bagaria.me

This atlas is in beta. I am still checking facts, ranges, and species lists, so some of it may be wrong or incomplete. It is here early so these places get seen. If you spot an error, write to me.

  • Bird Sanctuary
  • Ramsar Wetland
  • Bird Sanctuary (Nalabana)
  • Important Bird Area

Chilika (Nalbana) Bird Sanctuary

Beta

Asia's largest brackish lagoon and a Ramsar wetland, a wintering ground for over a million waterbirds and home to Irrawaddy dolphins.

Why this place matters

Asia's largest brackish lagoon and a Ramsar site hosting over a million migratory waterbirds and a resident Irrawaddy dolphin population, with great importance for coastal fisheries.

The wildlife

  • Migratory Waterfowl

    Up to a million migratory ducks, geese and waders winter across the lagoon.

  • Black-tailed Godwit

    Near-threatened shorebird seen in large numbers on the mudflats and marshes.

  • Irrawaddy DolphinENEndangered

    Resident dolphins in the outer channel near the lagoon mouth.

The wider field list, with current IUCN Red List status.

Mammals

Birds

Reptiles

200+ bird species recorded. Notable birds include Black-tailed Godwit, Northern Pintail, Gadwall, Garganey, Purple Swamphen and Greater Flamingo. Reptiles include Monitor Lizard.

Plan your visit

Winter brings dense flocks of ducks, geese and waders to the islands and marshes; the Nalabana mudflats hold large congregations of shorebirds.

Zones
Nalabana Bird Sanctuary and other Chilika islands and Satapada (dolphin channel)
Safari
guided boat safaris across the lagoon and to island mudflats; some shore-based observation points
Typical sightings
Flocks of ducks, geese and waders on islands and mudflats, gulls and terns over open water, Irrawaddy dolphins in the outer channel.
Light and terrain
Soft morning light over water with mist and reflections; strong midday glare on the open lagoon; a low angle from boats suits intimate bird portraits.
Hides
Occasional watchtowers; viewing is mainly from boats.
Good to know
Use authorised boats and follow route regulations; some areas restricted to protect roosting and breeding birds.