Birding in the Third week of April 2023. Mt Abu

April is a wonderful month for birding since it marks the transition from spring to summer in Mount Abu. During the year, we can see many species in breeding plumage exhibiting courting rituals. The woodland is in full bloom, and the bees, like the birds, are humming around. During this season, visitors to Mount Abu may spot many species such as the Indian blackbird, Oriental Honey buzzards, passing migrants common Rosefinch, Blythe's Warbler, Green Avadavat (The Green Munia), and many more.

I've compiled a small collection of birds photographed in the third week of April.

As it is Eid al-Fitr today, Eid ul-Fitr greetings from Mount Abu May, the spirit of peace and compassion, spread across our society. I also wish everyone good health and well-being. Eid Mubarak!

"The Blyth's Reed Warbler is an insectivorous bird of the Acrocephalidae family. It is a migratory bird that spends the winter in southern Asia and Africa after breeding in northern Asia."

Blyth's Reed Warbler - Acrocephalus dumetorum

Blyth's Reed Warbler - Acrocephalus dumetorum Mount Abu .mp4

"Measuring at approximately 20 cm and weighing 60 grams, the Brahminy Starling boasts a stunning appearance. With its lustrous blue-black head, neck, and upper body, complemented by a unique white patch on its wings, this bird truly stands out. Its underparts are a soft buff hue, and it features a bill that tapers to a fine point."

Brahminy Starling - Sturnia pagodarum

Brahminy Starling - Sturnia pagodarum

Brown Rock Chat - Oenanthe fusca

"Common Rosefinch,is a passage migrant during the spring season. Passage migrants are birds that pass through a region during their migration, but do not stay there for an extended period."

Common Rosefinch - Carpodacus erythrinus

Eurasian Sparrowhawk - Accipiter nisus

Greater Coucal - Centropus sinensis

Indian Robin - Copsychus fulicatus

Indian White-eye - Zosterops palpebrosus

Indian Yellow Tit - Machlolophus aplonotus

"Indian Yellow Tit Mount Abu common local"

Indian Yellow Tit - Machlolophus aplonotus Mount

"Laughing Dove courtship display mating plumage"

Laughing Dove - Streptopelia senegalensis

"Resident raptor with different morphs Mount Abu"

Oriental Honey-buzzard - Pernis ptilorhynchus

Oriental Magpie-Robin - Copsychus saularis

Purple Sunbird - Cinnyris asiaticus

Red-rumped Swallow - Cecropis daurica

Red-whiskered Bulbul - Pycnonotus jocosus

Spot-breasted Fantail - Rhipidura albogularis

White-breasted Waterhen - Amaurornis phoenicurus

White-throated Kingfisher - Halcyon smyrnensis

The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is also a must-visit for birdwatchers.

Birding in the second week of April 2023.

If you're a birdwatcher, don't miss out on visiting the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary. The second week of April is the perfect time for birding enthusiasts to explore the hills of Mount Abu as summer approaches. With plenty of birding hotspots and various species of birds to observe, Mount Abu is a must-visit destination for any bird lover.

Remember to bring binoculars and wear comfortable clothes and shoes for a memorable birding experience on rough terrain.

Mount Abu attracts diverse migratory bird species, including the Asian Paradise Flycatcher and Tickell's Blue Flycatcher. Birdwatchers can commonly spot the Green Munia, a vibrant bird with a unique call. Look for other species such as the Red-breasted Flycatcher, Indian Blackbird, Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher, and White-capped Bunting. I'm posting some snaps taken during this period. Hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoy clicking them.

8 April 2023.

Common Rosefinch - Carpodacus erythrinus. Passage Migrant.

Common Rosefinch - Carpodacus erythrinus.

Gray Wagtail - Motacilla cinerea

White-throated Kingfisher - Halcyon smyrnensis with prey.mp4

White-throated Kingfisher - Halcyon smyrnensis

9 April 2023.

Paschal Full Moon Mount Abu.
"HAPPY EASTER"

Common Myna - Acridotheres tristis

Common Rosefinch - Carpodacus erythrinus

House Sparrow - Passer domesticus

Indian Pond-Heron - assuming mating plumage

Indian Pond-Heron - Ardeola grayii

Oriental Magpie-Robin - Copsychus saularis

10 April 2023.

Black Kite - Milvus migrans Rare visitor.

In 1942, McCann discovered that the Black Kite species was "common" in Mount Abu. However, the sudden disappearance of this species in the area raises questions about its plausible reasons. It could be due to a decline in their food source or habitat loss, although both are doubtful. Human persecution is even less likely. Another possibility is that the abundance of Large-billed Crows in the area could have impacted the species through disease or predation, and we need further research and monitoring to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to the decline of Black Kites in the area.

Black Kite - Milvus migrans

Brahminy Starling - Sturnia pagodarum

Common Rosefinch - Carpodacus erythrinus

Indian Yellow Tit - Machlolophus aplonotus

Be tuned I will be posting on a regular basis enjoy the selection I'm posting right now.

11April 2023.

Common Rosefinch - Carpodacus erythrinus

Jungle Babbler - Turdoides striata

White-throated Kingfisher - mating display

White-throated Kingfisher - Halcyon smyrnensis

The White-throated Kingfisher is recognised for its captivating courtship behaviour, which often involves displaying its wings and making loud noises to attract a mate. In addition, the male kingfisher presents the female with food during courtship to demonstrate his ability to support her and their offspring. Observing the White-throated Kingfisher's courtship display is an impressive experience, and studying their distinct behaviours and interactions in their natural habitat is always exciting.