Bharatpur is a treat for bird lovers. The Bharatpur bird sanctuary, officially known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park.The entire park is situated over an area of approximately 29 sq.km., with awater body covering an area of approximately 11 sq. km. The uninitiated visitor gets an impression of an untamed forest right in the midst of a bustling town. Yet, that is not so. Nature lovers soon realize that, despite being located so near to a town, the natural habitat required for wildlife is well preserved. A large variety of local as well as migratory birds are to be found in the park. Depending on what the visitor is looking for, he can schedule his visit to the park. March to June is the period of nesting and breeding of local birds and July to September is the period when local migratory birds can be seen. However, if one is interested in spotting rare and migratory birds. October and February is the most favorable time. One of the rare birds sighted in the park is the Siberian Crane. These, as their name suggests, come from Siberia and travel south to avoid the severe winter. Traditionally, Bharatpur has been one of their winter homes.