About Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary
Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary is a protected bird habitat near Sullurpeta in Tirupati district, Andhra Pradesh, close to Pulicat Lake. Established in 1976, it covers about 4.58 sq km and is renowned as one of the largest breeding colonies of spot-billed pelicans in Southeast Asia. The sanctuary features a Barringtonia swamp forest, an irrigation tank, watchtowers and supports over 140 bird species including pelicans, storks, ibises and herons.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a quiet wetland landscape centered on the Nelapattu tank surrounded by Barringtonia acutangula trees used for nesting. A watchtower and earthen bund provide elevated views of pelicans, painted storks, openbill storks, spoonbills, ibises and herons, especially during breeding season. The sanctuary has nature trails, an interpretation centre and basic visitor facilities in a rural setting near Pulicat Lake.
Key highlights
- 01
One of the largest spot-billed pelican breeding colonies (pelicanry) in Southeast Asia
- 02
Watchtower and bund for close observation of nesting birds on Barringtonia trees
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Over 140 bird species including painted storks, openbill storks, spoonbills and ibises
- 04
Scenic wetland tank and swamp forest adjacent to Pulicat Lake
- 05
Important Bird Area (IBA) with peak migratory activity in winter