Vedanthangal
and Karikili Brd's Sanctuaries
A grove of Barringatonia
and Acacia nilotica trees in a tank from part of the sanctuary. In
additional dry evergreen scrub and thorn forests can also be seen. Both
these sanctuaries are situated in Kancheepuram district and sprawling in
30-ha and 61-ha area respectively. Vedanthangal is the oldest birds
sanctuary in the country. The Villagers had documented their right to
protect the winged visitors to this sanctuary. The migrating birds come
from far-off lands like Siberia, Australia, Pakistan and Sri Lanka for
nesting and breeding.
Breeding birds like Cormorants, Egrets,
Grey Heron, Open-billed stork, Darter, Spoonbill, White lbris, Night
Herons, Grebes, Grey Pelican etc visit the Sanctuary. The population of
migratory birds included Garganey Teals, Shovellers, Pintails, Stilts,
Sandpipers etc. Some of the resident birds listed are Coots and Moorhen,
Terns. In all 115 species of birds have been recorded in this sanctuary.
Other
Details :
1.Annual Rainfall: 1200mm; 2. Nearest Airport:
Chennai 58 Kms; 3. Nearest Rly. Stn.: Chengalpattu 30 kms, 4. Road:
Vedanthagal is a city Bus Terminal; 5. Best Season: November to February;
6. Accommodation: Forest Rest House at Vendanthangal with catering
arrangements; 7. Authority: The wild life Warden, DMS Compound, Anna
Salai, Chennai- 600 026, Phone No: 044-4321471.