Bird Walk at Thimmanna Nayakana Kere, Chitradurga, Karnataka
- Chitradurga
- 19 April, 2026
- Karthik M
About Thimmanna Nayakana Kere
Tucked away near Bengaluru, Thimmanna Nayakana Kere is a quiet, lesser-known lake that offers a refreshing escape into nature. Surrounded by patches of scrubland, open grass, and scattered trees, the lake forms a mosaic of wetland and dry habitats that support a surprising diversity of life. Seasonal water levels create mudflats and shallow edges—perfect for waders—while the open water attracts ducks and other waterbirds. The surrounding vegetation, including native grasses and shrubs, provides shelter for passerines and raptors, making it an excellent spot for birdwatchers looking to experience both calm observation and exciting sightings in a relatively undisturbed setting.
Like many peri-urban wetlands, Thimmanna Nayakana Kere faces increasing pressure from rapid development, waste dumping, and habitat degradation. Changes in water quality and shrinking green cover can directly impact the birds and other wildlife that depend on this ecosystem. However, such spaces also hold immense potential for conservation through community awareness and sustainable management. Protecting this lake not only helps preserve vital habitat for birds and biodiversity but also ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy and learn from these natural pockets on the city’s edge.
Partnered with
Bird Guide - Karthik M
With over 10 years of birding experience, he is also the author of Birds of Chitradurga. He is passionate about documenting birdlife and sharing his knowledge with others.
Bird walk Location
Common birds of Thimmanna Nayakana Kere
Thimmanna Nayakana Kere offers a delightful mix of dry scrub and wetland birdlife, making every visit feel dynamic and full of surprises. The rocky surroundings and open habitats are perfect for specialties like the striking Yellow-throated Bulbul and the earthy-toned Brown Rock Thrush, while flashes of green from Rose-ringed Parakeets and the rhythmic calls of Coppersmith Barbets add life to the trees. Near the water, herons—including Grey, Purple, and the elusive Black-crowned Night Heron—quietly patrol the edges, and the electric blue of a Common Kingfisher darting across the lake is always a highlight.
Adding to the diversity, birds like Common Hoopoes probe the ground, shrikes perch watchfully, and drongos dominate the skies with their agility. Bulbuls—both Red-vented and Red-whiskered—keep the landscape lively with constant calls, while the majestic Egyptian Vulture soaring overhead brings a sense of scale and drama to the scene. Together, these species showcase the unique blend of habitats at the lake, making it a rewarding destination for birders seeking both rare sightings and everyday avian charm.
Yellow-throated Bulbul
Common Kingfisher
Eurasian Hoopoe
Black Drongo
Indian Grey Hornbill
Long- Tailed Shrike
Rose-ringed Parakeet
Red-vented Bulbul
Red-whiskered Bulbul
Black-crowned Night Heron
Coppersmith Barbet
Egyptian Vulture
Asian Palm Swift
Gray-headed Swamphen
Red-wattled Lapwing
Bronze-winged Jacana
Common Sandpiper
Purple Heron
Grey Heron
Asian Openbill
Summary of Walk
The “Wings of the Fort City” bird walk at Thimmanna Nayakana Kere offered a holistic wildlife experience, beginning with a short meditation to help participants tune into natural sounds. Led by Karthik M., the group explored multiple habitats including Chowdammana Kere and Sri Ramadevara Oddu, recording over 34 species. Highlights included Painted Storks, Black-headed Ibis, Flameback Woodpeckers, and the visually striking Asian Paradise Flycatcher.
The experience extended beyond birds, with a surprise sighting of a Marsh Crocodile and discussions on reptiles, including safety awareness about India’s “Big Four” snakes. The Asian Paradise Flycatcher, with its fascinating morphing phases, emerged as the bird of the day. The walk concluded with a sense of satisfaction and deeper appreciation for the region’s biodiversity.
Number of Participants
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