Discover the Wonders of Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary
Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary, often known as Kodiyakarai Birds Sanctuary, is a hidden gem located on the southeastern tip of India. This sanctuary isn’t just a place for birds; it’s a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life. Whether you're a birdwatcher, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, this sanctuary has something to offer everyone.
A Rich Habitat for Diverse Wildlife
Point Calimere is home to a variety of species, making it a thriving habitat. With its coastal marshes, mudflats, and dry scrub forests, the sanctuary supports numerous birds and animals. Migratory birds flock here every year, turning the skies into a canvas of colors. Think of it as nature’s own art exhibition! From flamingos to pelicans, the avian diversity is simply breathtaking.
Best Time to Visit: When the Birds Come Home
When should you plan your visit? The best time to explore this sanctuary is during the migratory season, from November to February. During these months, the sanctuary transforms into a haven for birdwatchers. Imagine seeing thousands of birds swooping down, their wings glinting in the sunlight. It's an experience that can fill your heart with joy.
Not Just Birds: A Look at Other Wildlife
While birds steal the show, Point Calimere has much more in store. The sanctuary is also home to endangered species like the blackbuck and the spotted deer. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a jackal or a wild boar wandering through the scrub forests. Nature's variety here is like a colorful tapestry, woven together to showcase the beauty of life.
Activities to Enjoy: Get Close to Nature
What can you do at Point Calimere? Besides bird watching, you can enjoy a variety of activities. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach or enjoy a picnic with family. You could also hike the trails, where the sounds of nature create a calming soundtrack. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to capture stunning images of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Conservation Efforts: Protecting Our Natural Beauty
Conservation is crucial at Point Calimere. Efforts are constantly being made to protect the wildlife and habitat from threats. When you visit, you’re not just enjoying nature; you’re also supporting these initiatives that aim to preserve the sanctuary for future generations. Think of it as being part of a bigger picture—ensuring that this paradise remains for the birds and wildlife that call it home.
Conclusion: A Sanctuary Worth Exploring
Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary is more than just a spot on the map; it’s a magical escape into nature. With its diverse ecosystem, countless bird species, and stunning vistas, it offers a refreshing experience for all who visit. So, why wait? Pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of this sanctuary. Nature is calling, and it’s time to answer!
Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary Or Kodiyakarai Birds Sanctuary
The Kodikkarai sanctuary surrounded by sea and shore, comprising forest of tidal swamps, dry evergreen forests, and mangroves is famous for its migratory water birds. In the spring the green pigeons, rosy pastors, koels, mynahs, and barbets are attracted by the profusion of wild berries growing on trees and shrubs. In winter, the availability of vegetable food and insects attracts paradse flycatchers, Indian pitas, shrikes, swallows, drongo, minivets, blue jays, woodpeckers, and robin on its tidal mud flats and marshes of the backwaters. It is also endowed with animals like spotted deer, black buck, wild boar, bonnet macaque, as well as reptiles. Vast flocks of flamingos (about 5000-10000) can be seen at the Great Swamp, to the west of this sanctuary especially in December and January.
Vadaranyam is the main service station connected by regular bus service from Thanjavur, Chennai, Nagapattinam, and Trichy. From Vedarnayam, buses and vans are available for transportation to the sanctuary 10km away. Accommodation is available at the Forest Rest House, Kodikkarai, reservation Phone: 04365-253092.
On the swollen tip of Tamil Nadu's central coast past the sweeping acres of saltpans around Vedaranyam, is the swampy wetland of Point Calimere, where hordes of blackbuck roam free. Located just across the Palk Strait from Sri Lanka, this jutting piece of land is also known as Kodiakkarai Bird Sanctuary and is a mixed habit of dry evergreen forest and swampland. The best time for animal sighting is from March to August while October to January is ideal for bird watching. From November to February, the sanctuary becomes the winter retreat for over 250 species including rare migratory arriving from faraway Poland, Russia and Iran barheaded geese, eastern steppe eagles, black bitterns, Indian black-crested bazas and Ruddy shelducks. The main highlight takes place in December to February, when the swamps are rouged pink with the endless ballet of flamingos descending in thousands to feast on shrimps and prawns. Spot-billed pelicans and teals also frequent the place. In the dense forests one discovers other animals and birds, including the vibrantly winged Indian pitta.
Thamppuswamy Illam Forest Rest House Phone: 04365-252724 and Veliman Illam are the only overnight options. Booking can also be done via the Wildlife Warden in Nagapattinam Phone: 04365-253092. Only tea stalls can be found near the sanctuary, but vegetarian meals are available in Vedaranyam at Karaivani .
It is 55km south of Nagapattinam, 8km south of Vedaranyam on SH-63. Kodiakkarai, Nagapattinam District 611011. Open 6am to 6pm, all year round.
Total Area 17.26 sq km Location Nagapattinam district Nearest town Thanjavur 90km, Nagapattinam 68km and Vedaranyam 10km Best Season November-April Annual rainfall 1500mm Info Wildlife Warden, Nagapattinam Phone: 04365-253092.
Guided Tours: Wildlife Warden, Collectorate Building, Nagapattinam 611002. Phone: 04365-253091/25309.