August Birding in Mount Abu: A Tale of Skies, Rain, and Wings.

The third week of August in Mount Abu felt like stepping into a blast from the past, reminding me of the 1960s and 1970s. As expected, the weather delivered the typical experiences of the season: gentle drizzles, intermittent showers, and a magical mist draping the hills like a soft, white veil. Early mornings and late evenings brought foggy horizons, reducing visibility but amplifying the charm of the forest trails.

Meteorologists predict that the last week of August will see heavy rainfall, which is no surprise. Mount Abu’s wettest month, August, provides ample rainfall, sustaining its landscapes.

Despite these weather quirks, birding this month has been anything but disappointing. I have captured some delightful moments in rain-washed forests and meadows that seem alive with activity. The highlight? Our first winter migrant—the Grey Wagtail — announces the seasonal transition that lies ahead.

Here’s a curated glimpse of the feathered beauties spotted and photographed during the week. The tale of flourishing life between the showers and sunshine in Mount Abu is told every August, from residents to early migrants.

Bird of the week.

Grey Wagtail - Motacilla cinerea

The Grey Wagtail, a common winter visitor to Rajasthan, typically arrives in the state around late September to early October. This wagtail made its appearance on August 17, 2025. Seeing one arrive so early surprised and elated me. Are we in for a cold winter this year?