“Chasing Feathers in the Rain: Birding Adventures in September 2023”

The month of September brings excitement to birders, as they expect migrating species and changing avian scene. However, the serene Mount Abu region presented a trial of patience and adaptability for birders this September.

A Month of Mist and Rain

Thunderstorms and heavy rains bombarded the beautiful town of Mount Abu, nestled in the Aravalli Range, during September 2023. Overcast skies and thundershowers characterised the entire month. For bird watchers, the foggy circumstances posed a unique challenge and an opportunity to see nature in a new light. The golden rays that frequently light both the skies and a birder’s spirit were conspicuously lacking.

Tourists swarm and birders wait.

Mount Abu remained a popular destination throughout September, despite the severe weather. Tourists came to this lush flora haven with stunning waterfalls and mist-covered hilltops. The cold weather gave a welcome respite from the sweltering July heat. Weekends, in particular, saw an influx of people eager to take in the region’s natural splendour.

A Birder’s Frustration

September was a frustrating month for me, an ardent birder. The expected influx of migrating birds was low. Only a few species made an appearance, including the Greenish Warbler, Sykes’ Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, and Eurasian Moorhen. I was fortunate enough to locate the Common Lesser Whitethroat, also known as the Greater Whitethroat (Curruca communis), resulting in a lifer for me. I don’t know if anyone has previously recorded this species in Abu.

could not find the elusive Alpine Swift, while warblers, noted for their sweet songs, were absent. Even migrating ducks hadn’t made an appearance. As I anxiously awaited these winter migrants in October, my optimism remained unshaken.

A Look at the September Avian Residents

Despite the difficulties, I could photograph a modest number of birds during September. Despite the rain, the birds of Mount Abu were determined and continued their normal routines, as shown in these images.

Bird enthusiasts on Mount Abu faced challenges in September but stayed committed. As the calendar turns to October, I hope that the winter migrants will visit this wonderful home of the gods, bringing new birding experiences and moments of pure delight for birders like me.

In the following weeks, stay tuned for updates on migrating birds and more birding tales from the picturesque Mount Abu.