Karnala Bird Sanctuary

Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Mumbai Overview

The Karnala Bird Sanctuary, located in Mumbai, Maharashtra, is a paradise for nature lovers, featuring the historic Karnala Fort and a diverse range of bird species.

Nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats, the sanctuary is situated around the Karnala Fort and covers an area of 12.2 sq km (4.7 sq mi).Karnala serves as a migratory route for birds migrating from Siberia to India, making it an ideal spot for bird enthusiasts and photographers alike. Spanning across various forests consisting of Sanjni, Haldarvat, Narayani, and Kalu, the sanctuary is a hotspot for over 160 species of birds, among them, some of the most notable being the Indian Pitta, Nutcracker, Racket-tailed Drongo, Vernal Hanging Parrot, Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher, Paradise Flycatcher, Grey Junglefowl, White-collared Kingfisher, Bluethroat, Pied Bushchat, and Great Hornbill.The sanctuary also contains vegetation such as teakwood, mango, booy, and other fruit-bearing trees, which act as a habitat for birds and other wildlife.

Raptor species such as the Steppe Eagle, Shikra, Lesser spotted Eagle, Long-Legged Buzzard, Crested Serpent Eagle, Honey Buzzard, and Montagu's Harrier can also be spotted here. The sanctuary has an Interpretation Centre with a lookout point offering visitors amazing views of the surrounding hills, especially during sunset.Apart from bird watching, visitors can also enjoy a range of other activities here such as nature treks, bird photography, and exploration of the Karnala Fort. Home to a variety of flora and fauna, the sanctuary also houses a plethora of butterflies as well as amphibians, reptiles, and mammals such as mongoose, wild boar, palm squirrel, and various other species. Visitors to the sanctuary are allowed to carry basic items like binoculars and cameras for better observation and exploration.The Karnala Bird Sanctuary is nothing short of a paradise, providing travellers with a serene break from the hustle and bustle of the city life. Along with the endless sightseeing opportunities, the sanctuary offers its visitors a diverse array of bird species which make it an ideal spot for birding enthusiasts. Visitors must carry adequate protection from the sun while exploring the sanctuary.