MADURAI: A systematic bird diversity survey conducted today by the Postgraduate Department of Zoology of American College in Madurai has established that the Samanatham wetland area near Madurai city is the criticial refuge spot for both migratory birds and resident bird species.
Wetland Celebration Day was observed by the department on February 16th 2026 by undertaking a bird survey under the leadership of Dr.E.Joy Sharmila, Head of Department of PG Department of Zoology with expert guidance from Mr.Maria Antony of Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment (ATREE), according to a press release received from the college here today.
The study had documented a total of 48 bird species including 29 wetland species and eight of these total species were identified as migratory wetland species and 21 as migratory terrestrial species thereby emphasizing the seasonal significance of the habitat.
“Migratory species from the northern regions of Europe were observed in this survey, and Northern Shovelers were recorded in considerable numbers. From Europe, the birds migrated southward in response to freezing waterbodies there and also due to reduced food availability in their native habitats,” the survey study report has observed.
While a total bird count of 600 was done during field-based observation survey today, the team had found the presence of heterogenous microhabitats such as tank bunds, aquatic vegetation, mudflats, open water areas etc which are collectively providing suitable feeding, nesting and rooting grounds.
“The programme today had reinforced the need for sustained conservation measures for birds and longterm protection of wetland ecosystem in Samanatham in Madurai. PG students took part in this ornithology sruvey with proper field methods and behavioural observations of pelicans that tossed fish prior to eating,” the American College bird diversity survey report has said on February 16th 2026.
Among those who were involved in the bird diversity survey of The American College in Madurai include grass expert Mr.Selvakumar, research associate Ms.Santhanamari at ATREE, assistant professor Mr.Arul Yesudoss and PG student Mr.Santhosh Kumar.
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