Mysuru: With deficient rainfall leaving most lakes and water bodies in Bandipur Tiger Reserve (BTR) nearly dry, wildlife is being forced to seek water in the Kabini and Nugu backwaters.The reserve, which typically receives 900 mm to 1,200 mm of rain annually, has 420 lakes across 13 ranges. Of these, 95 are perennial, while the remaining 325 depend on rainfall for replenishment.The forest department is using 56 solar-powered borewell pumps to recharge water holes and ease the scarcity. Rising temperatures have further depleted water in the lakes and tanks.The dry spell has also affected migratory bird arrivals. BTR, home to more than 300 bird species, typically sees migratory birds arrive and nest between July and October. However, none have been sighted so far this year, a local bird watcher said, pointing to changing weather and rainfall patterns.BTR director L Nandeesh told TOI that moderate to heavy rain last week had provided some relief to wildlife. The department is monitoring the situation daily and assessing water availability in the lakes.
