Bird watching is one of the most satisfying and exciting hobbies for people who love nature. It is pretty inexpensive as it only requires patience, curiosity, and a keen eye for nature and detail. The birdwatching hobby has gained popularity not only as a pastime but also as a way of connecting with biodiversity and getting familiar with the concept of conservation in India.
More than 1300 species of birds inhabit India that has diversified eco-zones and the different nature and landscapes of the country. There are a multitude of excellent bird watching locations scattered all over India from the forests and grasslands of the Himalayan highlands to the coastal wetlands which shelter numerous migratory birds of different species and rarely seen endemic birds like the beautiful colorful ones which come in large flocks.
With this post, we are acquainted with nature’s birds in India. We need to move through the paws to catch some of the coolest birds of our world one glance at a time.
Why India is a Bird Watchers Paradise
Different types of nature in India like deserts, mountains, wetlands, tropical forests, and coastal areas all naturally support the habitat and way of life of both resident birds and migratory ones . Every year, a great number of migratory birds take off from Central Asia, Siberia, and Europe only to fly to the warm wetlands and forests of India in winter.
Bird watching in India is full of surprises.
Some such experiences by bird watchers have been :
~ Rare and endangered species like the Great Indian Bustard and Hornbills.
~ Flying guests like Siberian Cranes, Bar-headed Geese, and Flamingos.
~ Wetlands serving as shelters for thousands of birds at the time of winter.
Deep and dense forests from where the one who listens can hear the peculiar calls reverberating through the wilderness.
Top Bird Watching Places in India
1. Bharartur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan
Keoladeo National Park is also termed Bharartur Bird Sanctuary is among the topmost celebrated bird watching tours India destinations in the world known as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is home to more than 370 species of birds, including migratory ones such as Siberian Cranes and Demoiselle Cranes. The time for best visiting is considered from October to March.
2. Chilika Lake, Odisha
Chilika is the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia and it is a bird watchers’ heaven. The lake becomes a paradise for migratory birds in the winter when over a million birds come to the lake. Among the major attractions are the flamingos, herons, and white-bellied sea eagles . Nestled within the lake is Nalabana Island which is a safe haven for birds.
3. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kerala
Situated on the bank of Vembanad Lake, it is a birds’ sanctuary that offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere for the lovers of birds . One can see waterfowls, cuckoos , herons, and migratory Siberian Cranes . The beauty of the bird-watching makes the experience even more wonderful.
4. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Haryana
Sultanpur is a birds’ paradise and a perfect weekend break for bird watchers being only a short distance from Delhi. To date, about 250 species of birds have been spotted here including rosy pelicans, kingfishers, and painted storks. The season of winter is the right time to get a chance to watch the migratory birds coming from far away lands.
5. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala
Known as the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, this is Kerala’s first bird sanctuary. It boasts a variety of resident and migratory birds. Indian Pitta, Malabar Grey ,Hornbill, and Sri Lankan Frogmouth are only a few of the numerous species which make it a paradise for bird watchers.
6. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka
This refuge located in the vicinity of Mysuru is well known for large families of painted storks, spoonbills , and cormorants. The picturesque Kaveri River adds to the attractiveness of the place , which is one of the most popular bird-watching sites in South India.
7. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
While the spotlight is mostly on the one-horned rhinoceros at Kaziranga, it tjhat is also a heaven for bird watchers. Reside can be listen to like one of the Bengal Florican slight in undergrowth and migratory birds likewise made for example the grey-headed fish eagle flying above the river Kaveri.
8. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
India’s first national park is not only a home for tigers but is also inhabited by more than 600 different species of birds . During the most parts of the year alignments bird watchers sometimes can be lucky to see, for example, parakeets , hornbills , or forest-dwelling crested serpent eagles.
9. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat
Despite being a lake refuge just beside the city of Ahmedabad, this wetland sanctuary covers an area of around 120 square kilometers . It is home to migratory birds such as pelicans, flamingos, and pintails . The very best time to watch birds here is early morning or late evening.
10. Loktak Lake, Manipur
Being the only lake of its kind with floating islands called phumdis, this lake is a true nature wonder offering a unique experience to the bird watchers. Migratory ducks which most often appear during visiting time and the lesser eastern hill myna keep the lake on the must-see list for bird-loving people.
Best Time for Bird Watching in India
The birds are always there, but winter (November to February) is the bird watchers’ main season. The time when migratory birds gather in great numbers . The earliest birds catch their prey in the darkest hour, so the birds’ activity is at its peak even in the early mornings and evenings , thus making it a perfect time to sight them.
Tips for a Better Bird Watching Experience
1. Binoculars and Field Guide : The best binoculars should go hand in hand with a bird guide to help in the identification of the Indian bird species.
2. Neutral Clothing : Birds can easily scare if bright colors are worn. Earth-toned clothes assist you in blending with the surrounding environment.
3. Silence : Patience is one of the main requisites during bird watching . Quietness increases the opportunity of seeing the rarest species.
4. Join Guided Tours : A number of bird sanctuaries have organized bird watchers tours. Acquainted with the regions topography and wildlife habits , the local guides will be able to facilitate your discovery of the unknown spots.
5. Take Notes or Keep a Journal :Writing down the birds you see increases the pleasure of birdwatching and also helps to keep track of the different seasons.
6. Responsible Tourism : Do not throw rubbish , do not disturb the natural habitats, and follow the sanctuary rules.
Importance of Bird Watching
Bird watching is not merely a pastime feeds the awareness of the environment.
While people are gazing at birds in nature, they become aware of the environmental issues that include the loss of habitats, climate changes, and pollution . There are quite a few nature reserves which are on the brink of extinction due to lack of funds, but thanks to the ecological tourism developed by bird watchers they can survive.
Moreover , it also contributes to one’s mental wellbeing. Spending time in nature not only helps to reduce stress but also imparts a sense of patience and provides a refreshing getaway from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
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