1. Geography & Wetland Ecosystem

Spanning 0.67 sq km of riverine bamboo and broadleaf trees, Ranganathittu hosts over 40,000 nesting waterbirds annually, including Asian Openbills, Black-headed Ibis, Eurasian Spoonbills, River Terns, and large resident populations of Mugger Crocodiles.

Birding Conservation Value

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is recognized as a vital avian sanctuary in Karnataka, providing nesting trees, forage mudflats, and undisturbed aquatic ecosystems for resident and migratory waterbirds.

2. Quick Facts & Metadata

Official Name Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary
State & District Karnataka — Mandya (Srirangapatna)
Established Year 1940
Protected Area 0.67 sq km (6 River Islets)
Wetland Designation Ramsar Site (2022)
Habitat Type Riverine Islets & Freshwater Wetland
Primary River Basin Cauvery River Basin

3. Birdwatching & Visitor Information

The sanctuary is managed by the Karnataka State Forest Department. Visitors should follow responsible birdwatching ethics, maintain distance from nesting trees, and avoid loud noises or artificial playback.

Best Time for Birding: November through March (peak migratory winter season).