Description
A recent comprehensive faunal survey at the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary in Ernakulam, Kerala, has enriched the sanctuary’s official biodiversity records, adding nine new species to its checklist. This development highlights the ecological importance of the sanctuary and underscores ongoing efforts to monitor and conserve its unique wildlife.
About Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala’s first designated bird sanctuary, is situated along the serene banks of the Periyar River. Often referred to as the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, it honors the legendary Indian ornithologist, Dr. Salim Ali, who extensively studied the region’s avifauna. Established in 1983, the sanctuary occupies a strategic location at the foothills of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO-recognized biodiversity hotspot.
Habitat And Vegetation
The sanctuary spans diverse ecosystems, including tropical evergreen forests, semi-evergreen forests, and moist deciduous forests, providing a rich mosaic of habitats for both resident and migratory species. Its natural landscapes are enhanced by the Periyar River, associated lagoons, and marshlands formed by the Bhootattankettu dam reservoir. Key peaks such as Thoppimudi and Nyayapillimudi add to the sanctuary’s topographical diversity.
Flora
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is home to a wide range of plant species, including:
Myristica dactyloides – a rare and endemic species of nutmeg tree
Hopea parviflora – known for its durable hardwood
Tetrameles nudiflora – a large canopy tree supporting forest biodiversity
Timber species like Teak, Rosewood, and Mahogany
The rich flora supports a variety of insects, amphibians, and birds, forming a balanced and resilient ecosystem.
Fauna
The sanctuary is particularly celebrated for its endemic and rare bird species, making it a hotspot for ornithologists and bird watchers:
Ceylon Frogmouth – a nocturnal bird noted for its camouflaging abilities
Black Baza – a striking raptor with unique hunting techniques
Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher – a tiny, vibrantly colored species
Bay Owl – a nocturnal predator residing in dense forests
Beyond birds, Thattekad supports diverse wildlife including reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals, reflecting the sanctuary’s critical role in conserving the Western Ghats biodiversity.
Significance Of Recent Survey
The addition of nine new species to the sanctuary’s checklist demonstrates that Thattekad continues to reveal hidden biodiversity treasures, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and research. Conservation initiatives here not only protect rare species but also maintain the ecological balance of the region’s forest and riverine ecosystems.
Welcome to Notopedia.com, your free learning platform that caters to the diverse needs of students and aspirants across a spectrum of entrance exams and educational endeavors. Whether you're preparing for highly anticipated exams like CAT, NEET, JEE Main, or bank job vacancies, our platform offers a wealth of resources to guide you towards success. Stay up-to-date with the latest exam dates, announcements, and results for various government recruitment exams, including SSC CGL, CHSL, NDA, and UPSC. Explore comprehensive study materials, sample papers, and exam patterns to hone your skills and boost your confidence. From important dates like CBSE Class 10 and 12 date sheets to exam-specific information like JEE Main application form date, we cover it all. Notopedia.com is your go-to source for everything from admissions and admit cards to scholarships and college information. Whether you're aiming for a career in defense, government, banking, or higher education, our free learning platform equips you with the knowledge and resources you need to excel. Join us in your educational journey and unlock a world of opportunities, guidance, and comprehensive support.
For more Updates and Information - Visit Notopedia's Bulletin Board
For Latest Sarkari Jobs - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Jobs Section
For access to more than 20,000 Colleges - Visit Notopedia's College Section
For School Studies and Exams Preparation across 14 Boards - Visit Notopedia's School Section
For Comprehensive Preparation of Sarkari Job Exams - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Exams Section
- Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
- Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
- Kerala bird sanctuaries
- Western Ghats wildlife
- endemic birds India
- Ceylon Frogmouth
- Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
- biodiversity Kerala
- tropical forests Kerala
- birdwatching Kerala
The Notopedia Bulletin Board
News about the latest admissions, results, upcoming government jobs, Sarkari exams and many more.
