The Kanniyakumari Nature Foundation (KNF) organized a seashore walk on Chothavilai beach to celebrate World Sea Turtle Day. A group of enthusiastic nature lovers gathered at the beach by 6.30 am, eager to explore the wonders of the coastline.
The morning unfolded with a mix of beauty and concern. As we walked along the shore, the hunt for seashells began in earnest. Each unique find sparked curiosity and delight. But amidst the bounty of the beach, a somber reality emerged. The shoreline was rough, and the evidence of erosion was undeniable. A collective sigh rose from the group as we contemplated the impact of climate change and rising sea levels.
Despite these concerns, nature’s beauty persevered. Crimson roses, carried by the wind, danced above the waves, while a majestic brahminy kite soared effortlessly overhead. The native vegetation thrived along the shore. Bushes of “Ravan’s moustache” (Spinifex littoreus), Calotropis gigantea, and Ruellia prostrata added pops of color, while Pandanus odorifer added scenic effect to the landscape. The presence of native acacia trees provided a habitat for African babul blues.
Our excitement hit a peak when, after a dedicated search, a ghost crab scuttled across the sand. Its elusive nature made the sighting all the more thrilling. As we continued our exploration, a flash of movement in the bushes caught our eyes. A quick glimpse revealed Sitana marudhamneydhal. As the team became absorbed in studying social spiders, a sharp-eyed Blue-faced Malkoha perched nearby, observing them in silent curiosity.
The KNF seashore walk was a perfect example of how a Sunday morning can be transformed into a treasure trove of learning. By simply observing the wonders around us – the seashells, the birds, the changing shoreline – we gained a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of our coastal ecosystem. The walk served as a reminder of the beauty and vulnerability of our natural world, inspiring us all to become responsible guardians of the environment.