India is home to many beautiful species of birds. But even more so, during the months of January, when migratory birds from all over the world come to India. India attracts more than a hundred migratory birds annually. Here’s a list of all the wildlife sanctuaries that house the most population of migratory birds:
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan
The Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, a World Heritage Site, is the perfect home to almost thousands of birds all across the world. Located in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, it is one of the best places to spot migratory birds. Many birds from Siberia and Central Asia come here during winter months. Migratory birds at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary include several species of Cranes, Pelicans, Geese, Ducks, Eagles, Hawks, Shanks, Stints, Wagtails, Warblers, Wheatears, Flycatchers, Buntings, Larks and Pipits, etc.
Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, Chilika Lake, Odisha
Lakhs of migratory birds make their way to the Chilika Lake each year in winters, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. Over 2 lakhs birds arrive from far off lands. Nalabana with a 15.59-sq.-km area is hosting the highest number of migratory birds this time round. Migratory birds fly across continents from Caspian Sea and remote parts of Russia, Mongolia and Siberia and flock to the marshy lands of the Nalabana Bird Sanctuary inside the Chilika Lake.
Okhla Bird Sanctuary, Noida
This bird sanctuary is located in Noida, near Yamuna River. Every year migratory water birds such as Black-tailed Godwit, Ruff, Common Teal, Common Redshank, Wood Sandpiper, Western Marsh Harrier and Pied Avocet fly here and make this sanctuary their home for the winters. The Okhla Bird Sanctuary is spread over an area of 4 sq. km and is a haven for bird watchers.
Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Haryana
The Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, situated in Haryana, attracts 228 species of birds from Russia, the UK, and the Middle East during winter. The park witnesses a good number of duck species every year, including the Gadwall, Mallard, Red-crested Pochard, Ruddy Shelduck and Common Teal.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kerala
Situated in Kottayam district, Kerala, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful bird sanctuaries in India. The sanctuary is situated on Vembanad lake and is spread across 14 acres. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian Stork, Egret, Darter, Heron and Teal.
Go visit one of the sanctuaries now! Otherwise, you might miss a chance to witness these migratory birds