Grasslands of Saswad- A Bird Watcher’s Delight with Jungle Buddies Tours

Our recent birdwatching expedition to the Saswad grasslands near Pune, expertly guided by Jungle Buddies, was an unforgettable journey into a hidden gem of Maharashtra’s wildlife. Seven enthusiastic birders embarked on this two-day exploration, eager to discover the rich diversity this unique habitat offers, all thanks to the expert planning and guidance of Jungle Buddies.

Just a short drive from Pune, Saswad’s vast, open grasslands are dotted with rocky outcrops and patches of thorny scrub. This varied landscape creates the perfect environment for various grassland and scrubland birds, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers. The region boasts significant populations of raptors, songbirds (passerines), and even some migratory visitors, creating a vibrant ecosystem teeming with avian life.

Our Jungle Buddies Birding Expert Mr Rajesh Poojary. ensured a seamless and enriching experience, helping spot exceptional species that set the tone for the rest of the trip. The elusive Broad-tailed Grassbird was a thrilling spot with its distinctive calls and signature broad tail. We were also delighted to observe a nesting pair of White-bellied Minivets, their bright plumage contrasting beautifully against the dry grasses. The rocky areas revealed Striolated Bunting and Crested Bunting, while the day’s climax came with the sighting of a pair of Bonelli’s Eagles, their crops full after a likely heavy meal.

The second day brought its own set of unforgettable experiences, thanks to Jungle Buddies Tours’ expert knowledge of the terrain and species. We were greeted by the melodious calls of Rain Quails, followed by a majestic Tawny Eagle perched on the rocky terrain. Two cuckoo species, the Grey-bellied Cuckoo and Common Hawk Cuckoo, made several appearances, adding to the diversity of our sightings. We also spotted a pair of Short-toed Snake Eagles and the Yellow-wattled Lapwing, with its characteristic calls resonating across the fields. A delightful surprise was the sighting of Indian Gazelles roaming the grasslands, a reminder of the rich fauna sharing this habitat with the avian species.

Trip Report: https://ebird.org/tripreport/269813

As our trip concluded, the Saswad grasslands provided us with numerous memorable moments, from the excitement of spotting rare species to the simple pleasure of observing everyday bird life. With hearts full of joy and minds enriched with knowledge, we returned, already looking forward to our next adventure in the wild with Jungle Buddies Tours.