This article delves into the winter habits and distribution patterns of Bar-headed geese (Anser indicus) in the Maharashtra region of India. The study draws on decades of observations to illuminate the migratory behaviors of these geese within the state. Bar-headed geese, renowned for their extraordinary migratory journey across the Himalayas, have been sighted in Maharashtra since the 1980s. They exhibit a preference for established water bodies, especially ancient tanks that date back over a century.

The research centers on specific locales, such as the Veer reservoir on the Nira river, the Rajewadi tank in Satara district, the Ujni reservoir, the Hipparga tank near Solapur, and various tanks around Aurangabad city. Particularly significant is the Vidarbha region in eastern Maharashtra, which emerges as a key zone for the winter migration of waterfowl. The presence of the Satpuda mountain ranges shapes the geese's migration routes, while the drainage systems—such as the Tapi river basin and the Wainganga river system—guide their movements.

Records of sightings by diverse observers during the 1990s contribute invaluable data to understanding the distribution of Bar-headed geese in Maharashtra. Notable sites like Umred tank, Sukhna reservoir, Jayakwadi, Paradgaon, Telhra, Tadoba, and others have been meticulously documented. The analysis demonstrates the relatively modest but steady presence of these geese across diverse regions in the state, spanning western Maharashtra, Marathwada, and Vidarbha.

In essence, this article offers an encompassing perspective on the winter activities and geographical distribution of Bar-headed geese in Maharashtra. It sheds light on their migratory tendencies and the environmental factors that govern their movement. The extended period of observation and insights gleaned from this research contribute significantly to our comprehension of the behaviors and presence of these remarkable migratory birds within the region.