Vedanthangal, a serene village in the Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu, is home to one of India’s oldest and most renowned bird sanctuaries. Located just 86 km from Chennai, this sanctuary spans an area of 30 to 40 hectares, attracting birds from around the globe each year.

A Global Haven for Birds

Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is a paradise where thousands of birds from diverse regions such as Canada, Siberia, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Australia flock to nest and breed. During the October to March season, these birds lay their eggs on the branches of submerged trees, turning the sanctuary into a bustling hub of avian activity.

The sanctuary boasts lush vegetation, including:

  • Barringtonia trees (செங்கடம்ப மரம் in Tamil)
  • Acacia nilotica trees (கருவேல மரம் in Tamil)
    Additionally, the area is surrounded by dry evergreen scrub and thorn forests, adding to its unique ecosystem.

Rich Avian Diversity

The sanctuary hosts a spectacular variety of birds, including:

  • Migratory Birds: Garganey teals, shovellers, pintails, stilts, sandpipers.
  • Breeding Heronry: Cormorants, egrets, grey herons, open-billed storks, darters, spoonbills, night herons, and grey pelicans.
  • Resident Birds: Coots, moorhens, and terns.

Each year, the sanctuary records the presence of approximately 28,000 land and water birds, as per bird census reports.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Vedanthangal’s history spans over 400 years, making it one of India’s most iconic bird sanctuaries. The villagers discovered early on that bird droppings served as an excellent natural fertilizer for their fields. However, during the 1700s, it was a hunting ground for local farmers and later for the British, who used it for recreation.

In 1797, at the villagers’ request, Illinois Blasu, the then-governor of Chengalpattu district, officially declared Vedanthangal a protected bird sanctuary. The name “Vedanthangal” translates to “the village of the Vadras.”

Why Do Birds Migrate Here?

Not all birds that migrate to Vedanthangal breed here. A bird’s homeland is typically where it breeds. For instance:

  • Birds like the northern pintail, common sandpiper, grey wagtail, and blue-winged teal migrate here to escape the harsh European winters, using Vedanthangal as a temporary feeding ground.

Best Time to Visit

The nesting season (October to February) is the best time to visit Vedanthangal. During this period:

  • The sanctuary is alive with the chirping of thousands of birds.
  • Visitors can witness birds nesting, breeding, and preparing for their migratory journey.

Key Details:

  • Nearest Airport: Chennai (58 km)
  • Nearest Railway Station: Chengalpattu (30 km)
  • Stay Options:
  • Forest Rest House at Vedanthangal (with catering)
  • PWD Rest House at Karunguzhi

Preserving the Sanctuary

The Tamil Nadu government has taken commendable measures to preserve this fragile ecosystem. In December 2021, the government decided to withdraw a proposal to reduce the sanctuary’s area, ensuring the protection of its diverse avian inhabitants.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re a nature enthusiast or a bird lover, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary offers a tranquil escape into the world of birds, where you can witness the marvels of migration, breeding, and nature’s harmony. Be sure to plan your trip between November and February for an unforgettable experience.