“Birding Bliss at the Foothills of Mount Abu: A Day with the Birds of Abu Road

Nestled in the foothills of picturesque Mount Abu, my niece Crescentia paid a surprise visit after her school’s annual sports day. With excitement in her eyes, she declared her plan to take Eddie and me on an early morning birding adventure to Abu Road on October 23, 2023. We, a couple of weathered bird enthusiasts, couldn’t have been happier. Birding was a part of our DNA, and I had the privilege of bird-watching with Cres when I went to her place during the holidays.

Right on the dot of 7 a.m., Cres arrived to whisk us away. She treated us to a hearty breakfast before we went on our exploration. Our destination? The lush grove near Madhusudhan Temple I’d captured many avian wonders in this serene locale, so expectations were high. (Check out my Madhusudhan Grove photo gallery.) This time, however, it seemed like we had misjudged the timing, as bird activity was slower. Despite that, we spotted a dozen rose-ringed parakeets, a charming pair of Indian grey hornbills, some grey-headed canary flycatchers, and a noisy colony of flying foxes.

From the grove, our birding adventure led us to one dam, but it was full of water, leaving only a handful of migrant ducks for us to admire. By noon, we headed back home for a relaxing lunch. Taking advantage of the scorching midday sun, we paused to relax and rejuvenate, getting ready for more birding.

With the day beginning to cool down, I couldn’t resist the urge to explore the area. Abu Road had a wealth of avian treasures to offer, and I couldn’t let this opportunity slip through my fingers.

Now that I’m back in Abu and winter has set in, I’m excited to share my birding larks for the last few days of October. Stay tuned, as I'll take you on a journey through the captivating world of Abu's feathered residents. There’s a lot more to discover, and I can’t wait to share it with you!”

Asian Koel - Eudynamys scolopaceus

Asian Koel - Abu Road 23 Oct 2023.

Black-winged Kite - Elanus caeruleus

Brown Rock Chat - Oenanthe fusca

Cattle Egret - Bubulcus ibis

Common Myna - Acridotheres tristis

Eurasian Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto

Eurasian Hobby - Falco subbuteo

Indian Grey Hornbill Ocyceros birostris

Indian Roller - Coracias benghalensis

Large Gray Babbler - Turdoides malcolmi

Long-tailed Shrike - Lanius schach

Pied Bushchat Saxicola caprata

Plain Prinia - Prinia inornata

Purple Sunbird - Cinnyris asiaticus

Spotted Owlet - Athene brama

Tree Pipit - Anthus trivialis

Birding in the Third Week of October: An Avian Extravaganza

When the calendar turns to October, the birding world takes on a mystical dimension, allowing fans to see one of nature's most amazing displays. This is the time of year when various bird travellers pass through India on their route to far-flung wintering habitats throughout the world. The third week of October has arrived, bringing a flying symphony of raptors, ducks, and a few delightful surprises.

Picture majestic birds like buzzards, falcons, and eagles flying in the sky, adding grandeur to our surroundings. They've made their way inside our home, and it's quite the sight. But the thrills don't stop there. Migratory ducks, albeit few this year, have made a few appearances, leaving us eagerly expecting more. Our hills come alive with the beautiful songs and vibrant colours of flycatchers and warblers.

With the days giving beautiful weather and bright sky, it's the ideal time to enjoy the splendour of the avian world. However, as the sun begins to set below the horizon, cold begins to pervade the night air. Birders visiting our region should bring their "woollies" because the thick gear is necessary for staying warm during evening treks.

October's third week is perfect for both seasoned birders and beginners to enjoy the world of birdwatching. You'll be met with new sightings and a symphony of nature's best-winged animals with each passing day. Don't miss out on your chance to see the great migration and create amazing memories in the heart of India's bird paradise.