Karnala Bird Sanctuary, home to about 180 species of birds, is neatly tucked away in an area of 4.27 sq. kms. Of forestland near Panvel, and the officials are getting a proposal ready to request the government to sanction another 2 sq. kms or so, to extend the borders of this sanctuary. This will give the birds some more space to move around, and also act as a buffer against any possible encroachment.

But the major problem faced by many visitors, is that they do not see many birds as is talked about. "No Birds" and "Dumb Sanctuary" are common comments.

Says Mr. Chandekar Dy. Conservator Of Forests, Thane Dist. "That is probably because they have to see the birds as they should be seen. Early morning and dusk, is the time the birds are visible in plenty. During the day the birds are everywhere, and not easily seen."

Mr. Geoffrey Menezes says "What is needed is a nature interpretation centre; like others set up around Thane, Pune, Tadoba, and Rehekune to help the visitors understand this."

Started by Dr. Salim Ali and his brother, Karnala Bird Sanctuary, around 60 Kms. from Mumbai is a favorite getaway for many mumbaikers, and others from around Panvel. Nestling in a valley, it is akin to an oasis in a desert, when you consider the industries that surround it.

Entirely different to the other sanctuaries in India, Karnala harbors a rich variety of woodland birds. Two species of rare birds spotted here are the Ashy Minvet and the Heartspotted Woodpecker. The forests being of the deciduous type, represents semi - evergreen in parts.

Adding great attraction is The Karnala Fort, also popularly known as Funnel hill. A good trek of an hour and a half allows the visitor a peek into the past, to witness the relics of a rich historical past.

Among the animals seen here are the barking deer, wild boar, hyena, jackal, porcupines, squirrel, langur monkey, jungle cat, snakes, and the mongoose.

The problems faced here by the officers are the pilfering of firewood by the local villagers. Another perennial problem is fire. Fortunately the foliage is small and green, so the fires are not as disastrous as those in the Himalayas and in the west, where the coniferous trees which contain a resin, which is highly inflammable, causes tremendous damage like the present condition in the United States.

Here firewatchers are posted specially in the months from February to June or July when the rains start, though the fire can start with water also. When a drop of water, refracts the sun light rays in to great heat, something like what a magnifying glass does, it is quite possible to start a fire. Other than that the casual picnickers who leave cigarette butts casually without stubbing it out is the next greatest culprit.

Here traditional methods of fire fighting like beating down flames are employed. But to prevent fires fire lanes are drawn and these prevent any fires started from spreading easily.