Freshwater ecosystems are vital for the survival of humans and numerous biological communities. However, these ecosystems, rivers in particular, have been largely altered and influenced by the land use practices and other human-induced disturbances. Several riverine species are affected to varying degree by anthropogenic activities in their habitat.

As part of our long-term monitoring work on the riverine birds in Kaveri and Kollidam rivers in Tamil Nadu, we focus on the globally threatened Black-bellied tern, Sterna acuticauda and River Tern Sterna aurantia. Our work involves following key aspects:

1. Identifying the distribution and assessing population status of the black-bellied tern and river tern in Tamil Nadu.

2. Identifying and mapping the nesting grounds and potential threats to the black-bellied tern and river tern habitat.

3. Identifying and establishing riverine stretches for the long-term monitoring of black-bellied tern and other riverine birds.