Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary UPSC

Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary, also known as "Sakkarakottai Kanmoi," is a bird sanctuary located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its diverse avifauna and wetland habitat, making it a significant site for bird conservation and birdwatching.

The sanctuary is a significant and special ecosystem with a diverse avifauna that provides a habitat for over 42 bird species. It is particularly important for migratory birds that come from different parts of the world for feeding.

The best time to visit the sanctuary for bird-watching is from November to January, when the bird population and species diversity are at their peak.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
Flora
Fauna
UPSC Questions

Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary Location

Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary is located in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, India.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary is Madurai Airport.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary is Ramanathapuram Railway Station.

Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary History

Establishment: Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary was officially notified as a bird sanctuary on April 17, 2012. Since then, it has served as a protected area in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, India. The sanctuary was established to conserve the diverse avifauna and the wetland ecosystem in the region, making it a safe haven for various bird species, including migratory birds from around the world.

Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary Area

The Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 230.490 hectares.

Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary Flora

The Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary is home to various plant species, contributing to its diverse ecosystem. Here are some of the flora species you can find in the sanctuary:

Tamarind (Tamarindus indica): Tamarind trees are known for their distinctive pods, which contain a sour pulp used in various culinary applications.

Fig (Ficus spp.): Fig trees belong to the Ficus genus and produce edible fruits known as figs.

Neem (Azadirachta indica): The neem tree is valued for its medicinal properties, and its leaves, bark, and oil are used for various purposes.

Portia Tree: The Portia Tree is known for its striking red flowers and is often used for ornamental purposes.

Albizia amara: Albizia amara is a species of flowering tree in the pea family.

Drumstick Tree (Moringa oleifera): The drumstick tree is valued for its nutritious leaves and pods, which are commonly used in cooking.

Palmyra Palm (Borassus flabellifer): The Palmyra palm is known for its versatile uses, including the production of sugar and various products from its fruit and trunk.

Ocimum sanctum (Holy Basil): Holy Basil is an herb valued for its medicinal properties and is also used in culinary dishes.

Gloriosa superba: Gloriosa superba is a species of flowering plant known for its striking red and yellow flowers.

These plant species contribute to the overall biodiversity and ecological balance of the Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary, providing food and habitat for various wildlife, including the diverse bird species found in the sanctuary.

Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary Fauna (Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary Animals)

Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary hosts a variety of fauna, including bird species, mammals, reptiles, and more. Here is a list of some of the fauna that can be found in the sanctuary:

Mammals:

Lion-tailed Macaque
Giant Squirrel
Slender Loris

Birds:

Spot-billed Pelican
Grey Heron
Little Cormorant
Great Cormorant
Purple Heron
Common Teal
Common Redshank
Common Greenshank
Comb Duck

Reptiles:

Spectacled Cobra
Rat Snake
Common Krait