The Aryavarth Express
Thoothukudi (Tamil Nadu):
Thousands of migratory Rosy Starlings have arrived in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district, transforming the skies over areas such as Perungulam and the banks of the Thamirabarani River into a breathtaking spectacle with their coordinated aerial formations.
District Forest Officer Ilaiyaraja said Thoothukudi, being a coastal district rich in wetlands, attracts a wide variety of migratory birds every winter. This season, however, has witnessed a particularly large influx of Rosy Starlings.
“Rosy Starlings belong to the starling family and breed in the steppe grasslands of Central Asia and West Asia. Due to harsh winter conditions there, they migrate to tropical regions like India from July–August and stay until April or May,” he explained.
According to officials, the migration route of these birds extends from Gujarat in the west down to southern India. Thoothukudi’s combination of wetlands, agricultural fields, abundant food sources and favourable climate makes it an ideal wintering habitat.
“This year, their numbers have increased significantly. We should be proud that our wetlands support such biodiversity,” Ilaiyaraja said, stressing the need to protect the birds.
He also highlighted the ecological benefits of Rosy Starlings, noting that they feed extensively on locusts and other insects. “By preying on locusts, they help safeguard agricultural lands and provide a major benefit to farmers,” he added.
Meanwhile, the coastal region near Thoothukudi Harbour has become a hub of bird activity. Recent heavy rainfall has led to water accumulation in suburban salt pans, which usually serve only for salt production. These water-filled salt pans now resemble natural wetlands, attracting a variety of water birds.
The increase in rainwater has boosted populations of small fish, insects and other aquatic organisms, creating abundant food sources. Large groups of birds can now be seen landing and foraging in these salt pans—a phenomenon considered rare under normal conditions.
The unusual sight has drawn birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts and local residents, who have been flocking to the area to witness the spectacle.
Ornithologists say Rosy Starlings migrate from regions in Northwest Asia and Eastern Europe, typically leaving their breeding grounds between September and October and remaining in the Indian subcontinent until March or April. Besides Tamil Nadu, they are known to winter in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana and parts of North India.
Experts note that the birds migrate in search of suitable weather and food-rich habitats, preferring grasslands and agricultural areas due to their omnivorous diet. Flocking behaviour during migration also helps them protect themselves from predators.
If favourable conditions continue, experts believe the suburban salt pans and wetlands of Thoothukudi will remain an important temporary gathering ground for Rosy Starlings and other water birds in the coming months.
