Forest department starts bird census

Erode: The annual bird census got underway at Vellode Bird sanctuary, about 15 km from here, with forest department personnel on the task since early this morning.

Officials said a large number of birds from all over the world have been visiting the sanctuary over the last few years. Some lay eggs, let it hatch and leave after about 45 to60 days, they said.

This census, start at 0500 hrs and ending at 1800 hrs, would go on for two more days, they said.