In the very heart of India lies Pench National Park, which is not only the abode of the tiger, but a haven for bird enthusiasts too, providing a cacophony of calls, bursts of colourful feathers, and tranquil moments near forest streams. With more than 200 species vying to populate its skies and canopies, Pench is an ornithologist’s as well as amateur bird enthusiast’s paradise. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of these avian wonders during your safari or at Mayur The Karma Resort, which is spread across 17 acres of lush greenery!
10 Stunning Birds to Look Out for in Pench
1. White-Throated Fantail
A charming dancer of the underbrush, this bird is celebrated for its lively tail-fanning and melodious call. It is usually spotted flitting about groups of bamboo and open forest edges.
2. Grey-Headed Fish Eagle
Regal and strong, the Grey-Headed Fish Eagle likes the isolation of big water bodies. Search for them sitting quietly, watching the surface with eyes for fish.
3. Brown Fish Owl
Night birds and shy, the Brown Fish Owl sleeps hidden by day. A sharp-eyed observer may find them around water bodies, camouflaged among tree trunks.
4. Malabar Pied Hornbill
One of the most vivid hornbills with its black plumage and showy casque. These can be encountered in fruiting fig trees or overhead in pairs.
5. Black-Naped Monarch
A small blue gem of the forest, the Black-Naped Monarch splashes some colour and a beautiful call into the forest canopy. See the photos here: https://www.instagram.com/p/C-Xovm3KI9y/?img_index=1
6. Cinnamon Bittern
Shy and secretive, this bird is a treat to spot for observers around marshy areas. It is perfectly hidden among reeds, unnoticed most of the time. Catch the male and female having a serious discussion here: https://www.instagram.com/p/C-72_nyPV7a/?img_index=1
7. White-Breasted Water Hen
Common but pleasant, the white-breasted waterhen struts about the park’s wetland borders, loudly calling and flying into dense cover at the first sign of danger. Watch the short clip here: https://www.instagram.com/p/C_5iADyK1aw/
8. Red-Vented Bulbul
Common and busy, the red-vented bulbul is frequently spotted in pairs, nibbling berries and nectar, or happily singing from the tops of trees. Catch it in action: https://www.instagram.com/p/DB9DvY-zVsi/?img_index=1
9. Changeable Hawk-Eagle
Common but pleasant, the white-breasted waterhen struts about the park’s wetland borders, loudly calling and flying into dense cover at the first sign of danger. Watch the short clip here: https://www.instagram.com/p/C_5iADyK1aw/
10. Brown-Headed Barbet
A green-feathered fruit eater, its raucous “kutroo-kutroo” call usually betrays its presence before it’s spotted amidst thick cover.
Enjoy Birdwatching At Mayur The Karma Resort
To fully experience the birding adventure, stay at Mayur The Karma Resort, a nature-themed resort located near the Turia Gate. With resident naturalists such as Mr Kapil, visitors are frequently privy to escorted walks, spontaneous photography advice, and information about the park’s avifauna you won’t discover in a guidebook.
Capture the Wild At Mayur The Karma!
All the species listed above have been beautifully documented by Mr Kapil, whose Instagram gallery is a testament to Pench’s bird diversity. Follow kapil_nemophilist for a visual treat and to preview the birds you might see on your visit.
Best Time for Birdwatching in Pench
While Pench is open from October to June, birdwatching is best during the cooler months of November to February, when migratory species also make an appearance and the forests are lush and vibrant.