Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary

Description

The Ultimate Guide to Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary: Mumbai’s Pink Paradise By Jungle Buddies Tours

Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary
Photo Credits – Souvik Kundu
Did you know that just minutes away from the hustle of Mumbai lies a hidden world painted in pink?

The Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary (TCFS) is Mumbai’s first Ramsar Site (declared on August 15, 2022) and a globally important wetland. Spanning 17 sq km between the Vashi and Airoli bridges, this sanctuary acts as the “lungs of the city” and provides a vital winter refuge for over 100,000 migratory birds escaping the harsh northern winters.

While Jungle Buddies loves exploring this habitat, the boat safaris here are exclusively managed by the Mangrove Cell of the Maharashtra Forest Department.

Here is everything you need to know to plan your visit, along with some expert tips from our team.

How to Experience the Sanctuary: The Boat Safari

The best way to get close to the flamingos is the official boat safari. These rides take you through thick mangrove forests before opening up to the vast mudflats where the birds feed.

Where to Book: The boat rides start from the Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Centre in Airoli, Navi Mumbai.
Who Runs It: These tours are managed and operated strictly by the Forest Department officials.
How to Contact: You can reach out to the Coastal Marine Biodiversity Centre directly at 9987673737 for bookings and inquiries.
Nearest Stations: Nahur & Airoli.

Jungle Buddies Expert Tips: Planning Your Visit

As wildlife professionals, we want to ensure you have the best possible sighting. Here are a few things most tourists miss:

1. The “Tide” Rule is Everything. You cannot just show up at any time! The presence of birds is strictly tide-dependent.

Low Tide: This is when the water recedes, exposing the mudflats. This is the “Golden Window” when thousands of flamingos descend to feed.
High Tide: The mudflats submerge, and the birds fly away to roost in inner mangroves or salt pans.
But boat rides can only function when the water level is high enough for the boat to manoeuvre in the creek, which is mostly during the high tide.
Tip: Always check the tide table or ask the centre for the “Low Tide” slot before booking.

2. The Best Season

November to May: The migratory season.
January to March: This is usually the peak time when the flamingos have their deepest pink plumage and the population numbers are highest.

What Will You See? (The Biodiversity)

The sanctuary is famous for the “Sea of Pink,” but it is also a haven for serious birders.

The Stars: Tens of thousands of Lesser Flamingos and the taller, whiter Greater Flamingos.
Winter Migrants: Look out for huge flocks of Black-tailed Godwits, Pied Avocets, Curlews, Whimbrels, Northern Shovelers, Garganey, and Common Teals.
Raptors: The skies are often patrolled by the Greater Spotted Eagle, Oriental Honey Buzzard, and the swift Shikra.
Mangrove Residents: Listen for the calls of the Clamorous Reed Warbler, Booted Warbler, and the elusive Lesser Whitethroat in the vegetation.

Hotspot Checklist – https://ebird.org/hotspot/L8253954

Explore More with Jungle Buddies: Beyond the Boat

While the boat ride is fantastic, it isn’t the only way to enjoy Mumbai’s birdlife. If you prefer walking trails or want to explore other birding hotspots, Jungle Buddies has you covered.

1. Join Our Weekend Bird Walks. We organise regular guided birdwatching trails in and around Mumbai, including:

Bhandup Pumping Station: An excellent alternative to Airoli, offering great sights on foot.
T.S. Chanakya & NRI Complex (Navi Mumbai): Perfect for spotting flamingos and waders without a boat.
The Grasslands: For those interested in larks, pipits, and raptors.

2. Learn with Experts Our walks are led by seasoned naturalists who help you identify species, understand bird behaviour, and learn ethical photography.

3. Upcoming Events: Want to join our next trail? Check out our https://junglebuddies.in/join-our-tours/ or follow us on social media to stay updated on our latest bird walks and nature workshops.