Chennai: The Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary at Kodiakarai in Nagapattinam district, which used to attract several thousands of migratory birds every year, is witnessing a sharp decline in their numbers this year, according to a top ornithologist.

“In sharp contrast to previous years, so far only very few species of migratory birds have arrived from faraway countries. This might be due to extremely deficient rainfall during October and November this year. If the monsoon rains pick up in the coming weeks, the turnout could go up during December,” Deputy Director of Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) S Balachandran said.

“A few thousands of flamingos and shore birds, particularly waders and seagulls, have arrived,” said Balachandran, who is camping at Kodiakarai. He said the migratory birds started arriving at the sanctuary during the first half of October this year. Last year, Kodiakarai area received 656 mm rain in October and 660 mm in November. This year, the area has received only 145 mm during October and just 92 mm during the first half of November, he pointed out.

During the same time last year, nearly 1.5 lakh birds had arrived. This year, about 40,000 birds alone have arrived, he said. However, Balachandran said this year a good number of birds have arrived from other parts of India. “Usually, Point Calimere would receive birds from other countries. This year Indian birds are seen in large numbers.”