The difference between a sighting and a great photo is the angle of light . For flamingos, the best light is from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM when the sun is behind you as you face the western backwaters.
The prime birdwatching window spans from . During these winter months, receding water levels create the shallow mudflats necessary for migratory birds to feed.
✅ Sunrise time noted ✅ Boat booked (if needed) ✅ Binoculars & camera ready ✅ Water, snacks, charged devices ✅ Neutral clothing ✅ Offline map (network weak in some areas) bhigwan birds upd
Located in the Pune district of Maharashtra, Bhigwan is a small village that has gained popularity among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The village is situated near the Bhigwan Dam, which is a significant spot for migratory birds. In this blog post, we'll provide you with the latest updates on the birds you can spot in Bhigwan, the best time to visit, and essential tips for a memorable birdwatching experience.
Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary , often called the "Bharatpur of Maharashtra," is a premier birdwatching destination located on the backwaters of the on the Bhima River. It is famous for hosting thousands of migratory birds, most notably the Greater Flamingo . Seasonal Guide The difference between a sighting and a great
: While thousands typically arrive, census data from February 2026 recorded approximately 6,604 total birds across 137 species at the reservoir, a decrease from peak years. Small flocks of 20–30 flamingos were reported intermittently through April. Bird Species to Spot in 2026
: Current sightings include prominent displays of Painted Storks , Grey Herons , various wader species, snipes, and scattered resident flocks of Greater Flamingos . During these winter months, receding water levels create
: Due to the extended nesting windows, the Collared Pratincole has returned to breed in significant numbers. Their presence was notably absent during prior seasons when rapid water fluctuations or early rains cut the nesting cycle short.
The best time to visit Bhigwan for birdwatching is during the winter months (October to March). During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the migratory birds are present in large numbers. The peak birdwatching season is from December to February, when the maximum number of species can be spotted.
Bhigwan’s "bird sanctuary" area is actually split across different parts of the Ujani backwaters, primarily focused around two villages:
Wet Monsoon/High Water Level ---> Deep Water, Submerged Mudflats ---> Fewer Flamingos, Shorter Nesting Receding Water/Prolonged Summer ---> Exposed Shallow Feeding Grounds ---> Massive Nesting (Pratincoles, Storks) 2. Shifting Migratory Dynamics & The Flamingo Factor