On a Wing: Dhanauri Wetland, a Birdwatcher’s Wonderland

The year 2013 is forever etched in my memory as it was the year in which there was a monumental discovery, of a small wetland in Greater Noida, within the Delhi NCR. The Dhanauri wetland is just 11 kilometres from the Buddh International Circuit, and had somehow managed to stay off regular maps. This place is now famous for its population of birds of prey. Spotting a peregrine falcon or a greater spotted eagle has never been easier in the winter. The presence of such varied raptors indicates the availability of a substantial prey-base, as different bird predators have different prey requirements.

Dhanauri wetland seems to have perfected the balancing act of maintaining a healthy ecosystem. In every season, this wetland has rich avifauna as well as mammals like the nilgai, jackals, and two different types of mongooses. A limited spread of typha reeds around the wetland also support reed birds like weavers, paddyfield warblers, Blythe’s reed warbler, ashy prinia, and even the ever-elusive water rail. Unaware of their alluring beauty, the pheasant-tailed jacanas walk the marshes of Dhanauri.

The wetland’s shallow shimmering waters attract a plethora of migratory birds that winter here with no imminent threat other than possible attacks by birds of prey or animals like jackals and mongooses. The wintering ducks like northern shovelers, common teal, and others are seen in the hundreds, while waders like common ruffs paint the sky white with their intriguing zigzag movements.

Besides birds, the wetland also provides shelter to several reptiles like the rat snake, checkered keelback, and monitor lizard, which help maintain and preserve the delicate ecosystem. Reeds and agricultural fields help them stay camouflaged, and give them the privacy that they need.

What makes Dhanauri wetland and its surrounding area really special is that there is a significant population of the tallest flying birds in the world, the sarus crane. At nearly six feet in height, this majestic bird is a very common sight in and around the area. During the summer months (Apr-Aug), visitors may witness the mating ritual dance of the males, where they bow in to the females and jump high up in the air to woo them. It is possible to see over 50-60 sarus cranes in a day during this season. These birds feed on small birds, snakes, lizards, as well as grains in the fields ploughed by villagers. Farmers never object to their feeding, as they hold these birds in high regard and consider them a good omen, which helps them thrive here.

Dhanauri’s undisturbed environment is probably the reason some uncommon birds also come here. Three years ago, to the delight of birdwatchers, a great bittern visited Delhi NCR. It was a rare sighting for the region. Bitterns are relatively reclusive, but this individual spread much joy among birdwatchers from in and out of the city, as it displayed unimaginably bold behaviour, contrary to the general behaviour of the species. Birdwatchers normally have to wait for hours to see this bird, even when they know it is around, but this particular bittern, nicknamed Bittu for a reason, was not shy at all and delighted viewers.

It is essential to preserve Dhanauri’s richness and biodiversity. Wetlands are important and yet often overlooked. Being a healthy wetland ecosystem, Dhanauri wetland also contributes to the groundwater recharge of the region, which helps the community sustain its agricultural practices. From being relatively unknown less than a decade ago, Dhanauri’s importance is now well recognised by both the birdwatching community and government authorities, who have accorded it some protection. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking to explore an offbeat location in Delhi NCR.