Flamingo Flight in Bhigwan
Set off on a long journeyIf you are a bird lover, Bhigwan is the place to be! A small town on the Pune – Solapur highway in Maharashtra, Bhigwan is fast becoming an attraction for bird watching, especially for Flamingo photography. It is situated in the backwaters of the Ujani Dam. Hundreds of flocks of Greater Flamingo, the most widespread species in the world, migrate to India every year during the winter season.
A huge flock of Flamingos 
Here we go – Left Right LeftBhigwan Bird Watching: An Overview
Where
Diksal Village in Bhigwan
Distance
From Pune – 105 KM (about 2 Hrs 15 Min) From Solapur – 151 KM (about 3 Hrs)
Best Time to Visit
January to March
Mode of Transport
State Transport Bus / Train / Personal Vehicle
Things to Carry
DSLR camera (A high-resolution lens if you are a Pro), Binoculars, Water bottle
Boat ride charges
Rs. 800/- per boat (5 – 6 people)
When to start?
We (3 friends and I) decided to visit this beautiful a couple of years ago in early March. Started in the wee hours of the morning at 3:30 AM as we did not want to miss the first rays of dawn. Two hours of exciting driving and we were at the scenes by 5:30 AM to capture the spectacle.
A flock of Flamingos take off from opposite shore Picture Credits: Pratibha PethkarThe stage was set and the DSLRs out ready to click the Flamingo flight. This was my first experience with the big lens, which made me feel excited and nervous. After a wait of few minutes, there it was – A flock took off from the far end covering the horizon under their wings. It was such an exhibition that my eyes got glued to the skies and made me forget the camera in hand.
Set off on a long journey
This is our GangWe hired a small fishing boat from the locals to get closer to the birds. The villager who was steering the ship threw some fishes in the water to draw the Flamingos closer. We started clicking beautiful poses of the birds – Flying, eating, walking in a straight line, all enjoying in their own small world. I did not want to miss a single moment of this extravaganza and kept a close eye on the activity through the camera lens.
Wait! We are not Flamingos
In search of Food
Guess Who’s the tallest? Picture Credits: Pratibha PethkarOther Birds at Bhigwan
There is more to the Bird Watching in Bhigwan as it is also home to a number of other birds – Eurasian Spoonbill, Bar Headed Goose, Collared Pratincole, and the Osprey, bird of prey and we did spot a few of those. The Flamingos were also surrounded by small Ducks, Herons, Egrets, Raptors, and Waders. After about an hour and half of bird watching, we returned back to land appreciating the astounding view.
Refreshments Post Bird Watching
The fishermen staying in the area arrange for freshly prepared breakfast (poha) and tea. If needed, they can also make arrangements for lunch.
Spotted Other birds at Bhigwan
Another one something like a duck
Bhigwan BirdsTake a stroll along the shores and observe nature’s hidden jewels. Savor this bird watching moment at Bhigwan and capture them in your heart for a lifetime experience.
Flamingos Soaring high
Moon and the Flight – Clear Blue skies
A lovely place to see nice birds.