Bhigwan Birds Upd

Adjacent to the wetlands, the dry, rocky grasslands provide a stark contrast and a home to specialized species.

Bhigwan Bird Update — April 9, 2026

Local bird guide and safari operator, Nitin Dole, reported a dramatic drop, stating, "We only sighted around 200 to 250 greater flamingos this season, which runs from November to April. Even those that didn’t settle came in small flocks (around 30) and flew back within two or three days." This scarcity was a major disappointment for the many wildlife photographers and tourists who flock to the sanctuary each year, and it also severely impacted the local tourism economy that depends on this annual spectacle.

Bhigwan, Pune District, Maharashtra (Kumbhargaon Bird Sanctuary & Backwaters of Ujani Dam) Report Date: [Insert Current Date, e.g., April 2026 – adjust as needed] Best Season: November – March Current Status: Post-winter / Early summer transition (depending on timing of your visit) bhigwan birds upd

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Higher-than-normal water levels from the heavy 2025 monsoon caused birds to scatter across wider areas, reducing the density at traditional hotspots. 2. Avifaunal Highlights

This comprehensive covers the current nesting season, the shifting patterns of migratory arrivals, wildlife highlights in the adjacent grasslands, and essential details for planning a birdwatching excursion. 1. Current Season Update: Summer Nesting Surge Adjacent to the wetlands, the dry, rocky grasslands

Winter Birding at Bhigwan | A Raptor Paradise of Maharashtra

The pattern of flamingo arrivals is closely tied to water levels, which are influenced by the monsoon. While the flamingos may not return in huge numbers in a wet year, the ecosystem is dynamic and can shift. The decline has also encouraged birders to explore other pockets of the wetlands, leading to newer sightings of raptors and other species. It is likely that as water levels recede in the coming years, the flamingos could return in larger numbers.

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

Early morning boat rides offer the most spectacular views as the rising sun reflects off the water and the birds' plumage. Bird Diversity: Beyond the Flamingos

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.