Chilka lake is situated in……………………. and famous for ……………

A. Karnataka, Flamingo

B. Kerala, elephants

C. Orissa, flamingo

D. Tamil Nadu, flamingo

Chilka Lake is located in the districts of Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam in the state of Odisha (formerly Orissa). It lies on the eastern coast of India, at the mouth of the Daya River, which flows into the Bay of Bengal. Chilka is the second-largest brackish water lagoon in the world and the largest coastal lagoon in India.

The lake is a major winter destination for migratory birds, with over 160 bird species visiting it each year. These birds come from places like the Caspian Sea, Lake Baikal, Russia, Southeast Asia, and other regions.

Common bird species found here include flamingos, egrets, purple herons, Indian rollers, storks, spoonbills, greylag geese, and jacanas. Flamingos are among the most notable migratory birds that visit Chilka Lake. The lake is also home to other important wildlife like the green sea turtle, blackbuck, Irrawaddy dolphin, and many types of fish and crabs.

In Kerala, the elephant is the state animal. Elephants are commonly seen both in the wild and in captivity, often owned by temples or individuals.

In Karnataka, the Raichur district is known for attracting many migratory birds, including flamingos. It hosts around 250 bird species, and Manchlapur Lake is a key site for flamingos in the state.

In Tamil Nadu, the Rameswaram region sees the arrival of flamingos during the months of January to March.

Therefore, the correct answer is option (C).