Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary UPSC

The Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is a significant avian conservation area located in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is renowned for its diverse avian population. It serves as a habitat for a variety of bird species, including both resident and migratory birds.

The sanctuary comprises freshwater tanks and wetlands, providing an ideal environment for birds to breed, forage, and roost. These wetlands are the main attraction for the birdlife in the area.

The recommended time to visit Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is between November and February. This period coincides with the winter months when migratory birds arrive in large numbers, making it the prime bird-watching season.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
River
Flora
Fauna
UPSC Questions

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary Location

The Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is located in the Sivagangai district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is situated approximately 51 kilometers from Madurai, along the Madurai-Melur-Tiruppathur route.

The sanctuary is specifically found in Tiruppathur Taluk, within the villages of Vettangudipatti and Periya Kollukudipatti. This region is known for its diverse birdlife, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is Madurai Airport, which is located approximately 51 kilometers away.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway stations to Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary are:

(i) Paramakudi Railway Station: Located about 16 kilometers away from the sanctuary.

(ii) Karaikudi Railway Station: Situated approximately 26 kilometers from Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary.

Both of these railway stations provide convenient access to the sanctuary for travelers arriving by train.

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary History

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary has a rich history that highlights its significance as a haven for diverse bird species. The sanctuary's history can be outlined as follows:

1. Recognition of Avian Diversity: Over the years, the region around Vettangudi, particularly in the villages of Vettangudipatti and Periya Kollukudipatti, gained recognition for its exceptional bird diversity. The area became known for hosting various bird species, both resident and migratory.

2. Establishment: Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary was officially declared as a bird sanctuary on June 23, 1977. The government's notification established the sanctuary's boundaries and set the stage for its formal conservation and management.

3. Role in Bird Conservation: Since its establishment, Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary has played a crucial role in conserving bird species. It has provided a sanctuary for a wide range of birds, including Grey Herons, Darters, Spoonbills, White Ibis, Asian Openbill Storks, and many others.

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary Area

The Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 30.40 hectares 0.304 square kilometers). This area encompasses the sanctuary's wetlands, tanks, and surrounding habitats, providing a suitable environment for a variety of bird species, both resident and migratory, to thrive and utilize for various activities such as breeding, feeding, and roosting.

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary River

The Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is primarily associated with its freshwater tanks and wetland habitats, rather than a river. However, the sanctuary does receive some of its water supply from the Vaigai River, which is one of the major rivers in the Sivagangai district of Tamil Nadu.

The Vaigai River and its surrounding areas, including paddy fields, contribute to the availability of water and foraging grounds for the bird species in the sanctuary. The river's water, combined with rainfall during the northeast monsoon season, helps sustain the breeding and feeding activities of the birds in the Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary.

While the Vaigai River plays a role in the broader ecological context of the region, the sanctuary itself consists of freshwater tanks and wetlands, which are the primary habitats for the birds that inhabit the area.

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary Flora

The flora (plant life) in and around the Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary contributes to the overall ecosystem, providing habitat and sustenance for the various bird species that reside or visit the sanctuary. Here are some notable flora species in the Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary:

(1) Prosopis Spp.:

Prosopis species, such as Prosopis chilensis, have been reported as invasive plants in the area. Invasive species like Prosopis can have both positive and negative effects on the ecosystem, as they can provide roosting sites for birds but may also outcompete native vegetation.

(2) Babul (Acacia nilotica):

Acacia nilotica trees grow in the lake and remain submerged for part of the year. These trees can serve as perches and nesting sites for certain bird species.

(3) Tamarind (Tamarindus indica):

Large Tamarindus indica trees can be found on the bunds (embankments) of the tanks in the sanctuary. These trees may provide roosting sites for birds and offer some shade.

(4) Neem (Azadirachta indica):

Azadirachta indica, commonly known as Neem, is another tree species that can be found in the vicinity. These trees may contribute to the overall biodiversity of the area.

(5) Mango (Mangifera indica):

Mango trees can also be present in the sanctuary area, offering additional habitat and potential food sources for certain bird species.

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary Fauna (Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary Animals)

The Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is renowned for its diverse avian fauna, with various bird species, both resident and migratory, making it their habitat during different seasons. Here are some of the notable fauna you can find in the Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary:

Mammals:

Jackal

Birds:

Grey Heron
Darter
Spoonbill
Open-billed Stork
Night Heron
Painted Stork
Grey Heron
Indian Cormorant
Egret
Intermediate Egret
Cattle Egret
Common Teal
Pintail
Asian Openbill
Oriental White Ibis
Glossy Ibis
Little Cormorant
Indian Shag
Spot-billed Duck
Northern Shoveller
Common Teal
Eurasian Spoonbill
Spot-billed Pelican

Reptiles:

Snakes
Lizards