With careful attention to detail during renovation of Adi Annamalai Temple, the little openings at the top of the compound walls surrounding the Temple were preserved so they could continue to remain as nesting places for: parrots, doves, pigeons, sparrows, owls and bats.
In the below photograph a very nice little nook which opens up inside the compound wall to provide a secure nesting place for lots of the local birdlife.
A little chap has found his perch for a while.
The unintentional birds' nests from a distance. And the reason they are so popular is that they are safe from the usual local predators such as, monkeys, cats and squirrels - in fact the perfect home!
Lots of prime real estate all around the inside wall of the Temple Compound.
When entering the Temple Compound of Adi Annamalai during bird nesting season, you will often be met with clouds of parrots and doves going on flypast. And looking up you will spot the occasional sleepy looking owl standing sentry at the doorway of its nest.
The name of this Temple, Adi Annamalai means 'first' or 'ancient' Annamalai (Arunachaleshwarar). Its size is small and it occupies only 1/2 acre in size – compared with the 25-26 acre size of Arunachaleswarar Temple on the Tiruvannamalai side of the Hill. The legend of Adi Annamalai recounts that Brahma, after His dispute with Vishnu about the fiery column, made a lingam and went to the other side of the Hill to worship Shiva. Thus, this lingam is supposed to be the first, ancient and original lingam of Annamalai and hence the name Adi Annamalai.
