An endangered Indian Skimmer (Rynchops albicollis) was recently sighted at Bhigwan near Pune by a local naturalist and wildlife photographer — a rare occurrence that has generated excitement among bird enthusiasts in the region.

On Monday morning, tour operator and wildlife photographer Sandip Nagare was birdwatching at the Kumbhargaon Bird Sanctuary near Bhigwan in Pune district when he spotted a pair of Indian Skimmers — a species listed as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. The Indian Skimmer is primarily found along the banks of the Chambal River, its known breeding habitat. During the non-breeding season, it migrates to coastal wetlands and mudflats.

Speaking with mid-day, Nagare said, “These birds are usually seen near the Chambal River, where they also nest. In 2016-17, we had sighted three Indian Skimmers here, and another individual was seen in 2022 at the same location." Nagare believes the birds may have stopped at Bhigwan as part of their passive migration.