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India.com
14-07-2025
- India.com
7 Hidden Birdwatching Gems Near Nagpur Every Nature Lover Must Visit
As a central Indian destination, India's 'Orange City' Nagpur functions both as a natural habitat access point and an orange-producing hub. Birdwatchers along with nature enthusiasts can find many different species of birds to observe in their natural environments because this area surrounding Nagpur contains diverse biodiversity. The territory surrounding Nagpur contains both wetlands and dense forested areas which offer ideal conditions for birdwatching. The seven prime birdwatching locations situated near Nagpur must be visited by all nature enthusiasts. 1. Pench National Park The Pench National Park maintains its fame with its dense vegetation surrounding the 92-kilometer distance from Nagpur. Birdwatchers find Pench National Park particularly attractive as the park achieved fame mainly through its tiger population but this park serves as an excellent bird watching destination. The park shelters 285 different types of resident and migratory birds for observers to witness. Watching the bird species such as the Indian Pitta alongside the Paradise Flycatcher and Malabar Pied Hornbill as well as different eagle and vulture species are common at this location. Natural bird observations become possible at this location due to its peaceful environment and trail maintenance. 2. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve This magnificent bird-watching location lies around 150 km distant from Nagpur as Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve provides bird observers with another wonderful place. Bird enthusiasts enjoy numerous types of birds at this reserve because it exists within the broader expanse of Tadoba-Andhari landscape. Birdwatchers can identify more than 200 species in this location together with the Crested Serpent Eagle and Grey-headed Fish Eagle and Indian Roller. Birdwatchers can easily find terrestrial along with aquatic birds within the park because it houses different ecosystems beginning with deciduous forests and extending to water bodies. 3. Ambazari Lake Residents prefer the urban bird watching destination at Ambazari Lake which lies near Nagpur city. This artificial lake positions itself only 6 kilometers from the urban center where it captures many species of migrating birds primarily during winter. Visitors can spot Northern Pintail together with Common Teal while Painted Stork represents one more species that can be observed at this location. The Asian Koel together with the Purple Sunbird and Red-wattled Lapwing can be found in the area surrounding the lake. The location near the city provides quick access for bird watching activities at this site. 4. Futala Lake From the center of Nagpur exists Futala Lake which serves as a prominent birdwatching location about seven kilometers away. The lake's natural environment offers relaxation to people and birds as they enjoy its green surroundings. The lake welcomes visiting bird species like egrets together with herons and kingfishers. Northern guests can observe several duck species alongside wading birds when migration occurs. The pleasing atmosphere and picturesque surroundings of Futala Lake attract many local birdwatchers who also take photographs at this site. 5. Gosikhurd Dam Citizens tend to overlook Gosikhurd Dam yet consider it a worthwhile bird watching destination located about 120 kilometers outside of Nagpur. During the winter migration period the water reservoir built by the dam becomes a hub for various aquatic bird species. Observation of Bar-headed Goose and Ruddy Shelduck and Black-winged Stilt bird species should be possible during visits. The space of vast water together with natural vegetation transforms into a perfect location for photographing and spotting birds. 6. Bor Wildlife Sanctuary The 60 kilometer distance from Nagpur to Bor Wildlife Sanctuary creates an optimal site for observing flat-living birds and those that inhabit trees because of its mix of dry deciduous forests and grasslands. This sanctuary encompasses more than 150 bird species which include three distinctive species; Indian Peafowl, Grey Francolin and Alexandrine Parakeet. The sanctuary's unimpeded visibility together with its open forest space gives birdwatchers higher possibilities to identify the Indian Courser and Greater Flamingo and other elusive species (season-dependent sightings). 7. Umred-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary Located northeast of Nagpur with a 50 kilometer distance sits the small biodiverse Umred-Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary provides successful tiger conservation as well as numerous bird species. The White-bellied Drongo together with Brown Fish Owl and the Indian Nightjar form part of the birdwatching possibilities at this location. Bird observation at the sanctuary becomes possible across the whole year because the sanctuary contains different types of geographical areas including wooded areas as well as grasslands with water features. Tips for Birdwatchers Visiting These Locations: Morning and afternoon hours provide the ideal conditions for bird watching because it is when birds reach their peak activity levels. A birdwatcher should carry binoculars and field guide together with a camera featuring high-quality zoom capabilities for spotting distant birds. Use neutral clothes when observing birds because these outfits provide camouflage while also minimizing surprise to the birds. As a birder practice ethical watching by standing at a proper distance from birds and staying away from their natural areas. Working with local guides delivers several benefits because they understand which locations to visit and when different species are most active. Conclusion The prime position between Indian forests and wetlands in central India positions Nagpur as the perfect starting point to discover several exceptional bird watching areas in the country. There is a bird watching experience suitable for every interest level which awaits visitors at these seven locations. Every bird-watching site around Pench with its majestic raptors and Ambazari Lake with its colorful residents provides its own exceptional experience to observe avian life in nature. Get your equipment ready because planning a visit to observe birds around Nagpur will deliver an immersive natural experience.
