If you love to capture birds, their songs and beauty, are willing to navigate ID challenges, and need essential gear tips, then my avian encounters in Maharashtra’s offbeat Junnar district are just for you
Déjà vu! I returned from a trip to offbeat Maharashtra, clicking pictures of the flora and avian species residing around Wadaj Dam, and the first thing I find on a birder’s group is a map of bird species in India, sourced from the species listed on eBird. Maharashtra has 567 species. I began to mentally count how many I had seen and how many I had managed to capture through my camera. More than 34 sightings in three hours spent at one location and my heart was singing. I had contributed a tiny part of this beautiful environment by uploading on various apps for other environment lovers to experience the paradise and keep it pristine.
We were staying at a tent city, created for Hindavi Swarajya Mahotsav by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, celebrating the 394th birth anniversary of the great Maratha ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This three-day festival comprised a peek into the arts and culture, heritage trails around Junnar, the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj. Added to this were star-gazing, water sports, adventure activities.
Luxury tents, for special invitees, at the edge of the dam turned out be a bonanza for me, the amateur birder and natural world lover.
Reaching close to noon, the sun being high, I was surprised to see huge birds flying overhead. At first, I thought raptors. Then, with squinted eyes, I realised these were huge bats-the fruit-eating Indian Flying Foxes. I had never seen them, as the species in the city are far smaller.
Even though the sun was high in the sky, I captured some of the huge bats swaying high in the Eucalyptus trees, squeaking at the noise of so many humans invading their habitat. Normally, they hibernate during the day, as I observed in Noida during the winter, but I guess the noise killed their slumber. I thought, I would snap some shots of them flying around, but they disappeared before I could do that.
Photos clockwise from top: Red-Wattled Lapwings, Citrine Wagtail, White Browed Wagtail, Western Yellow Wagtail and White Wagtail
In contrast were the red-wattled lapwings and wagtails. Unafraid of humans, they bobbed on the edge, but their loud calls did tell the others that humans had arrived. They did skittle away fast, as I approached them.
The ducks did squeal and waddle away as jet skis and boats entered the water. I waited for the next morning to meet my feathered friends, my new love. I did manage to take some good photographs of the waterfowls but not the butterflies and smaller birds flitting in the shrubs. I didn’t have a telephoto lens, so I couldn’t snap smaller birds in the shrubs, but I could hear their calls and trained my eyes and ears on connecting the sounds and the sightings.
Photos in descending order: Eurasian Spoonbills, Eurasian Coot, Indian Spotbilled Duck, Tufted Ducks, Little Egret
The Beauty of Wadaj Dam
I discovered that Wadaj is also written as Vadaj, however, official papers spell with a ‘W’. This is an earthfill and gravity dam on Meena River near Junnar, Pune district, Maharashtra, India. Opened in 1983, it is located in the Ghod basin. It is part of the Kukadi Irrigation Project, under which there are five dams, other four being Yedgaon Dam, Manikdoh Dam, Dimbhe Dam and Pimpalgaon Joge Dam.
Photos clockwise from top: shells, wood and green sandpiper, wood sandpiper, common sandpiper, Little Ringed Plover, common greenshank, black-winged stilt, sandpiper
Any novice knows that water, sunshine, air and trees are flora, fauna and avian habitats and that’s why I loved my stay here. Walking along the edge on the wet muddy ground, I discovered a bed of alluring shells. I did pick up a lot of them, but I didn’t get the time to clean them properly, take out the spiders and the worms. Thus, they stayed behind in the tent, in the little glass full of water.
The Selection Process
As usual, even before unpacking, the first thing is to transfer the pictures from my DSLR to the laptop, then browse, frown and scrutinise my hits and misses, until I finally find something worth sharing.
Photos descending order: Pond Heron, Gray Heron, Long-tailed Shrike
Then begins the tedious process of uploading on Merlin app to find the names and about the species. A long process that tests my passion for Nature. I remind myself that it takes the Earth billions of years to show its creation. I am a mere spectator in this passage. I also appreciate her beauty, so what’s a few hours, even 24 hours taken to identify the beautiful species I saw.
