Birdwatching hotspots in Maharashtra

Maharashtra is a picturesque state blessed with nature. Bordered by the Western Ghats and a rich coastline, the state is a biodiversity hotspot, rich in flora, fauna and avifauna. The destination is an absolute paradise for birdwatchers and the Amravati region alone accounts for more than 171 species of birds.

Here is a list of destinations in Maharashtra ideal for birdwatchers.

Set on Solapur-Pune Highway, Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary is a haven for bird-lovers. At Bhigwan, one can easily spot egrets, flamingos, raptors and waders. The place gets painted in pink, when thousands of flamingos flock here between December and March.

The sanctuary has a wetland ecosystem, rich in flora and fauna. Given its geographical condition, the place is a hub for aquatic birds. The place attracts a number of migratory birds including flamingos. Other birds spotted here are northern shoveller, stork, kingfisher, black ibis and common spoonbill, among others.

Also known as the Jawaharlal Nehru Bustard Sanctuary of Maharashtra, this wildlife sanctuary at Solapur was established in 1979. The land here is drought-prone and semi-arid, and the most prominent resident of the sanctuary is the Great Indian bustard. Besides, yellow-wattled lapwing, rock bush quail and common myna can also be easily spotted here.

Set along the western banks of the Thane Creek, the sanctuary is Maharashtra's second marine sanctuary after Malvan sanctuary. The place attracts a large population of flamingos every year as well as several other migratory and wading birds.

Located in Panvel Taluka of Raigad District, Karnala Bird Sanctuary is among few sanctuaries within reach of Mumbai. The sanctuary might be small in area but scores high when it comes to the variety of birds as the place is home to over 222 species of birds. Endangered birds such as Nilgiri woodpigeon, parakeet, Malabar grey hornbill and white-cheeked barbet have been seen in the sanctuary.