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Bird Watching & Nature's Aerial Ballet
Experience the rich avian biodiversity of Pavana through our eco-friendly bird hides and guided photography tours
Premier Birding Destination in the Western Ghats
Our riverside setting attracts diverse bird species year-round, with winter months bringing spectacular migratory visitors
The Glen Woods offers an unrivaled bird watching experience in the heart of the Western Ghats. Our strategic location along the Pavana River creates a diverse ecosystem that supports over 200 documented bird species, making it a paradise for both novice and experienced birders.
Eco-Friendly Bird Hides
Strategically positioned observation points for optimal wildlife viewing
Sustainable Wildlife Observation
Our discreet bird hides are thoughtfully positioned along the river, blending into the landscape to provide an unobtrusive vantage point for observing local avian life. These eco-friendly shelters, constructed from sustainable materials, allow guests to witness nature's aerial ballet without disturbing natural routines.
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Year-Round Resident Species
Our diverse resident birds provide exceptional viewing opportunities throughout the year
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White-throated Kingfisher
Halcyon smyrnensis
Large-headed, predominantly brown kingfisher with electric-blue back and wings, heavy red bill, and snow-white patch from throat through breast. Common both near and away from water; frequently seen perched on fence posts and telephone lines.
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Red-vented Bulbul
Pycnonotus cafer
A dark, sleek, medium-sized bird with a black crest and a white rump. The red color under the tail is often difficult to see. Eats fruit, flower buds, and insects. Conspicuous and sometimes gregarious.
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Purple-rumped Sunbird
Leptocoma zeylonica
A colorful sunbird; the male has a green metallic crown and shoulder patch, a dark brown body with purple rump, a purple throat, lemon-yellow underparts, and whitish flanks. Often seen hopping and hovering around flowers.
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Common Kingfisher
Alcedo atthis
Beautiful little blue-and-orange bird with a long, pointed bill. Often rather shy and inconspicuous despite bright plumage. Found along rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. Most often seen in very fast low flight as a turquoise flash over the water.
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Indian Robin
Copsychus fulicatus
A nondescript robin; males are primarily black with chestnut bottom feathers. Males also have a white shoulder patch and a relatively long tail. They are generally seen in pairs, foraging on the ground with the tail cocked up.
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Black Drongo
Dicrurus macrocercus
A small black passerine bird with a distinctive forked tail. Known for its aggressive behavior towards larger birds and its acrobatic flight patterns. Often seen perched on wires and posts in open areas.
Riverine & Aquatic Species
The river ecosystem supports a rich variety of water birds and wading species
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Indian Spot-billed Duck
Anas poecilorhyncha
A large grayish-brown duck with a diagnostic yellow-tipped black bill and a red spot at the base of the bill. In flight, note the green panel in the wing that is bordered in white. Often seen in small groups dabbling in shallow water.
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Little Egret
Egretta garzetta
An elegant white heron with a long, thin neck and sharp yellow bill. During breeding season, develops ornate plumes on the back. Often seen wading in shallow water, using its bill to catch fish and other aquatic prey.
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Grey Heron
Ardea cinerea
A large wading bird with long legs and neck. Grey and white plumage with black markings on the head and shoulders. Patient hunter that stands motionless in shallow water waiting for fish to come within striking distance.
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Little Cormorant
Microcarbo niger
An all black ducklike waterbird with a distinctive flattish head and a bill that is sharply hooked at the tip. Frequently seen swimming with its body low in the water and suddenly disappearing underwater to catch fish.
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Common Moorhen
Gallinula chloropus
Distinctive dark waterbird that resembles a cross between a duck and a chicken. Adults have a bright red bill with a yellow tip. Note big white oval patches under the tail, and white streaks along the flanks.
Winter Migratory Visitors (Oct-Mar)
Seasonal visitors that make winter the peak birding season at The Glen Woods
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Indian Pitta
Pitta brachyura
A colorful visitor with a vibrant mix of green, blue, and red, arriving in winter to escape colder northern regions. Known for its secretive nature and beautiful, melodious calls during dawn and dusk.
