Sitting in the heart of Porbandar in the Indian state of Gujarat is Porbandar Bird Sanctuary. The sanctuary which presents the perfect example of man and nature living in harmony spreads over 1 Km2. It is stated that Porbandar Bird Sanctuary is the only sanctuary in Gujarat that offers protection to different varieties of birds that inhabit the area. This sanctuary is spread around a lake which is the main attraction for avifauna.

The sanctuary was shaped in 1988. Initially the area of Porbandar Bird Sanctuary was under Porbandar Municipality. In 1990 it was transferred to the Forest Department and the sanctuary was notified by Gujarat State Government under section 18 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Porbandar sanctuary was established on the recommendation of Mr. Peter Jackson, a naturalist who visited the city in 1981.

This sanctuary does not have any distinct vegetation but is known to attract a wide range of migratory and native birds. If you happen to be in the area during evening time you can hear the chirping and echo of the birds. Porbandar Bird Sanctuary is the smallest bird sanctuary in the state. The sanctuary is home to a large number of Flamingos and different varieties of water birds. A lake in the sanctuary is a permanent source of water, though the water is a little saline because of the salinity of the land.

Geography

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary is located in Porbandar, the hometown of Mahatma Gandhi, who was a strict follower of non-violence. It spreads over an area of 1 Km2 around a freshwater lake. Surrounding the lake there are wetlands and a few trees. The calm and mild surroundings of the sanctuary make it a suitable place for all types of birds to come and nest here.

The lake of the sanctuary is supplied constantly with water but the pollution has increased over the years, as the sewage water is discharged into the lake.

Wildlife

Porbandar Wildlife Sanctuary is not very rich when it comes to plant life. Though there is no growing vegetation in the area, but you can definitely find some trees and shrubs planted by the Forest Department in one part of the sanctuary. The sanctuary is best known to house large varieties of birds. Some of the most popular birds that can be spotted in the sanctuary include Flamingos, pelicans, spoonbills, avocets, little cormorants, ibis, egret, red shanks, coots, pintails, whistling teals, little grebes, shovellers, jacanas, herons, terns and ruffs etc.

Travellers to the sanctuary can see different varieties of birds making beautiful patterns when flying in the sky. The water birds can be seen flapping and wading in the freshwater lake. Though the sanctuary is not big enough, visitors to the area are left mesmerised by the sheer presence of so many varieties of birds and by getting a chance to watch them so closely in their natural habitat. The sanctuary is a great place for nature lovers and ornithologists.

How to Reach

The sanctuary is located within the Porbandar city and is conveniently connected to main cities of Gujarat and India by road, rail and air transport.

By Road

The sanctuary can be reached by taking a bus, taxi, auto, car or you can also reach it on foot. It is located on the Chhaya Road within the city limits of Porbandar and can be easily accessed.

By Rail

Travellers opting for rail transport can make use of the Porbandar Railway Station which is about 5Km from the sanctuary.

By Air

People who prefer air-travel can make use of the closest airport of Porbandar about 5Km from the sanctuary.

Best Time to Visit

The winter months from October to March are the best time to visit the Porbandar Bird Sanctuary. This is the time when you can spot different migratory birds that come from overseas to find suitable living conditions. Do carry your binoculars and cameras, but as a responsible visitor, ensure that you do not carry any music system or any gadget that makes noise. It is also important to understand that getting very close to the birds can scare them away. Hunting is illegal in the area.