Tamil Nadu's Third Biodiversity Heritage Site - Connect2ConnectOnline September 1, 2025

On Monday, the Tamil Nadu government announced that Elathur Lake in Erode district has been designated as the State’s third Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS).

This recognition highlights its diverse bird life, unique wetland ecosystems, and cultural importance.

The Environment, Climate Change and Forest Department issued the notification under Section 37(1) of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.

Elathur Lake now joins Arittapatti in Madurai, which was declared a BHS in November 2022, and Kasampatty in Dindigul, recognized earlier this year, as part of a growing network of heritage sites throughout Tamil Nadu.

Officials noted that these notifications are part of a broader strategy to safeguard biodiversity beyond traditional protected areas, emphasizing the vital role of local communities in conservation efforts.

Covering 37.42 hectares in Nambiyur taluk, this wetland features a mix of deep and shallow waters, marshes, mudflats, scrubland, and rocky areas, creating habitats for a variety of species.

Surveys have identified 187 bird species, including migratory waterfowl, raptors, and several threatened species.

Noteworthy sightings include the Endangered Steppe Eagle, the Vulnerable River Tern and Greater Spotted Eagle, along with five Near Threatened species such as the Woolly necked Stork, Painted Stork, Oriental Darter, and Black headed Ibis.

In the busy migratory months, the lake is home to almost 5,000 birds, featuring winter guests like the Northern Pintail, Garganey, Bar headed Goose, Green winged Teal, Wigeon, and Shoveler.

Wagtails, sandpipers, warblers, shrikes, and migratory raptors contribute to the seasonal variety of the area.

Besides the birds, Elathur also supports native fish, amphibians, reptiles, invertebrates, and wetland plants, which makes it a hub of genetic diversity.

In January this year, the Elathur Town Panchayat passed a resolution that was later endorsed by the District Collector.

Following that, the Tamil Nadu Biodiversity Board recommended the site, highlighting its ecological and cultural importance, as well as its role in supporting migratory pathways.

Officials pointed out that the BHS designation isn’t about heavy regulations.

It’s more about promoting a conservation mindset, recognizing local communities, and enhancing livelihoods through ecological resilience.

DISCLAIMER: This article is derived from information available in the public domain.