Bird Walk at Pangdi reservoir, Gondia (MH)
- Gondia
- 9 November, 2025
- Nitesh Yadav
About Pangdi Reservoir
Pangdi Reservoir, located in Gondia district of Maharashtra, is an ecologically significant freshwater habitat surrounded by a mosaic of agricultural fields, moist deciduous forest patches, and scrublands. The reservoir’s shallow edges, mudflats, and reed beds create ideal feeding and nesting habitats for a variety of waterbirds and waders. The combination of aquatic vegetation and nearby tree cover supports a rich avifaunal community, with both resident and migratory species frequenting the area. Common sightings include Indian Spot-billed Duck, Little Cormorant, Bronze-winged Jacana, Red-wattled Lapwing, Purple Heron, and White-breasted Waterhen, along with smaller species like Paddyfield Pipit, Green Bee-eater, and Coppersmith Barbet in the surrounding landscape. During winter, migratory ducks, terns, and sandpipers visit the reservoir, enhancing its bird richness and making it a favored destination for birdwatchers and researchers in eastern Maharashtra.
Despite its biodiversity value, Pangdi Reservoir faces increasing threats from human-induced pressures such as encroachment, agricultural runoff, and unregulated fishing. Water pollution from fertilizers and pesticides affects aquatic vegetation and the food base for waterbirds, while the cutting of surrounding trees reduces nesting and roosting sites. Seasonal water level fluctuations further disrupt breeding activities of species dependent on stable wetland conditions. Conservation efforts should prioritize maintaining the ecological balance of the reservoir by regulating fishing practices, controlling chemical use in nearby farms, and promoting community awareness on sustainable wetland management. Restoration of native vegetation along the reservoir margins and routine bird monitoring can help secure Pangdi’s role as a vital wetland refuge for the region’s diverse avifauna.
Partnered with
Bird Guide - Nitesh Yadav
Nitesh Yadav, from Gondia, Maharashtra, is an engineer-turned-naturalist who discovered his passion for wildlife and nature during his years in the corporate sector. His growing interest in birds, animals, and forests inspired him to shift careers, leading him to work at Kanha National Park, where he now shares the wonders of the natural world with visitors and enthusiasts.
Bird walk Location
Common birds of Pangdi Reservoir
Pangdi Reservoir in Gondia, Maharashtra, is a vibrant wetland ecosystem that supports an impressive 138 species of birds, reflecting its rich mosaic of habitats that include open water, reed beds, agricultural fringes, and scattered woodland. The reservoir and its surrounding landscape host a variety of species such as Indian Spot-billed Duck, Black-winged Stilt, Red-wattled Lapwing, River Tern, and Little Cormorant, which depend on its waters for feeding and nesting. The adjoining trees and scrublands are home to woodland birds like the Coppersmith Barbet, Indian Gray Hornbill, Rose-ringed Parakeet, and Rufous Treepie, while insectivorous species such as the Indian Paradise Flycatcher, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, and Ashy Drongo are frequently sighted flitting among the foliage. The presence of raptors like the Gray-headed Fish-Eagle and nocturnal species such as the Jungle Owlet further adds to the ecological significance of the site.
Among the highlights of Pangdi’s birdlife are colorful and uncommon species such as the Indian Pitta, Orange-headed Thrush, and Black-naped Monarch, which use the area during migration and breeding seasons. The reservoir also provides an important refuge for winter visitors like the Bar-headed Goose, which arrive in sizable flocks. However, the growing pressures of agricultural expansion, water pollution, and unregulated fishing threaten the wetland’s delicate ecological balance. Maintaining water quality, controlling pesticide runoff, and conserving the vegetated margins are key to ensuring the continued survival of its avifauna. Regular bird monitoring and awareness among local communities can play a vital role in safeguarding Pangdi Reservoir as a sustainable and thriving habitat for both resident and migratory birds of central India.
Black-naped Monarch
Indian Paradise Flycatcher
Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
Brahminy Starling
Indian White-eye
Orange-headed Thrush
Indian Robin
Indian Peafowl
Greater Coucal
Indian Grey Hornbill
Tickell's Blue Flycatcher
White-throated Kingfisher
Red-wattled Lapwing
Asian Koel
Grey Francolin
Baya Weaver
Indian
House Sparrow
Red Avadavat
Common Myna
Summary of Walk
A group of 7 bird enthusiasts joined Nitesh Yadav for an adventurous and insightful bird walk at the Pangdi Reservoir, Gondia. The walk was accompanied by 5 forest guards, who provided protection and guidance due to recent leopard movement in the area. The group explored the forested surroundings and wetland edges, recording a total of 37 bird species. Notable sightings included the Indian Nightjar, Little Ringed Plover, Indian Roller, Plum-headed Parakeet, Black-naped Monarch, Siberian Stonechat, and Thick-billed Flowerpecker.
Participants learnt the basics of birdwatching, including how to identify birds using the Ataavi app, recognize key features of bird morphology and behavior, and understand how observation contributes to conservation. Nitesh also highlighted the importance of birdwatching in fostering awareness and appreciation for wildlife. The walk concluded with participants feeling inspired by both the adventure and the rich avian diversity of the Pangdi landscape.
Number of Participants
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