In a landmark move for environmental conservation, the Tamil Nadu government has officially designated Nagamalai Hillock in Erode district as the state’s fourth Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS). This recognition, made under the Biological Diversity Act of 2002, marks a crucial step in safeguarding the region’s natural treasures.
Nagamalai now joins three other vital locations previously declared BHS by the state: Arittapatti in Madurai district, Kasampatty in Dindigul district, and Elathur Lake, also located in Erode district.
Covering an area of 32.22 hectares, Nagamalai Hillock is a vibrant ecological hotspot. It serves as an essential haven for a multitude of migratory and resident birds, various aquatic species, and thriving wetland ecosystems. Its unique landscape, featuring deep waters, shallow margins, expansive mudflats, and rugged rocky outcrops, collectively supports an incredibly rich tapestry of biodiversity, as confirmed by official reports.
Extensive surveys, including the 2024 Tamil Nadu Synchronized Bird Census, have revealed a staggering array of life within the hillock. Documented species include 138 plant varieties (125 dicots and 13 monocots across 48 families and 114 genera), 118 bird species (with 30 being migratory), seven mammal species, 11 reptile species, five spider species, and 71 insect species. Notable avian residents include the majestic Greater Spotted Eagle, the graceful Pallid Harrier, and the powerful Bonelli’s Eagle.
A Tapestry of History and Culture
Beyond its ecological wonders, Nagamalai Hillock boasts profound archaeological and cultural significance. Discoveries such as Iron Age cairn circles, ancient rock shelters, and various artifacts point to its deep historical roots. The presence of a 400-year-old stone carving of Lord Anjaneya, documented by the Archaeology Department, further highlights its invaluable cultural heritage, according to the official statement.
Biodiversity Heritage Sites are clearly defined regions recognized for their unique and ecologically delicate nature, brimming with diverse life forms. Their purpose is to preserve rare, threatened, and keystone species, protect areas crucial for evolutionary research, and reinforce the vital cultural connections humans share with the natural world.