Fauna Mapping in Chennai Parks

Chennai is a growing city with fast-growing cement structures, expanding industries and a growing population. In this fast-paced lifestyle, people are running after something every day, often without time or thought for other living beings around us. Against this backdrop, a small group decided to take up the challenge of bringing back green spaces to the city. It is called the Thuvakkam Welfare Association. In 2014, with the support of volunteers, we started planting trees in Chennai and its neighbouring areas. It functioned as a community organization committed to environmental revival. 

 What started as a simple tree planting movement slowly grew into a vision. In 2018, while searching for more effective ways to increase greenery, our group discovered the Miyawaki method of creating dense urban forests. They studied the technique in detail and started planting over 70+ native tree species to adapt the quality of the lands to the conditions of the city. They started establishing small but thriving forests across Chennai. With their experience, they have created and maintained twenty-eight forests so far. These places, which were once barren or underused, are now teeming with life and shade. 

 One of the most striking results of these efforts has been not only the growth of greenery but also the return of biodiversity. In the fauna assessments conducted in these forests, more than 95+ species have been identified1. Birds, butterflies, grasshoppers, reptiles such as the Onon, crabs, mushrooms and many other creatures have been recorded. Not only that, lichens have also been found. This demonstrates the low pollution and the presence of clean oxygen. The fauna map reveals the ecological richness that has re-emerged in a city that has long lost such diversity. 

These documents are not just about numbers – they tell the story of how healthy these urban ecosystems have become. Butterflies indicate that pollination is active; insect diversity shows that the food chain is functioning; the presence of birds indicates restored tree canopies and safe nesting sites. The arrival of small reptiles and mammals further reflects how these habitats now provide shelter and food for living things. In a city where natural habitats have been fragmented and degraded over the years, the resurgence of fauna demonstrates true ecological resilience. It is proof that even degraded lands can be transformed into thriving ecosystems if cared for and protected. 

What many once thoughts would add greenery to the city has, in fact, gone much further. These forests have proven their ability to restore biodiversity, strengthen food chains, and create safe havens for species that have long disappeared from Chennai’s urban fabric. They are not just pieces of wood, but living ecosystems that reconnect the city to nature. Every bird chirp, butterfly flutter, and hum of life in these places is a reminder that urban landscapes can still nurture life when we choose to make room for it. 

“Be the Change, You Wish to See”