Pallar fields in Malappuram come alive as rare Ibis arrive in flocks

The Pallar paddy fields at Tirunavaya in Malappuram has turned white with the arrival of a large flock of Black-headed ibis, a rare sight that has begun to draw bird watchers from across the district. Tirunavaya is increasingly turning into a major habitat for water birds and migratory birds.

The birds, locally known as ‘Vella Arivaal Kokkan’, have come in search of food as ploughing for the next season of paddy has begun. They have long, curved black beaks and white wings and move and nest in flocks.

Wetland bird researcher Binu Chullakkattil, a teacher at NSS College, Manjeri, said the species was rarely seen in Keralam earlier. According to him, sightings began after 2000 and increased after 2012.

Nesting of Black-headed ibis was first reported at Tirunavaya in 2022. The number of nests rose to over 50 in 2024. Local birdwatcher Salman Karimpanackal said nesting sites were destroyed last year and that no nests had been seen since.

Tirunavaya has many marshy areas with fields where lotus is cultivated. The aquatic life attracts birds from different parts, said Mr. Karimpanakkal. Other waterbirds seen at Pallar include Glossy ibises, Spoonbills, Painted storks, Jacanas, Herons, Cormorants and Moorhens.

“Tirunavaya has the largest Spoonbill nesting colony in the State. Its numbers are increasing,” said Sreenila Mahesh, a bird researcher. Re Echo, an environmental organisation based in Tirunavaya, is at the forefront of efforts to protect the bird habitat.