BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ataavi - ECPv6.12.0.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Ataavi X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://mail.ataavi.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ataavi REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Asia/Kolkata BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0530 TZOFFSETTO:+0530 TZNAME:IST DTSTART:20250101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260104T070000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260104T210000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251224T103738Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T103500Z UID:7635-1767510000-1767560400@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Badhani Dam Adsena\, Raipur\, Chhattisgarh DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-badhani-dam-adsena-raipur-chhattisgarh/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-11.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260104T070000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260104T090000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251224T101143Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T104530Z UID:7629-1767510000-1767517200@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird walk at Bhandup Pumping Station\, Mumbai DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-bhandup-pumping-station-mumbai/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-13-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260104T063000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260104T203000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251224T131259Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T120358Z UID:7667-1767508200-1767558600@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Thol Bird Sanctuary\, Ahmedabad\, Gujarat DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-thol-bird-sanctuary-ahmedabad-gujarat/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/WhatsApp-Image-2026-01-04-at-12.13.21.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260104T063000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260104T083000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251224T124648Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T110204Z UID:7663-1767508200-1767515400@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Gidhwa Parsada\, Naghda\, Chhattisgarh DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-gidhwa-parsada-naghda-chhattisgarh-2/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-15-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260103T110000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260103T130000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251229T055621Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T104004Z UID:7698-1767438000-1767445200@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Lodhi Garden\, New Delhi DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-lodhi-garden-new-delhi/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-12.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260103T080000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260103T220000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251224T114859Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T104829Z UID:7647-1767427200-1767477600@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Bhatangpadar\, Bhawanipatna\, Odisha DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-bhatangpadar-bhawanipatna-odisha/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IMG_20260106_134735.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260103T073000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20260103T093000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251224T085036Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T111722Z UID:7623-1767425400-1767432600@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Maharashtra Nature Park\, Mumbai DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-maharashtra-nature-park-mumbai-4/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/IMG20260103090903-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251229T153000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251229T173000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251217T092234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T102515Z UID:7444-1767022200-1767029400@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Kanha National Park\, Ghanghar river trails\, Mandla (MP) DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-kanha-np-ghanghar/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IMG-20251229-WA0000.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T080000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T220000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251217T064601Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T101925Z UID:7393-1766908800-1766959200@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Saral Beach (Alibaug - Revas Road)\, MH DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-saral-beach-alibaug/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IMG20251228093222-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T073000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T213000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251212T105248Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T101418Z UID:7317-1766907000-1766957400@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Nandanvan Jungle Safari\, Nava Raipur\, Chhattisgarh DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-nandanva-jungle-safari-nava-raipur-chhattisgarh/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IMG-20251229-WA0013-Jageshwar-Verma.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T073000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T213000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251212T092411Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T100409Z UID:7312-1766907000-1766957400@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Karave Wetland - Seawoods\, Navi Mumbai DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-karave-wetland-navi-mumbai/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IMG-20251229-WA0031-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T071500 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T091500 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251217T090544Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T095734Z UID:7439-1766906100-1766913300@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Chandlai Lake\, Jaipur\, RJ DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-chandlai-lake-jaipur/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IMG-20251228-WA0060-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T070000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T090000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251217T110019Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T095119Z UID:7515-1766905200-1766912400@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Shree Siddhanath Temple\, Borim\, Goa DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-shree-siddhanath-temple-borim/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/WhatsApp-Image-2025-12-28-at-7.03.43-PM.