About Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary
Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary is a protected bird sanctuary located in Koonthankulam village in Nanguneri taluk of Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu. Comprising the Koonthankulam and Kadankulam irrigation tanks, it was declared a sanctuary in 1994 and is considered the largest breeding waterbird reserve in South India. The sanctuary is notable for its community-based protection where villagers actively safeguard nesting migratory and resident waterbirds.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect two large irrigation tanks surrounded by village settlement and agricultural fields, with shallow water, bunds and an observation watchtower for birdwatching. During season, numerous migratory and resident waterbirds including painted storks, pelicans, ibises and herons can be seen nesting and roosting on trees within the village and around the tanks. The setting is rural and quiet, with basic visitor infrastructure and opportunities for walking along tank bunds and viewing birds through binoculars.
Key highlights
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Largest breeding waterbird reserve in South India comprising Koonthankulam and Kadankulam tanks
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Seasonal congregation of migratory waterbirds including Painted Stork, Spot-billed Pelican and Black-headed Ibis
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Unique community-led conservation where villagers protect nesting birds within the village
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