India.com
30-06-2025
- General
- India.com
Sky Vs Serpent: Meet The 10 Birds Of World That Hunt And Eat Snakes Like Pros
photoDetails english 2924465 Updated:Jun 30, 2025, 04:50 PM IST Secretary Bird 1 / 10 Secretary Bird (Sagittarius serpentarius) Habitat is in African savannas. They are famous for stomping snakes to death with their long, powerful legs. They are Immune to small amounts of venom. They eat cobras, puff adders, and other venomous snakes. Their stomping kicks can strike in 15 milliseconds and are faster than a snake can strike back. Crested Serpent Eagle 2 / 10 Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela) Their habitat is in forests across South and Southeast Asia. Their hunting style is that they specialize in reptile prey, especially snakes, and have sharp talons and a powerful beak for tearing. They are often seen soaring or perched near jungle clearings, looking for movement on the ground. Short-toed Snake Eagle 3 / 10 Short-toed Snake Eagle (Circaetus gallicus) Their habitat is in southern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Their hunting style is that they detect snakes from the air, then dive to grab them. they have feet covered in thick scales to protect from bites and eat the snake head-first to avoid being bitten during digestion. Brown Snake Eagle 4 / 10 Brown Snake Eagle (Circaetus cinereus) Their habitat is in Sub-Saharan Africa. Their hunting style is that they prefer large and venomous snakes, like black mambas, and they can kill and eat snakes longer than their own body. Their stomachs neutralize venom and even cobra venom. Red-tailed Hawk 5 / 10 Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) Their habitat is in North America, and their hunting style is that they hunt snakes, rodents, and other small animals, and use their talons to pin down snakes and kill with a bite, and are occasionally seen flying off with snakes still writhing in their grip. Roadrunner 6 / 10 Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus) Their habitat is in the Southwestern U.S. and Mexico, and their hunting style is that they hunt on foot, often in pairs, and smash snake heads against rocks to kill them. Fun fact is that they can kill small rattlesnakes despite being only 2 feet long. Great Horned Owl 7 / 10 Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) Their natural habitat is in the Americas (from Alaska to Argentina), and their hunting style is that they are a silent night hunter that can catch snakes unaware, and they also use strong talons and beak to immobilize and consume. They occasionally prey on venomous snakes, such as cottonmouths. Laughing Falcon 8 / 10 Laughing Falcon (Herpetotheres cachinnans) Their habitat is in Central and South America, and their hunting style is that they are Snake specialist that scans from trees before diving, also known for their loud, laughing call. Its name literally means 'snake-eating bird' in parts of Latin America. Osprey 9 / 10 Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) Their habitat is Worldwide near water bodies, they mostly eat fish, but can catch water snakes and use their talons with rough pads for a strong grip. They will sometimes accidentally drop wriggling prey mid-flight. Black Kite 10 / 10 Black Kite (Milvus migrans) Their habitat is in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. They are opportunistic feeders; they eat snakes, small mammals, and even garbage. They are agile in flight, can snatch snakes off the ground or out of water. They are known to scavenge, but are still a skilled hunter of small reptiles and snakes.
