Bhigwan | Birds Upd

: As the vast water body of the Ujani Dam recedes, it exposes extensive feeding grounds. This environment provides easy access to fish, plankton, and shrimp.

However, recent ecological shifts have fundamentally transformed the sanctuary's landscape, leaving many birdwatchers and travelers asking: Where are the flamingos?

For the discerning birdwatcher or nature photographer, Bhigwan remains an unmissable destination. It is a place where you can witness not only breathtaking avian diversity but also a real-world story of resilience, adaptation, and hope. The "Bharatpur of Maharashtra" is evolving, and with sustained efforts, it will continue to be a vibrant theatre of wings for generations to come.

However, amidst the decline, the census also recorded several notable sightings. Volunteers spotted vulnerable species such as the and river tern , along with near-threatened species including the black-tailed godwit and pallid harrier . One of the major highlights was a massive flock of Indian cormorants , with around 480 birds seen flying together. bhigwan birds upd

+--------------------------+----------------------------+------------------------------------------+ | Bird Group | Key Species Present | Notable Current Behavior | +--------------------------+----------------------------+------------------------------------------+ | Rare Migrants / Waders | Collared Pratincole | Massive nesting on exposed banks | | Large Waterfowl | Painted Storks, Herons | High concentration feeding in shallows | | Aerial Hunters | Gull-billed Terns | Established active breeding colonies | | Grassland Specialists | Indian Courser, Harriers | Active foraging in adjacent dry plains| +--------------------------+----------------------------+------------------------------------------+ The Star Sighting: Collared Pratincole

across the Ujani Dam backwaters have triggered an unprecedented surge in avian nesting and breeding activity. Often called the "Mini Bharatpur" of Western India, the wetlands around Bhigwan—located roughly 105 kilometers from Pune—are witnessing dramatic transformations in bird behavior, driven by fluctuating monsoon cycles and a major new government eco-restoration initiative.

: Northern Shoveler , Bar-headed Goose , and various species of gulls and terns. : As the vast water body of the

: Various species of birds of prey can be spotted in the surrounding grasslands. Bhigwan bird sanctuary: Flamingos, birdwatching & boating Shepherd Traveller

While the peak season for migratory visitors like the Greater Flamingo traditionally winds down by March, the climate conditions of this year have completely rewritten the birding calendar.

Early morning (sunrise) or late afternoon (sunset) offers the best lighting for photography and the highest bird activity. Activities at Bhigwan However, amidst the decline, the census also recorded

The area is also frequented by the Greater Grey Shrike , Rock-bush Quail , and the Rain Quail .

Bhigwan continues to be an essential destination for anyone looking to experience the rich birdlife of Western India.