Bird Walk at Gangampalli Forest, Puttaparthi, Sathya Sai, Andhra Pradesh

  • Sathya Sai
  • 6 September, 2025
  • Kayala Ashok Kumar

About Gangampalli Forest

Tucked away in the arid landscapes of southern Andhra Pradesh, the Gangampalli Forest near Puttaparthi in Sathya Sai district is a hidden ecological treasure known for its unique dry deciduous habitats and cultural significance. Spread across rolling hills and scrub-covered plains, the forest forms part of the Eastern Ghats ecosystem and is home to a surprising diversity of flora and fauna adapted to its semi-arid climate. Despite its rugged terrain, Gangampalli supports a range of wildlife including jackals, hares, porcupines, and reptiles, alongside a rich birdlife that attracts birdwatchers and naturalists. Species such as peafowls, partridges, and drongos are commonly seen, while raptors like shikras and kites soar above the open canopies.
Beyond biodiversity, the forest holds cultural and ecological importance for local communities, serving as a source of fodder, fuelwood, and traditional medicine. Seasonal streams and small water bodies dot the landscape, offering critical lifelines for wildlife in the otherwise dry environment. In recent years, Gangampalli has also become a focus of conservation discussions, with an emphasis on balancing community needs and the preservation of fragile habitats. Much like a natural classroom, the forest provides opportunities for environmental education, research, and eco-tourism, allowing visitors to experience the resilience of dry forest ecosystems.

Partnered with

Bird Guide: Kayla Ashok Kumar

A software Engineer by profession and passionate to do the bird count, and observe bird behavior and guiding the communities through NGO's for conservation of birds and their role in biodiversity and also approach schools adjacents to forest areas and train about conservation of fauna.

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Gangampalli Forest

The Gangampalli Forest in Sathya Sai district harbors an impressive diversity of birdlife, reflecting the richness of its dry deciduous and scrubland habitats interspersed with water bodies. Common residents such as the Indian Peafowl, Rock Bush-Quail, Gray Francolin, and Red-vented Bulbul share space with striking aerial hunters like the Shikra, Short-toed Snake-Eagle, Crested Serpent-Eagle, and Bonelli’s Eagle. Wetland-associated species including the Lesser Whistling-Duck, Indian Spot-billed Duck, Little Grebe, and White-breasted Waterhen find refuge in seasonal ponds, highlighting the importance of small water sources in sustaining avifaunal diversity here. Colorful species such as the Asian Green Bee-eater, Blue-tailed Bee-eater, Indian Roller, and Plum-headed Parakeet add vibrancy to the landscape, while the presence of insectivores like wagtails, swallows, and prinias signals the forest’s role in maintaining ecological balance.
Equally remarkable is the mix of woodland specialists and migrants observed at Gangampalli. Species such as the Indian Gray Hornbill, Coppersmith Barbet, Black-rumped Flameback, and Yellow-crowned Woodpecker thrive in tree-rich patches, while winter visitors like the Verditer Flycatcher, Taiga Flycatcher, and Greenish Warbler underscore the forest’s value as a seasonal refuge along migratory flyways. Smaller birds including the Indian White-eye, Purple Sunbird, Common Iora, and Yellow-billed Babbler can be spotted in active flocks, while charismatic species like the Indian Paradise-Flycatcher and Rufous Treepie bring added charm to the avian assemblage.
Yellow-billed Babbler
Eurasian Collared Dove
Barn Swallow
Indian Peafowl
Laughing Dove

Rose-ringed Parakeet
Red-vented Bulbul
Indian Robin
Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
Bay-backed Shrike
Jungle Prinia
Purple Sunbird
Oriental Honey Buzzard
Asian Green Bee-eater
Plum-headed Parakeet
Common Iora
Indian White-Eye
Yellow-throated Sparrow
Lesser-whistling Duck
Red-collared Dove

Summary of Walk

A small group of enthusiastic first-timers came together for a bird walk at Gangamapalli Forest, guided by Kayala Ashok. Surrounded by the lush greenery, participants were introduced to the basics of birdwatching—how to observe, identify, and understand why birds are important indicators of the environment. The forest came alive with the calls and movements of birds, making it a perfect setting for learning and discovery.

In just a few hours, the group recorded an impressive 37 species, including Jerdon’s Leafbird, White-browed Fantail, Indian Peafowl, Oriental Honey Buzzard, Crested Serpent Eagle, Indian Grey Hornbill, Brown-capped Pygmy Woodpecker, Small Minivet, White-bellied Drongo, and the migratory Taiga Flycatcher. Adding to the excitement were unexpected encounters with a Star Tortoise and porcupine thorns. For many, it was a memorable introduction to the joy of birdwatching and the hidden treasures of Gangamapalli’s forests.

Number of Participants
0
ATAAVI Bird Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering a deeper connection between people and the avian diversity of India. Through advocacy, education and conservation efforts, we strive to increase awareness and appreciation for birds across communities.

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