Satpuda is not just home to magnificent landscapes and diverse wildlife but also a thriving habitat for a wide range of bird species. From melodious songbirds to powerful raptors, the region offers an incredible birdwatching experience. Here are some of the fascinating birds found in Satpuda.
Commonly Found Birds in Satpuda
Spotted Dove
Scientific Name: Spilopelia chinensis
A symbol of peace, the Spotted Dove is commonly seen foraging on the ground in wooded areas. Its soft cooing calls and distinct spotted neck pattern make it easy to recognize.
Common Kingfisher
Scientific Name: Alcedo atthis
With dazzling blue and orange plumage, the Common Kingfisher is often spotted near water bodies, swiftly diving in to catch fish. Its sharp calls add to the lively ambiance of the forests and rivers.
Yellow-crowned Woodpecker
Scientific Name: Leiopicus mahrattensis
This small yet striking woodpecker is often seen tapping on tree trunks in search of insects. Its yellow crown and black-and-white plumage make it an exciting sight for bird enthusiasts.
Common Myna
Scientific Name: Acridotheres tristis
A highly adaptable bird, the Common Myna is often seen in open fields and near human settlements. Its loud calls and ability to mimic sounds make it an interesting species to observe.
Jungle Fowl
Scientific Name: Gallus sonneratii
The wild ancestor of domestic chickens, the Jungle Fowl is known for its vibrant plumage and loud crowing. It prefers dense forests and is often seen scratching the ground for food.
Malabar Whistling Thrush
Scientific Name: Myophonus horsfieldii
Also known as the “Whistling Schoolboy” due to its melodious call, this deep blue-colored bird is a true delight for birdwatchers in the Satpuda forests.
Bee-eater
Scientific Name: Merops orientalis
With its slender body, pointed wings, and bright green plumage, the Bee-eater is a delightful bird that catches insects mid-flight, particularly bees and wasps.
Additional Common Birds of Satpura
- Spotted Dove (Spilopelia chinensis)
- Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
- Yellow-crowned Woodpecker (Leiopicus mahrattensis)
- Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis)
- Jungle Fowl (Gallus sonneratii)
- Malabar Whistling Thrush (Myophonus horsfieldii)
- Bee-eater (Merops orientalis)
- Indian Roller (Coracias benghalensis)
- Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus)
- Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis)
- Coppersmith Barbet (Psilopogon haemacephalus)
- Red-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer)
- White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis)
- Brahminy Starling (Sturnia pagodarum)
- Indian Pond Heron (Ardeola grayii)
- Lesser Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna javanica)
- Indian Pitta (Pitta brachyura)
- Jungle Babbler (Argya striata)
- Yellow-footed Green Pigeon (Treron phoenicopterus)
Migrant Birds in Satpuda
Grey-headed Fish Eagle
Scientific Name: Haliaeetus ichthyaetus
A skilled predator, this eagle is often seen near lakes and rivers, scanning the waters for fish. Its strong, broad wings and piercing gaze make it a majestic sight.
Ruddy Shelduck
Scientific Name: Tadorna ferruginea
Also known as the Brahminy Duck, this striking orange-colored waterfowl migrates from Central Asia and is often seen near lakes and wetlands.
Bar-headed Goose
Scientific Name: Anser indicus
A high-altitude migrant, the Bar-headed Goose arrives in Satpuda during winter. It is famous for its ability to fly over the Himalayas during migration.
Osprey
Scientific Name: Pandion haliaetus
A powerful fish-eating raptor that visits Satpura in winter, often seen hovering over rivers before diving for prey.
Verditer Flycatcher
Scientific Name: Eumyias thalassinus
A stunning turquoise-blue migratory bird that perches in open woodlands and is easily spotted due to its vibrant color.
Asian Brown Flycatcher
Scientific Name: Muscicapa dauurica
A small and elusive migratory bird that blends into the forest canopy, making it difficult to spot.
Common Teal(Eurasian Teal)
Scientific Name: Anas crecca
A small dabbling duck that arrives in winter, often seen in large flocks in marshy areas and shallow lakes.
Eurasian Wigeon
Scientific Name: Mareca penelope
A winter visitor with a distinctive chestnut head and pale forehead, often found swimming in groups on water bodies.
More Migratory Birds of Satpura
- Northern Pintail (Anas acuta)
- Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)
- Ferruginous Duck (Aythya nyroca)
- Garganey (Spatula querquedula)
- Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus)
- Lesser Flamingo (Phoenicoparrus minor)
- Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa)
- Green Sandpiper (Tringa ochropus)
- Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos)
- Wood Sandpiper (Tringa glareola)
- Marsh Sandpiper (Tringa stagnatilis)
- Pied Avocet (Recurvirostra avosetta)
- Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata)
- Little Stint (Calidris minuta)
- Ruff (Calidris pugnax)
- Rosy Starling (Pastor roseus)
- Siberian Rubythroat (Calliope calliope)
- Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica)
- Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus)
- Amur Falcon (Falco amurensis)
- Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis)
- Booted Eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus)
- Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
- Pallid Harrier (Circus macrourus)
- Montagu’s Harrier (Circus pygargus)
Satpuda is a haven for bird lovers, offering the chance to witness an incredible variety of avian species in their natural habitat. Whether you’re spotting the graceful Bar-headed Goose or listening to the enchanting song of the Malabar Whistling Thrush, every visit to this region promises an unforgettable experience. Keep your binoculars ready and immerse yourself in the beauty of Satpuda’s birdlife!
