Explore Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Entry, Birds & Travel Guide

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, located in the Mandya district of Karnataka, is one of the most important bird sanctuaries in South India. Situated along the banks of the Cauvery River, it spans an area of 0.67 square kilometers, yet it attracts thousands of migratory and resident birds each year. Declared as a bird sanctuary in 1940, despite its small size, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary plays an important role in the conservation of wetland and riverine bird species, making it relevant for UPSC aspirants studying biodiversity, protected areas, and conservation strategies.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary comprises a group of six small islets on the Cauvery River, near the historic town of Srirangapatna. These small islands serve as nesting and breeding grounds for several bird species, including rare and migratory birds. The sanctuary is managed by the Karnataka Forest Department and serves as a hotspot for eco-tourism and ornithological research. Named after the nearby Ranganathaswamy Temple, the sanctuary attracts birdwatchers, researchers, and conservationists from across the country. The combination of freshwater ecosystems and dense vegetation creates ideal conditions for bird habitation.

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Geographical Features of Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Though small in size, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary has a unique ecosystem shaped by the Cauvery River. The presence of small islands, marshes, and flowing water bodies contributes to the sanctuary’s ecological diversity.

• Location: Mandya district, Karnataka
• Area: Approximately 0.67 sq. km
• Coordinates: Near Srirangapatna, around 19 km from Mysore
• Elevation: Around 700 meters above sea level
• Climate: Tropical; moderate to high temperatures with seasonal rainfall
• Water Source: River Cauvery, which maintains water flow throughout the year

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary Flora

The Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary Flora consists of riverine vegetation, marsh plants, and semi-evergreen species that support the nesting and breeding of birds. The presence of aquatic vegetation also supports fish, amphibians, and insects, forming a stable food web. The lush green vegetation provides shelter and nesting material for a wide variety of bird species, enhancing the sanctuary’s ecological value. Key Plant Species includes:

• Bamboo groves
• Arjuna trees (Terminalia arjuna)
• Eucalyptus
• Water hyacinth and floating aquatic plants
• Fig and Tamarind trees along the riverbanks

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary Fauna

The Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary Fauna is famous for hosting over 170 species of birds, including resident, migratory, and near-threatened species. Birds migrate from as far as Siberia, North America, and Australia during the winter season. This biodiversity makes Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary not only a birding paradise but also a valuable site for wetland and riverine ecosystem conservation.