Category: Water Body Restoration

Eggs of the Red-wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus), a ground-nesting wader, were recently spotted inside the water tank of Sri Vettai Perumal Temple, situated at the base of Sanjeevi Hill. The species, known for nesting directly on the ground, lays its eggs in shallow scrapes that blend seamlessly with the surroundings.

The Red-wattled Lapwing is a striking bird, about 35 cm long, with a light brown back showing a purple sheen, contrasted by a black head, chest, and neck, separated by a prominent white patch. Its breeding season typically runs from March to August, during which 3–4 black-blotched, buff-coloured eggs are laid. Both male and female birds share incubation duties, with the eggs hatching in about 28 to 30 days.

The sighting highlights the adaptability of the species and underscores the importance of protecting such nesting sites, even within human-used spaces.