Nature's Symphony ; Bird Watching in Chikmagalur

Situated in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, Chikmagalur is a bird watchers paradise and nature lovers retreat. A wide range of bird species thrive in the voluminous coffee plantations, verdant forests and undulating hills. Chikmagalur is a bird watchers paradise due to being strategically located at the meeting point of some of Earth's distinct ecosystems. The Western Ghats are recognized as one of the world's eight "hottest hotspots" of biological diversity, and Chikmagalur is a key part of this. Bird watchers have a great opportunity to see numerous endemics including Malabar Trogon, Nilgiri Flycatcher and the furtive Indian Pitta with over 300 species of birds here. Favourite haunt of birders in Chikmagalur is the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and its dense forests amidst serene backwaters, that attract a splendid mix of waterfowls, as well forest birds. One of the best places where birdwatchers can have sightings of not just one species but of many others is at the Muthodi Forest, which forms a part of Bhadra Tiger Reserve and includes birds like the Grey Jungle fowl, Indian Pitta or Malabar Whistling Thrush. As the highest point in Karnataka, it is a hotspot for high-altitude species and offers great views of Mullayanagiri Peak as well. Essentially, Chikmagalur is a birding hotspot with its wilderness and avenues of unique species which sets up the destination well for all those who wish to mingle in the beautiful world of birds.

Chikmagalur - with a plethora of ecosystems stitched perfectly together, stands tall as a wonder to all biodiversity associations and its common birdwatchers. The lush forests, calm lakes and green coffee fields makes this place an excellent habitat for indigenous birds that live here year-round as well as migratory ones passing through. Key endemics include the colourful Malabar Trogon, melodic Malabar Whistling Thrush and skulking Nilgiri Flycatcher. Indian Pitta, another colourful endemic, is yet another species that can be seen. At least 27 species of birds practice stopover on migration, making chikmagalur a significant bird watching place in India. This sanctuary is a birding paradise and during the migratory season, you can see hundreds of birds including the majestic Black Baza and ducks and waders that come to wetlands. The migration of birds is a sight to behold with the Common Sandpiper and the Barn Swallow among other species making an appearance here, enriching its avian diversity. 

Bird watching in Chikmagalur is a year-round delight, but certain times of the year are especially rewarding. The best time is from October to April. It is during these months that the weather remains pleasantly cool and dry, providing excellent conditions for both birds which come from higher altitudes to roost around waterholes here as well as bird-watchers. In autumn, between October and November the monsoon has already relinquished its hold on the land and the greenery is abundant throughout every corner. This is actually a good time to see the Malabar Trogon, resident species and migrants entering. Between December and February, bird-watching is at its peak in the winter months. Eurasian Golden Oriole is migrant and cooler conditions tend to bring in more of these. There is going to be excellent visibility in these times due to the crystal blue skies and cool air that provides great observation opportunities of birds in their natural habitat. During the pre-monsoon season, a gentle warm phase during March and April, a large number of the resident birds incubate, display bright plumage and even brighter courtship behaviour during this period. Birding in Chikmagalur is highly influenced by weather conditions. The rains give a new life to the surroundings after the monsoon. So, to sum it up, the right time for bird watching in Chikmagalur is between October and April where every season has birds of distinctive taste bringing best sightings based on their nesting choice or migration.

Bird watchers and individuals find themselves confronted with a multitude of significant species, all providing unique habitats and habits in Chikmagalur. Malabar Whistling Thrush is mainly found near fast flowing streams amidst dense forest and its melodious calls are what remain etched in the air during early mornings. Shy and elusive, the Indian Blue Robin stays in the realm of the understorey in moist deciduous forests; for those who are willing to spend time they provide a delight. It is best found along the mist-shrouded hills of Kemmangundi. However, the Nilgiri Flycatcher can be found here darting through Kudremukh National Park thick canopy with its bright blue feathers and acrobatic hunting style. More recognisable by its casque rather than the size, the Great Hornbill is surely one for birders in Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary. The largest freely flying parrot alive, can often be found perching high in the trees of the park foraging for fruits using its robust bill. Another characteristic species, the Imperial Pigeon is doing well in the forests and their deep cooing call reverberates throughout the canopy of treetops. The varied landscapes in Chikmagalur, from verdant forests to undulating hills make it perfect breeding grounds for these bird species and ample scope for enthusiasts to glimpse into their intriguing lives and appearances. Chikmagalur is a destination that should be visited by each and every avian if they want to experience the bird-watching, with a best level environment.

Bird-watching is not a simple job in Chikmagalur, you need to be prepared thoroughly and get equipped. The dawn is when so many birds are up and about, making the early hours of the day perfect for bird watching. Dress in earth-tone colours to lessen the impact on birds and their environment. For seeing and identifying birds from a distance, obviously you will need either good binoculars. It is also heavily recommended getting a field guide for Indian (or even South Indian) birds as it can greatly help you to identify them and how they act. In addition, bring a notepad or log your sightings and write down bird behaviours on your phone. However, photography lovers will be well off with a camera having telephoto lenses of 300mm or above so that they can get detailed images without being close to animals. Being quiet and slow helps improve your chances of seeing birds close up. Mounting your camera or binoculars on a lightweight, portable tripod can really help for those long viewing sessions! Bring water, snacks and bug spray as bird watching often means you will spend a great many hours outside. A visit to popular bird watching sites, say for example; at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary or the hill stations like Kemmangundi and Kudremukh National Park accompanied by a local guide are of extreme help as they will proficiently introduce you with hints that these inconspicuous beautiful feathered beauties leave behind on your path. 

In conclusion, the number of bird species in Chikmagalur makes it a real paradise for bird lovers with picturesque Western Ghats background. If you're a birder, or even just interested in the natural world, it is such an interesting part of life and wildlife that goes on around here. Every time you go, there is always something more to see and do which makes Chikmagalur a bird watching paradise. So grab along those glasses and let the sweet notes of avian music pave the way for you in this green heaven.