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New Indian Express
4 days ago
- New Indian Express
Greater Flamingo makes pit stop at Varthur Lake
BENGALURU: Citizens and birders are thrilled at the sighting of a single Greater Flamingo at Varthur Lake. The bird, which was first sighted by some birdwatchers last Saturday, has now become a star tourist attraction in the city. Ornithologists and experts said that sighting of the Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) is not rare, but not a common sight either, in Bengaluru, especially in the city lakes. The last time a few were spotted was in Hoskote around six years ago. Around a decade ago, some were sighted in Madiwala Lake. Ornithologists caution that these birds are sensitive and hence the area should be left undisturbed. They also said this sighting is a ray of hope for reviving and protecting the natural vegetation of water bodies to house migratory and rare bird species.
India.com
17-07-2025
- India.com
7 Hidden Saltwater Lakes Near Delhi You Must Visit For An Unforgettable Birdwatching Experience
The capital of India Delhi provides residents with more than political and cultural opportunities because the city leads toward dreamlike natural environments. The vital bird habitats include saltwater lakes which host both migratory and resident bird species. Saline water bodies develop exclusive habitats that attract numerous bird species which can be observed by birdwatchers. Birdwatchers can explore this guide to discover amongst the best saltwater lake locations around Delhi for their pastime. 1. Sultanpur National Park Sultanpur National Park stands as a prominent bird sanctuary in the Delhi vicinity at its 50-kilometer distance. The park holds seasonal wetlands with slight salinity because it stands near arid locations although it lacks complete saltwater characteristics. The shallow winter waters of this site attract thousands of migrating Northern Shoveler and Greater Flamingo and Bar-headed Goose species. Indian Peafowl together with the Grey Heron inhabit the park area throughout the year. Birdwatchers of every experience level can find pleasure at this location because of its excellent trail conditions coupled with observation platforms throughout the park. 2. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary (Keoladeo Ghana National Park) The Keoladeo Ghana National Park deserves UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition for its global significance even though its distance from Delhi reaches 180 kilometers. The sanctuary combines freshwater marshlands with saltier wetlands which create various ecological habitats. During peak migration season (October to March), over 370 bird species visit this haven. Siberian Cranes and Painted Storks together with Pelicans are among the animals often seen at this location. People often visit this place from Delhi by road because of its convenient accessibility. 3. Surajpur Wetland From central Delhi's position at 45 kilometers distance one can find the bird-watching destination of Surajpur Wetland within Greater Noida. Part of the freshwater region but some sections have slightly salty water because of agricultural drainage and soil mineral content. Black-winged Stilts Common Teals together with Eurasian Spoonbills make up more than 200 bird species which inhabit the wetland. Enticing winter guests arrive at the site to become visible as Greylag Geese and Ruff. Public transport reaches the site directly and the place provides special pathways for walking visitors. 4. Okhla Bird Sanctuary Okhla Bird Sanctuary exists on the banks of the Yamuna River as it bridges the Delhi-UP state border and maintains its biodiversity in a small protected area. A mere 4 square kilometer area lets this site serve as an important habitat for countless birds who find comfort in its freshwater and mildly salty waters. Three hundred different bird species have been identified at this location which features two exceptional bird species—the Baer's Pochard and Ferruginous Duck. The sanctuary gains its fame from the winter gathering of waterfowl that occurs there. The well-built path enables people to observe nature without causing any disturbance to wildlife. 5. Basai Wetland The lesser-known birdwatcher destination Basai Wetland finds its location around 60 kilometers northwest of Delhi. The wetland continues to hold vital importance as an avifauna conservation site despite ongoing threats from urban development. Saltwater pools form in selected locations of this wetland because of industrial waste and natural water chemistry. The Black-tailed Godwit together with the Red-crested Pochard and Yellow-wattled Lapwing are commonly observed species at this location. The untouched birdwatching environment provides a peaceful sanctuary where protection work continues to defend against expanding development. 6. Dadhana Wetland Bird-lovers keep Dadhana Wetland as a hidden treasure based in Haryana's Jhajjar district which lies about 70 kilometers from Delhi. The saltwater combination in this habitat enables it to nurture life from the aquatic realm as well as birds of all types. Northern Pintail together with Gadwall and Common Coot birds migrate to this site when winter arrives. The wetland becomes brighter during all seasons because it sustains two native bird species: Purple Swamphen and the resident Indian Spot-billed Duck. The uncommercial site of Dadhana presents inherent natural beauty together with plenty of photo-worthy subjects. 7. Badkhal Lake Before neglect, the Badkhal Lake served as a local attraction for visitors who engaged in boating and organized picnics between Faridabad and Delhi which are about 30 kilometers apart. The lake experienced years of abandonment that resulted in its dry sections where only salinity remained. Conservation work in recent years brought back elements of the lake which now host Little Grebe and Moorhen and Cotton Pygmy Goose species. The protection and restoration work at Badkhal Lake position it as a potential upcoming birdwatching location if present conservation strategies continue achieving positive results. Why Saltwater Lakes Are Important for Birdwatching A network of saltwater lakes functions as a vital habitat for maintaining different bird species. Their particular chemical properties enable the development of special vegetation and water-based organisms that provide food for numerous bird species. Migratory birds make stopover use of these locations as they travel between continents. The high nutrient levels in saline waters create conditions that result in large ecta fish and insect populations which supply birds with ample food resources. Tips for Birdwatching Near Delhi The optimal hours for observing birds in their natural activity occur during early morning and late afternoon. Desert Birdwatchers need to purchase binoculars together with cameras that include strong zoom capabilities for distant wildlife observation. Choose Clothing Items with Neutral Colors because these tones will not alarm birds while matching the background environment better. Your distance from wildlife nesting areas and use of quiet activities can help prevent disturbing their habitats. Observing seasonal migratory movements will help you decide the best time to visit the area for bird observation. The vicinity of Delhi to multiple saltwater lakes and wetland areas creates extraordinary conditions for bird observation. All birdwatchers will find valuable viewing opportunities at these sites where they can observe both large flamingos and delicate warblers. Both responsible visits and advocacy efforts will help sustain these valuable ecosystems as vibrant environments throughout the generations. The serene beauty of nature awaits everyone who rests their gear to step outside and experience its symphonic appeal.
