Thattekkad
Glimpse Of The Extraordinary
Over 500 species of exotic bird varieties, an equal number of migratory genuses, nearly 28 mammal species and reptiles, a little less in number, makes Thattekkad Wildlife Sanctuary the choicest among bird and animal lovers! Spread across 128 sq km of picturesque land alongside the beautiful river Periyar, Thattekkad is described as the richest bird habitat in peninsular India, the one on par with the diversity found in eastern Himalayas. With a rare and unusual spread of flora, fauna and avifauna, Thattekkad maintains an extremely diverse ecological system – one can find here rare birds like the Crimson-Throated Barbet, Bee-eater, Sunbird, Shrike, Blackwinged Kite, Grey Heron and the Night Heron, animals like Leopard, bear, porcupine, python and cobra, and an extensive area rich in plantations like teak, rosewood, mahagony, etc.
Once trivial in the map of Kerala, Thattekkad today attracts bird watchers from across the globe. Thanks to the efforts of Dr. Salim Ali, the renowned ornithologist of India, who unveiled the matchless potential of this thick tropical evergreen forest as a heaven for winged creatures.
