Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, situated in Ernakulam district of Kerala, is a much acclaimed bird sanctuary. It was launched in 1983 by the renowned ornithologist Dr Salim Ali and is home to a wide variety of birds. The sanctuary covers an area of about 25 sq km and is surrounded by the Periyar River. It is one of the most important bird sanctuaries in India and has been declared as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by Birdlife International.
The sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for hundreds of species of birds including endemics like Malabar Grey Hornbill, Ceylon Frogmouth, Crimson-backed Sunbird, White-bellied Treepie and more. It also serves as a great destination for bird watching enthusiasts from around the world.
Visitors can explore the vast expanse of greenery with its lush vegetation and spot various species of birds during their stay at Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary.
Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, situated in Ernakulam district, is a highly acclaimed bird sanctuary that was launched in 1983. Dr. Salim Ali, the world-famous ornithologist, was instrumental in envisioning the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary.
Among the 300 bird species found here are the Sri Lankan Frogmouth, Racket-tailed Drongo, Bronzed Drongo, White-bellied Treepie, Shama, Yellow-browed Bulbul, Rufous Babbler, Malabar Parakeet, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher, and the Malabar Grey Hornbill. It also boasts of over 28 mammal species and over 9 species of reptiles.
Programs in Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary
- JUNGLE SAFARIS
- Boating in Periyar
- TREKKING TRAILS
- JUNGLE CAMPS
- Tree Hut
- Paid Nature Camp
More details : Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary official website
What is the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary?
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is a small, protected area of about 25 square kilometers located in Kerala. It is home to a large variety of bird species, animals, and plant life.
Dr. Salim Ali, a renowned Indian ornithologist, was instrumental in developing this birding paradise. He realized early on that this place was a unique geographic oddity, home to the largest number of rare and unusual bird species in the country.
This is because Thattekad, which means “Flat Forest”, provides a perfectly protected, low-lying, moist, and forested sanctuary for birds. It is close to the Periyar River, which provides a steady source of drinking water, and the many insects and worms found in the forest provide ample food.
Many people visit this area for birdwatching, or “birding,” which is a popular pastime with a unique subculture that attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.Birders like to spot and observe different species of birds, as these graceful creatures are intrinsically beautiful.
Birders take photographs, make notes, and patiently wait in thickets to spot some of the rarest and most unique birds. Bird behavior and activities are also interesting to observe and learn from.
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Naturalists often visit this area for its peaceful and picturesque environment. In addition to birds, the lush forests of Kerala are home to some interesting animals as well.
How to reach Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary
By Road:
Kothamangalam is the nearest town and is about 38 kms from Aluva Town.
By Rail:
48 km from Aluva Railway Station
By Air:
44 Kms from Cochin International Airport