2024-04-29

The fifth TIES Kottayam Urban Bird Survey unveiled a mosaic of winged wonders, counting 40 distinct species. Though slightly fewer than the previous year's 44, the diversity remained striking. Notable sightings included the White Cheeked Barbet, Common Myna, and Racket Tailed Drongo, alongside familiar faces like Crows and Rock Pigeons. Among the waterbirds captured in the survey were the Grey-headed Swamphen, Purple Heron, and Cormorants, painting a vivid picture of Kottayam's avian tapestry. However, a concerning trend emerged with the noticeable absence of house sparrows from many formerly frequented sites. This observation underscores the importance of continued vigilance and conservation efforts. Conducted across key locales such as the CMS College campus, Nagambadom, and Erayilkadavu in Kottayam, the survey spotlighted the prevalence of species like the Common and Jungle Myna, Rufous Treepie, and Black Drongo. Spearheaded by a team of TIES experts, junior naturalists, and devoted bird watchers, this survey serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate relationship between urban environments and their feathered inhabitants.