A breathtaking sight has unfolded at the abandoned salt pans in Nemmeli, just off Chennai’s East Coast Road (ECR): Greater Flamingos, typically gracing Tamil Nadu’s coastal wetlands only during the cooler ‘winter’ months, have been observed lingering here much longer than usual.
These neglected salt pans naturally collect shallow, salty water, creating a perfect habitat brimming with algae and tiny invertebrates – the ideal feast for flamingos. On September 27th, an impressive flock of between 100 and 200 flamingos was seen enjoying the bounty. While these magnificent birds usually journey from Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch and Central Asia to popular wetland spots such as Muttukadu, Odiyur, Kelambakkam, and the renowned Pulicat, their prolonged presence at Nemmeli is noteworthy.
Beyond the flamingos, Nemmeli has also become a haven for a variety of other migratory shorebirds, including Caspian terns, black-tailed godwits, lesser sand plovers, curlew sandpipers, and common sandpipers. These early arrivals and late departures are characteristic of the migratory season, which usually spans from October to April.
K.V.R.K. Thirunaranan from The Nature Trust, who has dedicated over a decade to documenting birds in Nemmeli, expressed his delight at seeing the flamingos stay well past their usual departure in May-June. He speculated that “this spot likely benefits from excellent tidal flow, guaranteeing a consistent food supply” – a key factor in their extended visit.
Flamingos are known for their distinctive feeding method, using their uniquely shaped, down-curved bills to filter tiny food particles from the water. Their iconic pink plumage is a direct result of the carotenoid pigments found in the algae and small crustaceans that make up their diet.
Mr. Thirunaranan emphasizes that the flamingos’ extended stay, defying typical seasonal patterns, underscores the significant ecological importance of the Nemmeli site. Despite its value, the area faces growing threats from increasing human encroachment, rampant plastic pollution, and accumulated construction debris. Conservationists are raising alarms, stressing that without urgent formal protection, this vital bird habitat could be irrevocably lost.