Bird Walk at Wadhvana Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat
- Vadodara
- 30 November, 2025
- Nilesh Pandor
About Wadhvana Bird Sanctuary
Wadhvana Bird Sanctuary, located near Dabhoi in Gujarat, is an internationally recognized wetland and a thriving winter refuge for a remarkable diversity of migratory waterbirds. Formed around a reservoir surrounded by agricultural fields and open landscapes, this sanctuary supports expansive shallow waters, marsh vegetation, and mudflats—ideal conditions for ducks, geese, waders, and other aquatic species. The tranquil waters and gently sloping banks make it a nesting and feeding paradise for both resident and migratory birds, drawing birdwatchers and nature lovers from across the country.
During winter, Wadhvana transforms into a bustling hub of avian activity as large flocks of migratory birds arrive from Central Asia, Europe, and beyond. Pintails, Common Pochards, Red-crested Pochards, and Ferruginous Ducks glide through the waters, while waders like sandpipers and stilts feed along the shores. The sanctuary also supports raptors, herons, storks, and kingfishers, highlighting its ecological richness. Conservation efforts focus on monitoring bird populations, safeguarding wetland habitats, and raising awareness among communities and visitors to ensure this important sanctuary continues to flourish as a safe haven for global migratory species.
Partnered with
Bird Guide: Nilesh Kumar Kanubhai Pandor
Bird Guide from Gujarat with extensive experience in bird surveys, nature education, and wildlife awareness programs.
Bird walk Location
Common birds of Wadhvana Bird Sanctuary
Wadhvana Bird Sanctuary hosts an impressive array of birdlife, especially during the winter migration season, when thousands of waterbirds flock to its serene waters. Visitors can spot graceful species like Northern Pintail, Common Teal, Garganey, and stunning Red-crested Pochard gliding across the lake, while Eurasian Coots and Gadwalls move busily through the shallows. The wetland edges come alive with Black-winged Stilts, Sandpipers, and Egrets searching for food, and Little Cormorants diving for fish. Raptors such as Marsh Harriers soar above, scanning for prey, while kingfishers, including the Common and White-throated Kingfisher, perch patiently along the banks. Together, these species make Wadhvana a vibrant hotspot for birdwatchers and a key refuge for migratory birds in western India.
Mallard
Red-crested Pochard
Ruddy Shelduck
Little Grebe
Red-wattled Lapwing
Grey-headed Swamphen
White-throated Kingfisher
Little Egret
Bronze-winged Jacana
Rose-ringed Parakeet
Black Kite
Shikra
Oriental Honey Buzzard
Indian Robin
Oriental Magpie Robin
Asian Green Bee-eater
Indian Roller
Indian Pond Heron
Eurasian Coot
Asian Koel
Summary of Walk
With 21 participants, the walk at Wadhvana unfolded like a calm winter pageant. Under the guidance of Nilesh Pandor, the group scanned the shimmering water and open skies, gradually stitching together a vibrant list of 50 species. Bar-headed Goose, Greylag Goose, Knob-billed Duck, Western Marsh Harrier, Red Avadavat, Garganey, and Ruddy Shelduck all made their appearances, turning the sanctuary into a living field guide.
The group’s slow movement along the wetland edge became a tapestry of shared excitement — binoculars shifting, quiet gasps as distant silhouettes resolved into familiar winter guests. Nilesh’s explanations added depth to every sighting, making each bird feel like part of a larger seasonal story. By the end, the sanctuary had delivered not just sightings but a serene sense of connection to Gujarat’s winter rhythms.
Number of Participants
0
