North Karnataka's flying beauties take a hit

Hubballi: The dry spell in north Karnataka has taken its toll on migratory birds and wildlife, even triggering an increase in man-animal conflict as many wild beasts have strayed into human settlements in search of water bodies.

The number of winged visitors birds arriving every winter has dipped this year as most lakes and wetlands, ideal spots for breeding, are bone-dry. The cities of Hubballi-Dharwad, which are dotted with picturesque lakes, were bio-diversity hotspots for large number of migratory birds from western countries, till last year. Every winter, the arrival of avian visitors meant an increase in flow of tourists and ornithologists.

Magadi lake in Gadag district and Attiveri bird sanctuary in Mundagod taluk have been attracting Bar-headed Geese (Anser indicus) and several other species including the Grey Heron, Comb duck, Eurasian Ppoonbill and Painted Stork.

These migratory birds from Ladakh, China and other countries would visit the lake during winter as farmers in area grow groundnuts, the ideal food for them. This winter, Magadi lake has almost dried up and bird lovers contend that measures were not taken to improve the water body though the Union government recognized it as hotspot destination and for conservation of migratory birds.

"It is not just the drought situation that has jeopardized the lives of birds and wild animals, but also lack of co-ordination among various government departments to revive these lakes. Officials should take up desilting of lakes and clearing of encroachment and inlet blockages. Some people bathe, wash clothes and bathe cattle in the lakes, resulting in release of chemicals like phosphorous  from detergent soaps used by them. This is harmful to the breeding ground of the migratory birds" said avid bird watcher, Harshavardhan Sheelavantar.

The backwaters of Almatti dam also host a number of migratory birds during summer. Some hundred species arrived here from northern parts of the country for nesting. The people are urging the government to declare the spot as sanctuary to protect the birds from poachers and create a platform for bird lovers to study these species.

"Government should focus on protecting the eco-system. Measures should also be taken to develop the lakes which are in a state of neglect", Sheelavantar added.