Ranganathittu is a must for nature and bird lovers. The very sky in Ranganathittu turns into an emerald air carpet for the birds, from around the world, to roost and breed. Situated 13 km from Mysore, the sanctuary is set around a handful of tiny lush green islands on the river Cauvery. It is an ideal spot for picnicking and bird watching. During the migrating season (June - November) the river Cauvery feeds the lake in the sanctuary abundantly, and the rivulets attract migrating birds in large numbers. 
Ranganathittu is the home for an astonishing variety of exotic birds from as far away as Siberia, Australia, North America, Middle East, Egypt, China, Africa, Europe and many other places. These birds migrate from their home for their annual Indian breeding holiday. Cranes, Herons, Pelicans, Darters, Spoon bills, King fishers, Open bill Stork, White Ibis, Little Egret, Darter, Pond Cattle-Egret, Corniorant, varieties of Wild Ducks, Peafowl and Partridges are some of the notable natural ambassadors.
 These exotic birds migrate from distant places, roost and breed here with the local fauna during the winter months and fly back with their young ones, every year. Wild fowls and other forest birds are found in plenty among existing wildlife.
It is a novel experience to travel by boat on
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 these rivulets watching birds in their natural habitat. Thick overgrowth of trees and shrubs, on either
sides, make this boat travel an unmatched experience.
It is heavenly when the little boat gets closer to the islands where the trees are covered with birds of different species. Not just the sight of the birds, but their activities too make the ride a pleasurable one. It is astounding to see a tailor-bird folding a large leaf and swiftly joining the seams with the finesse of an accomplished seamstress to make a nest. The tastefully woven nest of the weaver-bird is quite a sight. It is said that the weaver-bird brightens its nest with fire flies (min-mini poochi). A natural opera of cries and chirps of birds, swoosh of wings, ripple of water and swishing of fishes is presented against the serenity of the environment.
 Ranganathittu is a tranquil spot away from the city. It treats you to some glorious sights and surprises. A basket of visual delights - crocodiles basking under the sun, otters running free, flocks of birds gathered on tiny islands and so on.
A leisure walk around the sanctuary fills the eyes with the variety of birds, fauna and flora. The sun peeps through the thick growth of trees and the air is refreshed with the thyme. The wind whistles while passing the bamboo growth, producing natural music. Even the thick jade coloured moss in the rivulets' banks is a sight to behold. The view from the bird-watch house gives a momentary feeling of satisfaction of being one with nature. Hence, Ranaganathittu is truly a nature lover's paradise and a must-see place.
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