Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
Why in news?
- Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary has recently come alive with the arrival of thousands of migratory birds, marking the start of the annual nesting season as of November 2025.
- Over 20 species, including open-billed storks, white ibis, grey herons, little cormorants, darters, and night herons, have arrived and begun nesting.
Key Facts
- Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is the oldest bird sanctuary in India, located in the Chengalpattu district of Tamil Nadu
- The sanctuary covers about 74 acres (30 hectares) and is a designated Ramsar wetland site since 2022.​
- Over 40,000 birds, including more than 20 migratory species, visit annually, making it a major hub for birdwatching and ecotourism.​
- Notable species include open-billed storks, white ibis, grey herons, darters, egrets, pelicans, spoonbills, and various ducks and moorhens.​
- The birds nest on the branches of submerged trees, especially barringtonia, which provide sturdy perching spots above the water.​
Historical and Ecological Significance
- The area was protected by local communities as early as the 18th century due to the agricultural benefits from bird guano.​
- It was officially declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1936 and is considered a pioneering example of community-driven conservation in India.​
- The sanctuary’s tank is replenished by the Valayaputhur lake and can hold up to 20 feet of water, supporting ideal nesting and feeding conditions for birds.
