Venkatraopet Cheruvu in Mancherial a hidden ecological treasure of Telangana

Sighting of two rare bird species suggests that the water body in Venkatraopet village of Luxettipet mandal, plays a crucial role in supporting rare and possibly endangered species

Mancherial: An irrigation tank on the outskirts of Venkatraopet village in Luxettipet mandal has drawn attention of forest officials and bird scientists for being a hidden ecological treasure by remaining an extraordinary habitat of various winged wonders in hordes. A recent sighting of two rare bird species at the tank helped the officials and scientists to realise the potentiality of the site.

Located on the peripherals of the village, the tiny wetland emerged as a site of significant ecological interest following the remarkable observation of Malkoha Blue-faced and Red-necked falcon, a record occurrence in the Deccan Plateau. The development spurred the officials and experts to lay special focus on habitat characteristics, and conservation implications of this extraordinary finding, contributing to the growing understanding of regional biodiversity.

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The rare species was first sighted by Dr Ramzan Virani, and Professor Subodh Bansod, researcher scholars Vaishnavi Chaudhari and Mahima Choudhary who were conducting a routine biodiversity survey at the tank on 16 February. Virani is faculty of Zoology at Shiramjee Moghe degree college at Pandharkawada in Yavatmal district of Maharashtra.

“The species, tentatively identified as Blue-faced Malkoha (Phaenicophaeus viridirostris) & Red-necked Falcon (Falco chicquera), is known for its limited geographic distribution and specialized habitat requirements, making its presence at Venkatraopet water body particularly noteworthy,” Virani remarked in his report submitted to the forest officials.

According to the report, the tank is a perennial wetland ecosystem, providing an ideal micro-habitat for a diverse array of flora and fauna. The dense riparian vegetation, seasonal water level fluctuations, and abundant aquatic resources create a suitable niche for species adapted to such unique conditions.

The observation of the two rare bird species suggests that this water body plays a critical role in supporting rare and possibly endangered species, highlighting the ecological importance of the Luxettipet Forest Range.

Additionally, the water body hosts hundreds of migratory ducks and local waterbirds, further emphasizing its significance as a crucial avian habitat during seasonal migrations and year-round biodiversity sustenance. The water body is surrounded by paddy fields, and its primary purpose is to cater to the water needs of the paddy crop, reflecting the harmonious coexistence of agriculture and local biodiversity.

“The tank situated away from the forests is safe home to around 13,000 birds of 97 species including many rare ones. The wetland has huge potential helping the village in converting to a maiden bird village in Telangana.  Sighting of two rare species is a welcome sign and a big promise for our landscape,” District Forest Officer Shiv Aasheesh Singh told ‘Telangana Today.’ He added that special efforts would be made to conserve the birds at the tank.

Plans to create a first bird village in State

Bird tourism and sustainable livelihood can be promoted at Venkatraopet, by converting it into a first bird village in Telangana by inviting birders and nature enthusiasts to experience the region’s rich avian biodiversity. Officials are mulling to create the bird village soon.

“This initiative would not only provide a unique ecotourism experience but also create opportunities for local livelihood generation through guided bird-watching tours, home stay accommodations, and traditional handicraft sales, fostering a sense of pride and active participation in biodiversity conservation,” Virani opined.