Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s famous Chilika Lake has welcomed its first migratory flamingos of the season earlier than usual, bringing excitement among bird lovers despite the prevailing hot and humid weather.
The early arrival of the colourful visitors has raised hopes of a stronger migratory bird season at the lagoon, although the total number of birds expected to arrive remains uncertain.
Typically, migratory birds begin arriving at Chilika in larger numbers with the onset of winter. Flamingos are generally spotted at the lake between November and December, with another period of sightings between February and March. This year, however, their presence has been reported before the usual winter season.
The development has generated optimism among birdwatchers, particularly as flamingos have reportedly been seen in smaller numbers over the past three to four years.
Chilika, Asia’s largest brackish-water lagoon, is an important wintering ground for migratory birds and attracts bird enthusiasts and nature lovers from across the country. Its diverse wetland ecosystem provides feeding and resting habitats for numerous resident and migratory species.
The early sighting of flamingos has renewed expectations that more migratory birds could arrive in the coming months as seasonal conditions change.
However, it remains too early to determine whether this year will witness a significant increase in flamingo numbers. Birdwatchers will be keeping a close eye on the lake as the migratory season progresses.
For now, the arrival of these feathered visitors has offered an early glimpse of the birdwatching season at Chilika, even before winter has properly set in.
-OdishaAge
