Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is located in the Eranakulam district of Kerala. It is believed to be the first bird sanctuary in the state. It was due to the instrumental efforts of Dr. Salim Ali, a famous ornithologist that this sanctuary came into existence in the year 1983.

Flora
Forest cover: Tropical evergreen forest, tropical deciduous forest, tropical semi-evergreen forest and patches of grasslands.
Trees and plants: Rose wood, Maruthi, Teak, Venga, Palley, Karanjili, Venteak, Vellapine, Kurangatti, Kambacom, Angili, etc.

Fauna
Leopard, elephant, cobra, porcupine, python and bear

Avian Fauna
Yellow-browed Bulbuls, Ceylon Frogmouth, Cormorants, Jerdon's Nightjar, Collared Scops Owl, Oriental Darter, Pompadour Green Pigeon, Indian Pitta and many more.

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is one of the largest forests where different varieties of cuckoos are found. It is therefore, also popularly, referred to as ‘Cuckoo Paradise’. Some of the unique species of cuckoos are Indian Hawk Cuckoo, Drongo Cuckoo, Large Hawk Cuckoo, etc.

Getting there
Cochin International Airport, nearly 71km away is the closest airport. The nearest railway station to Thattekkad sanctuary is Aluva, approximately 48km away. The sanctuary is situated along the Pooyamkutti road about 13km north-east of Kothamangalam.

Tourist Information
The incoming visitors can find accommodation at the PWD rest house located near the dam. Some private lodges at Kothamangalam are also available for staying.

Watch towers situated at different spots in the sanctuary are the best place to view the wildlife in their natural environment. Always maintain silence and carry powerful binoculars during your bird watching trips. If possible wear clothes that easily blend with the forest environment.

Additional Information
Location: Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Njayapilli P.O., Kothamanagalam, Kerala
Area: 25 sq km
Best visiting time: October till February
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
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