Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary (Nannaj) – Habitat, Wildlife, Best Time & Nearby Places

The Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary, also known as Nannaj Sanctuary, is one of India’s most crucial conservation landscapes. Located near Solapur in Maharashtra, this sanctuary is dedicated to protecting the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB)—once widespread across India’s grasslands but now surviving in only a few fragmented pockets.

Spread across a mosaic of semi-arid grasslands, thorn forests, and agricultural fields, the sanctuary offers a rare chance to witness India’s vanishing grassland ecosystem and the wildlife that depends on it.

Wildlife of the Sanctuary

Flagship Species

• Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps)
  One of the world’s heaviest flying birds and listed as Critically Endangered. Males display spectacular courtship dances during the breeding season.

Other Grassland Wildlife

• Indian Wolf

• Blackbuck

• Chinkara

• Indian Fox

• Striped Hyena

• Jackal

• Jungle Cat

• Hare & Porcupine

Birdlife

• Montagu’s Harrier

• Pallid Harrier

• Short-toed Snake Eagle

• Sandgrouse

• Larks & Pipits

• Partridges

• Painted Sandgrouse

• Indian Courser

The sanctuary is a paradise for raptor lovers and grassland birders.

Habitats & Landscape

The sanctuary protects:

• Open grasslands (the primary habitat of GIB)

• Shrublands

• Scattered Acacia–thorn forests

• Salt pans and dry plains

These habitats support species specially adapted to India’s dry grassland biome.

Best Time to Visit

• November to March – Best for birdwatching and pleasant temperatures

• April to June – Peak breeding season of the Great Indian Bustard (viewing from a distance only)

• Monsoon (July–September) – Grasslands turn lush but wildlife visibility decreases

Things to Do

• Bustard Viewing from Watchtowers

• Birdwatching for migratory raptors

• Photography of grassland landscapes

• Nature trails with local guides

• Understanding grassland ecology & conservation

Nearby Attractions

• Solapur City – Famous for Siddheshwar Temple & Solapur Chaddar

• Great Indian Bustard Interpretation Centre, Nannaj

• Akkalkot Swami Samarth Temple

• Hipparga Lake – Birdwatching

• Tuljapur Bhavani Temple – Historic pilgrimage site

Conservation Importance

The sanctuary is one of the last refuges of the Great Indian Bustard in Maharashtra.

Key conservation values include:

• Protects critical breeding grounds for GIB

• Conserves Maharashtra’s last surviving grasslands

• Provides habitat for Indian wolves, antelopes, and grassland raptors

• Maintains ecological balance in a heavily cultivated region

• Supports conservation outreach through the Bustard Interpretation Centre

FAQ – Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary

1. Where is the Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary located?

It is located near Nannaj village, close to Solapur city in Maharashtra.

2. Can I see the Great Indian Bustard here?

GIB sightings are rare but possible, especially during early mornings in winter.

3. What is the best time to visit?

November to March offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

4. Are safaris available?

There is no jeep safari; visitors explore through watchtowers, fixed viewpoints, and guided trails.

5. Which animals live here besides the bustard?

Blackbucks, chinkaras, wolves, hyenas, foxes, and many grassland birds.

People Also Ask (PAA)

Is the Great Indian Bustard going extinct?

Yes, it is listed as Critically Endangered, with less than 200 individuals left globally.

Why are Indian grasslands important?

Grasslands support unique species like bustards, wolves, and antelopes and are vital for ecological balance.

Is photography allowed in Nannaj Sanctuary?

Yes, but visitors must follow distance guidelines to avoid disturbing wildlife.

How large is the sanctuary?

The Nannaj Bustard Sanctuary includes a network of protected grassland fragments around Solapur.

Conclusion

The Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary is not just a wildlife reserve—it is a lifeline for one of the world’s rarest birds and a powerful reminder of the fragility of India’s grassland ecosystems. Whether you’re a birder, wildlife photographer, or conservation enthusiast, a visit to Nannaj offers an unforgettable and meaningful experience.