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T070000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T090000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251212T073531Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T082338Z UID:7300-1766905200-1766912400@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Bhilkheda Village\, Bhoj Wetland\, Bhopal DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-bhilkheda-village-bhoj-wetland-bhopal/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IMG-20251228-WA0064-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T063000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T083000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251217T084027Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T094544Z UID:7429-1766903400-1766910600@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Puligundala Project\, Khammam\, Telangana DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-puligundala-project-khammam/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IMG20251228080742-sujeeth-anne-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T063000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T083000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251212T081339Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T093128Z UID:7306-1766903400-1766910600@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Gangampalli Forest\, Sathya Sai\, Andhra Pradesh DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-gangampalli-forest-sathya-sai-andhra-pradesh/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IMG-20251228-WA0045-Kayala-Ashok-Kumar.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T061000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T083000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064856 CREATED:20251217T095113Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T091544Z UID:7464-1766902200-1766910600@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Zilmili Lake\, Gondia (MH) DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-zilmili-lake-gondia-mh2/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/WhatsApp-Image-2025-12-28-at-8.50.30-PM-Nitesh-Yadav.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T060000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251228T080000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251217T072548Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T085710Z UID:7415-1766901600-1766908800@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Wadhvana Wetland\, Dabhoi\, Gujarat DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-wadhvana-wetland-gujarat/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Media-3-2-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251227T070000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251227T090000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251217T104553Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T084802Z UID:7508-1766818800-1766826000@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Santa Cruz Wetland\, Goa DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-santa-cruz-wetland-goa/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/WhatsApp-Image-2025-12-27-at-9.58.15-AM.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T083000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T103000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251211T101625Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T073601Z UID:7262-1766305800-1766313000@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Shail Parn Udyan\, Devtal\, Jabalpur\, MP DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-shail-parn-udyan-jabalpur-mp/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T073000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T100000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251211T101750Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T073841Z UID:7352-1766302200-1766311200@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Hardi Dam Chhattisgarh DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-hardi-dam-chhattisgarh/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-6-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T073000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T093000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251211T101805Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T073716Z UID:6292-1766302200-1766309400@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk near Saul Kere\, Bengaluru DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-near-saul-kere-bengaluru/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-1-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T073000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T093000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251211T101738Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T073904Z UID:7340-1766302200-1766309400@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird walk at Rabindra Sarovar Lake (BRC Side)\, Kolkata DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-rabindra-sarovar-lake-brc-side-kolkata/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-2-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T070000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T090000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251211T101659Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T073733Z UID:7271-1766300400-1766307600@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Sultanpur National Park\, Gurugram (Delhi NCR) DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-sultanpur-np-gurugram/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-3.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T070000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T090000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251211T101653Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T073637Z UID:7285-1766300400-1766307600@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Maina-Raia Wetland\, Quepem\, Goa DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-maina-raia-wetland-quepem-goa/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-4.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T063000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T083000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251211T101817Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T073823Z UID:7379-1766298600-1766305800@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Gidhwa Parsada\, Naghda\, Gidwa\, Chhattisgarh DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-gidhwa-parsada-naghda-chhattisgarh/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-7.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T061500 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251221T081500 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251211T101810Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T073658Z UID:7333-1766297700-1766304900@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Ankodia Lake\, Vadodara\, Gujarat DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-ankodia-lake-vadodara-gujarat/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-8.