Census of birds launched

RAMANATHAPURAM: Wildlife officials on Saturday launched the census of winged visitors in four bird sanctuaries and some water bodies in the district.Around 90 persons, including college students, forest officials and anti-poachers were involved in the census programme conducted at  Melaselvanur-Keelaselvanur, Kanjirankulam, Chittrankudi and Therthankal bird sanctuaries and in some water bodies, including Sakkarakottai and Ramanathapuram Big Tank. Moreover, a group of wildlife staff conducted a survey in 21 islands.It is said the number of birds would come down when many water bodies were not possessing adequate storage.However, the team noticed many winged visitors, including flamingo, in Keelaselvanur-Melaselvanur bird sanctuary. The birds are playing a vital role in maintaining water bodies neat and clean. They consume pests and their excreta is considered as good neutrinos for plants and it will purify water. Moreover, they are the indicators of water bodies.Sundara Kumar, wildlife warden, was making effort to create awareness among the people on the significant role of birds.  The details of birds’ arrival and the present status of sanctuaries will be declared on Monday.