Birdwatchers in Chennai have observed a significant increase in the number of black kites during the southwest monsoon season. According to experts, the sightings of black kites have shown a notable surge in recent months. In May 2021-22, 51 kites were recorded, which increased to 666 in June, 404 in July, and 289 in August.
Gnanaskandan K., a member of the Madras Naturalists’ Society, witnessed a remarkable flock of at least a hundred black kites near Guindy Race Course in July 2022. While black kites are a common sight, their increased presence has caught the attention of bird enthusiasts. This surge in black kite sightings highlights the ecological dynamics during the monsoon season in Chennai.