Beyond the majestic tigers, Bandhavgarh is a symphony of color and song, home to over 250 species of birds. This rich avifauna, from resident beauties to migratory wonders, makes the park a true haven for birdwatchers. The diverse landscape of the dense Sal Forest, open grasslands, and tranquil water bodies provides the perfect habitat for a stunning variety of avian life.
Vultures and Raptors
Bandhavgarh is a crucial stronghold for some of India’s most magnificent raptors. Look to the skies for the critically endangered Long-billed Vulture and other species like the formidable Crested Serpent Eagle, whose piercing cries echo through the valleys. The park’s cliffs and hillocks are vital nesting grounds, offering a rare glimpse into the conservation of these powerful birds.
Waterfowl and Waders
The park’s water bodies and marshes are a magnet for wetland birds. Here, you can spot the stately Indian Cormorant as it dives for fish, listen for the calls of the Bar-headed Goose—a winter visitor from the Himalayas—and admire the vibrant plumage of the White-throated Kingfisher as it perches patiently by the water’s edge.
Forest Dwellers
Delve into the dense forests to discover some of the jungle’s most vibrant and elusive inhabitants. Keep your eyes peeled for the jewel-like Indian Pitta, a bird of “nine colors,” or the charming Asian Paradise Flycatcher, whose long, ribbon-like tail is a marvel to behold. You may also catch a glimpse of the Malabar Pied Hornbill with its impressive casque, or the elusive Brown Fish Owl at dusk, a testament to the park’s rich biodiversity.
Beyond the majestic tigers, Bandhavgarh is a symphony of color and song, home to over 250 species of birds. This rich avifauna, from resident beauties to migratory wonders, makes the park a true haven for birdwatchers. The diverse landscape of the dense Sal Forest, open grasslands, and tranquil water bodies provides the perfect habitat for a stunning variety of avian life.
Whether you’re an avid birder with binoculars in hand or a casual observer, the sheer variety and beauty of Bandhavgarh’s birdlife promises an unforgettable experience, a delicate and enchanting counterpoint to the thunder of the tigers.