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India.com
17-07-2025
- India.com
Where The Birds Rule Sky, Must-Visit Birdwatching Hotspots Near Guwahati
As the main entrance to Northeast India Guwahati offers splendid views of its rich cultural diversity and attractive landscapes with its large concentration of bird species. Because of its close location to verdant forests and wetlands alongside hills Guwahati functions as the perfect base for nature observers and birdwatchers. People from all levels of birding experience can find perfect bird watching locations around Guwahati that deliver exceptional ornithological moments. 1. Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary Deepor Beel stands out as a key birdwatching site close to Guwahati because it functions as a Ramsar site and wildlife sanctuary. Migratory birds choose this freshwater lake as their essential habitat during winter season. Birdwatchers can observe more than 200 species of birds at this location which includes three particularly rare bird species: Spot-billed Pelican, Greater Adjutant Stork, and Black-headed Ibis. Egrets combine with herons and kingfishers and cormorants since these species make their permanent home inside the sanctuary. Observing wildlife at the park is most successful during early morning hours and during late afternoon periods. 2. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary exists 50 kilometers outside Guwahati and preserves a thick concentration of Indian One-horned Rhinoceros. Along with its rhinoceros fame the site gains equal popularity with bird watchers due to its dense bird population. More than 200 types of birds inhabit the sanctuary where visitors can find those which reside there as well as seasonal migratory species. Crossing paths with waterbirds including Cotton Pygmy Goose, Northern Pintail, Common Teal and raptors including Crested Serpent Eagle, Oriental Honey Buzzard exists at this location. The grasslands combined with wetlands offer perfect areas to observe wildlife while photographers can take advantage of these habitats. 3. Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary The Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary obtains its location 70 kilometers from Guwahati while stretching across both Dhubri and Kokrajhar districts. The Golden Langur conservation serves as the primary objective for which Assam established its first wildlife sanctuary. Bird enthusiasts can observe hill and forest birds which include the Rufous-necked Hornbill, Great Hornbill and Blue-bearded Bee-eater when they visit this sanctuary. Visitors should definitely explore this destination since it offers both a calm environment alongside magnificent landscape views. 4. Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary The eastern part of Guwahati hides Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary which presents an excellent destination for those who enjoy birdwatching. This sanctuary occupies a territory spanning about 78 square kilometers along with tropical semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests. Writers commonly spot White-throated Kingfishers together with Red Junglefowl and Asian Koels and countless woodpecker species near this location. Bird enthusiasts have the chance to experience wildlife in its entirety at this sanctuary which enables them to view multiple species including elephants and leopards because of its diverse ecosystem. 5. Brahmaputra River Islands (Majuli) Majuli stands out as the world's largest river island although it requires a 200-kilometer travel from Guwahati. Many bird species surround the island because its ecosystem includes wetlands and paddy fields and bamboo groves. During winter seasons Bar-headed Goose, Ruddy Shelduck and Greylag Goose migrate to the island territory of Majuli. The island contains at least two endangered species with Swamp Francolin and Bengal Florican among them. Visitors can explore Majuli to experience three different aspects of nature and cultural heritage while spotting birds in their natural habitat. Conclusion The surroundings of Guwahati hold great potential for birdwatchers who have diverse interests ranging from beginners to expert ornithologists. Every corner of Northeast India showcases its diverse wildlife through contrasting natural settings that include Deepor Beel's wetlands and Kaziranga's forests. These locations present viewers two benefits: observing remarkable birds while experiencing northeastern nature. Prepare your equipment in advance because early departure leads to everlasting memories from your journey.
India.com
27-06-2025
- India.com
5 Unexpected Birdwatching Locations In Guwahati That Will Amaze You!
Guwahati lies on the Brahmaputra River and is known as the gateway to Northeast India. This city is a dream for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. It has lush green parks and serene wetlands that are perfect for various species of birds. Guwahati is known for its ancient temples, energetic markets, and dynamic culture, which is why it does not instantly come to mind for birdwatching spots. But Guwahati is full of surprises. In this article, we will talk about the most astonishing birdwatching spots and why they are so special. 1. Deepor Beel: One of Asia's Largest Freshwater Wetlands Deepor Beel is one of the largest freshwater wetlands and birders have been visiting this place since 2002. It is always buzzing with activity. Deepor Beel is located about 10 KM from the center of Guwahati and is also a Ramsar site which makes it even more popular among tourists. Wetlands, which are the most important ecosystems in the world, provide multiple benefits for wildlife diversity. This is especially true in winters when thousands of migratory birds come from Central Asia, Siberia, and other regions to the wetlands. In Deepor Beel, one can observe the Greater Adjutant Stork (or 'Hargila' as it is called here), Spot-billed Pelican, Black-headed Ibis, and several types of ducks like the Northern Pintail and Garganey. Also, Osprey as well as the Eastern Marsh Harrier are regular visitors. Deepor Beel is very interesting in that it is found in a highly developed city. Because of the development, it has suffered from encroachment and pollution. However, a lot has been done, and continues to be done, towards conserving the wetland which increases its ecological value. Birdwatchers and nature lovers can get the best views of the birds during the soft light around sunrise and sunset and enjoy the soothing surroundings of the wetland. 2. