Sprawling on 17.26-sq-kms surrounded by sea and shore, comprising
forests of tidal swamps, dry evergreen forests of mangroves, this
coastal sanctuary also known as "Kodikkarai", is 90-km
southeast of Thanjavur in a wetland which juts out into the Palk Strait
separating India and Sri Lanka. It is noted for the vast flocks of
migratory waterfowl, especially flamingos, which congregate here every
winter.
The sanctuary is vast, mostly shrub-land, shaped by the violent monsoon
winds and treated mercilessly by feral cattle, horses and the graceful
buck. At present cultivation of lobster has been started as the number
of birds is decreasing.
Variety Of Birds Visiting The Sanctuary
Between November and January, the tidal mud flats and
marshes
are covered with Teals, Curlews, Gulls, Terns, Plovers, Sandpipers,
Shanks, Herons and up to 3000 Flamingoes at one time.
In the spring, a different set of birds - Koels, Mynas and Barbets are
drawn here by the profusion of wild berries. From April to June there's
very little activity; the main rainy season is between October and
December.
Fauna
Point Calimere sanctuary is bestowed with population of varied wild
life such as Chital, Wild boar, Bonnet macaque, Black Buck, Flamingos,
Teals, Gulls, Terns, Plavers and Stilts. Special attractions are close
encounters with Dolphins and Turtles, which often come quite close to
the shore.
Places to stay in Tamilnadu
There's a Forest Department Rest House with adequate rooms at Point
Calimere, though all meals will have to be arranged with the staff. It's
best to make a reservation for the rest house with the Forest Officer in
Thanjavur.
