Pelicans back to nest at Hebbal

Pelicans back to nest at Hebbal
BY AMIT S. UPADHYE
BENGALURU


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: The spot-billed pel icans are back in Hebbal lake. They have landed there and chosen an island to nest.
They had left bird lovers worried last year after they gave Hebbal lake the skip which is said to be unusual.

On Sunday, a group of city based bird watchers counted nearly 70 pelicans and close to 30 nests on the island.

However, the sighting has not amused the birders who are now worried about motor boats being used inside the eco-sensitive Hebbal lake which might affect pelican breeding.

“We received reports of water scooters being used inside the lake which is against the agreement which clearly says that ‘zero-boat ing’ must be ensured to provide the birds their space. If motor boats enter the water, the nesting birds will be disturbed,” pointed out biodiversity expert Harish R. Bhat.

The Hebbal lake is managed by a private developing agency which has taken the lake on lease for 16 years. The spot-billed pelican (Pelecanus Philippensis) is a member of the pelican family. Apart from Heb bal, the pelicans are also found in large numbers at Jakkur Lake situated close to the Hebbal tank.

“Plenty of water and food has been attracting the pelicans to Hebbal lake for many years. This year rain has helped fill the lake early. Last season, no pelican nesting was sighted at the lake since earth works were in progress. Fortunately, this year they have congregated in large numbers.

Apart from pelicans, large cormorants (water crows) have also started nesting here,” pointed out Manjunath P., a bird watcher.

Located in the north of Bengaluru along Bellary Road, the Hebbal lake is spread over 150 acres and nearly 70 aquatic birds have been identified here. Last year, the greens went on a series of protests against the unscientific desilting carried-out in the lake using heavy machinery.

Meanwhile, bird experts have said there is an increase in the population of pelicans, especially in the wetlands of Bengaluru, Tumkur and Kolar. “This shows the need to protect the wetlands to save the birds,” said Ameen Ahamed, a bio-diversity expert.