Karnataka is home to a rich diversity of avian species, both resident and migratory. It also has some of the best bird sanctuaries in India.
From the largest bird sanctuary in the state, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, to the unique peacock sanctuaries of Adichunchanagiri and Bankapura, you will not be disappointed.
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Karnataka is home to more than 500 species of birds, many of which are endemic, endangered, or migratory. So if you are a bird lover and want to explore the rich avian diversity of Karnataka, take up your camera and get ready.
In this article, you will get to know about the following Bird Sanctuaries in Karnataka,
- Bonal Bird Sanctuary
- Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
- Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary
- Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary
- Gudavi Bird Sanctuary
- Magadi Bird Sanctuary
Let’s see each of these places in detail.
1. Bonal Bird Sanctuary
Bonal Bird Sanctuary is a wetland and a haven for birds near Bonal village in Yadgiri district of Karnataka. It is the second largest in the state. This place is now under the protection of the Forest Department.
The sanctuary has been around since the 17th century when Surpur King Raja Pam Naik built it beside a 700 acres lake. The stretched lake is now wrapped by rugged hills, vast agricultural land, and greenery, thus imparting a beautiful look and ambiance to the sanctuary.
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The sanctuary’s scenic beauty and tranquility attract both local and migratory birds. The lake has 21 species of local birds and around 10,000 species of migratory birds that come here due to its favorable conditions. You can see birds like Black ibis, white-necked storks, bar-headed gooses, brahminy ducks, snake birds, Indian shags, and more. The peaceful environment and the chirping sounds make the place even more attractive.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the migratory season, i.e., from November to February. It is an ideal place for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts who enjoy the serene atmosphere and the melodious sounds of the birds. So if you are one of them, don’t miss out on this place while you are in Karnataka.
2. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a collection of six islets in the Kaveri River. It is situated in the Mandya District and is the largest bird sanctuary in Karnataka, spanning 40 acres. This place is also known as the Pakshi Kashi of Karnataka.
The riparian area is the perfect spot for rich flora and fauna. When you look around, you will see broadleaf forests, Pandanas trees, bamboo groves, acacia, and eucalyptus trees. The place is also the growing ground of Iphigenia Mysorensis lilies which are endemic and threatened.
The sanctuary boasts about 170 species of birds. Asian open-bill storks, black-headed ibis, egrets, cormorants, oriental darters, great stone plovers, streak-throated swallows, river terns, and so many others are seen flying around.
During winter, more than 40,000 birds flock to this place from different parts of the world. The sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers and enthusiasts. Several mammals can also be seen roaming around. These mammals include flying foxes, bonnet macaques, smooth-coated otters, etc.
You can have access to all the islets by boat. Being amid nature in the waters and looking up at the sky to witness the flapping creatures will surely be memorable. The best time to visit is between November and April when the wildlife is at its peak.
3. Ramadevara Betta Vulture Sanctuary
The sanctuary is the first of its kind in India, dedicated to protecting endangered vultures. Spreading across an area of 3.4641 sq. kilometers, the sanctuary is quite an interesting place to look at the scavengers. It was established in 2012 in the Ramanagara district and is under the forest department and the Government of Karnataka.
Out of the nine species of vultures that exist, this is home to three: the Egyptian, the white-backed, and the long-billed. However, the vulture population is dwindling, with only 25 Egyptian vultures and five long-billed vultures left as of 2020. The sanctuary is taking measures to conserve these magnificent birds and their habitat. The area’s rich biodiversity also supports other animals, such as bees, spiders, butterflies, snakes, and bats.
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You can enjoy the thrilling experience of watching the vultures in their natural habitat, enjoying life on their own terms. You can also admire the scenic beauty of the green hills and valleys. The place is also ideal for a short trekking adventure.
4. Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary
The Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is basically an island situated close to the village of Mandagadde and spans 1.14 acres. The island is enveloped by the perennial River Tunga and is, therefore, an ideal spot for migratory birds.
The island attracts various kinds of migratory birds who come here to breed between July and September. You can see over 5,000 birds in their natural habitat and observe their behavior. Some of the birds you can spot here are Pied Kingfishers, Woolly-necked storks, median egrets, little cormorants, night herons, and more.
You can also take a boat ride around the island to get a better look at the species and listen to their chirping. You will be mesmerized by the greenery and the ambiance of this place.
5. Gudavi Bird Sanctuary
Gudavi Bird Sanctuary is a haven for bird lovers in the Melanadu region of Karnataka. It covers an area of 0.74 sq. kilometers and lies along the shore of Gudavi Lake. The area is well-preserved and surrounded by dense forests.
The lake and the vegetation provide a safe habitat for the birds. There are 217 species of birds in the sanctuary, and many others migrate here for breeding. You can spot birds like Eurasian spoonbills, gray jungle fouls, pariah kites, little rebes, dartars, white ibis, Indian pond herons, and many more in this place.
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You can stroll around the lake to observe the birds or climb up to the platform specially designed for birdwatching. There are 4-5 watch towers where you can enjoy the views at dusk. The best time to visit this sanctuary is from June to December when you can admire the beauty of these feathered creatures as much as you want.
6. Magadi Bird Sanctuary
Magadi Bird Sanctuary is a wetland and a biodiversity hotspot of Karnataka, famous for the bar-headed goose. It is situated in the Magadi village and covers an area of 134 acres.
This sanctuary is home to 134 species of birds, including purple herons, greater flamingos, Ruddy shed ducks, water hens, comb ducks, painted storks, and many others. Birds from around the globe migrate to this place and feed on the area’s agricultural produce.
You can wander around the sanctuary and watch the birds in their natural habitat. The villagers here are very friendly and helpful to the visitors, and they even guide them through the birdwatching experience. You can spend some time in nature as it is refreshing and blissful. The best time to visit this sanctuary is during the winter months.
Fascinating, aren’t they? Well, these are a few amongst many such incredible bird sanctuaries you can visit in Karnataka.
These sanctuaries create natural habitats for the diverse birdlife to protect them and provide shelter. If not all, visit a few and gain experience about everything you see around. Each sanctuary has its own charm and attractions, such as boat rides, nature walks, or photography sessions. You will have a memorable time exploring these beautiful places.
Karnataka also has various hill stations and waterfalls that you can visit, while in the state.
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