Kannamangalam lake turns bird haven amid summer heat

Kannamangalam Lake near Arani in Tiruvannamalai district has emerged as an unexpected refuge for migratory birds, drawing attention as a ‘mini’ bird sanctuary during the peak summer season.
While renowned bird sanctuaries such as Vedanthangal and Koothankulam usually host thousands of migratory birds from Europe during the northeast monsoon months between November and January, the ongoing summer heat and falling water levels have forced many birds to seek alternative habitats.
In this backdrop, Kannamangalam Lake, which continues to retain water even in summer, has become a preferred destination for several rare migratory species.
Birds such as storks and other water birds have been spotted in large numbers, taking advantage of the lake’s favourable
conditions.
The presence of abundant water and food sources, including fish, snails, crabs and frogs, has encouraged the birds to settle and nest in the area. The surroundings now resonate with the sounds of these birds, giving the lake the appearance of a vibrant bird sanctuary.
Residents and visitors from nearby areas have been flocking to the lake to witness the unusual sight of migratory birds during summer, calling it a rare and remarkable natural phenomenon.
Officials and nature enthusiasts have highlighted the importance of preserving such water bodies, which serve as crucial habitats for wildlife, especially during extreme climatic conditions.