Bird Walk at Akkulam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

Name: Bird Walk at Akkulam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
Start: 2026-09-12T06:00:00+05:30
End: 2026-09-12T08:00:00+05:30

About Akkulam

Located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Akkulam is a picturesque backwater landscape where Akkulam Lake forms part of the larger Akkulam–Veli wetland system along the Arabian Sea. Situated about 10 km from the city centre, the area combines tranquil waters with lush greenery, coconut groves and mangrove vegetation, creating an important urban wetland habitat.

Akkulam is also known for its rich natural surroundings and recreational spaces, including the popular Akkulam Tourist Village. The lake and its vegetation support a variety of flora and fauna, particularly fish and resident and migratory birds, making it an appealing location for nature lovers and birdwatchers. At the same time, the wetland faces pressures from urbanisation and pollution, highlighting the importance of continued conservation and restoration of this valuable coastal ecosystem.

Bird Guide: Malavika S Nair

She is a researcher with over three years of experience in ornithological research and is currently working as a researcher at the Wildlife Institute of India – Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), Coimbatore. She has also worked on a vulture conservation project with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department and has extensive fieldwork experience in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Beyond her research, she has volunteered in various forest and urban bird surveys across Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Her fieldwork has involved bird identification, monitoring and biodiversity assessments across diverse habitats, contributing to wildlife research, ecological understanding and conservation efforts.

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Akkulam

Akkulam is a rewarding birding destination, with its lake, backwaters and surrounding vegetation attracting a fascinating mix of wetland and woodland birds. The birdlife includes striking species such as the Pheasant-tailed Jacana and Bronze-winged Jacana, which forage across aquatic vegetation, along with the Great-headed Swamphen and Little Grebe around the water. Kingfishers such as the Stork-billed Kingfisher add colour to the shoreline, while Blue-tailed Bee-eaters bring lively movement to the skies. The presence of Wood Sandpiper, Black-crowned Night Heron, Asian Openbill and River Tern further reflects the diversity of habitats found around Akkulam, while the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo adds a distinctive woodland presence.