Bird Walk at Bhatangpadar, Bhawanipatna, Odisha

About Bhatangpadar

Bhatangpadar, near Bhawanipatna in the Kalahandi district of Odisha, is an often-overlooked ecological treasure nestled in the undulating landscape just east of the town. While not a formally designated protected area like nearby Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary, it lies within a mosaic of tropical deciduous forest, freshwater streams, small wetlands and rocky outcrops that form part of the Eastern Highlands beyond Bhawanipatna. This region’s habitat supports lush tropical moist deciduous forests and mixed woodlands, offering scenic views around the Rabandhara waterfalls and the Pengsur reservoir that have become focal points for eco-tourism and nature study. The area around Bhatangpadar itself is characterized by dense forest cover, interspersed with grasslands and water bodies that attract over 100 species of birds and a variety of mammals, making it a vibrant field site for birdwatchers, naturalists, and students alike. It’s a living classroom where you can experience how flora and fauna weave a rich tapestry of life in the shadow of the Eastern Ghats.

Despite its natural richness, Bhatangpadar and the surrounding Bhawanipatna landscape face growing conservation challenges. Habitat disturbance from grazing, fuelwood collection, unregulated tourism near waterfalls, and gradual forest fragmentation threaten local flora and fauna, especially birds and small mammals. Because the area is not a formally protected reserve, conservation depends heavily on community participation, sustainable eco-tourism, and environmental education. Raising awareness about Bhatangpadar’s ecological value can help balance human use with nature protection, ensuring this lesser-known landscape remains a thriving habitat and an inspiring learning site for future generations.

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Bhatangpadar

Bhatangpadar’s forests, open fields and village edges come alive with a colourful mix of common yet fascinating birdlife, making it an engaging destination for nature enthusiasts. Seed-rich grasslands host flocks of Scaly-breasted Munia, White-rumped Munia and the striking Tricoloured Munia, while flowering trees shimmer with the iridescent presence of the Purple Sunbird. Melodious calls of the Oriental Magpie-Robin echo through the area as Bush Larks and swift-flying Common Swifts animate open skies. Bright flashes of green mark the hunting dives of Green Bee-eaters and Asian Green Bee-eaters, complemented by the golden glow of the Indian Golden Oriole hidden in leafy canopies. Wetland edges and farmlands support familiar species like Black Drongo, Jungle Babbler, Spotted Dove, Indian Grey Hornbill, Common Kingfisher, Pond Egret and Cattle Egret, together painting a vivid picture of everyday biodiversity and making Bhatangpadar a lively outdoor classroom for learning about birds and their habitats.

Summary of Walk

The bird walk at Bhatangpadar (Bhawanipatna), led by Raja Bag, brought together 10 participants for an enthusiastic and engaging introduction to birdwatching. All participants were new to the field, including a few students, and everyone showed great excitement and curiosity throughout the walk. The group covered approximately 2 kilometers, observing and discussing various birds along the way, with constant sharing of questions, observations, and newfound interests in avian life.

The highlight of the walk came toward the end when the group spotted a Lesser Green Leafbird, creating a truly lovely and memorable moment for everyone. Raja Bag explained bird identification, behaviors, and habitats in the local language, which helped participants connect more deeply with what they were seeing. He also shared and noted down the local names of birds, making the learning experience more relatable and meaningful. The walk left participants inspired, confident, and eager to continue exploring and appreciating birds in their surroundings.

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Bird Walk at Bhatangpadar, Bhawanipatna, Odisha

About Bhatangpadar

Bird Guide: Raja Bag

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Bhatangpadar

White-rumped Munia

Purple Sunbird

Oriental Magpie Robin

Asian Green Bee-eater

Indian Golden-Oriole

Black Drongo

Jungle Babbler

Spotted Dove

Indian Grey Hornbill

Common Kingfisher

Eastern Cattle-Egret

Little Egret

Pond Heron

Rose-ringed Parakeet

Rufous Treepie

Laughing Dove

Red-wattled Lapwing

Great Coucal

Indian Robin

Asian Koel

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