White-bellied Sea Eagle Nests Rise in North Kerala

The annual nest monitoring survey of the White-bellied Sea Eagle has recorded 17 active nesting sites across Kannur and Kasaragod districts this season, marking a modest increase from 13 sites documented in 2024. The survey was jointly conducted by the Malabar Awareness and Rescue Centre for Wildlife (MARC) and the Social Forestry Divisions of Kannur and Kasaragod.

The exercise was led by Dr. Roshnath Ramesh of MARC, along with Rajeevan M., Assistant Conservator of Forests, Kannur Social Forestry Division, and Jose Mathew, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Kasaragod Social Forestry Division.

District-wise Distribution of Nests

Of the 17 active nests identified, 10 were located in Kasaragod district and seven in Kannur. All nests in Kasaragod were categorised as old, while in Kannur, four were newly recorded and three were old.

Nearly 70% of the nests in Kasaragod were found within temple compounds. In contrast, nests in Kannur were distributed across public lands, private properties and coastal stretches. For the first time, a nest was documented on a telephone tower at Kattampally, indicating behavioural adaptability to changing landscapes.

Habitat Preferences and Tree Species

The survey revealed a clear preference for large, mature trees. Nesting was recorded on Ficus religiosa (four nests), Mangifera indica (six), Alstonia scholaris (two) and Casuarina species (three).

Officials emphasised that the preservation of tall trees in coastal and inhabited areas is critical. Many nests were found within temple premises and populated zones, suggesting that the species can coexist with humans when nesting trees are protected and disturbance is minimised.

Conservation Concerns and Historical Trends

Despite the increase, current numbers remain below historical levels. Records from 1996 documented 25 active nesting sites in the region, indicating that the population has not fully recovered. The White-bellied Sea Eagle breeds between January and March and typically reuses the same nest each year, renovating it before the breeding season.

Important Facts for Exams

• The White-bellied Sea Eagle is an apex predator in coastal ecosystems.
• It is considered an indicator species of marine and coastal environmental health.
• In Kerala, it nests only in Kannur and Kasaragod districts.
• The species breeds between January and March and reuses nests annually.

Need for Public Participation

Dr. Ramesh noted that large nesting trees are often felled, posing a major threat to the species. Conservation efforts must prioritise the protection of established nesting trees. The survey team has appealed to the public to report additional nesting sites to the Forest department or MARC to strengthen monitoring and ensure long-term survival of the species in north Kerala.