🦜 A Birdwatcher's Paradise Birding in Tadoba National Park
While the Royal Bengal Tiger is the star attraction but Tadoba National Park is also a premier destination for birdwatching lovers. With over 195 recorded species with the landscapes of the park, dense forests, bamboo to the waterbodies of Tadoba Lake and the Andhari River makes it a perfect habitat for the variety of birds. This makes Tadoba one of Maharashtra's finest birding spots that offers surprises at every turn.
Raptors and Birds of Prey
The skies and treetops of Tadoba are ruled by magnificent raptors. Keep your eyes peeled for the Crested Serpent Eagle which is often seen high on a branch and searching for the ground for prey. The Grey-headed Fish Eagle patrols the lakes while the Changeable Hawk-Eagle soars above the forest canopy. Other common birds of prey include the White-eyed Buzzard, Bonelli's Eagle, and the Black-shouldered Kite.
Vibrant Forest Birds
The dry deciduous forests are alive with colour and song that looks for the flash of blue from an Indian Roller or the striking orange and black of an Indian Pitta which are the migratory birds here. The graceful Paradise Flycatcher with its long, white tail looks beautiful when spotted on a tree. You might also spot the Orange-headed Thrush, and several species of woodpecker like the Lesser Golden-backed Woodpecker.
Wetland and Water Birds
Here most of the birds are seen doing different activities near the lakes and river banks like Grey Heron, Purple Heron, and different species of egrets. The Bronze-winged Jacana walks delicately on floating vegetation which is also called "lily-trotter." You can also spot Bar-headed Goose and Brahminy Duck during the winter months.
Best Time for Bird Watching
The ideal time for birding in Tadoba is from October to April. During these months the weather is pleasant and the park hosts many migratory species that arrive from colder regions. The winter and early summer months offer the best chance to see a wide variety of both resident and migratory birds.
