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 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.

Summary of Walk

The bird walk at Thol Bird Sanctuary, led by Jay Raval, brought together 15 participants for an enriching and memorable experience amidst one of Gujarat’s most important wetland habitats. The group was fortunate to observe an impressive diversity of birdlife, including majestic Common Cranes and Demoiselle Cranes, along with large flocks of Bar-headed Geese and Greylag Geese resting and feeding in the wetland. Raptors such as the Greater Spotted Eagle and Marsh Harrier added excitement to the walk, while River Terns, Glossy Ibises, and Oriental Darters showcased the rich aquatic and wetland biodiversity of Thol.

Participants also enjoyed spotting a variety of waterfowl such as Common Pochards, Northern Pintails, and Northern Shovelers, among many other species present across the sanctuary. Under Jay Raval’s guidance, the group learned to identify birds by their size, flight patterns, and behaviors, making the walk both educational and engaging. The shared thrill of discovering so many species in one landscape created a sense of awe and appreciation for wetland conservation. In total, the group observed over 75 bird species throughout the duration of the bird walk. By the end of the walk, participants left with lasting memories, enhanced birding skills, and a deeper respect for the incredible avian diversity of Thol Bird Sanctuary.

Number of Participants

Bird Walk at Thol Bird Sanctuary, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

About Thol Bird Sanctuary

Bird Guide: Jay Raval

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Thol Bird Sanctuary

Bar-headed Goose

Knob-billed Duck

Northern Pintail

Cotton Pygmy Goose

Gadwall

Garganey

Tufted Duck

Grey Francolin

Great White Pelican

Common Crane

Bronze-winged Jacana

Indian Cormorant

Eurasian Coot

Grey-headed Swamphen

White-breasted Waterhen

Pond Heron

Oriental Honey Buzzard

Pied Kingfisher

Coppersmith Barbet

Common Iora

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