Bird Walk at Bhamori Forest Plantation, Bhopal, MP
- Bhopal
- 11 January, 2026
- Sarang Mhatre and MP Tourism
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
Partnered with
Bird Guide - Sarang Mhatre
He is a bird expert, naturalist, Master trainer for Anubhuti Eco Camp in MP and a wildlife photographer. He has been working with MP Forest Department since 2016 and is the co-founder of Tarang EcoTours.
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.
Black Redstart
Asian Openbill
Asian Green Bee-eater
Black-headed Ibis
Baya Weaver
Coppersmith Barbet
Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
Ashy Prinia
Sarus Crane
Lesser Whistling Duck
Paddyfield Pipit
Indian Grey Hornbill
Grey-headed Swamphen
Grey-backed Shrike
Black Drongo
Asian Koel
Eurasian Collared Dove
White-throated Kingfisher
Pheasant-tailed Jacana
Indian Spot-billed Duck
Summary of Walk
A bird walk at Bhamori Forest Plantation, Bhopal, organized with the MP Tourism Board and led by Sarang Mhatre, co-founder of Tarang Ecotours, brought together 12 participants for a refreshing winter morning as migratory birds began arriving in the region. The group recorded an impressive 40 species, with highlights including nine Spotted Owlets perched on a single tree, winter migrant Red-crested Pochards, Little Grebe, Great Tit, Tree Pipit, Little Ringed Plover, Spot-billed Ducks, Indian Roller, Hume’s Warbler, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Wood Sandpiper, and Plum-headed Parakeet. Along the walk, the guide shared insights on birdwatching techniques, effective use of binoculars, bird identification and naming, and conservation, helping participants understand how seasonal changes and migration shape Bhopal’s avian diversity. The walk seamlessly blended learning with memorable real-time sightings, making it a vibrant and engaging experience for all involved.
Number of Participants
0
