Bird Walk at Bhamori Forest Plantation, Bhopal
- Bhopal
- 17 August, 2025
- Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board and Kritalee Chindarkar
About Bhamori Forest Plantation
Bhamori Forest Plantation, situated on the outskirts of Bhopal, forms a natural extension of the ecologically significant Bhoj Wetland. Once a degraded patch of land, it has been transformed through sustained afforestation and habitat restoration efforts into a thriving mosaic of native tree species, scrublands, and grassy clearings. This green corridor not only complements the wetland ecosystem but also serves as a quiet retreat for walkers, students, and local residents who frequent its shaded paths and open spaces.
Ecologically, Bhamori plays a key role in buffering the Bhoj Wetland by reducing soil erosion, improving groundwater recharge, and supporting ecological connectivity. The plantation helps regulate the local microclimate and serves as a barrier against encroaching urban development. As Bhopal continues to expand, Bhamori Forest Plantation stands as a vital ecological and social asset—enhancing the resilience of the wetland system while offering long-term environmental and well-being benefits to the city’s population.
Partnered with
Bird Guide - Kritalee Chindarkar
She is the Founder of the Tarang Eco Tours where they organize nature trails and camps focused on sustainable tourism and to create environmental awareness among people.
Bird walk Location
Common birds of Bhamori Forest Plantation
Bhamori Forest Plantation, forming part of the larger Bhoj Wetland landscape, offers a unique blend of wetland and woodland habitats that support a rich diversity of birdlife. Along the marshy fringes and water-filled depressions, one can frequently observe wetland-associated species such as the Sarus Crane, Asian Openbill, and Black-headed Ibis—graceful waders that rely on the area’s shallow waters for feeding and roosting. These birds are often accompanied by egrets, herons, and the occasional Indian Spot-billed Duck, reflecting the ecological continuity with the nearby wetland systems.
Moving into the drier, tree-dotted areas of the plantation, the birdscape shifts to include open-country and forest-edge species like the Paddyfield Pipit, Grey-backed Shrike, Asian Green Bee-eater, and Indian Roller. The presence of insectivorous birds such as the Common Woodshrike and the agile Black Drongo highlights the plantation’s value as a foraging ground. Together, this mosaic of aquatic and terrestrial birds underscores Bhamori’s role as a transitional habitat—supporting a wide range of avifauna and enhancing the ecological fabric of the Bhoj Wetland complex.
Asian Openbill
Asian Green Bee-eater
Black-headed Ibis
Baya Weaver
Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
Coppersmith Barbet
House Crow
Ashy Prinia
Sarus Crane
Lesser Whistling Duck
Paddyfield Pipit
Oriental Magpie Robin
Grey-headed Swamphen
Grey-backed Shrike
Black Drongo
Asian Koel
Eurasian Collared Dove
Red-wattled Lapwing
Pheasant-tailed Jacana
Indian Spot-billed Duck
Summary of Walk
At Bhamori Forest Plantation, a refreshing drizzle delayed the start of the walk, but neither the weather nor the wait could dampen the spirit of the group. Led by Kritalee and organized in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, the walk turned into an unforgettable experience where patience was rewarded with the beauty of birds and the joy of shared discovery.
The group recorded 23 species, including delightful encounters with the Spotted Owlet, the majestic Indian Peafowl, flocks of Indian Spot-billed Ducks, the graceful White-browed Fantail, the striking Indian Paradise Flycatcher, and the vibrant Black-rumped Flameback. Alongside the sightings, participants explored the deeper meaning of birdwatching—learning how to identify species, practicing field ethics, and understanding why watching birds is as much about conservation and connection as it is about the joy of seeing them.
Number of Participants
0
