Pune: Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary Hosts Annual Buddha Purnima Animal Census; Rain Dampens Wildlife Sightings

Bhimashankar, 14th May 2025: The annual animal census at Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary and other forest ranges in Maharashtra was conducted on the night of Buddha Purnima (12th May), drawing over 100 nature enthusiasts from across the state. This event, organized by the Maharashtra Forest Department, is a key initiative for wildlife monitoring and conservation, leveraging the bright full moon night-often called a “supermoon”-to maximize animal sightings at waterholes.

The census covered multiple forest divisions, including Bhimashankar-1, Tamhini, Supe, Nannaj, Rehekuri, Shrigonda, Mirajgaon, Bhima-2, and Karmala. In the Bhimashankar-1 division alone, around 30 nature lovers participated, stationed at strategic waterholes such as Chaura No. 1 and 2, Wajewadi, Virtale, Ghatghar, Bhatticha Raan, Shindewadi, Ughadi Kalamjai, and Bhakadevi. Participants observed wildlife from machans (raised platforms), spending the night in the forest to record animal activity.

Despite the enthusiasm, heavy rainfall during the night forced the cancellation of some activities and limited wildlife sightings. The rain, combined with lingering fog and the presence of water from earlier showers, reduced the number of animals and birds visiting the waterholes. “Due to the rain, the nature experience program had to be cancelled by the forest department. The fog on the ghats also made animal observation challenging,” noted organizers.

Still, participants managed to spot species including the Indian giant squirrel (Shekru), sambar, hare, wild boar, and barking deer. The census was held under the guidance of Deputy Conservator of Forests Tushar Chavan and Divisional Forest Officer Snehal Patil, who ensured the safety and training of all volunteers.

The Buddha Purnima census is strategically held in summer when natural water sources in the forest dry up, concentrating animal activity at remaining waterholes. This timing, coupled with the bright moonlight, offers a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to observe nocturnal behavior and contributes valuable data for conservation efforts.

Organizers emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, “Spending an entire night in the company of wildlife is a thrilling and invaluable experience for nature lovers. Humans are a part of nature, and such close encounters deepen our understanding and appreciation of the natural world.”