Approximately 570 years ago, when Bichchugatti Bharamanna Nayaka built the Mallapura Lake close to Chitradurga Town, he couldn’t have foreseen the legacy he would leave behind. This impressive water body, initially designed to provide a reliable source of drinking water and irrigation for agriculture, has since evolved into a sanctuary for a myriad of avian visitors. Today, Mallapura Lake stands as a testament to the unintended yet remarkable synergy between human engineering and natural ecosystems.

Mallapura Lake, nestled in the heart of Chitradurga, Karnataka, is a haven for birdwatchers and ornithologists alike. This picturesque lake is home to a diverse range of bird species, contributing to a vibrant avian ecosystem. Among the notable inhabitants are the Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo), Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra), Black Kites (Milvus migrans), and Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea). Each of these species plays a unique role in maintaining the ecological balance of the lake.

Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)

The Great Cormorant is a large black bird known for its striking appearance and impressive fishing skills. These birds are often seen diving into the water, emerging with fish clasped in their beaks. Their diet primarily consists of fish, but they also consume amphibians and crustaceans. The cormorants’ proficient hunting techniques make them vital in controlling the fish population in Mallapura Lake.

Migration Pattern: Great Cormorants are migratory birds, traveling from their breeding grounds in northern Europe and Asia to warmer regions during winter. Mallapura Lake provides a suitable habitat for these birds during their migration, offering ample food and nesting opportunities.

Nesting and Propagation: Cormorants build their nests in colonies, often on trees or cliffs near water bodies. Their nests are constructed from twigs, leaves, and other plant materials. The female lays 3-4 eggs, which both parents incubate for about a month. The chicks fledge after approximately two months, ready to join the flocks in their aquatic hunting grounds.

Interesting Facts: Cormorants have specialized feathers that allow them to dive deep underwater. Unlike most waterbirds, their feathers are not completely waterproof, enabling them to sink and pursue prey efficiently.

Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra)

The Eurasian Coot, with its distinctive white frontal shield and black plumage, is another prominent resident of Mallapura Lake. These birds are omnivores, feeding on a variety of aquatic plants, insects, small fish, and even mollusks. Their foraging habits help maintain the aquatic vegetation balance, crucial for the lake’s ecosystem.

Migration Pattern: Eurasian Coots are partially migratory, with populations in northern regions moving southwards during the winter months. Mallapura Lake serves as an ideal wintering ground for these coots, providing shelter and food resources.

Nesting and Propagation: Coots build floating nests anchored to vegetation in shallow water. The female lays 6-10 eggs, with both parents sharing the incubation duties. The chicks are precocial, meaning they are relatively mature and mobile from the moment they hatch. This independence aids in their survival in the lake’s dynamic environment.

Interesting Facts: Eurasian Coots are known for their aggressive behavior, especially during the breeding season. They fiercely defend their territory and nests from intruders, ensuring the safety of their offspring.

Black Kites (Milvus migrans)

Black Kites are medium-sized raptors known for their soaring flight and scavenging habits. They play a crucial role as apex predators and scavengers, helping to keep the lake environment clean by consuming carrion and hunting small mammals, birds, and insects.

Migration Pattern: Black Kites are migratory birds, with populations from Europe and Central Asia migrating to Africa and the Indian subcontinent during winter. Mallapura Lake provides an excellent habitat for these kites, offering abundant food and roosting sites.

Nesting and Propagation: Black Kites typically nest in tall trees, constructing their nests from sticks and lined with softer materials. The female lays 2-3 eggs, which are incubated for about a month. The chicks fledge after 6-7 weeks, gradually becoming proficient hunters under their parents’ guidance.

Interesting Facts: Black Kites are highly adaptable and can thrive in various environments, from rural to urban areas. They are often seen soaring gracefully in the sky, using thermal currents to conserve energy while searching for food.

Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)

The Grey Heron is a tall, elegant bird with a striking grey and white plumage. These herons are skilled hunters, primarily feeding on fish, amphibians, and small mammals. Their patient stalking techniques and sharp beaks make them formidable predators in the aquatic ecosystem.

Migration Pattern: Grey Herons are partial migrants, with some populations staying year-round in temperate regions while others move to warmer areas during winter. Mallapura Lake offers an ideal habitat for these herons, providing abundant prey and nesting sites.

Nesting and Propagation: Grey Herons build large nests in trees near water bodies, often in colonies. The female lays 3-5 eggs, which are incubated by both parents for about a month. The chicks are fed by regurgitation and fledge after 7-8 weeks, gradually learning to hunt and fish independently.

Interesting Facts: Grey Herons have a unique hunting strategy; they stand motionless in shallow water, waiting for prey to come within striking distance. Their patience and precision make them highly effective hunters.

Mallapura Lake’s rich avian diversity creates a dynamic and balanced ecosystem. The interactions between different bird species and their environment contribute to the overall health of the lake. Great Cormorants control the fish population, Eurasian Coots manage aquatic vegetation, Black Kites clean up carrion, and Grey Herons maintain a balance in the prey population.

This intricate web of relationships not only supports the birds but also benefits other wildlife and plant species in the area. The presence of these birds attracts tourists and researchers, raising awareness about the importance of wetland conservation.

In conclusion, the Great Cormorant, Eurasian Coot, Black Kite, and Grey Heron are more than just residents of Mallapura Lake; they are integral components of its ecosystem. Their unique behaviors, migration patterns, and ecological roles highlight the interconnectedness of nature and the importance of preserving such habitats for future generations. Bichchugatti Bharamanna Nayaka’s legacy, through the creation of Mallapura Lake, has not only sustained human life but also fostered a thriving avian sanctuary, a testament to the harmonious coexistence of man and nature.

Prof. Dr. Prahlada N. B
20 July 2024
Chitradurga.

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