Karikili Bird Sanctuary

Karikili Bird Sanctuary, Vedanthangal Overview

Counted amongst the most famous bird sanctuaries, the Karikili Bird Sanctuary is situated in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu. Consisting of two irrigation tanks which are fed by the rain, the sanctuary is spread over an area of 61.21 hectares and is just 10 km from the well-know Vedanthagal Bird Sanctuary. It is a very peaceful and beautiful place to visit and is a house to many migratory birds which arrive here between September and October. Amidst the natural beauty, the sanctuary also serves as an amazing picnic spot giving the tourists a chance to enjoy in the middle of the chirping birds. Apart from the birds, the sanctuary also has ducks and waders to look at.

Sunset is an ideal time for visiting the sanctuary since birds can be seen returning to their nests in large numbers most of which are migratory. Being one of the oldest sanctuaries in India, this place is a must-visit because for more than two hundred years the villagers have protected the birds in this sanctuary. One can easily spot birds bringing food for their babies by the end of the day who put their small beaks into the mouth of their parents to find food. A total of 115 species of birds are supported in the sanctuary which also includes Grebes, Grey Pelican, Cormorant, Egrets, Darter, Spoonbill, Night-heron, and White Ibis. This place is like heaven for all the bird-watchers and nature lovers out there or even those who wish to satisfy their bird-related knowledge.

Flora and Fauna at Karikili Bird Sanctuary

Flora
In addition to the migratory birds, the sanctuary also comprises of various species of trees including the Barrington Acacia Nilotica. The dry evergreen scrub and the thorn forests too can be found in this area.

Fauna
The bird sanctuary has a variety of birds namely Egrets, Open billed stork, Cormorants, Spoonbill, Grey Heron, Grebes, Night Herons, White Ibis, Stilts, Sandpipers, and Shovellers. During the winter months Garganey teales, Little Grebe, Dab Chick, Egrets, and Pintailed ducks migrate to the sanctuary. Some resident birds present here include Terns, Moorhen, and Coots. In total, there are about 115 species of birds that are a part of the sanctuary.

Bird Watching at Karikili Bird Sanctuary

One of the best things to do at the sanctuary is bird watching, and if you are passionate about it, then you are going to have a fantastic time here without getting bored at all. Kids are going to have an amazing time observing the lovely birds as well as mammals including the jungle cat, wild boar, black-naped hare, and jackal.

Follow the path that is paved with watchtowers and benches spread along the way to survey the birds which nest in the tank area with their counterparts in the fields and scrub nearby. Try and spot the grey heron, Asian spoonbill, white ibis, rosy pelican, cormorant, grey pelican, and night heron from all the species of the birds present in the sky. Amongst the other Indian species, you will also be able to spot black-headed cuckoo shrike, Yellow-wattled Lapwing, and Eurasian thick-knee. You should carry your binoculars, a zoom lens camera, and a bird book to make your visit to the sanctuary the most memorable one.

Best Time To Visit Karikili Bird Sanctuary

The perfect time to visit the sanctuary is between November and February when the migratory birds flow down here. In addition to this, the climate is pleasant with a lovely ambience and enjoyable surroundings.

How To Reach Karikili Bird Sanctuary

Karikili Bird Sanctuary is well-connected via all means of transport. By road, the tourists can take the route from Chennai, i.e. NH-45 to reach Chengalpattu and then the Padalam junction. State buses can be hired as well. Another comfortable mode of transport is to travel in one's private car or hire a taxi from Chennai.