India, a Birder’s Paradise
India is, without a doubt, one of the best places in the world to see some amazing wildlife. From imposing Bengal Tigers and Snow Leopards, to the impressive Guar and the majestic Spotted Deer, to all of the other mammals big and small – a day of wildlife watching here will rarely disappoint. For birders, it is a magnificent destination, with more than 1,000 species reported throughout this vast, highly biodiverse subcontinent. While it might be obvious that a visit to some of the country’s most famous national parks – including Ranthambore, Tadoba, or Bhandavgarh – will yield a high list of bird species, it might be surprising to learn that less than 60 kilometers from the bustling city of New Delhi, one can find some beautiful parks, as well. These green spaces abound with incredible birds and other wildlife. Sultanpur National Park is one of these must-visit destinations.
Sultanpur National Park: A Brief History
During the 19th century, the region around Sultanpur was heavily used for salt production. However, due to the rise of additional salt production sites and heavy taxes, it soon became unfeasible economically to continue production in this area. By 1923, it had all but come to a halt. Several decades passed before ornithologists and conservationists discovered and preserved this area as a bird refuge. In 1972 the area was officially protected as a bird sanctuary. In 1991 the reserve was upgraded to the status of national park. Today, it encompasses roughly 142 hectares, and provides important habitat for resident and migratory birds alike. Locals and visitors come to the park to walk the circular dirt path that skirts the lovely wetland lake. It serves as a spot for exercise, picnics, for spending time in a relaxing setting, and of course, for wildlife watching.
Some Birds of Sultanpur National Park
Located relatively close to the bustling city of New Delhi, Sultanpur is a great way to escape into nature. The park covers just over 140 hectares and is home to over 350 bird species. During migration, many species that travel along the Central Asian Flyway can be found in the forests, grasslands, scrub forests, wetlands, and other habitats found in the park. Apart from the species highlighted in the photos below, you can also find different species of lapwings, parakeets, owls, plovers, larks, minivets, ducks, geese, warblers, flycatchers, starlings, eagles, and more.
Some Mammals of Sultanpur National Park
Apart from the myriad of birds found here, there are some mammals that venture into the park on occasion. In the late afternoon, one can often see small herds of Nilgai (also known as Blue Bull) wading through the shallow waters. Northern Palm Squirrel, Golden Jackals, Sambar, and occasionally Jungle Cats have been found here, as well. Though as the areas surrounding the park become more developed, likely fewer and fewer large and medium-sized mammals will have access to this spectacular habitat.
Whether you are in India just for a few days, or several weeks, a visit to Sultanpur National Park is a wonderful way to spend a morning. In fact, if you have time, visiting once in the morning, and again in the late afternoon will provide you with different light (especially important for photography), and perhaps some different species. We usually include a visit to this lovely park as an add-on prior to the start of our Birds & Tigers or In Search of the Snow Leopard tours. Contact us to learn more.
