Migratory birds flock to the lake at Karavetti, which has the potential to become a major sanctuary in Tamil Nadu.



Now is the best time of the year to go bird watching. The weather is fine and migratory birds have begun to move in. if you are looking forward to spot a good variety of migratory birds, Karavetti or Vettukudi bird sanctuary - a distance of 40 kilometres from the city - is the place to visit at this time of the year. This is one of the most important freshwater feeding grounds for migratory birds. The city is surrounded by many water bodies both on the Chennai and Madurai highways which are home to thousands of birds who visit the city during the monsoon. The birds migrate from different parts of the world.

Karavetti which is an hour's drive from the city is considered to be the second-largest sanctuary in Tamil Nadu. November to February are suitable months to visit as the lake is filled during the monsoon. It has a visiting population of around 50 species of birds and the lake is home to a variety of ducks which nest and breed here. The migratory species include black-winged stilt, red wattle lapwing, white winged scoter, grey heron, bar-headed goose, open bill stork, white necked stork and spoonbill.

Bird-watching is a hobby that is seriously practised by a select few in the city. A short bike trip to the area and you will witness the other smaller water bodies near Karavetti sanctuary. The place is a visual treat as it is filled with lush greenery as far as the eye can see.

The best time to go bird watching is during the early mornings as that is when birds are most active.

For those planning to spend a night, accommodation is provided near the sanctuary at the government guest house as well as private hotels which are available in the area.