Beyond the Nawabs: Lucknow’s Secret Birdwatching Oases Unveiled

For Lucknow's bird watchers and nature lovers, the area has an excellent variety of birdwatching sites which are home to resident and migratory birds. When the weather becomes pleasant during the peak migratory time, here are six birdwatching sites around Lucknow city that you just cannot afford to miss:

1. Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary:

Only 43-45 km from Lucknow, this Unnao sanctuary boasts more than 250 species of birds, including migratory birds from Siberia, China, Europe, and Central Asia. The verdant surroundings, tranquil lake, and secluded Deer Park make it an ideal day-out for families and bird enthusiasts. You can see pintails, cotton teals, red-crested pochards, sarus cranes, and many more.

2. Sandi Bird Sanctuary:

Situated approximately 137 km from Lucknow in Hardoi district, Sandi is a Ramsar wetland where a kaleidoscope of migrating water birds nestle, including Brahmini ducks, Eurasian wigeons, and northern shovelers. Its peaceful wetlands are a perfect backdrop for bird watching and photography.

3. Kukrail Forest and Gharial Park:

Situated in the city of Lucknow, Kukrail boasts over 200 species of birds in a heavily wooded forest setting. March-April is especially bountiful, with high bird activity. The park is also renowned for its gharial conservation program, and as such, it is an unusual spot for wildlife lovers.

4. Ekana Wetlands:

Hidden behind the Ekana Stadium, these city wetlands have at least 17 species of birds from eight families. Accessible and also diverse, it is a paradise for birders to take short morning or evening excursions.

5. Bakhira Sanctuary:

Approximately 250 km from Lucknow, Bakhira is famous for observation of gray-headed swamphen and other aquatic birds. The sanctuary's wetlands offer a serene retreat for all those willing to drive a little extra for the observation of the elusive bird.

6. Dudhwa National Park: 

Approximately 225 kilometers from Lucknow, Dudhwa is renowned for its grasslands and forest cover and has more than 400 bird species. There are Bengal tigers, elephants, and Indian rhinoceros too, and thus it is a total wildlife experience for nature lovers. With such varied habitats from urban forests to vast wetlands and national parks, Lucknow's surroundings are birdwatcher's paradise. Whether you are a serious birder or a casual nature enthusiast, these spots assure pleasant encounters with some of India's most interesting bird life.

 Source: India.com