Rajasthan – India

About

Rajasthan, the land of kings and migratory birds! Rajasthan translates into the “land of kings”. It is a state in northern India with several ecosystems. It is famous for its festivals, culture, heritage, castles, and forts. Though, it is famous for its migratory birds in the winter months within the birding community. Rajasthan has 28 national parks and sanctuaries within the state and has a vast diversity of wildlife. Among the most popular are the Sariska National Park, Desert National Park, Kumbhalgarh National park, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Ranthambore National park, and Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Nearly 450 species of birds can be spotted within Rajasthan. The northwestern part of the state is well known for several species of Sandgrouse. Owen traveled to Rajasthan, India, and visited Jodhpur and Khichan in February 2015. Khichan is a village in Rajasthan that is known for the Demoiselle Cranes that visit every winter between late August and March. Though, peak season is November to February. This annual bird migration began in the 1970s with a few cranes when a local man started feeding the local pigeons. The numbers kept rising each year and an enclosure was built on the edge of the village to protect the cranes from the increasing threat of dogs and human settlement. Today, The Khichan Bird Sanctuary is the focal point for the Demoiselle crane migration in the region. The Village is now recognized internationally and was featured in Birding World Magazine. The number of Demoiselle Cranes visiting the village was estimated at 15,000 in 2010.   

© Karan Dhawan India

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Birds found here

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  Green Bee-eater

  
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  Indian Roller

  
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  Long-legged Buzzard

  
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  Demoiselle Crane

  
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  Little Grebe