A spot-billed pelican bird was badly injured by hunters at Sulur Lake, near the Noyyal River.

With the beginning of the migratory season, around 120 species of birds have started to arrive at the Coimbatore wetlands. Wildlife activist Umesh Mardhuchalam said, “Spot-billed pelicans are commonly seen at Coimbatore lakes during this season. They weigh around five kilos. Locals are hunting the bird for its meat. We have handed the injured bird over to the forest department. Its wings were broken. Proper treatment was given by the vets. As soon as the bird recovers, it will be released at the same spot where it was found.”

“These birds help in balancing the fish population in the lakes. So they should not be hurt. This is the second time that we came across a bird that was injured by hunters. The only way to stop the hunters is to strictly punish them,” he added.