Bird Walk at Timbi Lake, Vadodara, Gujarat
- Vadodara
- 12 October, 2025
- Naiya Patel
About Timbi Lake
Timbi Lake (in Waghodia taluka, near Vadodara) is a man-made/modified wetland / lake that also serves as a habitat for resident and migratory birds. Each year over 262 species of birds visit the lake, including waterfowl, migratory ducks, storks, and various terrestrial and water birds. It has both breeding and nesting habitat functions (for species like Asian openbill, Baya weavers, etc.) and is surrounded by agricultural lands, village settlements, and patches of natural vegetation. The lake thus acts as an oasis in a more managed / human-dominated landscape, providing water, food resources, shelter.
Conservation concerns include disturbance from nearby human activity, pollution or eutrophication, changes in water levels (depending on rainfall and irrigation demands), and habitat degradation due to encroachment or changes in land use. Keeping buffer vegetation, maintaining water quality, securing nesting zones, controlling human disturbance, monitoring migratory bird populations, and possibly developing community-based conservation are all important to preserve its ecological value.
Partnered with
Bird Guide: Naiya Patel
As her name suggests, She is sailing through life's waves. Exploring and unwinding the new chapters of life.
Bird walk Location
Common birds of Timbi Lake
Timbi Lake, located near Vadodara in Gujarat, is a thriving wetland ecosystem that has recorded an impressive 262 bird species, making it one of the most productive birding sites in the region. Its mosaic of open water, reed beds, and agricultural fringes provides diverse habitats that attract both resident and migratory birds. The lake is often alive with Lesser Whistling Ducks, Indian Spot-billed Ducks, and the occasional Knob-billed Duck, while elegant Glossy Ibises, Black-headed Ibises, and Asian Openbills forage along the shallows. Waders such as Black-winged Stilts, Common Sandpipers, and Red-wattled Lapwings are regularly observed, while the River Tern adds a graceful presence skimming across the water surface. Raptors like the Osprey, Western Marsh Harrier, and Black Kite indicate a healthy prey base, while Cormorants, Egrets, and Herons—including Purple Heron and Intermediate Egret—contribute to the lake’s dynamic food web.
The scrublands and open fields around Timbi Lake are equally rich in birdlife, hosting a colorful array of smaller species. The Laughing Dove, Eurasian Collared Dove, Gray Francolin, and Rock Bush-Quail are common ground dwellers, while Bee-eaters, Shrikes, and Drongos fill the air with activity. Perching birds such as the Red-vented Bulbul, White-eared Bulbul, Ashy Prinia, and Common Babbler thrive in the surrounding vegetation, accompanied by Baya Weavers, Black-breasted Weavers, and Indian Silverbills weaving intricate nests during the breeding season. Seasonal migrants like the Rosy Starling, Siberian Stonechat, and Western Yellow Wagtail add a burst of movement and color in winter. With its combination of aquatic and terrestrial habitats, Timbi Lake is not just a haven for birds but also a vital stopover for migratory species traveling along the Central Asian Flyway, underscoring its immense ecological and conservation importance in Gujarat.
Baya Weaver
Blue-tailed Bee-eater
Black-headed Ibis
Red-wattled Lapwing
Little Cormorant
Asian Green Bee-eater
White-throated Kingfisher
River Tern
Eastern Cattle Egret
Rose-ringed Parakeet
Indian Pond-Heron
Black Kite
Purple Heron
Grey Heron
Black Drongo
Rosy Starling
Scaly-breasted Munia
Grey Francolin
Paddyfield Pipit
Black-winged Stilt
Summary of Walk
A refreshing bird walk was held at Timbi Lake, Vadodara, led by Naiya, bringing together 29 enthusiastic participants with cameras and binoculars in hand. The group comprised people of all ages — from curious young minds to retired nature lovers — united by their passion for birds and the outdoors.
As the morning light spread across the lake, participants explored the vibrant wetland habitat, observing its avian residents and learning the art of bird identification. Naiya guided the group through the basics of birdwatching, highlighting key identification features, behavior, and fascinating stories behind each species.
The walk turned into a true celebration of nature — a perfect start to the day filled with learning, connection, and appreciation for the wild beauty around Timbi Lake.
Number of Participants
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