Kabini is the perfect weekend getaway from Bangalore if you’re a birdwatcher. The pristine backwaters coupled with the swaths of forest that make up the Nagarhole National Park, host nearly 250 species of birds, plus numerous migrant species that visit in the winter.
However, there are a couple of species that make the place a special one and should not be missed when you are visiting. These birds may be found elsewhere in India, but they are especially popular sightings in Kabini. They are raptors, or birds of prey, and we think their unique personalities simply must be spoken about. When you visit our luxury resort that’s the perfect weekend getaway from Bangalore, try spotting them yourself!
Osprey
Also known as the sea-hawk, the Osprey is a common sight along Kabini’s river banks and trees in between. It is easily recognizable with its brown wings and whitish body, and white patches around the eyes.
The Osprey is a piscivore, meaning it solely relies on fish for its food. Ospreys, therefore, have a special ability; they can detect things moving underwater, while still flying in the air. They also are gifted with several physical adaptations compared to other birds of prey: Their nostrils can close while they dive into the water, they have reversible, scaled talons that aid in gripping prey, and a few other adaptations.
Sight the osprey on a river safari in Kabini early in the morning, with its loud call and an impressive wingspan, as it soars on thermals, looking for a fish to grab.
Red Earth Kabini is conveniently located at the edge of the backwaters, providing the perfect opportunity to sight both these magnificent birds of prey. And our naturalists are there to make sure you have every chance of a good sighting!
Crested Hawk Eagle
One of the bigger eagles in South India, the Crested Hawk Eagle is a bird-of-prey whose true range extends across most of the country. It is diurnal and gets its name from a row of head feathers adorning the skull. It is also known as the Changeable Hawk Eagle, and has an interesting taxonomy: There are a multitude of subspecies that are all very similar but also different, leading scientists to consider the Changeable Hawk Eagle a complex of species instead of an individual with subspecies.
You’ll see the Crested Hawk Eagle between the woods and the forests, hunting in both domains: Mainly for small mammals and reptiles. Studies also show that other birds are usually this Eagle’s preferred prey.
