The Global Bird Fair, one of the world’s leading bird fairs, saw the active participation of several prominent tour operators from India and the UK, highlighting the country’s thriving bird tourism industry. The annual event at Rutland Water in the UK was held from 14-17 July this year.
The fair showcased a diverse range of exhibitors across various sectors, including conservation organisations, tour operators, art, media, photography, books, optical equipment, nature tourism, and more. This year’s Global Bird Fair attracted over 270 companies from Azerbaijan, India, Turkiye, Great Britain, Cyprus, Greece, Malta, Portugal, Chile, Ecuador, Colombia, and other nations. The event serves as a significant international platform to promote ornithological tourism and ecotourism.
Among the participants, a substantial group of tour operators from India and the UK made their presence felt, demonstrating their dedication to the industry. These specialised bird tour operators have been attending the Global Bird Fair for up to two decades, utilising the event as a vital opportunity to network, stay updated on new trends, meet clients, and showcase their offerings. Some of these operators receive nearly 50% of their business enquiries through the Global Bird Fair.
According to provisional data from the Bureau of Immigration, the number of Foreign Tourist Arrivals during January to April 2023 has reached 79 per cent of the FTAs recorded during the same period in 2019. The Ministry of Tourism is striving to position India as a top tourism destination in key markets, said Union Minister of Tourism, G.Kishan Reddy.
Some prominent tour operators promoting bird tourism to India were All India Birding Tours, Bespoke India Travel, Bluetail Birding, Enchanted India, Heritage Expeditions, Birdtour Asia Limited, Naturetrek, VIGT India, and Wildfoot Travel. The Bagh Wildlife Resorts were there to promote bird tourism in Bharatpur and Kanha National Park. Despite the challenges posed by increased living costs in the UK, the enthusiasm of birdwatching enthusiasts remains unwavering, as they continue to prioritize birding experiences in their travel plans.
India, ranked 9th by Birdlife International in terms of bird species diversity, is home to approximately 1,300 bird species, including 78 endemic species. The Indian avifauna encompasses 26 orders, 113 families,and 485 genera.
India’s diverse countryside offers a treasure trove for birdwatchers, featuring around 150 common species such as the House Sparrow, Indian Myna, Red-vented Bulbul, Black Drongo, White-breasted Kingfisher, Black Kite, Brahminy Kite, Honey Buzzard, Shikra, and Egyptian Vulture. To cater to birding enthusiasts, tour operators often curate popular itineraries covering destinations such as Bharatpur, Ranthambore, Corbett, Thattekad, Northeast India, and the scenic Andaman Islands.
The prime time for birding in India typically falls between October and April when migratory birds from Europe and Asia join the resident species. The period from November to March is particularly favoured due to pleasant weather conditions across most regions. However, India’s biogeographic diversity ensures year-round birding opportunities, including high-altitude areas in the Himalayas, Kashmir, and Ladakh, known for breeding specialities and summer migrants between May and September.
In a workshop organised by Tourism for Life Kerala and TOFTigers, the tour operators from Kerala and Tamil Nadu gathered to gain insights into sustainable tourism practices and certifications. The workshop provided a fresh perspective on sustainability, going beyond conventional definitions and the session highlighted the importance of incorporating sustainable practices in tourism operations.
While Northeast India has emerged as an enticing birding destination, its challenging infrastructure has piqued the interest of intrepid travelers and birdwatchers alike. Despite these obstacles, the allure of Northeast India’s avian treasures continues to captivate enthusiasts.
During the Global Bird Fair, Mr. Peter Lobo from All India Birding Tours shared insights into the diverse bird species found in Northeast India, while Vivek Menon spoke about conservation projects focusing on Sarus Cranes, Amur Falcons, and other key species. Arjun Sinsinwar, COO, of Exotic Heritage Group highlighted the rich biodiversity encountered during a voyage across the Sundarbans.
The Global Bird Fair also emphasises its commitment to conservation. Last year, the organisers successfully raised Euro 100,000 to support the revival of La Janda, a region in southern Spain renowned for its rich avifauna.
The participation of major Indian tour operators in the Global Bird Fair underscores their dedication to promoting bird tourism and showcasing India’s remarkable avian diversity to a global audience. Their presence at this prestigious event further solidifies India’s position as a premier destination for birdwatching enthusiasts worldwide.
