Known for its small bird sanctuary, Mangalavanam
mangroves is situated in the Ernakulam District of Kerala State. Bharath
Petroleum Company borders the northern and eastern portion of the area,
South by Emakulam Railway goods station, West by Salim Ali Road 16 and
Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute. This small mangrove area
comprising of a shallow tidal lake in the centre with its edges covered
with thick mangrove vegetation, the lake here is connected with
backwaters by a canal. Mangalavanam gained importance because of the
mangrove vegetation and also due to the congregation of communally
breeding birds.
Apart from these, it is considered a 'green lung' of Ernakularn City,
which is polluted by many industries and motor vehicles. A timber yard
was located in the area in the yester years, exporting timber to various
countries. At present, no such activity is being carried out. The
guesthouse was renovated in the year 1986 and regular staff was
appointed to protect the birds. Exotic species like Eucalyptus and teak
was planted in the area in previous years. Forty-one species of birds
were recorded in Mangalavanam mangroves representing 25 families. The
most common bird species found at Mangalavanarn were Little Cormorant
and Black-crowned Night Heron. Highest species richness of birds was
found in the months of May and July. House Crow is however the villain
here, the main predator of the eggs and nestlings of other bird species.
