The Kovalam Nemmeli Coastal Wetland Complex is a vital ecological hotspot located South of Chennai, situated between two estuaries Muttukadu near Kovalam and Kokilamedu near Mahabalipuram. With the daily tidal influence from both estuaries and freshwater from its western catchment, this creates a unique dynamic coastal ecosystem. The nature walk started with an overview of the coastal wetland’s ecology and hydrology. As participants gained an understanding of the coastal ecosystem, we proceeded into the marshland to explore its rich biodiversity.

The Kovalam Nemmeli Coastal Wetland Complex is a vital ecological hotspot located South of Chennai, situated between two estuaries Muttukadu near Kovalam and Kokilamedu near Mahabalipuram. With the daily tidal influence from both estuaries and freshwater from its western catchment, this creates a unique dynamic coastal ecosystem. The nature walk started with an overview of the coastal wetland’s ecology and hydrology. As participants gained an understanding of the coastal ecosystem, we proceeded into the marshland to explore its rich biodiversity. The seasonal transition was evident as most winter migrants along the Central Asian Flyway had departed, and the wetland had become a vital breeding ground for resident species. Active breeding of the Black winged Stilt, Kentish plover, Red-wattled Lapwing, Pratincoles , Eurasian Moorhen, Bronze-winged Jacana, and Grey-headed Swamphen were observed. Participants conveyed that at first they assumed this landscape may supporting very less life. However, observing eggs and several birds incubating proved to be an eye‑opening experience, deepening their understanding of the ecological importance of coastal wetland habitats. While observing the Cinnamon Bittern, Glossy Ibis, Black-headed Ibis, Pied Bushchat, Ashy Prinia, Purple Heron, Spot-billed Pelican, and Painted Snipe, we highlighted to participants how the marsh supports diverse microhabitats that meet the varied foraging needs of each bird. While we explored the further, a spectacular sighting of over 500 Flamingos (currently highest number in South Chennai) left participants in surprise. Their presence conveyed the ecological significance of the Kovalam Nemmeli wetland complex. Last year Flamingo's over stayed here was also a point to be noted. As the walk progressed along the marsh edge, the sighting of a Common Emigrant caterpillar on Senna occidentalis (Pei Aavarai), together with butterflies such as the Small Salmon Arab, Plain Tiger, and Striped Tiger, initiated a discussion on butterfly lifecycles and host‑plant specificity. Native flora, including Trichodesma indicum (Kavizh Thumbai), further reminded participants that the surrounding unique vegetation forms the foundational layer of the ecosystem. Moving further toward the salt pans covered with mangroves and halophytes, we observed Bagworm Moths, a Praying Mantis egg case, dragonflies such as the Dancing Dropwing and Ditch Jewel, a Signature Spider in its zigzag‑marked orb web, three ant species - the Indian Black Ant, Silky Sugar Ant, Velvet Sugar Ant and plant hoppers in mutualistic association with ants. All of these appeared in close proximity, showing how a microhabitat can sustain an extraordinary web of biodiversity interactions and diversity. The walk concluded with great learning, as participants witnessed Flamingos, breeding birds and eggs in ground nests, diverse insects, and a range of benthic and brackish organisms, salt marsh Fauna and Mangroves all underscoring the richness and ecological importance of the coastal wetland ecosystem. Chennai has already lost over 85% of its wetlands, and the Kovalam–Nemmeli Wetland now faces its greatest threat the proposed Mamallan fresh water reservoir. This project would erase tidal flows, drown shallow marsh habitats, destroy the brackish ecosystem, eliminate grasslands and devastate livelihoods. These wetlands are our last natural shield against floods and storm surges, vital as climate extremes intensify.

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This lake can help to recharge the water table in the community with more than 10000 residents through new residential development projects, how to go about reviving the lake

A waste audit study was conducted by SPRECO as part of the Tamil Nadu Wetlands Mission, with the first wetland waste audit program initiated at Sembakkam Lake. Over 88 college students and volunteers participated in the activities, and a total of 650 kg of waste was collected.

2,000 palm seeds were planted with the help of social workers and participants of the MGNREGA scheme.

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A mass tree plantation was organised at Agaramthen Lake area recently to conserve the Agaramthen Wetlands. 100 Students from AMET University and 60 MGNREGA Workers from Agaramthen village planted the saplings. Over 480 native tree saplings were planted, creating a greenery of 2 acre. We extend our sincere thanks to Agaramthen village Panchayat for the support. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the students and Staff from AMET University and MGNREGA workers from Agaramthen village. Help us do more, Support us!To collaborate with us:Email ID: ecosociety.alliance@gmail.com ; darwin@ecosocietyindia.comMobile: +919444112271.For further details visit us at www.ecosocietyindia.com

130 Volunteers joined for a cleanup Agaramthen Lake in an effort to conserve this unique wetland ecosystem. They removed 812 kg of plastics and other degradable wastes from Agaramthen Lake in an effort to conserve and protect it.

Tree Plantation drive was conducted at Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary on [26.09.2024] by a team of 30 SRM Students and forest officers. The outcome was remarkable, they planted 50 tree sampling