The Marvel of Pallikaranai: Jacanas Flourish with Multiple Broods

In a heartwarming spectacle of nature's resilience, the vibrant wetlands of Chennai's Pallikaranai Marsh have become a bustling nursery for the exquisite Pheasant-tailed Jacana. Ornithologists and birdwatchers alike are thrilled to report an exceptional breeding season, with these elegant migratory birds successfully raising not just one, but multiple families amidst the lush aquatic vegetation.

The air is abuzz with the flutter of activity as these long-legged beauties, known for their distinctive long tails during breeding, are observed meticulously tending to their nests and guiding their adorable chicks.

P. Jeganathan, an avid ornithologist, has been closely documenting this remarkable phenomenon, noting the consistent success of these birds in establishing new broods, a testament to the marsh's ecological health.

The Pheasant-tailed Jacana (Hydrophasianus chirurgus) is a true marvel of adaptation.

With their exceptionally long toes and slender legs, they gracefully tiptoe across floating lily pads and other aquatic plants, giving them the nickname "Jesus birds." This unique ability allows them to access food and nesting sites in the open waters, making them perfectly suited for the dynamic environment of a wetland like Pallikaranai.

Their breeding season typically coincides with the monsoons and post-monsoon periods when water levels are high, creating an abundance of food and ideal conditions for nesting.

The presence of ample floating vegetation provides both camouflage and a stable platform for their floating nests, which are cleverly anchored to surrounding plants. This strategic choice of habitat ensures the safety and success of their young.

Intriguingly, the male Pheasant-tailed Jacana takes on the primary responsibility for incubating the eggs and rearing the chicks.

Once the female lays her clutch, she may move on to mate with another male and lay more eggs, allowing for the possibility of multiple broods within a single season. This polyandrous breeding strategy, coupled with the male's dedicated paternal care, significantly contributes to their breeding success.

The thriving jacana population at Pallikaranai is more than just a beautiful sight; it's a vital indicator of the marshland's ecological vitality.

Their successful breeding underscores the importance of conserving this critical wetland, which serves as a haven for countless species. As these magnificent birds continue to raise new families, they remind us of the precious biodiversity that flourishes when natural habitats are protected and cherished.