Restoring Native Habitat at Anakoodu

As part of its ongoing commitment to forest restoration and biodiversity conservation, Earthings Nature Foundation conducted an eco-restoration programme at the Anakoodu area of Periyar Tiger Reserve, Thekkady, from 2 to 4 October 2026.

The two-day field programme focused on the removal of Chromolaena odorata (Eupatorium odoratum), an invasive plant species that can form dense growth and compete with native vegetation.

With the active participation of 20 volunteers, the team contributed a total of 180 man-hours and covered approximately 1.6 acres of the identified restoration area.

Restoration at a Glance

• Location Anakoodu, Periyar Tiger Reserve
• Date 2–4 October 2026
• Field Activity2 Days
• Participants20
• Man-Hours 180 Hours
• Area Covered 1.6 Acres
• Invasive Species Removed Chromolaena odorata (Eupatorium odoratum)

Removing Invasive Species

The primary intervention was the manual removal of Chromolaena odorata from the designated restoration area.

Removing invasive vegetation helps reduce competition for light, space, nutrients and other resources, creating improved conditions for native vegetation and natural regeneration.

The restoration work was carried out through coordinated field efforts, with volunteers systematically clearing the identified invasive growth across the designated area.

The Restoration Site

The mapped restoration area at Anakoodu covers approximately 1.6 acres, situated alongside the existing landscape and water channel.

Restoration area: approximately 0.65 hectares

Site map showing the identified restoration area at Anakoodu, Periyar Tiger Reserve.

Looking Beyond the Clearing

Eco-restoration does not end with the removal of invasive plants. The treated area requires continued monitoring and follow-up interventions to identify re-growth and support natural regeneration.

Earthings Nature Foundation remains committed to working alongside the Forest Department and local conservation stakeholders in identifying priority areas and contributing to long-term ecological restoration.

Together, We Restore Forests

The Anakoodu restoration programme is another step in Earthings Nature Foundation's continuing efforts to restore degraded habitats, manage invasive species and strengthen community participation in forest conservation.