The Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. Thattekkad is home to dense tropical evergreen and deciduous forests, grassland and around 500 species of exotic birds. The credit of making this bird sanctuary so popular and important goes to Dr. Salim Ali, the world famous ornithologist. Dr Salim Ali was attracted to this place due to the exotic microcosm of India's bird population. It was largely due to the efforts of Dr Ali that this sanctuary was formed.
The Thattekkad bird sanctuary is spread over an area of about 25 sq. km. and lies between the tributaries of the river Periyar. Some of the rare varieties of birds that can be spotted here are the Bee eater, Crimson-throated Barbet, Sunbird, Black Winged Kite, Shrike, Grey Jungle Fowl, Night Heron, Falcon, White-Breasted Water Hen, Ceylon Frog moth, Hornbill, Rose-billed Roller and Blue-winged Parakeet. Thattekkad also boasts of extensive plantations of teak, rosewood and mahogany. The dense forest in and around the bird sanctuary is home to nearly numerous varieties of animalsBird Sanctuaries in Kerala,Famous Bird Sanctuaries in Kerala.
The Thattekkad bird sanctuary was set up in the year 1983 by the renowned ornithologist of India, Dr. Salim Ali. It is located in the Kothamangalam district of Idukki. One of the most famous landmarks in Kerala, Thattekkad bird sanctuary is home to almost 500 species of exotic birds. The thick tropical deciduous and evergreen cover is a safe haven for these winged creatures.
The sanctuary is spread over an area of 25 square kilometers and is located between the tributaries of the Periyar River. The fascinating birds that are found here are Bee-eater, Falcon Grey, Jungle Fowl, Black Winged Kite, Shrike, Crimson-throated Barbet, Ceylon Frogmoth, Sunbird, Night Heron, Blue winged parakeet, white-breasted water hen, rose-billed Roller, Hornbill, etc. The sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers.
Apart from the birds, one can find atleast 28 species of animals and many varieties of reptiles here. Animals like the leopard, bear and porcupine are found over here often. One can see herds of elephants also occasionally. Among the reptiles, one can find cobra and pythons resting here and there.
The sanctuary flourishes not only in wildlife but also has a variety of plants. One can find teak, mahogany and rosewood in large numbers in this sanctuary. Such trees are responsible for the lush green cover that blankets the sanctuary.
How to Reach Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary IdukkiBird Sanctuaries in Kerala,Famous Bird Sanctuaries in Kerala
By Air
The nearest airport is at Kochi, located at a distance of around 70 kilometers.
By Rail
Located at a distance of 48 kilometers, Aluva is the nearest railway station.
By Roads
The sanctuary is well connected to the rest of Kerala by a wide network of roads and is easily accessible.