Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Overview - Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a reservoir comprising of 06 Islands and 06 islets on the banks of the river Cauvery. This catchment area has been created due to damming of the river. This has resulted in the creation of habitat for the birds which reside in the area as well as the migratory birds which find solace in winter with the relative abundance of food here. The nearby agricultural areas also provide breeding grounds for insects to which the farmers allow a lending hand to the insecrivorous birds of the area. It is an important birding location of Asia and is mooted to become a Ramsar Wetland as well.
Championed by legendary ornithologist Dr.Salim Ali with over 220 bird species recorded, and multiple water birds nesting here – Ranganathittu is a must visit birding site in India.
Best Time to Visit Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
The best time to explore this park is between September and May when the temperature averages a pleasant of 35 degrees, especially April-May. The monsoon months makes the park all lush green and verdant, however roads are muddy and rain soaked. Summer months, although dry, hot and stifling, allows the visitors to witness the wildlife easily around water sources. It also serves as a best time for bird watching.
Highlight Species - Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
- Spot-billed Pelican
- Great Thick-knee
- Baya Weaver
- Streaked Weaver
- Tricoloured Munia
- Lesser Fish Eagle
- Booted Eagle
- Short-toed Snake Eagle
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Black-winged Stilt
- Eurasian Spoonbill
- Asian Openbill
- Painted Stork
- Woolly-necked Stork
- River Tern
- Yellow-wattled Lapwing
- Oriental Darter or Snake bird
- Small Pratincole
- Indian Spot-billed Duck
- Lesser Whistling Duck
- Pheasant-tailed Jacana
- Bronze-winged Jacana
- Black-headed Ibis
- Glossy Ibis
- Indian Cormorant
- Great Egret
- Black-crowned Night Heron
- Stork-billed Kingfisher
- Pied Kingfisher
- Great White Pelican
Types of Safaris - Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
Boat Safaris : The sanctuary conducts safaris through boats which can be hired at the location itself. You may choose to share a trip with fellow patrons or hire a boat privately with a guide who accompanies you.
How to reach Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
By Air : 3.5 hour drive from Bangalore International Airport – well connected internationally as well as domestically from most major airports in India.
By Road : 30-minute drive from popular city Mysore.
