Go incognito at a specialised ‘bird hide’ set-up to get a rare, close-up view of the avian residents of Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Indian Paradise Flycatcher, Black Naped Monarch. PICS COURTESY/SHUBHAM HADKAR (right) Indian Blackbird. PIC COURTESY/ Hormazd Wadia
First-time birders often have a complaint that sounds exactly like our friends from SoBo when we invite them to the world across the Sea Link: “It’s so far away!” While there’s no cure for a lazy townie, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) has found a way to bring you closer to its birds; or the birds closer to you, to be precise.
Tawny Bellied Babbler and Blue Capped Rock Thrush
A specialised ‘bird hide’ inside the North Division of SGNP in Manpada is now open to daily bookings. Photographers, birders, nature enthusiasts, and naturalists who want front row seats to watch the winter birds without disturbing natural behaviour and habitat would do well to pack their bags and book a slot right away.
The hide can accomodate two observers at a time
ON Every day; 6.45 am to 11 am; 1 pm to 6 pm
AT Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Manpada, Yeur, Thane West.
CALL 9325693451 (pre-booking mandatory)
ENTRY Rs 300 (per person)
Inside a bird hide
How it works: The space under a water tank near the Manpada Rest House inside SGNP is transformed into a makeshift observation space. The hide is covered with shade nets to blend in with the surroundings. Two rectangles cut into the nets act as viewing windows.
Bird call: A small artificial pond is created near the hide, and perches are placed on its banks. Birds land on these perches to drink water, offering fleeting close-up views.
Capacity: Two people can occupy the hide at a time due to its compact nature.
What’s to see: On a good day, you can observe nearly 20 species of birds from the hide. The team has documented 80 species as of now, and aims to reach the 100 mark by monsoon, when the hides will be taken down.
Latest sighting: Golden-fronted Leafbirds
Shubham Hadkar
Help at hand: A team of SGNP experts will be present to guide you through the session.
Information courtesy: Shubham Hadkar, Nature education and extension officer, SGNP North
Waiting for wings
A butterfly viewing hide is in the works at the SGNP’s North Division. When open, it will open a window to the life of the ecologically sensitive insects. The hide will have higher capacity than the bird hides. While there is no set timeline, officials hope it will be ready by the next butterfly season.
Bird watch
Keep an eye out for these birds when you’re undercover in the hide
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