Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary

Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary lies near Guntur and was set up in 1976 to protect both resident and migratory birds. It is a common weekend and picnic spot for people from the surrounding towns and villages.

Pelicans are its best-known residents, a sight that is uncommon in India. Black-headed ibis, common teal and pintail ducks are also found here. Between September and February thousands of migrants arrive, some from as far as Serbia and Australia, and the sanctuary becomes a major gathering place for painted storks.

Numbers have fallen from about 12,000 birds in the past to roughly 7,000 in recent counts. In response, artificial trees have been placed in the ponds as extra perches, water supply has been improved and local awareness work has been carried out.