KGF: The historic gold mining region of KGF, known for its quartz-mixed red soil, has become an unexpected hotspot for bird watchers seeking glimpses of European Bee-eaters, drawing enthusiasts from various regions equipped with sophisticated photography gear.
Taking advantage of the Gandhi Jayanti holiday, numerous wildlife photographers and bird enthusiasts arrived in both cars and motorcycles to capture these colourful visitors. Observers were seen patiently waiting to photograph the birds perched on electric wires and other vantage points across the area.
A woman who travelled from Mumbai was spotted teaching her daughter about the birds’ behaviour patterns, while several other families explored the hills and slopes in search of these seasonal visitors.
According to bird photography expert Shankar, European Bee-eaters typically prefer open scrubland areas. These birds migrate to India during winter to escape the harsh European climate. They feed on small insects and frequently change their habitat. “Recently, they have chosen the KGF region as their preferred location,” he explained.
Gurudutt, an amateur photographer from Bengaluru, noted that these birds were previously common in the outskirts of Bangalore. However, due to increasing vehicle traffic and air pollution, they have now relocated to less disturbed areas. “These attractively coloured birds stay here briefly before moving to Africa via Gujarat, eventually returning to Europe,” he added.
The birds can often be spotted near the Bethamangala reservoir, BGML area (known for its blackbuck population), and around Isandra Mittur village. A senior photographer cautioned that any future environmental changes in the area might cause these birds to seek alternative habitats.
Industrial Development Poses Challenge
Most of the former gold mining area has been allocated to the Industrial Development Board. Recent clearing of eucalyptus trees planted by BGML and BEML has forced the Bee-eaters to adapt, now seeking refuge in the remaining scattered eucalyptus trees.
The presence of these migratory birds has not only created a new attraction for wildlife enthusiasts but also highlights the delicate balance between development and wildlife habitat preservation in the region.
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