The Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a small urban park (around 2.74 hectares) located in the heart of Kochi, Kerala, India. It is fittingly called the ‘green lung of Kochi’ as it plays a crucial role in purifying the city’s air. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature.
The sanctuary is a haven for birds, with over 194 birds belonging to 32 species spotted here. Some of the birds you can expect to see here include the common redshank, common greenshank, brahminy kite, white-breasted waterhen, and marsh sandpiper. The best time to visit the sanctuary for birdwatching is during the summer months, from mid-January to early March, when migratory birds flock here.
The sanctuary also houses a shallow tidal lake connected with Kochi backwaters by a canal. The lake and the marshy land around it support a good variety of mangroves, some of which are endangered or vulnerable. Apart from birds, you can also spot some mammals here, including Indian flying foxes, painted bats, three-striped palm squirrels, house rats, and even Eurasian otters.
Here are some things to keep in mind while planning your visit to Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary:
- The sanctuary is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- The entry fee is a nominal Rs 10.
- Since birdwatching is best done early mornings or late evenings, these timings might not be ideal for spotting a lot of birds.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Carry mosquito repellent, as there can be mosquitoes near the water bodies.
Overall, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary is a great place to spend a quiet afternoon amidst nature. If you are lucky, you might spot some rare birds and other interesting wildlife.