| The Karnala Bird Sanctuary, which is around 25 m above sea level, lies at the bottom of the Karnala Fort and is located some 10 km off the Mumbai-Pune Highway. The Karnala Bird Sanctuary is quite small with an area of 4.27 sq. kilometres but is one of the few sanctuaries other than the Sanjay Gandhi National Park to be within reach of Mumbai city. Home to over 147 species of resident and 37 species of migratory birds who visit the sanctuary during winter, the Karnala Bird Sanctuary is one of the most comprehensive reserves in the country. Two rare birds, the Ashy Minivet and the Malabar Trogon, are claimed to have been sighted here. At the sanctuary, there are essentially two separate seasons for bird watching. In the monsoons, one can see the Paradise Flycatcher, Magpie, Robin, and the Malabar Whistling Thrush, which are among some of the most melodious avian singers. Arrays of other birds like the Racket-Tailed Drongo, Horn Bill, Red Vented Bulbul, Owl, Myna and the Ashy Rain War Blur have been sighted here. During winters, many species of migrant birds like Throat, Shrike, Blue and Large Cuckoo are seen, among others. While the Karnala Bird Sanctuary is chiefly known for its birds, sometimes one may also spot sntelopes, panthers, langurs and African monkeys. The Sanctuary is also known for the variety of trees found her; Asana, Kalam, Koshimb, Kalam, Mango, Teak and Umbar are seen at the top canopy. The Karnala Bird Sanctuary is one of the more popular destinations for avid bird-watchers and hikers in the Mumbai area. Even a simple walk through the forests is enough for travellers to forget their cares. A great getaway, the Karnala Bird Sanctuary is definitely worth making a halt at. |
No comments:
Post a Comment