Bird Walk at Ukkadam Lake (Ukkadam Periyakulam), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

About Ukkadam Lake

Ukkadam Lake, also known as Ukkadam Periyakulam, is a prominent urban wetland in Coimbatore and an important part of the city’s network of water bodies. The lake consists of extensive open water, shallow margins, wetland vegetation, and surrounding green spaces that change with the seasons and water levels. Its location within the urban landscape creates a valuable natural refuge amid the city’s built-up areas, while the lake and its surroundings provide habitat for a range of wetland and terrestrial wildlife. The open water and vegetated edges also make the area an attractive destination for nature observation and birdwatching.

Like many urban wetlands, Ukkadam Lake faces pressures associated with development and intensive human use. Changes in water quality, waste accumulation, disturbance, and alterations to the natural character of the shoreline can affect the ecological health of the lake. Maintaining clean water, protecting wetland vegetation, preserving natural edges, and managing human activity around the lake are important for retaining its biodiversity. Continued conservation and sensitive management can help Ukkadam Periyakulam remain an important ecological space within Coimbatore while supporting the city’s growing need for accessible natural areas.

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Ukkadam Lake

Ukkadam Lake supports a diverse mix of wetland and terrestrial birds, reflecting the variety of habitats around this urban waterbody. Wetland species such as Indian Spot-billed Duck, Eurasian Coot, Grey-headed Swamphen, White-breasted Waterhen, Little Grebe, Oriental Darter, Glossy Ibis, Grey Heron, Purple Heron, and Spot-billed Pelican make use of the open water, shallow areas, and vegetated edges. Red-wattled Lapwing is associated with the open margins, while Black Kite and Brahminy Kite represent the raptors recorded around the lake. The surrounding vegetation also supports species such as White-throated Kingfisher, Black Drongo, Ashy Prinia, Spotted Dove, Purple-rumped Sunbird, Rufous Treepie, and Asian Koel. Together, these birds highlight the importance of Ukkadam Lake as an urban wetland supporting both water-dependent species and birds that use the surrounding trees, scrub, and open areas. The range of habitats around the lake makes it a valuable birdwatching site within Coimbatore.