Tanji Bird Reserve

Tanji reserve runs along the coast south of the fishing village of the same name, taking in lagoon, dune scrub, coastal woodland and the Bijol Islands offshore, and something over three hundred bird species have been recorded in it. Terns and gulls breed on the islands, turtles nest on the beach, and the fishing centre at Tanji itself, with its smokehouses and landing beach, is worth the stop alongside.

What you actually see

• The bird list - over three hundred species recorded in a small reserve.
• The Bijol Islands - the offshore breeding site for terns and gulls.
• The habitat range - lagoon, dune, scrub and woodland side by side.
• The Tanji fish landing - the working beach and smokehouses at the village.

When to go

November to February is the cool dry season and peak for migrants. Terns breed on the islands in the wet season. Early morning is best for birds.

Honest expectations

Landing on the Bijol Islands is restricted during breeding. A guide is effectively necessary and fees are collected at the gate. Facilities are basic.

Nearby

Sanyang is south, and Bijilo is north.