Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is an ultimate hub of the rarest birds. Located at the bank of fascinating Periyar river in the Koothamangalam Taluk of Ernakulam district, this sanctuary is the landmark of Kerala state. It was established in 1983 with the great efforts made by famous ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali. The sanctuary covers an area of 25.16 sq km, spreading over the tributaries of Periyar river. Set amidst the Western Ghats, the elevation of the sanctuary varies from 35 m to 523m and Njayapilli is the peak point (523m).

The suitable climate and the favorable surroundings of the sanctuary enhance the perfect habitat to the plenty species of flora and fauna.

Flora

The sanctuary accommodates tropical evergreen forests, tropical semi-evergreen forests, tropical deciduous forests and grasslands. Tropical evergreen forests have trees like Bahadraksham, Vellapine, Palley, Kunthirikam, Kanala, Kurangatti, Karanjili etc. while in tropical semi-evergreen forests you will see Angili, Kambacom etc. The sanctuary is also enriched by the trees having commercial value. These trees are - Teak, Rosewood, Venteak, Venga and Maruthi.

Fauna

The sanctuary is blessed with more than 260 species of birds, including some of the rarest birds. Cuckoo, Indian roller, Jungle nightjar, Kite, Common snipe, Crow pheasant, Grey drongo, Woodpecker, Indian hill myna, Baya sparrow, Malabar trogan, Robin bird, Darter, Large pied wagtail, Jungle babbler etc. The rare birds, you will find here are � Crimson-throated barbet, Grey-headed fishing eagle, Sunbird, Bee-eater, Fairy blue bird, Shrike, Grey heron, Grey jungle fowl, Malabar shama, Common grey hornbill, Black-winged kite, Night heron etc. Also here you may often see many animals and reptiles as Elephant, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Porcupine, Python and cobra etc

How To Get There

Nearest airport is at Kochi, 71 kms. Aluva is the nearest railway station , 48 kms.

So come to this chirping world of birds, their sweet melodies will overwhelm you.