BIRDWATCHING

Deep within protected forests where the Bhadra river winds through ancient trees, a symphony of bird calls greets the dawn. This sanctuary is a treasure trove of avian diversity, from the majestic Great Hornbill gliding through canopies to the vibrant Malabar Trogon perched in shadowy undergrowth. Every trail reveals new wonders as expert guides help you spot elusive species hidden in the dense foliage. The sanctuary's diverse habitats - from riparian zones along the river to thick deciduous forests and open grasslands - support an incredible variety of birdlife. Early morning boat safaris offer unique perspectives, bringing you close to water birds and providing glimpses of forest species coming to drink. This is where serious birders can add numerous Western Ghats endemics to their life lists while newcomers fall in love with the magical world of birds.

At Karnataka's highest peak, where rolling grasslands meet an endless sky, specialized high-altitude birds have adapted to life in the thin mountain air. The endemic Nilgiri Pipit, found nowhere else on Earth, calls from rocky outcrops while performing its distinctive display flights. Black Eagles ride the thermals rising from sun-warmed slopes, their distinctive silhouettes etched against clouds. This unique montane ecosystem, with its stunted shola forests and vast meadows, offers glimpses of species that have evolved in isolation. The morning mist reveals Indian Blue Robins hopping among boulders, while Nilgiri Wood Pigeons feed on wild berries. During migration season, the grasslands become a highway in the sky as raptors pass through in impressive numbers. The challenging terrain and unpredictable weather make this a destination for dedicated birders seeking rare high-altitude specialists that test both identification skills and physical endurance.

Between orderly rows of coffee plants and under the protective shade of silver oaks, a fascinating ecosystem thrives where cultivation meets wilderness. The distinctive laughing call of the Malabar Grey Hornbill echoes through morning mist as these magnificent birds search for wild figs. Tiny Purple-rumped Sunbirds, jewels of the canopy, hover at coffee blossoms and ornamental flowers, their iridescent plumage catching the filtered sunlight. The multi-layered habitat of shade-grown coffee estates creates niches for species at every level - from ground-dwelling jungle fowl scratching among fallen leaves to canopy specialists like the Asian Fairy Bluebird. Fruiting trees attract boisterous flocks of fruit-eaters including endemic species like the White-cheeked Barbet. These working landscapes demonstrate how agriculture and wildlife can coexist, offering easier birding conditions than dense forests while supporting impressive diversity. The estate trails provide perfect introduction to tropical birding with well-maintained paths and the chance to enjoy freshly brewed coffee while watching feathered residents.

Where the backwaters have created a mesmerizing mosaic of islands, channels, and wetlands, waterbirds reign supreme in their aquatic kingdom. Graceful River Terns perform spectacular dives, plunging from heights to emerge with silvery fish, while majestic Painted Storks wade through shallows on bubble-gum pink legs, their heavy bills sweeping for prey. This unique ecosystem, formed by the river's meandering course, attracts an incredible diversity of species throughout the year. Winter transforms the lodge into an international airport for birds as migrants from Central Asia and the Himalayas join the residents. Spot Storks stand motionless like statues, Grey Herons stalk the edges with prehistoric patience, and the magnificent Osprey circles overhead before its dramatic fishing plunges. Cormorant colonies dot the trees, their wings spread to dry in the sun, while colorful Kingfishers perch on overhanging branches. Evening boat rides reveal roosting sites where thousands of birds create nature's most spectacular conventions, their calls creating a cacophony that announces the end of another successful day in this waterbird paradise.