Munnar’s Symphony of Wings: Top Spots for Birdwatching
Table of Contents
- Eravikulam National Park
- Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Anamudi Shola National Park
- Kolukkumalai
- Palliyannoor
Munnar, a tapestry of emerald hills and misty valleys, isn’t just a visual feast; it’s a haven for birdwatchers. From vibrant songbirds flitting through tea plantations to majestic birds of prey soaring above, Munnar boasts a diverse avian population. Here’s a guide to the best places for birdwatching in Munnar, along with some of the feathered friends you might encounter:
Eravikulam National Park
Habitat: Shola forests, grasslands
Birds to Spot:
- Black & Orange Flycatcher (endemic)
- White-bellied Blue Robin (endemic)
- Indian Pitta
- Nilgiri Wood Pigeon (endemic)
- Nilgiri Laughingthrush (endemic)
Why it’s Special: Eravikulam National Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, but birdwatchers flock here for the diverse range of birds inhabiting the park’s shola forests and grasslands. Be sure to obtain permits in advance for entry.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Habitat: Dry deciduous forests, grasslands
Birds to Spot:
- Rufous-bellied Eagle
- Grey Junglefowl
- Malabar Grey Hornbill
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Crimson-backed Sunbird
Why it’s Special: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary offers a different birding experience compared to Eravikulam. Here, dry deciduous forests and grasslands attract a variety of birds, including raptors and colorful sunbirds.
Anamudi Shola National Park
Habitat: High altitude shola forests
Birds to Spot:
- Nilgiri Wood Pigeon
- Nilgiri Laughingthrush
- Kerala Laughingthrush (endemic)
- Golden-eared Whistler
- Blue-winged Laughingthrush
Why it’s Special: Anamudi Shola National Park, encompassing India’s highest peak, boasts high-altitude shola forests perfect for spotting birds adapted to cooler climes. Permits are required to enter.
Kolukkumalai
Habitat: Tea plantations, grasslands
Birds to Spot:
- Grey Wagtail
- Indian Robin
- Pied Bushchat
- Common Myna
- Dollarbird
Why it’s Special: Kolukkumalai offers a unique birding experience amidst sprawling tea plantations. You can spot a variety of resident and migratory birds while enjoying the scenic landscape.
Palliyannoor
Habitat: Open areas around lakes, farmlands
Birds to Spot:
- Little Egret
- Indian Pond Heron
- Asian Koel
- Common Kingfisher
- Brahminy Starling
Why it’s Special: Palliyannoor, with its lakes and farmlands, attracts a variety of wetland and open area birds. It’s a great spot for casual birding and observing water birds.
Bonus Tip: Consider hiring a local birding guide with expertise in the region’s avian population. They can help you identify specific birds and enhance your birding experience in Munnar.
Munnar’s diverse habitats offer a haven for birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. So, grab your binoculars, a healthy dose of patience, and get ready to be captivated by the symphony of wings in the heart of the Western Ghats. Imagine waking up to the melodious calls of exotic birds and embarking on a thrilling birdwatching adventure right from your doorstep. Book your stay at Munnar Nature Resort, a nature lover’s paradise nestled amidst Munnar’s scenic beauty, and experience the magic of Munnar’s avian symphony firsthand.
