Bird Walk at TS Chanakya, Navi Mumbai

Ten birders joined guide Ksheetij Pandey at TS Chanakya in Navi Mumbai on 2 October for a morning that showed just how rewarding this coastal wetland can be. The trail wound along muddy tracks and open grasslands, and with every turn the group found something new to scan, from perched birds in the scrub to waders working the margins. By the end of the walk the group had logged an impressive 48 species, a tally that kept participants smiling and checking their binoculars until the very last minute. The unexpected star of the day was the Greater Flamingo, a sight that felt especially delightful so early in the season and drew excited murmurs along the line of walkers. Northern Pintail and Glossy Ibis added to the waterbird tally, while the Yellow-throated Sparrow, a charming scrub-dwelling species, gave birders a satisfying treat in the drier patches. Ksheetij guided the group through identification tips, pointing out behaviour and habitat cues that helped even first-timers pick out birds on their own. The blend of grassland, mud and open water gave everyone plenty of variety, and the morning light made for lovely views and photographs across the wetland. Participants walked away talking about the flamingos and sharing plans to return as winter visitors begin arriving in greater numbers. It was a great experience from start to finish, and a wonderful reminder of how much birdlife thrives on the edge of the city when wetlands and grasslands are given room to breathe. Moments like these make every Ataavi walk special: curious people, a knowledgeable guide and a landscape that keeps offering surprises.