The third week of February in Mount Abu remained dry, with clear skies and crisp mornings. Birding in such weather is pure joy — unhurried, peaceful, and filled with subtle drama. Winter still lingered in the air, but there was a quiet hint that the season was preparing to turn.
Here’s how the week unfolded.
Day 15–A Buzzard’s Majesty
The unmistakable presence of the Himalayan Buzzard made my day. Watching Birding in February 2026: Mount Abu
Birding Diary: Day-by-Day–Third Week of February 202
Mount Abu’s Winter Wonders Continue
The third week of February in Mount Abu remained dry, with clear skies and crisp mornings. Birding in such weather is pure joy — unhurried, peaceful, and filled with subtle drama. Winter still lingered in the air, but there was a quiet hint that the season was preparing to turn.
Here’s how the week unfolded.
Day 15–A Buzzard’s Majesty
The unmistakable presence of the Himalayan Buzzard made my day. Watching it circle high above the ridges, riding invisible thermals, was a sight that never loses its magic.
Other notable sightings included the ever-active Grey Wagtail, the lively shimmer of the Purple Sunbird, and the cheerful flocks of Yellow-throated Sparrow, adding their charm to the landscape.
Day 16–The Silent Hunter
This day belonged to the swift and formidable Eurasian Sparrowhawk. Its sudden dash through the trees sent smaller birds scattering — a reminder of the constant tension in nature’s theatre.
Winter migrants were still very much around. I recorded the elegant Tree Pipit, the secretive Lesser Whitethroat, and once again the ever-faithful Grey Wagtail along the damp patches.
Day 17–A Moment on Cloud Nine
Some days gift you a memory that lingers long after the sighting ends. A vagrant Ultramarine Flycatcher, an immature bird, made a fleeting appearance — a flash of brilliant immature traits that had me on cloud nine. These unexpected encounters keep a birder forever hopeful.
Meanwhile, the imposing Long-legged Buzzard soared across the sky, scanning the terrain below with quiet authority.
Day 18–Calm and Composed
A calmer day, but no less rewarding. The compact and confident Shikra ruled the airspace, perched before making short, purposeful flights.
Even on quieter days, Mount Abu’s forests whisper life to those who pause long enough to listen.
Day 19–Raptors Reign Again
Buzzards again animated the skies. Both the Himalayan Buzzard and the Long-legged Buzzard made their rounds, scanning for potential prey. Watching two powerful raptors share the same airspace is always an enthralling experience — a subtle aerial ballet of strength and survival.
Day 20–A Mixed Bag of Delights
This day offered variety. The Long-legged Buzzard was present yet again, reaffirming its winter dominance.
A graceful Great Egret stood poised like a white sentinel on a rock overlooking the stream, while an Olive-backed Pipit perched on a cable above. Our dependable residents filled in the spaces, creating a complete and satisfying birding experience.
Day 21–Closing with Raptors and a Surprise
The week concluded with the Raptors making a few final sorties. The Himalayan and Long-legged Buzzards continued their patrols, as if reluctant to surrender their winter stronghold.
Closer to the undergrowth, the lively Spot-breasted Fantail flitted, while the melodious Oriental Magpie-Robin provided a familiar soundtrack.
And then came the surprise of the day — a sudden appearance by the Red Spurfowl. Its brief but bold presence made for a perfect finale to an already rewarding week.
15 Feb.
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| Ultramarine Flycatcher - Ficedula superciliaris |
Ultramarine Flycatcher - Ficedula superciliaris Mount Abu Feb 2026.mp4
%20%200F4A4390.jpg "Yellow-throated Sparrow (Gymnoris xanthocollis)")
%200F4A4741.jpg "Yellow-throated Sparrow (Gymnoris xanthocollis)")
