Marine National Park

India’s first Marine Wildlife Sanctuary and Marine National Park were created in 1980 and 1982 respectively, in the the Gulf of Kutch. This isolated park stretches 170 kilometres along the coast and encompasses 42 islands, of which 33 are ringed by coral reefs. Abundant in marine and bird life, the sanctuary lies in the inter-tidal zone, and the area that is submerged in water during high tide can be observed during low tide. Some of the islands like Pirotan, Narala, Ajad and Positara, are fringed by the finest coral reefs and feature up to 52 coral species. Made up of millions of colourful polyps bound together by algae and other plants, the coral can be observed in a variety of formations, and makes for a fascinating sight. There are 7 species of mangroves here, which maintain the balance between salt and fresh water systems, protect the coast from erosion, and are breeding grounds for colonies of near-threatened species of birds such as the painted stork, darter and black-necked ibis. There are about 80 recorded species of birds found here, and low tide is a great time to observe them feeding on the beached marine life.