Bhigwan | Birds Upd _verified_

Do not ask boatmen to get too close to the flocks, as this can disturb the birds.

Despite changes in flamingo numbers, the overall biodiversity remains extraordinarily high, with over 230 to 250 species recorded annually. Regular winter and spring visitors include: Bhigwan Birdwatching Tour - Deccan Hikers and Outdoors

This marked a noticeable dip in overall numbers compared to the previous year's census on January 26, 2025, which recorded 7,467 birds belonging to 122 species. Significantly, waterbirds that prefer shallow-water habitats, most notably the flamingos, were not recorded during the 2026 count.

Bhigwan birds update reveals that the region is home to over 200 species of birds, including migratory and resident birds. The village's unique geography, with the dam and surrounding wetlands, creates an ideal habitat for a wide variety of avifauna. Some of the most common birds spotted in Bhigwan include the Greater Flamingo, Lesser Flamingo, Black-tailed Godwit, and the Eurasian Wigeon. bhigwan birds upd

Traditional Winter Average: ████████████████████ 1,500+ Birds Recent Winter Average: █ 20–30 Birds (Transient)

Often seen in large flocks flying in V-formations. Ruddy Shelducks: Distinctive, bright orange-brown ducks.

across the Ujani Dam backwaters have triggered an unprecedented surge in avian nesting and breeding activity. Often called the "Mini Bharatpur" of Western India, the wetlands around Bhigwan—located roughly 105 kilometers from Pune—are witnessing dramatic transformations in bird behavior, driven by fluctuating monsoon cycles and a major new government eco-restoration initiative. Do not ask boatmen to get too close

“Water level critical. Birds concentrated near highway bridge. Flamingos walking on dry mud.” A drought year. The dam released nothing. The chicks starved.

Bhigwan is a birding paradise, especially between December and March, when the water levels are ideal for migratory visitors. The area is divided into two main ecosystems: the and the dry grasslands , both offering unique species, as noted in reports by Jungle Buddies . 1. Wetland Wonders: The Flamingo Spectacle

For those planning to visit Bhigwan for birdwatching, here are some valuable tips: Some of the most common birds spotted in

Located in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India, Bhigwan is a small village that has gained immense popularity among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The village is situated near the Bhigwan Dam, which is a significant spot for migratory birds. Every year, thousands of birds from various parts of the world visit Bhigwan, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Data from the , which has run annual flamingo censuses here since 2021, indicates that Bhigwan typically welcomes between 1,000 and 2,000 Greater Flamingos each winter. The recent migratory cycle told a drastically different story. From June 2025 through April 2026 , scientists and local forest officials recorded a massive drop in numbers, with only sporadic, tiny flocks of 20 to 30 birds arriving briefly without settling.