Why Do Birdwatchers Flock to This Sanctuary From November to February?

Vedanthangal Chicken Sanctuary is a haven for chicken lovers, particularly from November to March, when migratory birds flock to its tranquil waters. This era is taken into account the very best time to go to the sanctuary, because it comes alive with the colourful exercise of a whole bunch of avian species.

Established in 1798 by the British, Vedanthangal is one in all India’s oldest chicken sanctuaries. Situated in Chengalpattu district of Tamil Nadu, it spans over 74 acres and is residence to all kinds of birds, each resident and migratory. 

The sanctuary is meticulously managed by the Ministry of Setting and Forests, with efforts rooted in native conservation practices that date again over 250 years. Recognised internationally as an Essential Chicken and Biodiversity Space (IBA), the group understands the significance of preserving this distinctive ecosystem, the place chicken droppings assist fertilise surrounding agricultural fields.

A few of the species embody gray wagtail, garganey, blue-winged teal, widespread sandpiper, pintail, snake birds, moorhens, darters, spot-billed duck, massive egrets, little egrets, painted storks, shovellers, gray pelicans, cormorants and so goes the in depth record.

The migratory season attracts birds from throughout the globe, with over 40,000 birds from species just like the higher flamingo, spot-billed pelican, and painted stork making Vedanthangal their short-term residence. 

These birds journey hundreds of kilometres to nest and feed within the sanctuary, which offers them with a secure, peaceable atmosphere. The wealthy greenery, particularly the Barringtonia timber, provides good nesting websites. 

The sanctuary is teeming with life through the peak migratory season, making it very best for birdwatching and images. Guests can observe birds in varied phases of nesting and feeding, typically seen from elevated commentary towers. The nonetheless waters and surrounding lush landscapes supply a few of the greatest alternatives to identify each uncommon and customary species.

To maximise your go to, it’s greatest to reach early within the morning, from 6 to eight am, when the birds are most lively. Native guides can enrich the expertise by serving to spot elusive species and sharing insights into the behaviour of the birds and the sanctuary’s wealthy historical past.

For these eager on a extra serene expertise, a go to through the non-migratory months also can supply rewarding birdwatching, as resident birds have interaction in breeding actions. Nevertheless, the vibrancy of the migratory season, with its myriad sounds and sights, is really unparalleled.

Whether or not you’re an avid birdwatcher or an off-the-cuff nature lover, Vedanthangal Chicken Sanctuary provides an opportunity to attach with wildlife and witness the wonders of migration. It’s not only a go to; it’s a journey into the center of conservation and the pure world.

Edited by Arunava Banerjee; Picture courtesy Tnswa.org