India.com
16-05-2025
- India.com
5 Most Surprising Birdwatching Spots In Dehradun
Dehradun lies at the base of the Himalayas and is a city where nature and civilization coexist. The city is recognized for its beautiful scenery and as a center for economic activities. Dehradun is also an underappreciated city for birdwatching enthusiasts. This capital of Uttarakhand may not be known to birders the same way Bharatpur or Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary are famous for avifauna, but it certainly has some surprising places that bird lovers will admire. From quiet woods to peaceful marshes, here are the most great Dehradun birdwatching spots. National Park Rajaji National Park is one of the prominent Indian wildlife sanctuaries and serves as a special treat to ornithologists. It is located just outside Dehradun. This park consists of a variety of ecosystems that contains dense Sal forests, riverine belts and grasslands, therefore making it ideal to spot more than three hundred and fifteen species of birds. The park has an area of 820 square kilometers. Birders coming to Rajaji will be thrilled to see glorious raptors such as the Crested Serpent Eagle, and Oriental Honey Buzzard effortlessly gliding above the trees. Other vibrant species include the Indian Pitta, which winters here, and the beautiful Red Junglefowl, the ancestor of domestic chickens. Remember, waterbirds are plentiful in the park; look for the Painted Stork, Woolly necked Stork, and many kinds of Kingfishers. What makes Rajaji particularly special is how it is directly reachable from Dehradun city. A small drive provides you with ample opportunity to witness an array of birds, making it a hotspot for casual and advanced birders alike. Conservation Reserve The Asan Conservation Reserve is around 40 kilometers from Dehradun and is a designated Ramsar wetland site that many visitors find astonishing due to the number of bird species it hosts. This artificial lake at the confluence of the rivers Yamuna and Asana is a magnet for hundreds of migratory birds from all over the world during October to March, so make sure to check it out. In the winter, the reserve becomes a gem for bird watchers, hosting globally threatened species like the Ferruginous Duck and Baer's Pochard. Migratory ducks that are Northern Pintail, Common Teal, and Bar-headed Goose also make an appearance to the reserve. Year round, the Black-winged Kite, Purple Sunbird, and Indian Roller make the landscape lively and full of color. The tranquil waters of the reserve serve as a mirror to flocks of ducks and waders, creating breathtaking scenery ideal for capturing great photographs. In addition, watching via these watchtowers and bird hides allows bird watchers to get very close to the birds without scaring them, making the experience that much better. Known because of its beautiful landscapes and sulfur springs, Sahastradhara has over a thousand springs. But most people aren't aware that it is also popular for bird watching. Its thick deciduous forests and rocky landscapes provide ample shelter to many birds which makes it a great bird watching place. Visitors might hear the captivating songs of the Himalayan Bulbul and see an elusive Blue-throated Barbet sitting on some tree branches. Birds of prey such as the Black Eagle and the Changeable Hawk-Eagle can be seen soaring overhead while smaller birds like the Verditer Flycatcher can be seen buzzing through the bushes. Robber's Cave, another tourist spot, provides further opportunities to appreciate the region for its wonderful bird watching. Sahastradhara's tranquil surroundings along with its proximity to Dehradun combine to make this place less popular but equally good for bird watching. 4. Tapkeshwar Temple Forest Apart from being a religious site, Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple is mostly known for its location being deep within cedar forests next to a stream. However, it is primarily a temple, the serene environment conceals an equally beautiful world teeming with birds. The wooded area encircling the temple is a retreat for several avifauna species, which would indeed be a pleasant shock for people who step outside the conventional boundaries. Here, birdwatchers can listen for the symphonic calls of the Great Barbet and gaze at the Chestnut-bellied Rock Thrush and its bird watching birders can observe the Greater Yellownape and Rufous-bellied Woodpecker as they bore holes into wooden stumps in anticipation of finding bugs. The stream that flows through the forest also brings in dippers and wagtails which are lively additions to the scenery. The combination of self–reflection and bird watching at Tapkeshwar provide a one-of-a-kind experience that is adored by almost all the local birders. 5. Malsi Deer Park Malsi Deer Park is located on the borders of Dehradun, and is looked down upon as just another place for families to hangout. But one look closer and it is a beauty in disguise when it comes to avian life. While the park is relatively small in size, the wooded & open areas of the park has a diverse collection of bird species. Some of the birds that can be commonly seen are the Asian Koel and the White-throated Kingfisher, relatively easier to spot due to the bright blue color. There is also a time in the year when the park serves as a stop for many migratory birds like warblers, flycatchers, and thrushes. Indian Paradise Flycatchers have also made this park their home, something most consider far-fetched. For city dwellers looking to take a break from their busy lifestyles, Malsi Deer Park presents a captivating opportunity to watch birds. Final Thoughts It may not be at the top of the list of all bird watching spots, but Dehradun is definitely one of the places that require keen consideration, especially with birding in the city. The captivating combination of urban living with natural elegance draws the attention of bird lovers. The great Rajaji National Park and its wild surroundings, the picturesque Sahastradhara, or the well concealed Treasure Tapkeshwar Temple Forest and many such places will amaze everyone. A meticulous plan along with a zest for adventure around this picturesque city will definitely help you find many beautiful birds. So, it's time to put on the infiltrating lenses and set out to spot some of the most incredible birds in Dehradun, as the city perfectly exemplifies the biodiversity.
