Witnessing Nature’s Ebb and Flow: Reflections on Birdwatching at Mount Abu

Greetings, fellow nature enthusiasts! As committed, I’m here to share the highlights of my recent birding trips, diving into the colourful avian world surrounding our lovely mountain resort Mount Abu.

Day one of February 2024 began with a mix of enthusiasm and sorrow as I set out on my birding adventure. The noticeable decline in migrating water birds over time eased the excitement of seeing them up close. I couldn’t help but remember a decade ago, when the sky was teeming with wild ducks, producing a scene that moved the spirit. However, recent years have shown a contrasting picture: declining numbers and a sense of loss.

This season, the number of winter tourists has decreased, reflecting a pattern that may repeat throughout our state of Rajasthan. The quantity of water this year, while beneficial in many respects, may have contributed to the drop. However, I have faith that bird populations will bounce back through continued conservation efforts and passing time. Hope springs eternal, and I am positive that next year will bring an abundance of bird pleasures to our sky.

As the first week of February progressed, I found myself beneath the canopy of cloudy skies, which did not bode well for birdwatchers like myself. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, I persevered, equipped with my camera and great excitement. Even if the encounters were less than I had planned, I could gather a stunning collection of images showing both migrating marvels and our cherished local species.

I invite you to accompany me on a visual voyage across Mount Abu’s bird domain to share the beauty of nature. Let us celebrate these flying creatures’ resilience and retell our commitment to protecting their habitats for future generations. Let us all respect and conserve the enchanting biodiversity that surrounds us, since doing so ensures not just the survival of our feathery companions, but also the captivating tapestry of life that nourishes us all.

Stay tuned for more stories from the field, and until next time, keep your eyes on the skies and your hearts open to nature’s marvels!

The bird that took centre stage in the first week of Feb 2024

"Indian Pond-Heron - Ardeola grayii, a life and death struggle against being ensnared by a tossed flag into the duck pond.".

Indian Pond-Heron - Ardeola grayii

A Heroic Story of Survival and Freedom.Mount Abu.

Indian Pond-Heron - Ardeola grayii

"Black-winged Stilt an agitated fly over a Indian Pond Heron struggle for freedom in the water below."

Black-winged Stilt - Himantopus himantopus

Common Pochard - Aythya ferina

Eurasian Coot - Fulica atra

Eurasian Moorhen - Gallinula chloropus

Gadwall - Mareca strepera

"A collage of the Northern Shoveler, showcasing these large ducks gracing the Mount Abu duck pond."

Northern Shoveler - Spatula clypeata Feb 2024 Mt Abu.

Northern Pintail - Anas acuta Feb 2024 Mt Abu.mp4

Green Sandpiper - Tringa ochropus

White-capped Bunting - Emberiza stewarti

"The green avadavat, known as the green munia (Amandava formosa), is an Estrildid finch with a green and yellow body, a vivid red beak, and black "zebra stripes" on its sides. They are indigenous to Mount Abu.The photograph depicts a bird on a forest walk."

Green Avadavat - Sporaeginthus formosus

While birding in Abu and hoping to observe the Green Munia, keep a lookout along the jungle pathways that lead to tiny villages and scrubby regions where these beautiful birds are frequently seen. With luck, you may come across large groups of 20 to 50 birds.

Ashy Drongo - Dicrurus leucophaeus

Ashy Prinia - Prinia socialis

Barn Swallow - Hirundo rustica

Black Redstart - Phoenicurus ochruros Feb 2024 Mt Abu.m4v

Brown Rock Chat - Oenanthe fusca

Common Buzzard - Buteo buteo

Common Rosefinch - Carpodacus erythrinus

Eurasian Crag-Martin - Ptyonoprogne rupestris

"A Grey Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea) perches on a cable above a running stream, displaying its unique grey plumage and graceful posture."

Gray Wagtail - Motacilla cinerea

Great Egret - Ardea alba

Lesser Whitethroat - Sylvia curruca

Long-tailed Shrike - Lanius schach

Oriental Turtle-Dove - Streptopelia orientalis

" Oriental Turtle-Doves (Streptopelia orientalis), a rare sight, perches gracefully on a cable. Its velvety brown plumage and distinguishing patterns are evident, bringing a touch of elegance to the village environment."

Oriental Turtle-Dove - Streptopelia orientalis

"A Peregrine Falcon (Shaheen), scientifically known as Falco peregrinus, perched on a radio tower, characterised by its sleek, grayish-brown feathers and powerful wings."

Peregrine Falcon (Shaheen) Falco peregrinus

Red-vented Bulbul - Pycnonotus cafer

Rose-ringed Parakeet - Psittacula krameri

Spot-breasted Fantail - Rhipidura albogularis

Spotted Dove - Streptopelia chinensis

On February 7th, 2024, I had the privilege of attending a historic event - the inaugural Bird Festival, which was organised by the vibrant DPO Vijay Pal Singh. The lovely Mahadev Temple, which overlooks our tiny Duck Pond, provided an ideal location. As I arrived, I couldn’t help but notice the buzz of activity: automobiles lined up as people gathered for the festivities.

Despite the disturbance, I could sneak a time for birding on my way in, though I wished I had indulged more. Both Aubites and distinguished visitors attended the ceremony, which began on time. I'm delighted to share more information about this exceptional event in the coming days, including insights from the invitation and a complete programme. Remain tuned for a closer look at this intriguing topic!