Photos clockwise from top: Brahminy Starling and Black Drongo, Purple Sunbird, Common Myna, Greater Coucal, Indian Robin, Eurasian Collared Dove, House Crow, Tree Pipit, Purple Sunbird in flight
After all, silence and patience are the oldest virtues that we learn from Mother Earth.
Flora
Photos clockwise from top: Gliricidia, Bush Morning Glory, Bombay Rosewood, Maize
For long I wanted to be an artist, merrily sitting under a tree and drawing, but then the camera gave me a faster way to preserve memories. Well, the birds identified, I head to iNaturalist app to repeat the process with flora. I thank our ancestors, fellow humans, who trudged on, sharing the precious knowledge of the natural world over centuries. For a change, I am all praise for technology and its speedy answers.
Essential Gear for Birding at Wadaj Dam
Binoculars
Good camera with strong 600mm lens
Muted clothing
Muted coloured boots suitable for walking over rough terrain
Cap, sunshades, water, food, garbage bags, handwipes, chemical-free facewash, any medication you need, backpack
How to reach Wadaj Dam
From Pune International Airport, it will take a little over three hours by road. You can stop for some tea, vada pav and misal pav on the way. I love the kokum sherbet, but I found that in Junnar and not on the highway.
Where to stay in Wadaj
VedKasturi & HmmBrr are great farm stays offering all the modern amenities along with logistics support for seeing the region. They can arrange tour guides and cars, along with food.
If you find a discrepancy in any species name, please do write to us. We welcome all suggestions and feedback.
This post is part of Blogchatter’s CauseAChatter.
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Bohemian Bibliophile.
Queen of Treasures 
Wadaj Dam looks like an amazing place to go if you want to watch birds. I was never into birdwatching the proper way, but I do enjoy spotting different species when I travel to natural places, like Wadaj Dam is. How amazing that you got to capture bats during daytime. I love herons as well, they look so majestic on the water.
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I love that you focused not just on the birds, but also on the lovely native flora surrounding the wetlands. The stunning photos capture the splendor of birds like the white-throated kingfisher, lapwings, Eurasian spoonbills, and more. Spotting 34 species in just 3 hours is impressive.
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Our daughter is an ornithologist and she loves when she hears about new spots for bird watching. I am sure she would love to visit. I wonder how many of the 567 species she still needs to see! Bat and raptor sightings might make me a bit freaked out. Definitely a recommendation to pass on!
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I have a friend who is very passionate about bird watching and I think he would enjoy a lot to explore Wajad Dam and the habitat. I felt like watching NG while reading your post. Animals cand be sometimes so interesting.
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What a wonderful post Ambica… got me all excited. I love bird watching but I haven’t gone on a holiday specifically for that. Wajad Dam is in my bucket list now. I feel happy for you that you got to see soooo many beauties. I was not aware of this merin app… I will check it out cuz I too would like to figure out the names of my neighbourhood birds back home. I knew u would’ve used a 600mm… such clarity isn’t possible otherwise.
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There are 4 dams in the region. Natives say that there are more.birds at Pimpalgoan Dam. Do keep that also in.mind, should you plan a trip
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Sure Ambica n thank you for the suggestion
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How exciting to see those huge flying foxes! I have done some amateur bird watching and I love it. The thrill of spotting one and trying to identify it is exhilarating. You saw so many not just birds but butterflies and flora too, I must say it was quite a rewarding trip and yet there were hundreds still left to explore. Thanks for the website references – I usually use a book I have by Salim Ali and sometimes just Google Lens but a dedicated website is more convenient.
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One of my friend recommended this place and I was so intrigued. This post definitely makes me want to go and explore.
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I have yet to try Google lens. Thanks for the suggestion
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Its really amazing to see these pictures. I have never been to that place.
