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Bird Walk at Durga Tekdi, PCMC, Pune

About Durga Tekdi

Rising gently above the urban sprawl of Pimpri-Chinchwad, Durga Tekdi is a green refuge that blends scrub forest, rocky hill slopes, and scattered grasslands into a surprisingly rich ecological pocket. This hill ecosystem, interspersed with seasonal water bodies and patches of native vegetation, supports a mix of dry deciduous flora—think hardy shrubs, acacias, and flowering trees that come alive during monsoon and early summer. Despite being surrounded by rapid urbanisation, the tekdi acts as a breathing space for both wildlife and people, offering panoramic views, quiet trails, and a chance to reconnect with nature just minutes away from the city’s bustle.
For birders, Durga Tekdi is a rewarding microhabitat where resident species mingle with passage migrants and occasional winter visitors. The presence of water attracts herons, egrets, and sandpipers, while the rocky outcrops and wooded patches host flycatchers, prinias, and parakeets. Calls of the Asian Koel echo in summer, Indian Grey Hornbills glide between trees, and flocks of White-eyes move restlessly through the canopy. However, this fragile biodiversity hotspot faces growing threats—habitat fragmentation, littering, invasive plant species, and increasing footfall pressure. Conservation efforts, responsible tourism, and community awareness are crucial to ensure that this urban wilderness continues to thrive as a haven for both birds and birdwatchers.

Bird Guide: Akshay and Arpit

Akshay, a doctor by profession, is a passionate birder with two years of field experience. Inspired and guided by his 8-year-old son Arpit, a young birding prodigy, he brings a unique blend of curiosity and dedication to every walk. Together, they are driven by a shared love for birds and a desire to contribute meaningfully to conservation.

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Durga Tekdi

Durga Tekdi’s bird diversity reflects its unique mix of habitats—water edges, open scrub, and tree cover—making every walk feel dynamic and unpredictable. You might spot a stately Indian Peafowl strutting along the slopes, while a Common Hawk-Cuckoo calls insistently from the treetops. Wetland patches draw species like Gray Heron, Little Egret, and Wood Sandpiper, adding a touch of aquatic charm. Meanwhile, colourful residents such as the Rose-ringed Parakeet, Brahminy Starling, and White-throated Kingfisher bring constant activity and vibrance. The hill also serves as an important stopover for migratory birds like the Taiga Flycatcher, Brown-breasted Flycatcher, and Blue-capped Rock-Thrush, making seasonal visits especially exciting. Smaller species such as Ashy Prinia, Indian White-eye, and Pale-billed Flowerpecker keep birders engaged with their quick movements and subtle beauty. Overhead, Dusky Crag-Martins sweep across the sky, while Jungle Mynas and Indian Robins thrive in the open patches. This diversity highlights how even a compact urban hill can support a wide spectrum of avian life when habitats remain intact.
Indian Peafowl
Common Hawk-Cuckoo
Gray Heron
Indian Robin
Rose-ringed Parakeet

Brahminy Starling
White-throated Kingfisher
Common Woodshrike
Jungle Myna
Asian Koel
Indian Grey Hornbill
Little Egret
Ashy Prinia
Pale-billed Flowerpecker
Purple Sunbird
Indian White-eye
Blue-capped Rock-Thrush
Wood Sandpiper
Taiga Flycatcher
White-breasted Waterhen
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