Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary

Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, is a protected wetland spanning about 72 hectares, established as a sanctuary in 1994. It includes the Koonthankulam and Kadankulam irrigation tanks and is located near the small village of Koonthankulam, about 38 km from Tirunelveli.

This sanctuary is the largest breeding ground for resident and migratory water birds in South India, hosting over 43 bird species and welcoming more than 100,000 migratory birds each year, especially between December and June. Notable birds include painted storks, pelicans, ibises, and various ducks.

The local community actively protects the birds and their nests, with villagers even refraining from celebrating Diwali to avoid disturbing the birds. The sanctuary features an interpretation center, watchtower, children’s park, and dormitory, supporting eco-tourism and education. It is recognized as an Important Bird Area and a Ramsar site due to its ecological significance, supporting rich biodiversity including flora, insects, and near-threatened species. The wetland’s water comes mainly from rainfall, groundwater, and nearby canals, playing a crucial role in local agriculture and biodiversity conservation.