Birding Adventures: Exploring Abu Road in April 2024.

The second week of April delivered unexpected joys to my door as an invitation from my niece, Crescentia. It was a casual Saturday evening, and as we sat in the garden, we could hear the quiet hum of bees and birds chirping. Crescentia had just returned from a school conference, and her unexpected declaration altered the course of my preparations.

“Uncle, pack your suitcase,” she said with a malicious twinkle in her eye. “you’re coming down to Abu Road for a few days. We missed you and Aunty around Christmas, so it’s about time you paid us a visit!“Jennifer, my daughter, joined in with equal passion, arguing that it was time for me to take a break and that they would not allow me to leave until they spoiled me.”

Although I had missed the winter birding season, the promise of discovering the avian delights of Abu Road was too appealing to pass up. Crescentia and I couldn’t resist doing some impromptu bird-watching on the way down. Luck was on our side as we spotted the elusive Cinereous Tit and the beautiful Common Wood shrike along the route.

The following week was nothing short of wonderful. I spent my mornings and evenings birdwatching, immersing myself in the tranquil environs of Abu Road. After school, Crescentia joined me for drives throughout the neighbourhood, eager to learn about the feathered creatures who call this home.

We revisited familiar sites, each time discovering fresh avian marvels. With most migratory leaving for the season, we concentrated on the local wildlife, capturing avian grace and beauty images. The Asian koels’ beautiful calls and the Shikra’s regal presence were reminders of nature’s complex tapestry.

I invite you to appreciate the images taken between April 7th and 14th, 2024. All shot tells a unique narrative, providing a glimpse into the rich world of Abu Road’s avifauna at this wonderful time of year. Join me on this visual trip through April as we enjoy the joys of birdwatching in Abu Road, Rajasthan.

Bird of the week.

Crested Bunting - Emberiza lathami

7 April 2024

Great Egret - Ardea alba

Little Egret - Egretta garzetta

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea

Shikra - Accipiter badius

Spotted Owlet - Athene brama

Yellow-throated Sparrow (Gymnoris xanthocollis)

8 April 2021

A Day Among Nature’s Giants: Exploring Madhusudhan Temple Grove.

Crescentia and I spent the evening of April 8th exploring the woodland near Madhusudhan Temple. Sadly, the sight of some towering trees being sawed off was a sharp reminder of our environmental challenges. Despite this, we went in, recalling the area’s abundant bird life in the winter. Although quieter now, we were delighted to witness the Coppersmith Barbet, Indian Grey Hornbill, Spotted Owlets, and the festive Yellow-footed Green Pigeon. The flying fox colony appeared to have multiplied, with their active presence ringing throughout the woodland.

Enjoy the bird collection I’ve posted from this location, which illustrates nature’s perseverance in the face of change. Despite the hurdles, Madhusudhan Temple Grove is a refuge worth cherishing.