The Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary covers an area of around 0.45 sq km and is fed by an irrigation tank that receives water from the Mettur Dam & also by the northeast monsoon from the months of August till December. . The tank remains dry between the months of April and August.
From September through December, the bird population inhabiting the sanctuary rises to around 10,000 birds. The ideal season to visit this sanctuary is during the months of November and December. Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary is a protected area located in Thiruvarur District in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is declared as a protected area in December 1999. It is home to a variety of birds. Geographical position of Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary is 10°26’59’N 79°27’58’E.
Flora
The Sanctuary’s diverse habitat includes lily patches, reed brakes, aquatic grass, etc
Fauna
Several types of birds can be seen here from September onwards. A large number of Purple Moorhen and Open bill storks can be seen during the months of February and March. Many migratory birds also visit the sanctuary like Coot, Grey Heron, Black headed Ibis, Night Heron, Purple Heron, Little cormorant, Darter, Spoonbill, Indian Reef Heron and White necked stork. About 10000 birds congregate here during peak season from November- December.
A notable aspect of the sanctuary is the large number of purple moorhen and openbill storks during February and March. Birds start arriving sanctuary from September onwards. Bird population peaks during November- December up to 10000 birds congregate during peak season. A notable aspect of the Sanctuary is regular congregation of a large number of Openbill storks during February – March.
Tourist Information
Tourists can visit the sanctuary throughout the year. However, the best time to visit the sanctuary in during the month of November. Two public observation towers have been built for the tourists inside the sanctuary. There are accommodation facilities available in PWD Rest House and private lodges in Muthupet and Thiruthuraipoondi. The sanctuary is open to visitors throughout the year. There are two watch towers inside the sanctuary for visitors
Entry Fee: Entry is free for visitors
Wildlife Viewing: The best time to visit the sanctuary is during November
The sanctuary is open to visitors throughout the year.
Accommodation
Accommodation is available in PWD Rest House and private lodges in Muthupet (6 km). Hotels with modern facilities are available in Thiruvarur (55 km.)
Connectivity
Airways :
The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli Airport which is (123.8 Kms) from Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary.
Railways :
The nearest railway station is Muthupet Railway Station which is (6 Kms) from Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary.
Road Ways :
Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary is (71.5 Kms) from Thanjavur
