First coordinated raptor census in Tamil Nadu Two‑day survey on Jan 31–Feb 1 at Thanthai Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary recorded 25 bird‑of‑prey species across Erode’s Anthiyur, Bargur, Thattakarai, Chennampatti and Erode ranges, marking the state’s inaugural synchronized raptor count [1].
Diverse raptor and owl species documented The confirmed list includes Peregrine falcon, Eurasian kestrel, Brahminy kite, Black kite, Black baza, Crested serpent eagle, Changeable hawk‑eagle, Lesser fish eagle, Grey‑headed fish eagle, Oriental honey buzzard, Crested goshawk, shikra and owls such as Asian barn owl, Indian scops owl, Jungle owlet, Brown fish owl, Rock eagle owl, Mottled wood owl and Spotted owlet [1].
Grey‑headed fish eagle sighting signals healthy wetlands The Near‑Threatened Grey‑headed fish eagle (Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus) was observed in the Palar River basin at Chennampatti, serving as a bio‑indicator of unpolluted water, robust fish stocks and minimal riverine disturbance, underscoring the sanctuary’s ecological value [1].
Over 70 participants collaborated in the survey More than seventy individuals, including NGO members, bird experts and Forest Department staff, took part, with forest personnel acting as guides for each group, enhancing field coordination and data collection [1].
Standardized methods captured precise habitat data Wildlife biologist S. Dharanprasath noted use of night‑time point counts, daytime vehicle searches and foot surveys; GPS tracks of sighting locations and photographic records were logged to improve understanding of raptor habitats and verify species identification [1].
Census aims to inform long‑term conservation Directed by District Forest Officer K.V. Appala Naidu, the exercise will feed into mapping raptor distributions, pinpointing biodiversity hotspots and shaping statewide conservation planning under the Raptor Assessment 2026 framework [1].