The wetlands of Rohtak and Jhajjar have turned into a vibrant hub of avian activity as thousands of migratory birds from Central Asia and Siberia have made these water bodies their winter home. The arrival of these “winged guests” has transformed the local landscape, attracting birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts to the region.
Prominent Birding Hotspots The region, known for its rich ecosystem of ponds and marshes, is hosting a variety of rare and common migratory species.
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Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary (Jhajjar): As Haryana’s largest wetland and a Ramsar site, Bhindawas is currently home to thousands of birds. Species like the Bar-headed Goose, Northern Pintail, and Common Teal have been spotted in large numbers.
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Dighal Wetlands (Jhajjar): Often called the “Birding Capital of Haryana,” the marshes around Dighal village are teeming with Flamingos, Painted Storks, and various species of Wagtails.
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Tilyar Lake and Surroundings (Rohtak): In Rohtak, the Tilyar Lake area and smaller village ponds are witnessing the arrival of Northern Shovelers and Gadwalls, providing a scenic treat for residents.
Favorable Conditions Wildlife experts attribute the healthy numbers this year to the ample water levels in the wetlands and the availability of food. The recent cold wave in North India has further pushed the birds southward, making Haryana an ideal stopover. “The presence of rare species like the Greater Spotted Eagle and Sarus Crane indicates that the ecosystem of these wetlands remains conducive for biodiversity,” noted a local naturalist.
Conservation Efforts The Wildlife Department has stepped up patrolling in these areas to prevent poaching and disturbances to the birds’ natural habitat. Signboards have been installed to educate visitors about the importance of maintaining silence and not feeding the birds. The department is also planning a mid-winter bird census later this month to document the exact species count and population trends.
The influx of birds has also boosted local eco-tourism, with small-scale homestays and guided birdwatching tours seeing a surge in bookings during the weekends.
