Spot-billed pelicans dying at Andhra Pradesh sanctuary, cause unknown
India Today
An unknown disease has led to the mass mortality of spot-billed pelicans in Andhra Pradesh's Srikakulam. Over 100 migratory birds have died so far.
An unknown infestation has led to mass deaths of migratory spot-billed pelicans at the Telineelapuram International Bird Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh's Srikakulam district.
Every year these birds reach Srikakulam for breeding. This year, over 100 birds that prey on nearby water bodies, have died in groups in the past two days.
While some blame the negligence of the sanctuary behind the death of the migratory birds, others suspect the pelicans are hit by an unknown infestation. The authorities are yet to confirm the cause of death.
Telineelapuram Bird Sanctuary is an internationally recognised exotic bird sanctuary for the conservation of rare exotic birds. It is located at a distance of about 5 km from the town of Tekkali. Every year approximately 3,000 pelicans and painted storks visit Srikakulam from Siberia during September and stay on till March.
Telineelapuram, Iruvaram and Naupada areas around Tekkali town are home to these migratory birds in this period.
According to government figures, about 113 species of exotic birds come to these areas each year from Siberia, Russia, Malaysia, Hungary, Singapore and Germany for breeding.
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