Bird walk at Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu

About Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary

Nestled in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary is one of South India’s most inspiring community-protected wetlands. Spread across a network of irrigation tanks and shallow freshwater lakes, the sanctuary transforms into a thriving avian nursery during the breeding season. The habitat consists of open water, mudflats, bunds, and surrounding agricultural fields, interspersed with native trees that provide ideal nesting sites. Species such as pelicans, storks, ibises, and herons breed in large colonies here, often astonishing visitors with the sheer density of nests perched above the village landscape. The harmonious coexistence between local residents and birds makes Koonthankulam unique villagers actively safeguard nests, even adjusting daily life to ensure minimal disturbance.

For birdwatchers, the sanctuary offers spectacular close views of migratory and resident waterbirds, especially between November and March when thousands arrive to breed and roost. Painted Storks, Spot-billed Pelicans, Little Cormorants, egrets, and various ducks create a constant buzz of activity across the shimmering waters. The surrounding scrub and farmlands add diversity with passerines, raptors, and seasonal migrants. However, like many wetlands, Koonthankulam faces challenges including water scarcity, changing rainfall patterns, habitat degradation, and human disturbance. Continued community engagement, wetland management, and conservation awareness are essential to preserve this extraordinary bird haven. Koonthankulam stands as a shining example of how people and wildlife can thrive together when conservation becomes a shared responsibility.

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Common birds of Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary

The wetland was buzzing with life, drawing an impressive congregation of waterbirds and woodland species alike. A flock of Bar-headed Geese dominated the open waters, accompanied by Indian Spot-billed Ducks, Garganey, Northern Pintails, and Knob-billed Ducks, all taking advantage of the abundant water resources. Elegant Black-winged Stilts lined the shallows, while Wood Sandpipers and Red-wattled Lapwings busily foraged along the muddy edges. A lone Spot-billed Pelican and an Oriental Darter added grandeur to the scene, with cormorants and ibises—including Glossy Ibis, Black-headed Ibis, and Red-naped Ibis—rounding out the rich wetland diversity. Herons and egrets, from Little Egret to Gray Heron, stood poised in classic hunting stances, making every scan of the water rewarding. Beyond the lake, the surrounding trees and open skies were equally vibrant. Brahminy Kites circled overhead while a sharp-eyed Shikra kept watch. The canopy echoed with the calls of Coppersmith Barbets, Rose-ringed Parakeets, and a bright Indian Golden Oriole. Shrikes-including Brown Shrike and Long-tailed Shrike were spotted near the treetops, while a graceful Indian Paradise-Flycatcher added a magical touch to the morning. On the ground and in nearby fields, species such as Gray Francolin, Indian Peafowl, White-browed Wagtails, and Paddyfield Pipits completed this diverse checklist. Altogether, the mix of migratory waterfowl, waders, raptors, and songbirds created a dynamic and unforgettable birding experience, showcasing the ecological richness of the habitat.