Vedanthangal and Karikali Bird Sanctuary [ Tamil Nadu ] A grove of Barringtonia Acacia nilotica trees in a tank form part of the sanctuary. In addition dry evergreen scrub and thorn forests can also be seen. Both these sancturies are situated in the Kanchipuram district and sprawling in a 30 ha and 61 ha area respectively.

Vedanthangal is the oldest bird sanctuary in the country. This has been in existence presumably for more than 200 years. The villagers had documented their right, to protect the winged visitors to this sanctuary. The East India company had recognised and renewed their rights in the year 1858.

Breeding birds like Commorants, Egrets, Grey Heron, Open-billed Stork, Darter, Spoonbill, White Ibris, Night Herons, Grebes, Grey Pelican etc visit the sanctuary. The polulation of migratory birds included Garganey Teals, Shovellers, Pintails, Stills, Sandpiper's etc. Some of the resident birds listed are Coots and Moorhen, Terns. In all 115 species of birds have beeen recorded in this sanctuary.

General Information

Best time to visit :

November to February.

Annual Rainfall :

1200 mm

Accommodation

Forest Rest House at Vedanthangal.

How to get there :

Rail-Chennai (58 km)
Air-Chengalpattu (30 km)