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I’ve never been birdwatching before, but I’ve heard that Wadaj Dam is a hotspot for bird enthusiasts, so I’d love to give it a try. It could be a great way for me to connect with the outdoors and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
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Ambica with every passing day I can see you turning into a travelopedia for we readers of your blog. Each one of the posts is informative and helps us discover a new spot on the map worth visiting. Aha! how I can miss mentioning your expertise behind the lens. Just look at the captures and some of them look so professional like an experienced bird photographer clicks. Ambica you are like an inspiration for me who always encourages me to keep going and never say no to life. I am happy to know you. By the way please suggest me a good and very affordable DSLR ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
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Thanks Samata, your words keep me motivated. As a beginner, i would suggest you go for a simple camera, it takes time to get your framing and composition in place, then you can choose a better camera. My journey started in 2016 with a Nikon D3300 with a kit lens, It’s good enough to learn how to do things, cost is pocket friendly too, You could also try Canon beginner, I like that one too, Check this post, you will get an idea, https://www.techradar.com/news/best-entry-level-dslr-camera
There are many tutorials on the web/YouTube and also beginner level easy classes.
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First of all – stunning pictures Ambica! Loved seeing them. And I had no clue that we have such a large variety of bird species in India. Would love to visit this place some day!
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Wow what a pictures, amazing 👏. Your post is absolutely delightful. It’s got me feeling so excited. I did have the chance to watch birds in Singapore once, and it was an incredible experience. Now that you’ve mentioned Wajad Dam, it’s definitely on my bucket list!
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Superb post Ambica. Bird watching is on my wishlist since I became mother. Now exams will be over and big vacation will be there. Your post is a rescue. Your details information about essential, where to stay and precautions everything excited me to have our holidays here, near Pune. Thank you very much.
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Have a good trip!
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Reading about your birdwatching adventure at Wadaj Dam was truly captivating! Your vivid descriptions and stunning photographs transported me to the serene surroundings, filled with the beauty of nature. Your passion for preserving these moments and sharing them with others shines through your words. Thank you for sharing this delightful experience!
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Wadaj Dam seems like a mighty fine place to visit to view the beautiful flora and fauna along with the beautiful species of birds. I live in Pune and visit Bhigwan during Dec-Mar to witness the migratory flamingoes. Do give it a try as well.
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Wow, I would love to see the flamingoes there. Maybe, I will get a chance to go there. Junnar region is so close from Pune, you could easily check out plenty hotspots there.
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Wow, your avian adventures in Maharashtra’s Junnar district sound absolutely fantastic ! Your passion for capturing birds, their songs, and their beauty shines through in every word of your description. I can imagine the thrill of encountering such a diverse array of bird species. Your enthusiasm is infectious
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Maharashtra has 567 species. Whoa!
Thanks for sharing that very interesting (and pride-worthy?) figure. How amazing that you had more than 34 sightings in three hours! Star-gazing sounds so much fun. Your photographs capture the beauty of the birds and the surroundings so well. It makes me (and I’m sure that stands true for everyone reading this piece) want to visit and experience all this first-hand. This is in Pune? Wow! So close to Mumbai and yet I’ve heard about it or visited it. Thanks for the detailed instructions and directions. I’ll be sure to visit this site when I’m in India next.
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I must be honest. I spent more time looking at the beautiful pics and their names. Thanks for doing this meticulously. Once done, I read the post. Glad to see the details and know that you had a great time.
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Glad you enjoyed the bird pics, some of them are threatened, so I hope we step up and keep them alive.
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Wow Wadaj Dam looks like a paradise for birdwatchers. I haven’t done it personally but would love to. Now a days I do go to pune quite often so this place is definitely in my bucket list.
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I’m not much of a bird watcher but have couple of friends who are absolutely brilliant both in identifying and clicking birds. Am sure you must be thrilled to encounter so many species. Wadaj Dam looks like a beautiful place to camp too.