Deccan Herald
06-07-2025
- Science
- Deccan Herald
Over 160 bird species, 21 sightings, documented in bird census
The greater flamingo with its long, coat hanger neck and pink-white plumage, and the Indian pitta, known for its distinctive calls, were among the 21 first-time sightings recorded across the national capital this summer. More than 160 bird species including endangered and migratory species have been recorded across Delhi as part of the Delhi Bird Atlas. The summer phase of the atlas -- a pioneering citizen science initiative supported by Wildlife SOS and the Delhi Forest and Wildlife Department -- reported 21 first-time sightings and saw over 600 checklists uploaded to the eBird platform, surpassing the winter documentation efforts, according to a statement. Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus), Black Bittern (Ixobrychus flavicollis, Bonelli's Eagle (Aquila fasciata) and Indian Pitta (Pitta brachyura) are among the first-time sightings. The project, which divides Delhi into 145 observation zones, is aimed at building a long-term understanding of avian distribution patterns across seasons, officials said. Alongside this documentation drive, Wildlife SOS has intensified its rescue efforts during the scorching summer, saving nearly 500 birds till May 2025. These included raptors and migratory species impacted by extreme heat, electrocution, collisions, and habitat stress. Shyam Sunder Kandpal, Chief Wildlife Warden, said the Delhi Bird Atlas is not just a scientific initiative but a "community-powered effort" to reconnect people with nature and create a data-backed conservation strategy for the capital. The initiative also underscores the growing role of citizens in spotting and reporting injured or distressed birds, often triggering rescue operations. "With Delhi reeling under erratic climate patterns and rising pollution, initiatives like the Bird Atlas become all the more urgent," said Wasim Akram, Director of Special Projects at Wildlife SOS.
India.com
04-07-2025
- India.com
Jaw-Dropping Photos: Birds Flock To These 5 Dehradun Lakes Like A Scene From Nat Geo!
Dehradun as the Uttarakhand capital rests beneath the Himalayan foothills where it directs visitors to spectacular Indian vistas. The location combines its well-known natural landscapes of forests and rivers with mountains to create special conditions suitable for birdwatching enthusiasts. Saltwater lakes stand alone as concealed treasures which draw numerous species of birds to their locations. The saline water bodies maintain an ecological value that also functions as vital residential and migratory bird habitat. Birdwatchers should consult this guide for important information about the top saltwater lakes closer to Dehradun including their ecosystem details and visiting bird species. 1. Sambhar Lake The Rajasthan-based Sambhar Lake attracts many Dehradun bird enthusiasts since it is near the city. Standing at 230 square kilometers, Sambhar Lake positions itself as India's largest lake located inland. Endangered and numerous other duck species along with pelicans and flamingos choose Sambhar Lake as their migratory destination during winter months. The Central Asian Flyway migratory route finds its optimal rest site at this location because of its shallow waters and plentiful nutrients. Birdwatchers need to visit this location because they can view both the Greater Flamingo and the Eurasian Spoonbill at this site. 2. Didwana Lake Birdwatchers will find Didwana Lake in Rajasthan to be another excellent site due to its location at 165 kilometers southwest of Dehradun. Natural saltwater lake Didwana has high salinity measures that establish an exclusive environment suitable for unique plant and animal species. Northern Pintails and Gadwalls together with Common Teals establish their temporary residence at the lake during winter months. Alongside its natural salt characteristics Didwana Lake stands out because of the dry arid terrain which frames its colorful bird inhabitants. 3. Pangong Tso Birdwatchers travel to Pangong Tso though its distance from Leh-Ladakh exceeds that of Dehradun due to the extraordinary ecological importance and exceptional natural beauty the site offers. Stretching across the India and China border this high-altitude saltwater lake earns fame from its picturesque mountain scenery alongside clear lake waters. Several bird species of the cold desert survive at Pangong Tso along with the Bar-headed Goose and the Ruddy Shelduck. Birdwatchers find great fulfillment at this distant site because it maintains an untouched natural environment. 4. Tso Moriri There exists another noteworthy saltwater high-altitude lake which can be found within Ladakh district. Those willing to travel extensively from Dehradun can discover an extraordinary birdwatching opportunity at this place. This wildlife sanctuary houses the Black-necked Crane along with various other bird species because Tso Moriri forms part of the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. Tso Moriri serves as a protected zone for birds and nature enthusiasts because it offers peaceful surroundings that remain free from extensive human contact. 