Bird Walk at Jigani Lake, Bengaluru

About Jigani Lake

Jigani Lake is a wetland in Anekal taluk, in the southern part of Bengaluru. Located within a landscape of agricultural land and expanding urban development, the lake provides an important open-water and shallow wetland habitat amid the changing surroundings. Its shallow, grass-covered areas become more prominent as water levels fluctuate through the year, with some sections drying during summer while the deeper part of the lake retains water. This seasonal variation creates a changing mosaic of open water, wetland vegetation, and exposed ground that adds to the ecological character of the site.

The lake forms part of the network of wetlands in and around southern Bengaluru and is recognised as an eBird hotspot, with long-term observations documenting substantial bird diversity. Its location within a rapidly developing part of the city also makes it vulnerable to changes in land use and increasing human pressure. Protecting the lake’s water spread, shallow wetland areas, surrounding vegetation, and natural drainage is important for maintaining its ecological value. As development continues around Jigani and the wider Anekal region, conserving remaining wetland habitats can help retain important spaces for wildlife and provide opportunities for people to experience Bengaluru’s natural biodiversity.

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Jigani Lake

Jigani Lake supports a diverse assemblage of wetland, grassland, and woodland birds. Waterfowl such as Lesser Whistling-Duck and Indian Spot-billed Duck use the open water, while Grey-headed Swamphen and White-breasted Waterhen are associated with the lake’s vegetated edges. Red-wattled Lapwing is also well represented around the wetland margins and open areas. The lake attracts a variety of waterbirds, including Asian Openbill, Painted Stork, Oriental Darter, Little Cormorant, Great Cormorant, Glossy Ibis, Black-headed Ibis, Black-crowned Night Heron, and Little Egret. The surrounding terrestrial habitats support Indian Peafowl, Grey Francolin, Spotted Dove, Greater Coucal, Common Hawk-Cuckoo, and Little Swift. Together, these species reflect the variety of wetland and terrestrial habitats around Jigani Lake and its importance for birdwatching.