Manjira Bird Sanctuary

Established in: 1978 as a sanctuary
Area: 20-sq-km/2000 ha
Location: 50-km From Hyderabad Near Sangareddy In Medak District, Andhra Pradesh

Description:
Manjira Bird Sanctuary is located near Sangareddy in Medak district spreading over 20-sq-km. It is a small sanctuary located along the river Manjira. It supports Riverine habitat. It is home for many water bird species, mugger crocodiles and fresh water turtles.

Visiting Season:
October To July

Access:
By Rail: Nearest railway station is at Hyderabad (150 Kms)
By Road: It is 29 kms from Macherla the nearest town which is connected to Hyderabad, (50 kms). Medak- town is well connected by road and there are frequent bus services from Hyderabad, Nizamabad and Karimnagar.

Accommodation and facilities:
Inspection bunglows are available at Sangareddy & Sadasivapet. Three boats are in operation to take visitors around the sanctuary for bird watching. Binoculars, and books regarding bird identification are also available.

Wildlife
Flora: One can notice an extensive growth of Babul Prosopis. Plants commonly found in water are Pistia, Hydrilla, Eichornia and Vallisneria.
Fauna: Fishes of various species like Catla, Rahu, Murrel, Ech Paten, Karugu, Chidwa and reptiles like Monitor Lizards, Fresh Water Turtles, Cobra and Marsh Crocodiles can be seen here. Different species of birds found here are Painted Storks, Herons, Coots, Teals, Cormorants, Pochards, Black and White Ibises, SpoonBills, and Open Billed Storks etc.
The sanctuary has nine small islands like Puttigadda, Bapangadda, Sangamgadda, Karnamgadda etc., which are the main breeding and nesting ground for the birds. The islands and the river banks have thick growth of Babul, Prosopis and lpomea which together make excellent nesting spots for the birds.