This November, enjoy the ongoing Avian Symphony on Mount Abu.

Birding in the second week of November 2023.

Mount Abu's captivating environment continues to attract birds in the second week of November. During Diwali, hundreds of tourists visited the hill station, creating a lively atmosphere filled with laughter and celebration. The mid-week festivities caused an increase in visitor traffic, so birders had to make changes to their excursions. Despite the rush and bustle, the refuge maintained its attraction, revealing glimpses of feathery beauties amid the Diwali craziness.

As the holiday season winds down, the last week of November provides a peaceful reprieve for anyone wanting a more calm sanctuary experience. The upcoming Rajasthan state elections on November 25 add an intriguing element to the story, with the conclusion cloaked in political uncertainty. The ebb and flow of visitor traffic against the backdrop of election expectations creates a one-of-a-kind environment that adds an element of unpredictability to this birding paradise.

This winter season presents an encouraging surprise in the bird realm: an increase in the presence of uncommon raptors. I accomplished a personal record by observing and photographing three Common Buzzards at the same time, an impressive effort for Mount Abu. The lens also recorded the majestic Bonelli's Eagle, the royal Eurasian Sparrow-hawk, and the awe-inspiring Steppe Eagle flying across the heavens. But the avian show doesn't stop there. The camera lens was trained on the secretive Eurasian Hoopoe, a rare encounter, while the rare Oriental Turtle-Dove graced the picture, adding to the thrill. The Shaheen Falcon, Rufus Tree Pie, and the harmonising duos of Laughing and Spotted Doves were among the resident species, providing a symphony of diverse avian life.

As November comes to a close, plans are being made for local area birding trips to capitalise on the quiet that follows the departure of visitors. Stay tuned for further updates on Mount Abu's avian story, and enjoy the chosen collection of birds photographed during the bright second week of November. Each frame offers a tale about nature's rich tapestry, reminding us that Mount Abu is more than simply a hill station; it's a sanctuary where every winged guest adds to the continuous drama of life in the wild.

8 Nov 2023.