MOUNT ABU BIRDS MY PERSONAL COLLECTION

As a nature lover, bird watching has always fascinated me. I’ve been taking pictures of birds since I was in school in Mount Abu, where I learned about the local birds and their nesting habits. I learned to identify birds chiefly by their calls. I’ve been taking pictures in the wild for several years."Explore the diverse bird life of Mt.Abu with my detailed blog post: See the rare species in their NATURAL ENVIRONMENT. Experience the ecosystem of this INCREDIBLE MONTAINOUS region" Welcome to Abu.

Showing posts with label #Ashy-crowned Sparrow-Lark. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Birding on the Foothills of Mount Abu:[ March 23, 2025 ]

Exploring the Banas Riverbed at Abu Road.

The Banas Riverbed in Abu Road offers birding enthusiasts a unique and rewarding experience. While it may not boast the abundance of bird life found at West Banas Dam, this tranquil spot holds its charm. The riverbed’s drying pools support a rich diversity of birds, making it a captivating place for discovering nature’s hidden wonders.
A Mixed Bag of Avian Discoveries
During our March visit, we saw larks, pipits, and waders, along with a mixed assortment of other bird species inhabiting this semi-arid landscape. Summer’s arrival didn’t stop the riverbed from showing off its unique ecosystem.
The dwindling water and rising temperatures are causing many birds to leave early. By the peak of summer, the riverbed will be barren and silent, a stark contrast to its vibrant activity during the cooler months.
Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit
Reflecting on our visit, it is clear that the Banas Riverbed is a winter wonderland for bird watchers. The milder weather and the availability of water attract a wider variety of species, making it an ideal season to explore this area.

We’re already looking forward to returning next winter. The anticipation of fresh discoveries fuels our enthusiasm on each expedition, and we trust this riverbed will continue to yield surprising avian finds.

Birding Highlights at the Banas Riverbed

Larks and pipits: A delightful array of these ground-dwelling species.

Waders: Observed at the remaining patches of water.

Winter Visitors: Seasonal migrants that add vibrancy to the landscape.

Join Us in Celebrating Nature’s Beauty

Our combined efforts to document the winter, passage, and resident species from this area aim to inspire more birders to explore the Banas Riverbed. It’s a humble reminder of how even lesser-known locations can hold immense value for birding enthusiasts.

If you’re planning your next birding adventure, consider adding this hidden gem to your itinerary. Summer may not show mercy, but the winters here guarantee an unforgettable experience.

Bird pf the Day

Gray Heron - Ardea cinerea

Gray Heron March 2025 Abu Road Banas river bed.m4

Ashy-crowned Sparrow-Lark (Ashy-crowned Finch-Lark) - Eremopterix griseus

Ashy-crowned Sparrow-Lark March 2025 Abu Road Banas River Bed.m4v

Asian Green Bee-eater - Merops orientalis

Black Drongo - Dicrurus macrocercus

Citrine Wagtail - Motacilla citreola

Common Kingfisher - Alcedo atthis

Crested Lark - Galerida cristata

Eurasian Coot - Fulica atra.

Eurasian Kestrel - Falco tinnunculus

Eurasian Moorhen - Gallinula chloropus

Great Egret - Ardea alba

Great Thick-knee - Esacus recurvirostris

Green Sandpiper - Tringa ochropus

Green-winged Teal - Anas crecca

Indian Spot-billed Duck - Anas poecilorhyncha

Knob-billed Duck - Sarkidiornis melanotos

Little Grebe - Tachybaptus ruficollis

Little Ringed Plover - Charadrius dubiu

Little Ringed Plover, March 2025. Abu Road Banas river bed.mp4

Marsh Sandpiper - Tringa stagnatilis

Oriental Honey-buzzard - Pernis ptilorhynchus

Paddyfield Pipit, March 2025 Abu Road Banas river bed.mp4

Pied Avocet March 2025 Abu Road Off Beat fisherman's lair

Ruddy Shelduck - Tadorna ferruginea

Ruff - Calidris pugnax

White-browed Wagtail - Motacilla maderaspatensis

White-eared Bulbul - Pycnonotus leucotis

Wire-tailed Swallow - Hirundo smithii

Wood Sandpiper - Tringa glareola

Monday, April 21, 2025

Birding on the Foothills of Mount Abu [ March 21, 2025]

Discovering West Banas Dam, Sirohi.

Bird watchers will find a hidden gem at West Banas Dam in Sirohi, nestled in the peaceful foothills of Mount Abu. While places like Jawai Dam, a mere 60 kilometres away, often steal the limelight because of their widespread exposure and portrayal of wildlife, West Banas Dam offers an, if not more, exquisite birding experience.

Compared to my many trips documenting birds at Jawai Dam, West Banas Dam offers a more peaceful and diverse birding experience. What makes this undisturbed place so captivating is its peaceful mood and the wealth of bird life.

Birdwatchers’ Paradise

Cres and I have grown fond of birding at West Banas Dam. Unlike the bustling tourist spots, this location remains less crowded, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the sights and sounds of nature. Together, we’ve documented a remarkable array of bird species, from residents to winter migrants and passage birds, making this site a treasure trove for bird lovers.

Another birder from Mount Abu, Sahil, has expanded the area's bird records, documenting over 100 species. Our collective efforts aim to shed light on the potential of the West Banas Dam as a prime birding destination in Rajasthan.

Why West Banas Dam Should Be on Your List

If you seek an off-the-beaten-path birding experience, West Banas Dam will not disappoint. The blend of its serene environment, stunning landscapes, and diverse bird life makes it a must-visit for any birder. For all birders, from novice to expert, this location guarantees a rewarding experience.

Birding Highlights

Migratory Birds: Witness winter visitors resting in this tranquil habitat.

Passage Birds: Discover species stopping over during their long migratory journeys.

Residents: Observe the fascinating behaviour of year-round avian inhabitants.

A Call to the Birding Community

Through consistent documentation and exploration, Cres, Sahil, and I hope to draw more birders to this unique and underappreciated location. Every trip to West Banas Dam brings new discoveries, strengthening our belief in its untapped potential.

So, pack your binoculars, grab your camera, and add West Banas Dam to your birding bucket list. Trust me, it’s a destination that will leave you inspired and eager for your next visit.

Bird of the Day