Saker Falcon Sighting

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Sighting at Jayanti: The Day I Captured a Saker Falcon

As a wildlife photographer, I have been fortunate to witness many extraordinary moments in nature. Yet among all my adventures, one journey to Jayanti, arranged by Wonder Vision on November 3, 2014, remains the most unforgettable. It was around 8:30 in the morning when we were returning from an early jungle excursion. The weather was simply perfect. The golden morning sun illuminated the landscape, while a gentle breeze drifted through the forest. Our jeep was crossing the shallow waters of the Jayanti River from north to south. The sunlight reflected off the crystal-clear water, creating thousands of sparkling reflections that looked like tiny diamonds scattered across the riverbed.

I was seated at the rear of the jeep, admiring the magical scenery, when something suddenly caught my attention. A large bird of prey was circling high above the river before gradually descending toward the riverbed. Instinctively, I asked the driver to stop. Without hesitation, I jumped out of the jeep and told my friends, “Don’t wait for me—go back to Banante Resort.” With my camera in hand, I began following the magnificent raptor. For nearly half an hour, I photographed the bird as it soared gracefully through the morning sky. My final photograph was taken at exactly 8:59 a.m. Moments later, the bird turned eastward and disappeared into the horizon. As its long wings caught the rays of the young morning sun, they seemed to glow against the blue sky. It was one of the most breathtaking wildlife moments I had ever witnessed. At that time, I knew I had captured something special—but I had no idea just how extraordinary the sighting was. After careful identification and consultation with experts, it was confirmed that the bird was a Saker Falcon, one of the rarest raptors ever recorded in Eastern India. Remarkably, this became the first and only photographic and visual evidence of a Saker Falcon in the state of West Bengal. The discovery created excitement among birdwatchers and ornithologists across the country. The photographs were later featured on the cover of the prestigious ornithological journal Indian Birds (June 2015 issue). The image also won Savous Magazine’s All India Photography Contest in January 2015 and was selected as a finalist in the internationally acclaimed BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2015 competition in the United Kingdom. What began as an ordinary morning drive back from the jungle transformed into a historic wildlife encounter—one that not only enriched my life as a photographer but also contributed a significant record to the birding history of West Bengal.

Even today, whenever I think of Jayanti, I remember the sparkling river, the golden morning light, and the majestic silhouette of a Saker Falcon soaring into the eastern sky—a moment of pure magic that will stay with me forever.

Birdwatching in Dooars

Nestled at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Dooars is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Blessed with dense forests, lush grasslands, winding rivers, and rich biodiversity, this beautiful region of North Bengal offers some of the finest birdwatching opportunities in India. Home to more than 300 species of resident and migratory birds, Dooars attracts bird lovers from around the world. The region's famous wildlife destinations, including Gorumara National Park, Jaldapara National Park, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, Buxa Tiger Reserve, and Jayanti, provide excellent habitats for a remarkable variety of avian species. Visitors may spot majestic Great Hornbills, Oriental Pied Hornbills, Crested Serpent Eagles, Changeable Hawk-Eagles, Green Imperial Pigeons, Scarlet Minivets, Drongos, Woodpeckers, Barbets, and many colorful kingfishers.

The best time for birdwatching in Dooars is between October and April, when the weather remains pleasant and migratory birds arrive from distant regions. Early mornings are particularly rewarding, as the forests come alive with melodious bird calls and vibrant activity. Birdwatching in Dooars is not just about spotting rare species; it is an immersive experience that allows travelers to connect with nature in its purest form. Whether walking along forest trails, exploring riverbanks, or enjoying a jeep safari through the wilderness, every outing offers exciting opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. For beginners and experienced birders alike, Dooars promises unforgettable encounters with some of India's most fascinating birdlife. Its breathtaking landscapes, peaceful environment, and extraordinary biodiversity make it one of the premier birdwatching destinations in Eastern India.