Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary is located both in the state of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. It covers an area of approximately 481 sq km. Almost 327.33 sq km of the forest is located in the Chittoor  and Nellore  districts of Andhra Pradesh and about 153.67 sq km is located in the Thiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu.

About the sanctuary
This sanctuary was established in the year 1976. After the Chilka Lake in Orissa, Pulicat Lake is believed to be the country’s second largest brackish-water eco-system. However, rapid siltations in the past years have caused gradual loss to this magnificent bio diversity. The experts have estimated that if this heavy siltation continues, then Pulicat Lake will probably disappear in the next 100 years.

Flora and Fauna
Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary is a bird watcher’s delight. It is home to a wide variety of aquatic fauna and flora. Some of the endemic aquatic fauna of the area include mussels, crabs, snails, prawns, fish worms, prawns, anemone, sponges and so on.

Avian Fauna Flamingos are the most prominent migratory bird of the sanctuary. Other birds that can be sighted here are spoonbills, storks, herons, ducks, pelicans, painted storks, kingfishers, terns, redshank, lapwings, etc. The white-coloured, flamingo - a tall gaunt - is the most popular sought after bird among the tourists.

Getting there
The nearest airport, railhead and bus terminals to the sanctuary are located in Chennai.

Tourist information
The incoming visitors can find quality accommodation at the hotels, rest houses and lodges located in Tirupathi and Chennai. The best way to view the birds is by means of boating. Carrying pets and littering inside the park are strictly prohibited.

General information
Pulicat Lake Bird Sanctuary, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh – 524121
Average temperature: 14°C to 33°C; Average Rainfall: 800–2,000mm
Ideal time to visit: November – February
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