Bird Walk at Thol Bird Sanctuary, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

About Thol Bird Sanctuary

Thol Bird Sanctuary, located near Ahmedabad in Gujarat, is a vibrant freshwater wetland built around the Thol Lake and its surrounding grasslands, scrub and agricultural fields. Spreading over a few square kilometres, this shallow reservoir creates an ever-changing mosaic of open water, marshes and mudflats that support rich wetland vegetation, aquatic plants and dry scrub flora. These habitats together sustain a wide range of wildlife, from fish and amphibians to reptiles and small mammals, but Thol truly shines as a birding destination. Each winter, the sanctuary transforms into a spectacle as thousands of migratory birds arrive, including flamingos, pelicans, cranes, ducks and waders, while resident species such as lapwings, herons, egrets and raptors ensure year-round avian activity. For birdwatchers, Thol offers close encounters with birds against an open sky, making it one of western India’s most rewarding and accessible wetland classrooms.

Despite its popularity and ecological importance, Thol Bird Sanctuary faces ongoing conservation challenges. Fluctuating water levels, invasive vegetation, agricultural runoff and disturbance from nearby human activity can affect nesting, feeding and roosting habitats. Increasing visitor pressure also highlights the need for responsible tourism and careful habitat management. Conservation efforts focused on maintaining water regimes, protecting surrounding grasslands and promoting awareness are vital to safeguard Thol’s delicate balance. Protecting this sanctuary not only preserves a haven for migratory and resident birds, but also reinforces the crucial role wetlands play in sustaining biodiversity within rapidly changing landscapes.

Bird Guide: Parth & Paahi Parikh

With over 25 years of birdwatching experience, he has participated in more than 12 wildlife surveys and contributed two articles to vernacular magazines. He has also appeared in two television interviews on DD Girnar and showcased his wildlife photography through six exhibitions. As an iNaturalist Ambassador for the Ahmedabad region, he actively promotes citizen science and biodiversity awareness. He has also conducted wildlife and birdwatching workshops for schools and colleges, sharing his knowledge and passion for nature with the next generation.
Paahi is a 9 year old bird enthusiast who loves to lead bird walks with her father.

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Thol Bird Sanctuary

Thol Bird Sanctuary is a spectacular showcase of wetland and grassland birdlife, with an impressive 296 bird species recorded, making it one of Gujarat’s premier birding destinations. The open waters often host iconic species such as the Great White Pelican, elegant Greater Flamingo, Ruddy Shelduck, Bar-headed Goose, Spot-billed Duck and flocks of Eurasian Coots, while fishing birds like Darters and Indian, Little and Great Cormorants are regular sights. Skimming low over the lake, River Terns and Whiskered Terns add constant movement, while surrounding scrub and trees come alive with songbirds including Paradise Flycatcher, White-browed Fantail, Black and Ashy Drongos, Yellow-throated Sparrow and winter visitors such as Black Redstart and Taiga Flycatcher. Raptors like the majestic Greater Spotted Eagle patrol the skies, and in winter, the arrival of Common Cranes turns Thol into a truly unforgettable birding landscape—an open-air classroom where migration, behaviour and biodiversity unfold in every direction.