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Your avian adventures in Junnar sound captivating. I’m in awe of the diverse species you encountered and the picturesque setting of Wadaj Dam. Your photos and detailed descriptions are amazing. Thank you for sharing your passion for birdwatching and the essential gear tips – I can’t wait to share this blog with my Bird watcher cum photographer friend.
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The photographs are really beautiful. Technology is not that bad if it is used the right way. I am not a bird watcher but my nephew is. I will share this post with him.
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Thanks for the appreciation. I hope your nephew enjoys the bird pix .
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What a detailed.. wonderful post .. beautiful pictures ..I really have no idea about the names or particular species of birds..you have created an excitement to go and explore this beautiful place and learn about these beauties.
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Birds are beautiful species that dont need passport to flyhigh. Your DSLR capturing with atmost perfection adds a speciality to your post
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What lovely pictures and all the more what an amazing habitat. More than that thanks for sharing about the apps. I’m more curious about checking them out
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I love how you venture into nature, and then find the right apps to help you along 🙂 I did not know of these 2 apps but they would be so helpful for i for one do not recognise the different species at all! lovely pictures and the wadaj dam looks like a good visit and experience.
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I loved the pictures. Each picture has a story to depict. I appreciate the little tips provided by you if someone wants to visit the place for the very first time.
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I missed one more day of staying there and roaming with you to catch some amazing birds. But hopefully I will visit Junnar soon in the winter to do some beautiful treks and some great village activities. I loved the pictures and the detailed post.
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I later came to know of more water bodies, but it was time to go back. Hopefully more treks and trails for me as well in the future.
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It’s amazing how your journey blended birdwatching with the cultural richness of the Hindavi Swarajya Mahotsav, offering a holistic experience of the area.
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Your avian adventure at Wadaj Dam, Junnar, comes alive through captivating descriptions and vibrant images. From the majestic Indian Flying Foxes to the diverse bird species, your passion for nature shines. The article provides a seamless blend of personal encounters and practical information, making it a visual and informative delight. Details about the dam’s beauty, the wildlife, and cultural festivities add depth. Essential gear tips cater to potential birdwatchers, and travel information enhances the article’s utility. In 100 words, your piece skillfully captures the essence of Wadaj Dam, inviting readers to explore Maharashtra’s avian haven with enthusiasm.
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I like the idea of birdwatching around the world – however my eyes are really bad and usually I fail to spot the birds. The nature at the Wadaj dam looks beautiful and peaceful and I can see myself spending a day or two in the area. Great that you found an app to help with the bird identification. I would need this too!
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Sometimes, hearing them is also a huge cure. I hope you do enjoy more Nature walks.
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It is amazing that India has many hidden gems of nature places like Wadaj Dam where the animals feel safe enough to flock there. I especially enjoyed seeing the huge bats you photographed. Definitely a place for nature lovers and wildlife photographers!
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Wow! These are really beautiful photos. It’s been a while since we did some bird watching and I would love to go out and just spend a weekend like this. Thank you for sharing the tips for birding. It’s about time I get better lens for my camera and hopefully we get the opportunity to visit Wadaj Dam too.
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Indeed, we’re all mere spectators of the Earth and you’re so lucky to have witnessed all these species! I went to Nashik in Maharashtra last December and I’m on the lookout for more places to explore in this state. I’m definitely saving this post up. I’ve not had any avian trips so far and this really enforced my interest.
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The region is pristine and worth a visit
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This is such a cool hobby that you have! I’ve never even heard of this place, let alone most of these bird species, but it’s a pleasure to learn about it through you.
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Biodiversity is the best companion of our times.. Beautiful peaceful and inspiring ..
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We recently completed our Junnar trip and our stay was in Vedkasturi near Wadaj. Yes, the birdlife is varied here with many species.
Enjoyed reading your article
Keep going!
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that’s very nice to hear! Junnar is a beautiful place.
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