Bird Walk at Kannankurichi Mookaneri Lake Salem , Tamil Nadu
- New Delhi
- 27 June, 2026
- Angeline Mano M
About Kannankurichi Mookaneri Lake
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Shevaroy Hills, Kannankurichi Mookaneri Lake is one of Salem’s most important urban wetlands and a thriving refuge for wildlife. Covering around 23.5 hectares, the rain-fed lake features open water, marshy edges, vegetated bunds, and a network of man-made islands that together support a rich wetland ecosystem. Native trees, aquatic plants, and seasonal vegetation provide food and shelter for a remarkable diversity of birds, insects, fish, amphibians, and other wildlife, making the lake a green sanctuary within the growing city.
Mookaneri has emerged as one of Tamil Nadu’s most rewarding urban birding destinations, attracting both resident species and a variety of winter migrants that use the lake as a feeding and resting ground. From elegant waterfowl and waders to raptors and colourful woodland birds, every visit offers something new for nature enthusiasts. While recent restoration and public access improvements have enhanced the lake’s appeal, challenges such as pollution, encroachment, invasive vegetation, and increasing recreational pressure remain. Continued habitat management, community awareness, and responsible birding are essential to ensure this vibrant wetland continues to support its remarkable biodiversity.
Bird Guide: Angeline Mano M
I am an ornithology researcher and nature educator from Tamil Nadu with over eight years of experience in bird monitoring, wetland ecology, and citizen science. Having surveyed more than 345 wetlands and led birding and conservation programs for over 7,000 participants, I am passionate about making birdwatching accessible while promoting ethical birding, biodiversity documentation, and wetland conservation.
Bird walk Location
Common birds of Kannankurichi Mookaneri Lake
Kannankurichi Mookaneri Lake is a vibrant wetland that supports an impressive diversity of resident waterbirds, marsh specialists, and woodland species throughout the year. Visitors can watch graceful Oriental Darters drying their wings, Little Grebes diving beneath the water’s surface, and elegant herons stalking prey along the reed-lined margins. The lake’s marshes echo with the calls of Gray-headed Swamphens, Eurasian Moorhens, Eurasian Coots, and White-breasted Waterhens, while Indian Spot-billed Ducks paddle across the open water. Kingfishers, barbets, bulbuls, and drongos add colour and activity to the surrounding trees, making every walk around the lake rewarding. During the winter months, Mookaneri becomes even more exciting as migratory ducks, waders, and other waterbirds arrive, further enriching one of Salem’s premier urban birding destinations.
Ashy Prinia
Asian Koel
Black-crowned Night Heron
Black Drongo
Black Kite
Common Kingfisher
Common Myna
Coppersmith Barbet
Eurasian Coot
Gray Heron
Gray-headed Swamphen
Indian Pond-Heron
Indian Robin
Indian Spot-billed Duck
Little Cormorant
Little Egret
Little Grebe
Oriental Darter
Black Kite
Red-vented Bulbul
Summary of Walk
The bird walk at Kannankurichi Mookaneri Lake saw 11 participants, many of whom were experiencing birdwatching for the first time. The session began in the evening, with participants eagerly exploring the wetland habitat using binoculars and spotting scopes. The excitement of seeing birds up close for the first time created an engaging and memorable atmosphere. Participants actively observed, photographed, and discussed bird behaviour, making the session highly interactive.
A total of 32 species were recorded during the walk. The highlight was the sighting of around 20 Oriental Darters, which captivated everyone with their presence. Additional sightings included Purple Herons, Grey Herons, and flocks of ducks in flight, adding to the richness of the experience. Participants learned about bird behaviour, identification, and the ecological importance of wetlands. The walk successfully combined learning with enjoyment, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for birdlife. Overall, it was a fulfilling session marked by curiosity, discovery, and meaningful engagement with nature.
Number of Participants
0
