Thattekad Bird Sanctuary (Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary) in Ernakulam district, Kerala, covers 25.16 square kilometers of pristine lowland evergreen forest along the Periyar River. Dr. Salim Ali described it as the richest bird habitat in peninsular India.
Established in 1983, Thattekad shelters over 300 species of resident and migratory endemic birds, including the rare Ceylon Frogmouth, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Malabar Trogon, Indian Pitta, Black Baza, and Sri Lanka Bay Owl.
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary (Dr. Salim Ali) is recognized as a vital avian sanctuary in Kerala, providing nesting trees, forage mudflats, and undisturbed aquatic ecosystems for resident and migratory waterbirds.
| Official Name | Thattekad Bird Sanctuary (Dr. Salim Ali) |
|---|---|
| State & District | Kerala — Ernakulam (Kothamangalam) |
| Established Year | 1983 |
| Protected Area | 25.16 sq km |
| Wetland Designation | Lowland Evergreen Rainforest Sanctuary |
| Habitat Type | Lowland Tropical Evergreen & Semi-Evergreen Forest |
| Primary River Basin | Periyar River Catchment |
The sanctuary is managed by the Kerala 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).