Rare Bird Sets New Breeding Record in Peninsular India
First-Ever Breeding of Blue-Cheeked Bee-Eater Recorded in Tamil Nadu: For the first time in documented history, the Blue-Cheeked Bee-Eater (Merops persicus) has been found nesting in peninsular India. This notable ornithological event was recorded in the Aandivilai saltpans, situated near the Manakudy Mangroves in Tamil Nadu’s Kanniyakumari district. Previously observed only as a passage migrant and winter visitor, the bird has now added southern India to its confirmed breeding range, marking a significant shift in its behaviour and distribution.
A Closer Look at the Blue-Cheeked Bee-Eater
This striking bird is easily identified by its vivid green feathers, distinctive blue cheeks, and elegant tail streamers. Native to regions like North Africa and West Asia, it commonly breeds in locations such as the Nile Delta, Iran, and Pakistan. Historically, India served merely as a transit or wintering zone, which makes its recent breeding activity in Tamil Nadu a landmark ecological event.
Survey and Findings from Kanniyakumari
Between January 2022 and October 2023, researchers undertook a focused avian survey across the Pazhayar river basin, covering sites such as Periyakulam, Manakudy, Puthalam, and Aandivilai. The study tracked mating displays, nest site fidelity, and population changes in the saltpans. Starting with 28 birds, the count rose to 48 individuals within 22 months—strong evidence of local breeding success. This makes Aandivilai the southernmost breeding point for this species in India.
Fragile Habitat Under Threat
The nesting zone, though falling under the Coastal Regulation Zone and a No Development Zone, is increasingly at risk. Unregulated construction, urban pressure, and environmental stress such as erosion and flooding threaten the fragile ecosystem. Conservationists warn that unless protective action is taken soon, this rare breeding colony may be lost.
Urgent Need for Conservation Action
Environmental experts have urged both state and central governments to grant protected status to the Aandivilai nesting site. Being the only known breeding site for the Blue-Cheeked Bee-Eater in India, it holds exceptional ecological value. Measures like strict zoning enforcement, seasonal habitat protection, and community-driven conservation awareness are critical for the bird’s continued survival in the region.
Adaptability and Behavioural Insights
Typically found in semi-arid or coastal areas with minimal vegetation, this species has shown remarkable nesting flexibility. It can live in solitary or colony-based nests, often alongside European Bee-Eaters, suggesting strong adaptability. In off-season periods, the bird gravitates toward greener regions, making it well-suited to dynamic ecological conditions such as those in Tamil Nadu.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT FOR COMPETITIVE EXAMS
| Aspect | Details |
| Species | Blue-Cheeked Bee-Eater (Merops persicus) |
| Location | Aandivilai Saltpans, Kanniyakumari, Tamil Nadu |
| New Range Discovery | First breeding record in peninsular India |
| Preferred Habitats | Semi-deserts, saltpans, mangroves, coastal wetlands |
| Study Duration | January 2022 – October 2023 |
| Population Growth | 28 (start) → 48 birds (end) |
| Major Threats | Habitat loss, infrastructure projects, natural disasters |
| Suggested Measures | Habitat protection, CRZ compliance, local conservation programs |
| Associated Species | European Bee-Eater (nesting cohabitant) |
| Conservation Significance | India’s only known breeding site for the species |
