Pulicat is a vast coastal shallow, brackish water lagoon along the coast of Bay of Bengal in to which streams drain. Its length is about 70 kms and width varies from 1 km to 20 kms. The lake has 16 island villages and 30 villages adjoining the lake.
By Dr. Vajranabh Natraaj Maharshi
Story: Pulicat Lake, located on the Coromandel Coast of India, is the country’s second-largest brackish water lagoon after Chilika Lake. Straddling the states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, this ecologically significant lagoon is a haven for biodiversity and a lifeline for local communities.
Geography and Hydrology:
Pulicat Lake spans approximately 759 square kilometers, with its northern part in Andhra Pradesh and the southern segment in Tamil Nadu. It is connected to the Bay of Bengal via a narrow channel, which regulates the inflow of saline water and maintains its brackish nature. The Arani and Kalangi rivers are the primary freshwater sources feeding the lake.
Ecological Significance:
The lake supports a diverse array of ecosystems, including mangroves, mudflats, and sandbars. Pulicat Lake serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway.
Birdlife: The lake is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially during the winter months when migratory species flock to its waters. Key species include flamingos, pelicans, painted storks, herons, and numerous waders.
Aquatic Life: The lagoon is home to a variety of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks, supporting the livelihoods of local fishing communities.
Cultural and Historical Heritage: Pulicat has a rich history, once serving as an important port town during the colonial era. The Dutch established a settlement here in the 17th century, remnants of which-such as forts and cemeteries-still exist today. The town’s historical significance adds a cultural dimension to the natural beauty of the lake.
Challenges: Pulicat Lake faces several ecological threats
Pollution: Untreated wastewater and agricultural runoff impact water quality.
Encroachment: Unregulated development and aquaculture encroach on the lake’s area.
Reduced Freshwater Flow: The diversion of rivers and upstream activities affect the lake’s ecosystem.
The Flamingo Festival, held annually in January, celebrates the arrival of flamingos and other migratory birds. Organized near Pulicat Lake and the nearby Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, this event attracts tourists, ornithologists, and conservationists, spotlighting the region’s ecological importance.
Tourism and Conservation
Pulicat Lake is a popular destination for eco-tourism. Activities like birdwatching, boating, and exploring historical sites draw visitors from across the country. Conservation efforts by local authorities and NGOs focus on protecting this fragile ecosystem while promoting sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
Pulicat Lake is more than just a geographic feature; it is a living, breathing ecosystem with immense ecological, cultural, and economic significance. Protecting this natural treasure is vital for ensuring biodiversity conservation and supporting the communities that depend on it.
Box Story
Headline: Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary
Story: Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh, India, is a vital haven for migratory and resident water birds. Spanning approximately 458.92 hectares, the sanctuary is renowned for its significant breeding population of spot-billed pelicans (Pelecanus philippensis), with around 1,500 pelicans nesting annually.
Ecological Significance:
The sanctuary encompasses two primary ecosystems:
Barringtonia Swamp Forests: Located within the 83-hectare Nelapattu tank, these forests are dominated by Barringtonia acutangula (Hijal) trees, which thrive in flooded conditions lasting 5 to 7 months.
Southern Dry Evergreen Scrub: Covering most of the sanctuary, this area includes the Kalluru Reserved Forest and unreserved forest. These habitats support a diverse avian population, with approximately 189 bird species recorded, including 50 migratory species. Notable species include black-headed ibis, Asian openbill, black-crowned night heron, and little cormorant.
Conservation Efforts:
Established on September 25, 1976, the sanctuary is managed by the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department. Conservation initiatives focus on maintaining the delicate balance of the wetland ecosystem, ensuring the protection of both flora and fauna.
Visiting Information:
The sanctuary is open to visitors, offering opportunities for bird watching and ecological studies. The best time to visit is from November to March, coinciding with the migratory season. Facilities include a museum and an auditorium for educational presentations.
Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of bird species, both migratory and resident, that thrive in its wetlands and surrounding ecosystems. The sanctuary is particularly famous for its large population of spot-billed pelicans and other water birds. Here are some of the notable birds found in Nelapattu:
1. Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis)
Significance: Nelapattu is renowned for being one of the few places in India where spot-billed pelicans breed in large numbers. Around 1,500 pelicans nest here annually.
Habitat: They are often seen around the sanctuary’s wetlands and water bodies.
2. Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus)
Habitat: Found near water sources, the black-headed ibis is often seen wading in shallow waters searching for food.
Significance: They are commonly seen in Nelapattu, contributing to the sanctuary’s rich birdlife.
3. Asian Openbill Stork (Anastomus oscitans)
Habitat: Known for its long, open bill, this stork is often seen in the wetlands of Nelapattu.
Behavior: They feed primarily on snails and other aquatic organisms.
4. Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)
Habitat: Prefers secluded wetland areas, often found hunting at night.
Behavior: These herons are nocturnal and are seen wading in shallow waters.
5. Little Cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger)
Habitat: This species is frequently found diving into the water in search of fish.
Behavior: Known for its excellent swimming ability, it is often seen in groups near water bodies.
6. Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala)
Significance: A striking bird with a white body, long legs, and a colorful bill, often seen in the wetlands.
Habitat: They are migratory and frequently visit the sanctuary during certain seasons.
7. Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)
Habitat: Prefers the shallow waters of lakes and wetlands, where it hunts for fish and amphibians.
Behavior: Known for standing still in the water for long periods while waiting for prey.
8. Indian Cormorant (Phalacrocorax fuscicollis)
Habitat: Often seen in freshwater habitats, diving for fish and other aquatic prey.
Behavior: It is more commonly found in the sanctuary’s aquatic areas.
9. Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus)
Significance: Flamingos are occasionally spotted in Nelapattu, especially during the winter months when migratory birds are more abundant.
Habitat: These elegant birds are found in shallow waters, feeding on algae and small organisms.
10. Waders and Shorebirds
Varieties: Various species of waders, such as the Curlew Sandpiper and Common Redshank, can be observed in Nelapattu.
Significance: These birds often migrate to the sanctuary during the winter months.
11. Lesser Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna javanica)
Habitat: Often found in water bodies, particularly in the sanctuary’s wetlands.
Behavior: Known for its distinctive whistling calls and migratory habits.
12. Migratory Birds
Apart from these, the sanctuary attracts around 50 migratory bird species annually, including various ducks, geese, and shorebirds, making it a crucial stopover for many species during their long migration.
Other Bird Species
Egrets (e.g., Little Egret, Great Egret)
Kingfishers (e.g., Common Kingfisher)
Terns
Babbler species
Overall, Nelapattu is an important biodiversity hotspot, attracting bird watchers, conservationists, and nature enthusiasts due to its vast variety of avian species. The best time to visit for bird watching is during the migratory season, from November to March.
