Chilled feathers, frosty mornings, and the silent thrill of winter birding in the Aravalis.

Before I dive into the world of winged wonders, I would like to extend my heartfelt New Year greetings to all my readers. May 2026 bring you boundless happiness, memorable adventures, and countless moments of awe in nature’s embrace.

Winter’s Icy Embrace

January arrived in Mount Abu with full force, wrapping the hill station in winter’s frosty grip. The landscape wore a crisp, icy charm as night temperatures during the first week hovered between 10°C and a bone-chilling–3°C. The cold was sharp, but for a birdwatcher, it was nothing short of magical.

Winter mornings were quiet and still, the kind that heighten every call and movement. The chill in the air made bird activity more pronounced, turning each outing into a rewarding experience. Mount Abu, nestled in the Aravali range, once again proved why winter is one of the finest seasons for birding here.

Raptors and Winter Visitors

Some impressive raptors dominated the skies and forest edges. The Himalayan Buzzard made its presence felt, sharing the landscape with the Long-legged Buzzard, while the ever-alert Eurasian Sparrowhawk patrolled the area with purpose. Alongside these birds of prey, a variety of warblers flitted through the undergrowth, adding life and movement to the otherwise subdued winter scenery.

The first week of January set the tone for what promises to be an exciting year of observations. I look forward to continuing my birding journeys, documenting and celebrating the avian life of the Aravali range.

Join me as the winter unfolds—there is much more to observe, record, and share in the weeks ahead.

Until then, keep watching the skies and listening for the whispers of wings.

Bird of the Week.