5. Bhimtal Lake The birdwatching enthusiasts who live close to Dehradun can find a suitable location at Bhimtal Lake in Nainital for their hobby. Despite being classified differently from saltwater lakes, this freshwater ecosystem at the location draws diverse aquatic bird populations. The Purple Moorhen alongside Indian Spot-billed Duck and Little Grebe present themselves frequently at this site. Local birdwatchers choose the lake because it maintains scenic aesthetics and it has convenient access points. Why Saltwater Lakes Are Important for Birdwatching The distinct chemistry together with environmental systems of saltwater lakes provides essential habitat value for supporting bird species diversity. The highly concentrated salt levels have constructed special biological areas that accommodate halophytic plants and microorganisms which support birds by serving as their food source. Various saltwater lakes function as necessary resting points for birds that move across continental regions as they migrate. The untouched habitats of these locations become important resting and feeding sites for birds who also use them for breeding. Tips for Birdwatching Near Dehradun Birdwatching becomes most productive when you observe during the early parts of the day as well as the late afternoon. Bring essential pack items that include field guide books along with camera equipment to photograph observed birds. Conservation Obligation: Maintain the birds along with their natural habitats undisturbed. Support the birds with a proper distance between you while respecting all ethical rules of observation. Always check the restrictions and requirements of the particular lake destination by researching in advance before your visit. Final Thoughts Tourists who practice birdwatching can discover fantastic bird habitats by visiting the saltwater lakes which are located close to Dehradun. Each of the extensive Sambhar Lake together with the secluded Tso Moriri destination offers its own distinctive experience to observe natural wonders. The places guarantee remarkable experiences for bird watchers who seek beautiful bird displays combined with bird song sonatas alongside the excitement of catching extraordinary bird species. Protecting these ecosystems will enable future generations to witness the splendor of flying creatures which inhabit Earth.
Time of India
29-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Shot at sight! Bird survey records 160 species in capital this summer
New Delhi: The Delhi Bird Atlas Summer Survey, which gives a detailed picture of the vibrancy of avian life across the national capital, has concluded after recording 160 species of birds this summer. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now This includes 21 new sightings for the season, including the Greater Flamingo, Black Bittern, Bonelli's Eagle and the vivid Indian Pitta — a delight for both experienced birders and first-time participants. The data has revealed several patterns, including new seasonal sightings and shifts in distribution — insights that will feed into long-term biodiversity monitoring and conservation planning. The species and microhabitats recognised spread across seven clusters and 145 sub-cells. The survey saw over 200 volunteers and 50 teams combing through Delhi's diverse landscapes, from parks and wetlands to scrublands, residential neighbourhoods, airport zones and even crowded city spaces. In total, the survey yielded almost 600 checklists on the eBird application. Earlier, during the winter, experts visited over 145 city areas, forming 580 checklists and marking 200 species. Cumulatively, 221 species have been recorded in summer and winter. The summer survey started on May 1. The atlas, a citizen science programme, aims to recognise microhabitats within the city. It is being developed in collaboration with experts and several local birders and organisations, including the Delhi Forest Department, Bird Count India, Delhi Bird Foundation, WWF-India, DIAL, Wildlife SOS, and Asian Adventures. Forest officials said that once the surveys are done across four seasons spanning two years, tech companies working on mapping will be asked to create the map using the overall data. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now "Such surveys need to be done more often, and the department of wildlife will publish a preliminary report soon from all the data collected by the survey teams. It will not stop here. We plan to organise more bird walks to train more volunteers for the next season. Through such exercises, we also aim to bust myths and help conserve our urban wild," said Shyam Sunder Kandpal, Delhi's chief wildlife warden. "We need more citizen science projects like this one. The data generated will help policymakers make relevant decisions in such a way that it's balanced and considers urban habitats," said Pankaj Gupta, the regional coordinator of NCR for Bird Count India. Birders pointed out that the data collection is a crucial step in building a robust, long-term understanding of Delhi's avian biodiversity. Among the fascinating insights, birders observed the presence of some winter migrant species during the summer, and several resident species that went unrecorded in winter reappeared in this round of surveys. "While we missed a few expected species like the woolly-necked stork and river tern, we gathered valuable data from some of the most overlooked spaces such as slums, drains, and garbage dumps, reminding us that even common birds tell important stories," said Akash Gulalia, birder and professor at Delhi University. Birders said that lesser-known or previously overlooked green spaces outside the city's protected areas were also found to support vibrant birdlife. "This was far from regular birding — conducted in peak summer.... It was physically demanding but offered a meaningful opportunity to contribute to structured citizen science and support long-term urban biodiversity monitoring," said Kaushani Banerjee, a Delhi Bird Atlas volunteer.
