpipers, little stints, black winged stilts, godwits and garganeys are regular visitors. Other than water birds, blue tailed bee-eaters, rosy starlings, white browed wagtail and yellow wagtail arrive at Nanjarayan tank during winter.
NHT has already placed its request with the Tirupur district administration to announce this tank as a bird sanctuary. Since the tank is under the control of the PWD, other activities like fishing often disturb the aquatic ecosystem. If it is made a bird sanctuary, then the forest department would take it over and make it a perfect place for avian conservation, he added.
According to the Wildlife Protection Act, chapter 4, section 18, clause 26(a) the collector can make the announcement of a tank as bird sanctuary. NHT is awaiting the good news from the district administration in Tirupur, he said.