Bird Photography at Bhondsi – A Hidden Birding Hotspot in Gurgaon Outskirts

Bhondsi (often referred to locally as Bonsi) on the outskirts of Gurgaon is one of the most interesting and slightly mysterious birding locations in the Delhi NCR region. Unlike many remote wetlands or forest edges, this area has a unique balance of accessibility, safety, and rich biodiversity, making it a regular stop for bird photographers and early morning walkers.

Over multiple visits, Bhondsi has consistently surprised me with its variety of bird species and seasonal activity, especially during peak summer and migration periods.

A Safer Yet Wild Birding Environment

Compared to more isolated locations like Chandu Budhera, Bhondsi offers a relatively safer field environment because:

• It sees regular early morning walkers

• There is a nearby military training area, which adds a sense of security

• The general movement of people reduces isolation risks

However, it is still important to remain cautious and avoid venturing deep into forested areas alone, as parts of the terrain remain relatively undisturbed and dense.

For bird photographers, this makes Bhondsi an ideal middle ground—wild enough for diverse sightings, but accessible enough for safer exploration.

Why Bhondsi Is a Birding Mystery in Delhi NCR

One of the most fascinating aspects of Bhondsi is the sheer diversity of birdlife it attracts, despite being close to urban expansion.

The biggest surprise for many birders is the presence of the Indian Pitta, often referred to as one of the most visually striking birds in India due to its multi-colored plumage.

During peak summer months, the Indian Pitta can be:

• Heard from a distance due to its distinctive calls

• Spotted in shaded forest patches

• Observed near water-rich and insect-heavy zones

The bird’s nine-colored plumage and elusive behavior make it one of the most sought-after sightings in this region.

Bird Diversity at Bhondsi

Bhondsi offers a wide range of species across seasons.

Key Species Observed

• Indian Pitta (seasonal highlight species)

• Golden Orioles

• Parakeets

• Barbets (including coppersmith barbet and other species)

• Indian grey hornbill

• Flycatchers (both white morph and brown morph Indian paradise flycatchers)

• Indian roller

Birds of Prey & Nocturnal Species

• Indian eagle owl

• Spotted owlet

• Scops Owls

• Raptors

Wetland & Tree Canopy Birds

• Indian ibis species

• Small insectivorous birds in abundance during summer months

This mix of canopy, ground, and open-area species makes Bhondsi a highly dynamic birding environment.

The Ecosystem Behind the Indian Pitta Habitat

One of the most interesting ecological aspects of Bhondsi is the micro-habitat that supports the Indian Pitta population.

Near certain temple premises and surrounding areas, there is a Gaushala (cow shelter), where:

• Cattle are housed and maintained

• Cow dung is collected and processed into manure

• Organic waste attracts a high concentration of insects

This insect-rich environment becomes a natural feeding ground for insectivorous birds like the Indian Pitta, which explains its seasonal presence in the region.

It is a clear example of how human-managed ecosystems can unintentionally support biodiversity.

Field Experience & Birding Community

Bhondsi has also been an important location for me personally in terms of networking and field experience.

It is here that I first had the opportunity to meet Joji Francis, Imaging Head at Nikon India, which was a memorable milestone in my photography journey.

Over multiple visits, I have also explored Bhondsi alongside experienced birders such as:

• Arun Kumar Shakya

• Rajesh

• Other local birding enthusiasts

These shared field experiences have helped improve species identification, field awareness, and photography techniques in natural environments.

Photography Experience at Bhondsi

From a photography perspective, Bhondsi offers:

• Excellent opportunities for bird-in-flight shots

• Dense canopy compositions for forest birds

• Natural light filtering through trees

• Behavioral bird photography during feeding and calling

However, the dense vegetation and unpredictable bird movement also require:

• Patience

• Strong listening skills (especially for Pitta calls)

• Fast reaction timing

• Long-lens precision shooting

It is a location where sound often guides the photographer more than sight.

Ethics & Conservation Challenges in Bird Photography

While Bhondsi is a rich birding location, one of the growing concerns in recent years has been ethical disturbance caused by some visiting birders and photographers.

A few key issues observed include:

• Use of artificial bird calls or loudspeakers to attract birds

• Disturbance of natural mating and territorial behavior

• Attempting to get excessively close to nesting sites

This has become particularly concerning for sensitive species like the Indian paradise flycatcher, whose nests are often:

• Relatively fragile

• Positioned closer to ground level or low branches

• Easily disturbed by human interference

There have been multiple instances where nests were accidentally damaged or fell due to people trying to approach too closely for photographs.

Such practices not only harm individual breeding cycles but can also negatively impact local populations over time.

This is one of the reasons why most wildlife photography competitions and conservation-led platforms—such as major nature photography awards and ethical wildlife organizations—strictly discourage or disqualify nesting shots that involve disturbance or unethical proximity.

Responsible bird photography is therefore not just about capturing images, but also about ensuring minimal impact on wildlife behavior and habitats.

A Hidden Gem of Delhi NCR Birding

What makes Bhondsi truly special is how it remains relatively unknown despite its rich biodiversity.

It is:

• Close to urban Gurgaon

• Easily accessible compared to deep forest reserves

• Rich in seasonal migratory and resident bird species

• Balanced between safety and wilderness

For bird photographers in Delhi NCR, it offers a rare combination of convenience and ecological richness.

Final Thoughts

Bhondsi has consistently been one of the most rewarding birding locations in my journey across Delhi NCR.

From the stunning Indian Pitta to vibrant orioles, flycatchers, owls, and hornbills, the diversity of species makes every visit unpredictable and exciting.

At the same time, its mix of accessibility and natural cover makes it a location that is both safe and immersive when approached responsibly.

Equally important, it also highlights the need for ethical birding practices, ensuring that photography and conservation always move together rather than in conflict.

For me, Bhondsi represents both the beauty of hidden ecosystems within urban landscapes and the responsibility that comes with documenting them.