Credit: Seetharaman Iyer
About Kokkare Bellur
Renowned for its abundant birdlife , Kokkare Bellur bird sanctuary is located in the Mandya district of Karnataka. It’s not a popular tourist spot or a particular bird sanctuary, like Rangantitu Bird Sanctuary, but it is a must-visit place if you are a bird lover. An abode for ornithophiles, you will find exotic migratory birds like Siberian cranes, storks, and pelicans. Nearby there is a small research centre and forest department rescue centre where the sick birds and babies are taken care of.
The bird sanctuary is a weekend getaway from Bengaluru and Mysuru and is about 80 km from Bengaluru and 12 km from Maddur.
The concentration of birds on the trees of a small village is a sight to behold. Trees in the village are especially reserved for migratory birds and home to particularly large colonies of Painted Storks and Spot-billed Pelicans. You know pelicans are categorised under “Near to Threatened.”
Witnessing these majestic birds in their natural habitat is a captivating experience.The name ‘Kokkare Bellur’ translates to ‘village of jaggery,’ with ‘kokkare’ signifying storks. It’s lies close to the bank of the Shimsa River, which is a tributary of the River Cauvery.
Nesting Sites
One of the interesting aspects of Kokkare Bellur is the way the birds choose to nest in trees within the village. It’s a perfect example of an Indian village that shows the peaceful coexistence of humans and birds for hundreds of years. You can ask the local person about the information of local birds that migrate from far away. They will surely blow your mind with the great knowledge they have about such birds.
The village is surrounded by sugarcane fields. It offers a serene and tranquil environment for those who seek a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
Best season to visit
The best season to visit Kokkare Bellur is from October to March. During this period, the sanctuary is home to numerous birds that make it their temporary residence.
Timing
The best time to visit is from 6 AM to 6 PM.
Maps and Location of Kokkare Bellur
Location: Mandya District, Karnataka (71 km from Mysore, 80 km from Bangalore)