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251220T083000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251220T103000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251211T101517Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T073923Z UID:7279-1766219400-1766226600@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Maharashtra Nature Park\, Mumbai DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-maharashtra-nature-park-mumbai-2/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/feature-MNP-scaled.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251220T073000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251220T100000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251211T101629Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T073801Z UID:7347-1766215800-1766224800@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Talawali Chanda\, Indore (MP) DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-talawali-chanda-indore-mp/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/f-5.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251220T073000 DTEND;TZID=Asia/Kolkata:20251220T093000 DTSTAMP:20260531T064857 CREATED:20251211T101657Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251223T074241Z UID:7372-1766215800-1766223000@mail.ataavi.org SUMMARY:Bird Walk at Ecological Park\, Laharpur\, Bhopal\, Madhya Pradesh DESCRIPTION:Bird Walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Goa\n \n \n \n \n 10 January\, 2026\n \n \n \n \n Jalmesh Karapurkar\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n About Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n Opa in Khandepar\, Goa sits at the heart of a fascinating riverine landscape shaped by the Khandepar (Dudhsagar) River\, a west-flowing tributary of the Mandovi that drains a significant catchment originating in the Western Ghats\, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. \n\nThe area around Opa is defined by lush riparian habitats and a mosaic of agricultural land\, fringe forest patches\, and freshwater channels that support both local livelihoods and wildlife. The water treatment works at Opa\, historically established during the Portuguese era\, continues to draw on this river\, making the region vital not only for its natural beauty but also for supplying drinking water to large parts of North Goa and Ponda talukas. \n\n While not a large protected area itself\, Opa and the greater Khandepar landscape connect ecologically with the broader Western Ghats system—the cradle of incredible biological richness that includes evergreen and moist deciduous forests\, myriad freshwater species\, and a tapestry of life that depends on seasonal river flows. \n \n \n \n For birders and nature lovers\, the Khandepar environs offer delightful glimpses of Goa’s diverse avifauna and riverine life. The region’s proximity to the Western Ghats and Mandovi river basin means you might encounter a range of waterbirds\, kingfishers\, herons\, egrets\, and other wetland species that thrive along forest-edged streams and paddy margins.\nThe riverbanks and nearby trees also provide habitat for common woodland birds\, and the area’s natural rhythms: monsoon swells\, misty mornings\, and tranquil evenings make every birding walk potentially rewarding. Yet\, this landscape faces pressing conservation challenges: illegal sand mining and excessive extraction have caused bank erosion\, altered river courses\, and threatened aquatic habitats and local heritage sites. \nSeasonal turbidity owing to mining runoff and heavy rainfall can compromise water quality\, impacting both human use and wildlife. \n\nSustainable stewardship that balances ecological health with community needs could help preserve Opa–Khandepar’s quiet wild charm for future generations of nature lovers and bird watchers alike. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Partnered with \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird Guide: Jalmesh KarapurkarHe is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa\, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all. \n \n \n \n \n \n Bird walk Location \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Common birds of Opa\, Khandepar \n \n \n \n The riverine forests\, orchards\, and wooded slopes around Opa\, Khandepar support a rich mix of birds that reflect Goa’s Western Ghats influence. Early mornings may reveal the stately Indian Peafowl strutting through open patches\, while the shy Gray Junglefowl slips quietly through undergrowth. Fruit-bearing trees attract flocks of Gray-fronted Green-Pigeons and the impressive Malabar Imperial-Pigeon\, their deep wingbeats echoing over the canopy. The air is often filled with the calls of the Asian Koel\, Coppersmith Barbet\, and Brown-headed Barbet\, while flashes of red and blue betray the presence of the White-throated Kingfisher along water channels. Forest specialists such as the Malabar Gray Hornbill and Malabar Pied Hornbill add a distinctly Ghats character\, dispersing seeds as they move between tall trees. Raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle\, Eurasian Sparrowhawk\, and Brahminy Kite patrol the skies\, while woodpeckers—including Brown-capped Pygmy\, Rufous\, and Black-rumped Flameback—tap out a constant rhythm on old trunks. Together\, these birds make Opa–Khandepar a rewarding spot for birdwatchers seeking both common countryside species and iconic Western Ghats endemics. \n \n \n \n \n Grey Junglefowl \n \n \n \n Grey-fronted Green Pigeon \n \n \n \n Indian Peafowl \n \n \n \n Asian Koel \n \n \n \n Pond Heron \n \n \n \n Brahminy Kite \n \n \n \n Malabar Pied Hornbill \n \n \n \n White-throated Kingfisher \n \n \n \n Coppersmith Barbet \n \n \n \n Vernal hanging-Parrot \n \n \n \n Malabar Grey hornbill \n \n \n \n Rufous Woodpecker \n \n \n \n Indian Golden Oriole \n \n \n \n Common Iora \n \n \n \n Indian Paradise Flycatcher \n \n \n \n Ashy Drongo \n \n \n \n Brown Shrike \n \n \n \n Common Tailorbird \n \n \n \n Flame-throated Bulbul \n \n \n \n Red-whiskered Bulbul \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Summary of Walk \n \n \n \n A bird walk at Opa\, Khandepar\, Goa on January 10 was led by Jalmesh Karapurkar and joined by 16 participants for an immersive forest birding experience. The walk began with a warm introduction to Wildfootprints and the Ataavi Bird Foundation\, along with insights into the Birding Bharat initiative and its efforts to promote birdwatching across India. As participants tuned into the forest’s natural chorus\, early calls led to excellent sightings of the Flame-throated Bulbul\, Goa’s state bird\, along with Malabar Grey Hornbill and Ashy Drongo\, setting an energetic tone for the morning. Moving deeper along the forest trails\, the group enjoyed memorable views of the vibrant Malabar Flameback and the elegant Asian Paradise Flycatcher. Additional highlights included White-rumped Shama\, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta\, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon\, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo\, Western-crowned Warbler\, and colorful Small Minivets\, collectively showcasing the rich avian diversity and ecological charm of this lesser-known birding hotspot.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Number of Participants \n \n 0 URL:https://mail.ataavi.org/event/bird-walk-at-ecological-park-laharpur-bhopal-mp/ CATEGORIES:Birding Bharat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://mail.ataavi.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/WhatsApp-Image-2025-12-22-at-12.32.20.webp END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR