Located in Karnataka, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is an avian spotting haven close to Srirangapatna. 16 kms from Mysore, on the banks of River Kaveri covering the 6 isles of crocodile infested backwaters, Ranganathittu is the nesting grounds for almost 170 species of birds. Not just Indian varieties, migratory birds from Siberia, Australia and North America are spotted here.
Declared a bird sanctuary in 1940 by famous ornithologist Dr Salim Ali, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is now a noted name. Some species calling it home are Peacocks, kingfishers, Asian open bill storks, Oriental darters, spoonbills, white Ibis, egret, heron, partridge, whistling duck, stone plougher, snake bird, pelicans, etc.
Bird Watching during Boat Riding
Known as the ‘Pakshi Kashi of Karnataka’, birds are seen and heard in all their glory at Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. Ranger guided boat tours are the speciality of the sanctuary. Boats silently float on the waters of River Kaveri taking visitors closest to the bird species. Almost 170 species of birds and also fresh water crocodiles, colonies of flying fox, mongoose and lizards can be spotted.
Best time to visit
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is open all seasons. The best time to visit is usually after monsoons and during winters. After the rains, in months of July and August insects are abundant and birds can be spotted easily feeding on them. November and December is the breeding and nesting season when migratory birds from Siberia, Australia and North America make it home.
