Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary, located in Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu near Thirupathur and Madurai, covers an area of about 40 hectares and includes three main freshwater tanks from the villages of Vettangudi, Periyakollukudi, and Chinna Kollukkudi. It serves as a natural haven for over 8,000 winter migratory birds of around 217 species, mainly from Europe and North Asia.

The sanctuary is an important breeding ground for birds like grey herons, darters, spoonbills, white ibis, Asian openbill stork, and night herons. It also attracts indigenous species such as painted stork, little cormorant, egrets, common teal, spot-billed ducks, and pintail. The site provides a safe environment for roosting, breeding, and feeding, with a notable diversity in bird nesting and feeding behaviors.

The sanctuary's vegetation includes prosopis, babul, and tamarind trees, creating a suitable habitat for the birds. The best visiting period is between November and February when many migratory birds arrive, making it a popular destination for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.