Why in News? 

The Tamil Nadu government has officially designated Dhanushkodi in Ramanathapuram district as a Greater Flamingo sanctuary. 

About Greater Flamingo Sanctuary at Dhanushkodi 

• Dhanushkodi lies on the Central Asian Flyway, a major route for migratory birds like flamingos, herons, and sandpipers. 
• The area hosts 10,700+ wetland birds (128 species) and has mangroves that prevent coastal erosion and support breeding. 
• The Tamil Nadu government declared it a sanctuary and launched the Raptors Research Foundation to conserve birds of prey. 
• The sanctuary promotes eco-tourism, aiming to create jobs and spread awareness about wetland conservation. 
• The 2025–26 budget supports broader efforts like: 
  • A 1000-hectare biodiversity park at Chengam 
  • A Marine Resource Foundation to protect coastlines 
  • Blue Flag certification for 6 beaches and CNG buses to reduce pollution 

Flamingo (Photo Credit: The Hindu)