Bhubaneswar: The Bindusagar lake near Lingaraj temple here is abuzz with activities as migratory birds, which landed quite late this winter, are frolicking in the water body to the delight of tourists.
Several bird species with myriad colours have congregated here a couple of days back and are nibbling at lotus stamens and plankton in the lake.
The development has enthused many ornithologists and bird watchers even as census at major avian destinations in the state has been completed.
Though there is no specific reason for the late arrival of winged guests this season, locals said the holy pond has lost its former sheen and virginity. Its degrading ecosystem might have led to the poor turnout of birds.
“The water body over a sprawling 22-acre land near Lingaraj temple attracts over 5,000 birds from across the world every winter. However, this year the number has dwindled. About 500-1,000 birds have arrived in the city,” said a local.
Lotus plants on Uttareswar Ghat, Bishrama Ghat and Ekamra Van have defoliated due to increased pollution levels in the pond, he said adding these are the chief food sources of the migratory birds.
Sangram Mohanty, an Old Town resident, said, “Degrading ecosystem of the lake is responsible for poor turnout and late arrival of the winged creatures this winter. The birds take a flight before spring equinox with the onset of summer.”
However, tourists visiting the nearby medicinal garden enjoy the chirping and frolicking of the birds in the legendary pond.
Meanwhile, nature lovers have demanded official intervention to ensure conducive environment for the avian species at the pond to significantly multiply tourist footfalls in the city.
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