Ariyakulam Bird Sanctuary, Thirunelveli

Ariyakulam Bird Sanctuary, Thirunelveli

Ariyakulam Bird Sanctuary is located very near to Thirunelveli Town in Tirunelveli district of Tamilnadu. It is yet another attraction which pulls many bird watchers. Both rampant and migratory birds can be seen in this sanctuary. The people in Ariyakulam village play major role in protecting both resident and migratory bird. The nests and fledglings of these birds are carefully taken care of every villager. The excreta of the birds are preserved and used as fertilizers for farms by the villagers.

Best time to visit Ariyakulam Bird Sanctuary is from March to June when various species of birds visit the sanctuary in large numbers from for breeding. Green sandpiper, Common Coot, Spotted Dove, Emerald Dove, Black winged stilt and little ringed plover etc. can be watched in this sanctuary. The sanctuary also has a significant population of stork billed, white-throated and black-capped kingfisher, Nilgiri wood pigeons, pied and chestnut winged cuckoo, and spot billed pelican.

Ariyakulam Bird Sanctuary is located at about 7 Kms from Thirunelveli, 170 Kms from Madurai, 45 Kms from Thoothukudi and 160 Kms from Thiruvananthapuram. Nearest Railway Station is located at Thirunelveli. Nearest Airport is located at Thiruvananthapuram, Thoothukudi and Madurai. Koonthakulam Bird Sanctuary is situated at about 28 Kms from Tirunelveli is another bird sanctuary that could be visited.