Destructive as Odisha’s Cyclone Titli was, it resulted in killing hundreds of migratory birds in Srikakulam district’s Telineelapuram bird sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh. Carcasses of these birds were scattered around after the heavy rain and stormy wind during the devastating cyclone.
Cyclone Titli
Cyclone Titli’s landfall occurred in Andhra Pradesh and South Odisha coast near 18.8 *N and 84.5* E, with a wind speed of 140-150 kmph. In some places, the wind speed was even reported to be 165 kmph.
Besides causing extensive damage in Srikakulam and Vizianagaram districts of north coastal Andhra Pradesh, Cyclone Titli killed several people. Speedy winds uprooted electric poles, damaged crops and plants and disrupted the normal life living in the area affected.
Migratory birds in Telineelapuram bird sanctuary
Situated 65 kilometres from Srikakulam town, Telineelapuram was declared a bird sanctuary many years ago. Several creeks covered by various types of trees comprise the village. Every year, the sanctuary becomes home to a number of migratory birds from countries such as Siberia, Germany, Australia and Hungary. The birds include painted storks, adjutant storks and spot-billed pelicans. These birds travel more than 6,000 kilometres for nesting every year, mostly during October, reported Deccan Chronicle. During the seven months that they stay, they lay eggs and hatch them. Between March and May, these birds leave the sanctuary with their new-born babies.
Migratory birds killed in Cyclone Titli
Over 200 birds were killed and more than 1,000 bird nests got destroyed in the sanctuary.
Near Odisha’s Jagannathpur railway too, thousands of open-billed storks have been reported to be dead, and several injured.
Locals say that nearly 5,000 birds might have died as a result of Cyclone Titli. However, forest authorities are trying to determine the number of deaths and provide proper care and treatment to the injured birds.
Also Read: Cyclone Titli Kills Eight In Andhra Pradesh & 1 In Odisha, Causes Extensive Damage
