Bird Walk at Thakurtal, Madan Mahal Hills, Jabalpur, MP

  • Jabalpur
  • 11 July, 2026
  • Siddharth Dixit and MP Tourism

About Madan Mahal Hills

Rising dramatically above the cityscape of Jabalpur, the Madan Mahal Hills form a rugged, rocky outcrop that blends history with wild beauty. Dominated by ancient granite formations and crowned by the iconic Madan Mahal Fort, this landscape reflects the dry deciduous ecology of central India. Sparse woodlands of neem, banyan, and palash cling to the slopes, interspersed with scrub and grassland patches that support a surprising diversity of life. Reptiles bask on sunlit rocks, butterflies drift through flowering shrubs, and the terrain offers ideal vantage points for birds of prey and open-country species, making it a fascinating urban wilderness for exploration.
For birders, Madan Mahal Hills present a dynamic mix of habitats—rocky cliffs, open skies, and scattered vegetation—each attracting its own set of species. Early mornings echo with bird calls as drongos, babblers, and parakeets become active, while raptors glide effortlessly on rising thermals above the hills. Yet, this unique habitat faces growing pressures from urban expansion, tourism-related disturbance, littering, and habitat degradation. Without mindful management, these fragile ecosystems risk losing their ecological richness. Conserving Madan Mahal Hills through responsible tourism, habitat protection, and local awareness can ensure that this historic landscape continues to serve as both a natural refuge and a window into the wild heart of central India.

Bird Guide: Siddharth Dixit

He is a wildlife biologist based in Madhya Pradesh with 10+ years of experience in birding. Along with hands-on experience working with snakes and a deep passion for birding. He is currently engaged in research and fieldwork on wild elephants, bringing over 1.5 years of dedicated experience to understanding and conserving India’s megafauna.

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Madan Mahal Hills

The birdlife around Madan Mahal Hills adds a lively rhythm to its rugged terrain, where open skies, rocky slopes, and scattered vegetation come alive with movement and sound. The ever-alert Black Drongo perches prominently, darting out to catch insects, while the elegant Indian Paradise Flycatcher brings flashes of grace to shaded patches. Ground and scrub habitats host species like the Indian Robin, Ashy Prinia, and the melodious Oriental Magpie Robin, while the striking Indian Roller adds bursts of colour in flight. As dusk approaches, the soft calls of the Spotted Owlet echo through rocky crevices, giving the hills a quiet, mysterious charm. Water edges and nearby wetlands further enrich this avian diversity, attracting species like the Lesser Whistling Duck, Cotton Pygmy Goose, and the distinctive Indian Openbill. Delicate birds such as the Purple Sunbird, Strawberry Finch, Indian Silverbill, and Scaly-breasted Munia add charm to grassy patches, while familiar species like the Spotted Dove, Laughing Dove, Pied Starling, Brahminy Starling, and Indian Pond Heron complete this vibrant bird community—making every visit a rewarding experience for birders and nature lovers alike.
Black Drongo
Indian Paradise Flycatcher
Spotted Owlet
Spotted Dove
Laughing Dove

Purple Sunbird
Cotton Pygmy Goose
Indian Robin
Indian Roller
Oriental Magpie Robin
Indian Pond Heron
Ashy Prinia
Blue Rock Thrush
Pied Starling
Brahminy Starling
Indian Silverbill
Scaly-breasted Munia
Asian Openbill
Red Avadavat
Lesser Whistling Duck

Summary of Walk

Nine participants explored the scenic landscapes of Madan Mahal Hills, where rocky outcrops, scrub forests, and seasonal wetlands create a unique habitat supporting a diverse range of birds and wildlife. The walk recorded 22 bird species, offering participants an enjoyable blend of birdwatching, wildlife observation, and discussions about the ecological significance of the area. The varied terrain kept everyone engaged as birds appeared across the hillsides, trees, and nearby water bodies.

Highlights included beautiful sightings of the Jacobin Cuckoo, Purple Swamphen, Golden Oriole, Painted Stork, and Blue Rock Thrush, each adding colour and excitement to the morning. An unexpected bonus came when participants encountered two juvenile snakes—an Indian Cobra and a Common Sand Boa—which became major talking points and highlighted the area’s rich biodiversity beyond birds. The combination of excellent avian sightings and fascinating reptile encounters made this a memorable and educational outing for everyone.

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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