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Northern Pintail
Anas acuta
A graceful duck that migrates to Pavana's waterways, adding elegance to the winter landscape. Males have distinctive long pointed tails and elegant neck patterns during breeding season.
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Common Sandpiper
Actitis hypoleucos
A small wader that bobs along the riverbanks, a frequent winter guest. Known for its characteristic tail-bobbing behavior and distinctive flight pattern low over water.
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Forest Wagtail
Dendronanthus indicus
A delicate bird with a distinctive wagging tail, spotted in wooded areas near the river during the colder months. Has unique undulating flight pattern and prefers forest edges.
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Greenish Warbler
Phylloscopus trochiloides
A subtle, olive-hued songbird that enlivens the winter soundscape with its distinctive calls. Small and active, often seen flitting through the canopy in mixed feeding flocks.
Bird Photography & Observation Tips
Essential techniques for capturing stunning bird photographs and successful wildlife observation
Golden Hour Magic
Best lighting occurs during the first hour after sunrise and the last hour before sunset, providing warm, soft light perfect for bird photography.
Stay Quiet & Patient
Move slowly and avoid sudden movements. Birds are sensitive to noise and disturbance. Patience is key to capturing natural behavior.
Use Telephoto Lens
A 300mm+ telephoto lens allows you to capture detailed shots while maintaining a respectful distance from wildlife.
Respect Wildlife Distance
Maintain appropriate distance to avoid stressing birds. Use bird hides and natural cover to get closer without disturbance.
Best Time to Visit
Seasonal birding guide for optimal wildlife viewing experiences
Peak Season vs Year-Round Birding
Our riverside setting makes it a prime spot for birdwatching year-round, with the winter months (October to March) marking the peak season as migratory species join the resident population. The strategically placed hides enhance the experience, offering ideal angles and natural light for photography while keeping disturbance to a minimum.
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Experience Eco-Luxury Accommodations
Stay in thoughtfully designed spaces that blend comfort with sustainability. Each accommodation features eco-friendly materials, natural ventilation, and stunning views of our preserved landscapes.
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Garden Glade Getaways
Botanical Retreats
Simple, accessible ground-floor retreats nestled in vibrant gardens perfect for couples seeking tranquil intimacy.
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Canopy Suites
Premium Two-Story Living
Elevated luxury with sweeping river and plantation views, featuring spacious layouts ideal for families.
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River's Edge Retreats
Waterfront Serenity
Exclusive riverside rooms where gentle river sounds create nature's perfect lullaby for ultimate relaxation.
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Traveler's Eco-Nests
Adventure Lodges
Flexible, budget-friendly spaces perfect for long-term explorers and adventure seekers.
Nearby Attractions
Explore ancient heritage sites, adventure treks, and natural wonders all within easy reach of the resort.
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Bedse Caves
Tranquil Meditation Retreat
Tranquil 1st century BCE Buddhist caves with preserved prayer halls and meditation spaces carved into natural rock.
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Pavana Dam
Serene Lake Retreat
Scenic reservoir surrounded by hills, ideal for water activities, boating, nature walks, and beautiful sunset views.
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Tikona Fort
Scenic Triangle Trek
Triangle-shaped historic fort offering panoramic valley views and moderate trekking trails suitable for most fitness levels.
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Lohagad Fort
Historic Maratha Fortress
Magnificent hill fort from the 18th century, famous for its iron-strong defenses and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and Pawna Dam.
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Bhaja Caves
Ancient Buddhist Monastery
Ancient Buddhist caves from 2nd century BCE with intricate carvings, stupas, and prayer halls offering glimpses into monastic life.
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Tung Fort
Mountain Adventure Trek
Scenic mountain fort trek with breathtaking views of Sahyadri range, perfect for adventure and photography enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about bird watching at The Glen Woods
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