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary: Beyond Rhinos Known for housing Indian One horned Rhinoceroses, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary located 30 km east of Guwahati is equally popular among birdwatchers for its lesser known treasure. This small sanctuary situated east of Guwahati can support more than 200 species of birds due to the diverse plants and animals it houses. Those who come to Pobitora will likely see the Cotton Pygmy Goose, the Purple Heron, and the Common Kingfisher that flourish in the marshy regions bordering the grasslands. Northward migrating Bar-headed Geese breed here in winter and enhance the scenery. Besides, the visitors can also spot waterbirds during their visit, including kingfishers and rufous treepies. The proximity of Pobitora to Guwahati also enables tourists to visit its wildlife sanctuary in a single day. 3. Guwahati Zoo (Assam State Zoo Cum Botanical Garden): A Fantabulous Collection of Artificial Wonders Many birdwatchers fail to notice the exquisite charm of the Assam State Zoo Cum Botanical Garden situated in Guwahati, easily accessible to avid bird watchers and light-hearted bird lovers. The sprawling 432 terrace zoo-botanic garden harbors numerous bird species that are not caged, and the greenery offers an excellent breeding and nesting ground. Among them are free-ranging residents like the Indian Peafowl, Red-vented Bulbul, and Asian Koel which act like pet birds of the park. Even Kingfishers, sunbirds, and the Indian Eagle-Owl are attracted by the large trees and artificial ponds, creating new microhabitats for them. The zoo provides a convenient option for families and local bird enthusiasts to relax while watching birds without venturing too far from the city. While the focus is on zoo animals, it must be said that the presence of wild birds adds a lot to the enjoyment of the visitors. 4. Bharalu Riverfront: An Urban Oasis Watching birds from an urban riverfront is an unusual combination and most people would not expect it. However, the Bharalu River Front in the heart of Guwahati surely turns that notion on its head. Even though the Bharalu River suffers from pollution, the new beautification works done on the banks have created patches of green that attract birds. Commonly noticed birds in this region are the Little Egret, Pond Heron, and Common Myna, all thriving surprisingly well in the city. Since the riverfront is close to residential areas, many familiar birds like the House Sparrow and Rock Pigeon can be spotted alongside shy birds such as the Spotted Dove. Birdwatching at Bharat riverfront is not so much about the rare species that one would look for as it is about how wildlife can adapt to human civilization. It is best to be early to Bharalu for the quiet which helps with visibility. 5. Silpukhuri Lake: An Almost Unknown Jewel. Apart from the busy Silpukhuri, a commercial hub of Guwahati, lies Silpukhuri Lake, a very charming spot that attracts bird watchers. Even though it is small in size, Silpukhuri lake attracts a variety of fish and bird life due to its open water and reedy edges. The lake is a regular space for the Bronze-winged Jacana, Moorhen, and Lesser Whistling Duck. At the same time, predatory birds like the Brahminy Kite can be seen soaring high above the lake. During migration periods Northern Shoveler and Common Teal utilize the lake as a staging area. Even though this lake is located next to the urban areas of Guwahati, Silpukhuri Lake maintains a sense of placidity and beauty and thus allows people to enjoy nature. This quality makes Silpukhuri Lake popular with amateur photographers and weekend bird watchers. Final Thoughts Though not an obvious choice for a bird watching destination, Guwahati provides a thrilling experience for those who are willing to take the risk. The city is a blend of urban development and natural beauty like Deepor Beel, where the Greater Adjutant Storks are a breathtaking sight, as well as secluded birds of the forest in Pobitora. Or even for riverfront visitors who appreciate the barn swallows in their new home at the Bharalu River.
The Hindu
02-05-2025
- General
- The Hindu
NGO appeals to drop Coimbatore Corporation's plan to commercialise tanks
City-based non-governmental organisation 'Osai' has appealed to Coimbatore District Collector, Coimbatore Corporation the and District Forest Officer (DFO) to drop the civic body's move to rent out spaces of tanks beautified under the Smart Cities Mission for commercial activities. In a petition submitted to the Collector, Corporation Commissioner and DFO on Friday, the NGO stated that the civic body's invitation to event organisers to conduct recreational and commercial gatherings at these beautified spaces and to promote them as event venues raise significant environmental red flags. Many of these tanks, including Valankulam, Ukkadam Big Tank, Kurichi tank and Selva Chinthamani have evolved over the years into crucial habitats for wetland-dependent birds, including migratory and resident such as Painted Stork, Asian Openbill, Spot-billed Pelican and numerous other shallow-water foragers and shorebirds. 'Hosting events involving amplified sound, crowds, lighting, and food stalls will not only disturb the habitat integrity, but also directly threaten the survival of these sensitive bird populations. Birds such as pelicans and storks are particularly sensitive to noise and human presence during feeding and breeding seasons. Littering and waste from such events pose a secondary but equally serious threat by degrading water quality and increasing the risk of disease outbreaks among bird populations,' stated the petition. It said that wetlands constituted 6.92% of the geographical area of Tamil Nadu and 1.08% of Coimbatore. Due to urban expansion and land use changes, many of these tanks no longer served their original irrigation purpose and naturally transitioned into biodiversity refuges. These waterbodies were not merely habitats, but the only remaining options for survival for several species of wetland birds in the urbanised landscape. Over 200 species of birds, which constituted over 15% of the bird species found in India, visited these wetlands. The NGO wanted the district administration to reconsider the current plan to use tank shores as event venues and declare them as Urban Biodiversity Conservation Zones and Ecological Learning and Conservation Education Centres. Such a shift in approach would align with the ecological history of these water bodies and foster environmental responsibility among the city's youth and public, said the petition, which was attached with bird population reports of Valankulam, Ukkadam Big Tank, Kumaraswamy tank (Muthannankulam), Kurichi tank, Narasampathi tank, Selvampathy tank, Selva Chinthamani tank and Krishnampathy tank. The NGO also appealed to the authorities to consult with ecologists, birdwatchers, wetland experts and local environmental organisations before proceeding with any further plans.
