From January 16 to January 19, 2025, wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers gathered for the 3rd Bird Survey at the Nawegaon – Nagzira Tiger Reserve (NNTR) in Gondia, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Maharashtra. This event promised not just a thrill of spotting rare birds but also a chance to connect with nature in all its pristine glory.
The journey kicked off bright and early on the 16th. As the sun began to rise, excitement filled the air. After a quick breakfast and a brief moment of preparation, it was time to embark on this adventure. The thrill of the open road beckoned, and I decided to ride my motorcycle, eager to soak in the sights along the way.
Leaving home at 9:30 AM, I made my way to Tumsar, where I paused for a rejuvenating cup of tea. After a brief 20-minute respite, I resumed my journey, finally reaching the entry gate of the Nagzira National Park. As I entered the Koka Sanctuary area, I was awestruck by the dense forest surrounding me. The sight of ponds gleamed in the morning light, and precautionary signs to be alert for wildlife added a sense of thrill to my surroundings.
By 1:30 PM, I arrived at the Pittejhari gate of the NNTR, where the friendly NNTR team welcomed participants with open arms. Following a registration process that included a selection of necessary forms, I enjoyed another cup of tea while mingling with fellow wildlife lovers. A small ceremony commenced, where the NNTR team explained how to conduct the bird survey, emphasizing the rules and regulations that guide our expedition.
Surrounded by like-minded individuals, we formed our survey team and prepared for the journey ahead. Loading our luggage onto the gypsy, we set off toward the base camp, venturing deeper into the core area of the National Park. The rich biodiversity of NNTR unfolded before us: bison, sambar deer, spotted deer, peacocks, and even blue bulls (neelgai) were abundant. Spotting a bison up close was a memory I’d cherish forever, and the discovery of a pair of Indian scops owls nestled in a tree cavity left me in awe.
After an hour and a half of adventuring, we arrived at our base camp in the Hiverwala Range of Nagzira. The local beat guards and watchmen gave us a warm welcome, providing refreshments as we settled in. The ambience was serene, and soon we were perched on a machan overlooking the wilderness, our adrenaline gradually calming.
As night fell, we enjoyed a delicious dinner, but the thrill of our surroundings beckoned us back to the machan. The tranquil night was suddenly punctuated by the haunting call of a mottled wood owl, a sound that sent shivers down the spine of our team. We lit a torch, capturing the elusive bird in our flash, our excitement palpable.
After an hour of thrilling wildlife encounters, we reluctantly made our way back but chose to linger a little longer by the waning woodfire. The night was heavy with silence, only interrupted by the subtle sounds of the forest surrounding us—a reminder of the wild beauty of nature.
This bird survey was more than just a collection of data; it was a celebration of diversity, a commitment to conservation, and a poignant reminder of the wonders that await in our natural world. As all participants left with memories etched into their hearts, our shared love for wildlife continued to inspire connection and stewardship for the environment.
