Samudram Lake in Thanjavur, spread across about 287 acres, supports irrigation for around 1,186 acres of farmland. The lake is known to attract a variety of resident and migratory birds every year.
In a joint exercise involving the district administration and the Forest Department, more than 15 bird enthusiasts and students, along with the Arur Wildlife Conservation and Environment organisation, conducted a bird count at the lake.
The survey recorded 63 bird species, including painted storks, cormorants, lesser whistling ducks, spot-billed ducks, grebes, openbill storks and black-headed ibis, among others.
Satheeshkumar, founder of the Arur organisation, said the diversity highlights the need to protect waterbodies and avoid disturbing bird habitats. He called for greater public awareness efforts by the government.
Bird watchers also pointed to shrinking lake area due to infrastructure and development, and warned that waste and sewage inflows from residential areas and underground drainage are degrading water quality. They urged the district administration to prevent sewage mixing and ensure conditions that support aquatic life and bird populations.
