Known for its extreme summer temperatures, Raichur is now gaining recognition for an unexpected reason — it is emerging as a major destination for migratory birds.
Large numbers of migratory and resident birds have been arriving at the Marched and Mansalapur lakes, located close to Raichur city. Spread across 572 acres and 298 acres respectively and situated adjacent to each other, the lakes together offer a vast, uninterrupted wetland habitat ideal for birdlife.
Year-round water draws birds since 2012
The two lakes retain water throughout the year and have been attracting migratory birds consistently since 2012. Migration begins at the onset of winter every year, transforming the area into a thriving avian landscape.
Birdwatchers describe the sight of birds nesting, breeding, hunting for food and flying in large flocks at dusk as visually stunning and ecologically significant.
Over 280 bird species recorded
According to experts, around 282 species of birds have been recorded at the lakes. These include ring plovers, painted storks, spot-billed pelicans, grey herons, pond herons, black-tailed godwits, redshanks, ibises, common sandpipers, kingfishers, cormorants, greater flamingos, bar-headed geese, Egyptian vultures, black kites, Eurasian spoonbills and brown-headed gulls.
Many of these birds migrate from distant countries such as Mongolia, Cambodia, New Zealand and Pakistan, highlighting the international ecological importance of the lakes.
Alternative to crowded sanctuaries
Experts note that several bird species that do not frequent Karnataka’s well-known Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary have started migrating to Marched and Mansalapur lakes, likely due to reduced disturbance and favourable habitat conditions.
Dr Basavaprasad B, Advisor to Ekta Foundation, said the area has strong potential to be developed into a prominent eco-tourism destination.
Call for conservation and eco-tourism
Writer and wildlife photographer Earanna Bengali from Raichur said the birds are drawn to the lakes because of low vehicular movement, green surroundings, abundant water, ample food availability and low pollution levels.
He stressed the need for planned development that balances tourism with conservation, warning that unregulated activity could disturb the fragile ecosystem.
Opportunity for Raichur district
Environmentalists believe that with proper protection, infrastructure and awareness, the twin lakes could boost eco-tourism, livelihoods and conservation efforts, while putting Raichur on the map as a key migratory bird destination in Karnataka.