Garden-Yard and Hillside Birding in July 2024

July in Mt. Abu is a fascinating time for bird enthusiasts. The first two weeks offer a unique blend of anticipation and beauty, as the region prepares for the monsoon season. By the second week of July, the monsoons feel their presence. However, this year, the rains seem to take their time.

According to the Hindu calendar, the Shravan season this year begins on July 22nd. This suggests that the monsoon will become active towards the end of July, with August expected to bring the full force of the rains. These rains are crucial, as they replenish our forests and ensure that our small reservoirs overflow, providing much-needed water for the region. Mt. Abu’s water supply relies on the monsoons, making this period significant.

I expect to photograph some of Mt. Abu’s most captivating avian residents during this time. With its eye-catching black and white plumage, the Pied Cuckoo serves as a monsoon harbinger. With its melodious song, the Indian Blackbird brings a touch of serenity to the lush landscape. On my watch list are the vibrant Indian Golden Oriole, the elusive Brain-Fever Bird, and the elegant Indian Paradise Flycatcher.

Nesting activities are in full swing, too. The munia, Silver Bill, and Scaly-breasted Munia are busy building their nests, creating a bustling atmosphere in the gardens and hillsides. The delightful birding experience in Abu includes the sight of the Green Munia, a charming little bird, foraging in various parts.

As we wait for the monsoons to arrive in full force, these past weeks of July provide an excellent opportunity to observe and photograph these beautiful birds in their natural habitat. Here’s hoping for a bountiful monsoon season that brings life and vibrancy to Mt. Abu.

Bird of the Fortnight

White-breasted Waterhen - Amaurornis phoenicurus

Bonelli's Eagle (Aquila fasciata)

"Brown-headed Barbet, sitting on a branch. a bird of medium size with a robust bill, a striking brown head, and brilliant green plumage. perched on a tree limb, showing off its distinctive look and vibrant characteristics."

Brown-headed Barbet - Psilopogon zeylanicus

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 cable."

Green Avadavat - Sporaeginthus formosus

Indian Silverbill - Euodice malabarica

Oriental Magpie-Robin - Copsychus saularis

"A Peregrine Falcon (Shaheen), scientifically known as Falco peregrinus, flying overhead, characterised by its sleek, grayish-brown feathers and powerful wings."

Peregrine Falcon (Shaheen) Falco peregrinus

Purple Sunbird - Cinnyris asiaticus

Red-vented Bulbul - Pycnonotus cafe

Spot-breasted Fantail - Rhipidura albogularis

White-breasted Waterhen - Amaurornis phoenicurus

Birding in June 2024: A Memorable Adventure

While less awe-inspiring than winter birding, June birding has an enchanting appeal. Witness an exceptional birdwatching opportunity with cloudy skies, stormy winds, and summer and monsoon migrants such as the Indian Blackbird, Indian Golden Oriole, Green Avadavat, and Indian Bird of Paradise.

Young Birds: A Joyful Observation

June is a great month to see a lot of young birds. It’s exciting to witness the diverse range of behaviours displayed by these tiny creatures’ parents to care for and safeguard them. These nosy little creatures endure harsh thunderstorms and heavy rain throughout the Monsoon season, employing various strategies to evade constant predators.

Seizing the Moments

This is a tiny assortment of birds that I photographed in June. I hope my work is agreeable to you. June is a great month to shoot the Green Avadavat (Munia), an endangered bird species. This is a highlighted species for the season; lucky watchers can also see Brown-headed Barbet, Indian Yellow Tit, Large-billed Crows, Shikra, Rose-ringed Parakeets, Blackbirds, and a variety of Prinias.

In summary

Despite the difficulties, birding in June is satisfying. It’s a fulfilling experience because of the combination of summer and monsoon migration, the sight of young birds, and the opportunity to take pictures of endangered species. Cheers to more bird-watching adventures!

Bird of the month

Jungle Bush-Quail - Perdicula asiatica

Butler’s 1876 description of the jungle bush quail, a member of the Phasianidae family, referred to it as “very common.” I encountered these quails in various regions of Abu during the early 1980s. Observing them darting along jungle paths always fills me with joy. Nevertheless, they are now regarded as uncommon or rare.