Patna Bird Sanctuary is located in Jalesar sub division of district Etah, Uttar Pradesh. This is a protected sanctuary, which covers 108 hectares of land. It is UP’s smallest bird sanctuary. Its wetland area is just one kilometer.

History

Patna Bird Sanctuary was deemed as protected area in 1991.

Wildlife

Ornithologists report around 200,000 birds of 300 species of exotic birds in Patna Bird Sanctuary. Winter is the peak season for roosting and breeding for birds here. Migratory birds leave the Sanctuary in summer. The breath taking natural beauty of this place is combined with date trees that render an interesting topography akin to Goa’s. Along with migratory birds, the Sanctuary is famous for its resident birds too.

Birds like herons, ducks, geese, cormorants, and pied mynas visit the place frequently. Over 106 bird species, both migratory and local, have their resting abodes at the lake here.

The whole lake witnesses a thick growth of macrophytic vegetation of Potamogeton species and Water Hyacinth during the hot months. Water quality of the Sanctuary’s lake is such that it encourages the growth of a huge variety of avifauna during the cold months.

Birds like sarus crane, grey heron, purple heron, paddy bird, night heron, Indian reef heron, black necked stork, graying goose, comb duck, pintail, and lots more adorn the skies of this Sanctuary.

Attractions

Attractions in Patna Bird Sanctuary include Fishing cat, Mongoose, Jackal, Nilgai, Hare, Monkey, Fox, and lots of local and migratory birds.

Patna Bird Sanctuary is a favorite breeding ground for umpteen numbers of migratory birds since long. There is also an ancient and historic temple devoted to Lord Shiva, which attracts swarms of pilgrims. The tinkling of temple bells combined with the chirping of birds creates a perfect atmosphere for spiritual upliftment and soothing of senses.

Best Time to Visit

It is best to visit Patna Bird Sanctuary during winter, as most birds tend to leave the place in March.

How to Reach

Drive to Patna Bird Sanctuary takes about 1.5 hours from Agra. Tourists can also reach the Sanctuary via Hathras, which is at a distance of 29 km, or via Aligarh, which is 68 km from here.