Category: Water Body Restoration

Vettai Perumal Kovil Tank, a freshwater temple tank restored in 2024, has shown clear signs of ecological improvement. The tank now holds water better, creating a healthy environment for aquatic life and waterbirds. Recent bird sightings confirm successful breeding of the Spot-billed Duck. Last year, one adult duck was seen with 12 ducklings, and this year the same parent was observed with 7 ducklings. These repeated sightings show that the tank provides safe and suitable conditions for birds to nest and raise their young.

The tank also supports other bird species. Around 15 Lesser Whistling Ducks, medium-sized water birds, were seen feeding and resting on the island inside the tank. A few Little Egrets, small, elegant white birds, were spotted searching for food along the shallow edges, while several Purple Swamphens, large, colourful wetland birds, were observed near plants growing out of the water, which offer shelter and food.

Earlier, the tank was overgrown with Karuvelam (Acacia) trees, which reduced its value for birds. As part of the restoration, these trees were removed and small islands were created specifically for birds. These changes have increased bird activity, attracted new species, and improved the overall quality of the habitat.