Bird watchers at Pallikaranai marshland were in for a surprise last week when they recorded the first-ever sighting of an Indian jackal in the marsh’s core area. The species, though known to coexist near human settlements, had never before been observed in this sensitive ecosystem. Chennai district forest officer V A Saravanan confirmed the sighting, calling it a sign of adaptability and urban coexistence.
While jackals have previously been spotted in Guindy National Park, Nanmangalam Reserve Forest, and the Besant Nagar region, Pallikaranai has now joined this growing list of habitats. Conservationist K V R K Thirunaranan, who has been documenting wildlife in the marsh for years, called the sighting a positive indicator of increasing biodiversity.
The marshland supports jackals due to its rich food availability, including fish, crabs, and even African catfish—an invasive species. By preying on these catfish, jackals help maintain ecological balance.
Experts say this sighting underlines the growing importance of urban wetlands as havens for wildlife. It also raises awareness about protecting green spaces from urban expansion. Biologist G Kamaraj from Vandalur Zoo noted that jackals were once common in rural areas and played a crucial role in controlling rodent populations, benefiting agriculture.
Though mostly nocturnal, jackals may be active during the day, especially when females are nursing young. Their haunting howls still echo in the countryside—a subtle reminder of nature’s resilience near city limits.
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