7 Best bird sanctuaries to visit in Gujarat

Due to the deciduous forests, vast grasslands, and a multitude of lakes Gujarat has become a paradise for birds. This bird-friendly ecosystem beckons both birds and bird watchers in abundance to Gujarat. Every year, many Birds from northern Europe migrate to Gujarat and make the wetlands and other bird-friendly places their breeding ground. Today, in this article I'll tell you about those amazing bird sanctuaries where several kinds of bird species live.

 

Chhari Dhand bird sanctuary. 

This hilly wetland attracts several bird species and bird watchers thanks to its soothing picturesque backdrop and Serene environment. Around 250 species of birds and 55 different species of animals can be found in this sanctuary. In the winter season, bird watchers will get an opportunity to see a vast array of waterfowls and common cranes. Along with these tourists will also witness Dalmatian Pelican, oriental darter, black-necked stork, and many other bird species during a Wildlife Safari.

 

Hingolgadh nature education sanctuary. 

Hingolgadh sanctuary is full of undulating grasslands and scrubs forests. In 1991 this sanctuary was known as a hunting reserve for the Royal Family. Around 230 bird species can be seen in the sanctuary. The atmosphere of the jungle is filled with the chirping of birds and the metallic-sounding calls of large groups of bulbuls. This sanctuary is an ideal destination for photographers to take some unique photographs of the different beautiful species of birds. 

 

Nalsarovar bird sanctuary. 

If you're planning to go for a picnic then Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is the best place for you to visit as here you'll see a variety of exotic birds. Nalsarovar is also known as a paradise for bird watchers. Spread over 120 square kilometers, the lake and the extensive reed beds and marshes are an ideal habitat for aquatic plants and animals. 

In the winter season, a large array of resident birds including cormorants, grebes, and open bill storks can be seen along with the large flocks of migratory birds. Hence, obviously, we can say that the winter season can be great for bird watchers to visit the sanctuary. Here you can easily spot famous exotic birds such as flamingoes, sandpipers, and pelicans which are quite rare to spot elsewhere. 

 

Narayan Sarovar Wildlife Safari. 

Due to having a desert environment several rare birds and animals species can be seen here including desert foxes, chinkara, wild cats, Persian lynx Indian wolfs, spotted deers, and wild boar. One of the most fearless animal honey badgers can also be seen in the sanctuary. When it comes to birds Narayan Sarovar sanctuary has around 184 species of birds including bustard, the Houbara, the lesser Florida, black partridge, waterfowl, 19 different species of prey, and many more others. Some rarely seen birds such as Eurasian curlew and red wattled lapwing can also be spotted in this sanctuary. 

 

Blackbuck national park.

Blackbuck national park is also known as Velavadar bird sanctuary is considered a unique grassland ecosystem and probably the only tropical grassland in India reckoned as a national park. During wildlife safari, the grassland will not only give you a glimpse of blackbuck but also the world's largest harrier roost including Montagu's harrier, pallid harrier, and marsh harrier can be seen in abundance. It is an ideal place for bird watchers to see tropical Indian grassland birds such as Stolizka's bush chat, rufous tailed lark, etc. 

 

Khijadiya bird sanctuary. 

Due to having freshwater lakes on one side and salty marshlands on another side, this Sanctuary is a veritable showpiece for bird lovers. The fabulous diverse ecosystem of the sanctuary gives a diverse viewing pleasure to bird watchers. The marshy lands, mangroves, Prosopis areas, mudflats, salt pans, forest scrub, and Sandy beaches bring a perfect atmosphere for the 220 species of resident and migratory birds. Here you can easily take breathtaking pictures of Dalmatian pelican, Asian openbill stork, black-necked stork, Darter, Black-headed Ibis, Eurasian spoonbill, and Indian skimmer. You can simply enjoy these breathtaking views of birds from watchtowers, trails, and paddle boats. 

 

Vansda national park. 

This beautiful forest covered with the thick canopy of tall trees was once a private property of the Royal Family of Vansda. 443 species of flowers present in the park enhance the beauty of the forest. Around 115 species of birds including the racket-tailed drongo, paradise flycatcher, pompadour pigeon, grey hornbill, etc. can be spotted in the park. Along with birds, you'll also witness a wide array of animals in the park during Wildlife Safari such as leopard, hyena, chital, jungle cat, langur, flying fox, etc.