Overview
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary (also known as Thattakad or Salim Ali BS) is situated in the Indian state of Kerala, near the foot of the Western Ghats. The sanctuary itself covers 25 square kilometers north of the Peryiar River. The neighbouring Idamalayar Project Area is another big area of protected forest, however it can only be visited with a guide. Thattekad can be combined with one of the Hill Stations like Munnar or Ooty to cover nearly all Western Ghat endemics. The best time to visit is in winter, from November to February. The temperatures are bearable, there isn't too much rain and many overwintering birds from the Himalayas are presen
Notable Species
Over 270 species have been recorded in this relatively small area. Most notably are the Western Ghat endemics. Easy to see are Malabar Parakeet, Malabar Starling and Malabar Grey Hornbill. The other species like Wynaad Laughingthrush, Rufous Babbler, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher, White-bellied Treepie, Grey-headed Bulbul, Nilgiri Flowerpecker or Crimson-backed Sunbird need some luck and some time but are all possible.
