Bird Walk at Talawali Chanda, Indore (MP)

  • Indore
  • 20 December, 2025
  • Yogendra Kumar Mimrot

About Talawali Chanda

Talawali Chanda, located on the outskirts of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, is a serene natural area characterized by a mosaic of wetlands, agricultural fields, and scrub-forest patches. The site acts as an important ecological buffer in the rapidly urbanizing Indore landscape. Its seasonal water bodies, grass-covered edges, and scattered trees support a thriving ecosystem where both aquatic and terrestrial species coexist. The flora includes native grasses, acacia, neem, and babul trees, while the wetlands harbor aquatic plants that provide foraging grounds for a variety of waterbirds. Tawali Chanda is emerging as a birding hotspot, attracting a wide range of resident and migratory birds such as herons, egrets, storks, wagtails, kingfishers, drongos, and bee-eaters. The peaceful environment and habitat diversity make it a favored spot for local birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

However, this fragile ecosystem faces mounting threats due to urban expansion, agricultural runoff, encroachment, and habitat degradation. Increased human interference, littering, and illegal dumping of waste are gradually disturbing bird nesting and feeding areas. Seasonal fluctuations in water availability and the invasion of non-native plant species further challenge the ecological balance. To ensure long-term conservation, efforts must focus on habitat restoration, regular clean-up drives, and community-led protection initiatives. Establishing Talawali Chanda as a designated local biodiversity zone and involving schools and nature clubs in awareness and monitoring programs can help preserve its ecological richness and sustain it as a vital green refuge for Indore’s wildlife.

Bird Guide: Yogendra kumar mimrot

Basically I am a snake researcher from indore , currently pursuing bsc and during my studies I have been studying birds as many of them feed on snakes and other macrofauna.

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Talawali Chanda

The Tawali Chanda Lake area in Indore is home to an impressive 125 species of birds, making it a thriving birding hotspot that reflects the region’s diverse habitats of water, grassland, and scrub. The wetland portion of the site supports a variety of waterbirds such as the Indian Spot-billed Duck, Little Grebe, Black-winged Stilt, Red-wattled Lapwing, Indian Pond Heron, Eastern Cattle Egret, Gray Heron, and Little Cormorant. These species rely on the lake’s shallow waters and mudflats for feeding and nesting. Common Sandpiper, Citrine Wagtail, and White-browed Wagtail are often seen along the shorelines, while Black-winged Kites and Shikras patrol the skies above. The mix of aquatic and open habitats allows both resident and migratory species to thrive, especially during the post-monsoon and winter seasons.
In the surrounding scrub and tree patches, a vibrant variety of woodland and open-country birds are found. Species like the White-throated Kingfisher, Asian Green Bee-eater, Coppersmith Barbet, Red-vented Bulbul, Ashy Prinia, and Indian White-eye are common sights. In addition, Barn Swallows, House Sparrows, and Indian Robins coexist comfortably near human habitations, while winter visitors such as the Siberian Stonechat, Black Redstart, and Red-breasted Flycatcher enrich the area’s avian diversity. The combination of wetland and terrestrial birdlife highlights Tawali Chanda’s importance as a microhabitat supporting multiple ecological niches. Sustaining this biodiversity requires careful habitat management and minimizing disturbances so the site continues to serve as a sanctuary for birds across seasons.
Bronze-winged Jacana
Black-winged Stilt
White-breasted Waterhen
Grey-headed Swamphen
Grey Heron

Purple Heron
Indian Grey Hornbill
Red-wattled Lapwing
Common Tailorbird
Greater Coucal
Ashy Prinia
Asian Green Bee-eater
White-throated Kingfisher
Common Hawk Cuckoo
Indian Robin
Black Drongo
Large-billed Crow
Red-vented Bulbul
Asian Pied Starling
Paddyfield Pipit

Summary of Walk

The bird walk at Talawali Chanda, led by Yogendra Kumar Mimrot, was attended by eight participants and proved to be a rewarding experience. Revisiting the familiar wetland offered fresh excitement with the addition of new species to the sightings, including the Oriental Darter and large numbers of stilts actively feeding in the water. The site once again demonstrated its importance as a rich habitat, especially for small birds such as munias and silverbills, which thrive in the surrounding vegetation.

At the same time, concerns were raised about ongoing construction activity in the area, as the land is privately owned and faces increasing development pressure. Despite these challenges, the walk delivered a truly unforgettable moment when a Peregrine Falcon was observed in flight, executing a swift and precise hunt that resulted in a pigeon being taken in a single strike. This dramatic sighting left participants stunned and served as a powerful reminder of the raw beauty of nature and the ecological value of habitats like Talawali Chanda.

Number of Participants
0
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ATAAVI Bird Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering a deeper connection between people and the avian diversity of India. Through advocacy, education and conservation efforts, we strive to increase awareness and appreciation for birds across communities.

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