Birding & Weather Highlights Mount Abu.

As the monsoon wound down, I spent the last weeks of September exploring Mount Abu’s rain-drenched trails and forest edges — a time when the hills are still lush, the skies moody, and bird life stirring beneath the mist.

Observing Birds in Late September

As September drew to a close, Mount Abu remained under overcast skies and steady rain. The mist and fine drizzle persisted, making birding a test of patience and adaptability. Adjusting camera settings to cope with low light and changing conditions became a routine task.

Despite the damp and grey weather, a few clear days appeared toward the end of the month, offering much-needed relief. The forest awakened in those short bursts — sounds, wings, and a renewed feeling.

Monsoon birding in September is about more than just sightings. It’s about persistence, observation, and quiet appreciation of the natural world in transition. As the rains subside, we notice slight changes in bird behaviour; some prepare to leave, while others remain for a while.

Below are the highlights from the last two weeks of September — a rewarding mix of residents and early migrants that added colour to an otherwise subdued landscape.

Highlights of the Fortnight

Lesser Whitethroat (Sylvia curruca)

Jungle Bush-Quail (Perdicula asiatica)

Greenish Warbler (Phylloscopus trochiloides)

Common Hawk-Cuckoo (Hierococcyx varius)

Asian Green Bee-eater (Merops orientalis)

Brown-headed Barbet (Psilopogon zeylanicus)

Dusky Crag-Martin (Ptyonoprogne concolor)

Grey Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea)

Indian Silverbill (Euodice malabarica)

Indian Yellow Tit (Machlolophus aplonotus)

Red-whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus)

Scaly-breasted Munia (Lonchura punctulata)

Spot-breasted Fantail (Rhipidura albogularis)

Yellow-throated Sparrow (Gymnoris xanthocollis)

Each sighting brought its own reward — from the restless energy of the wagtails by the streams to the brief, shy appearances of the Jungle Bush-Quail along forest trails. Late September in Mount Abu may be damp and unpredictable, but it remains one of the most fascinating periods for observing bird life in its natural rhythm.

As the clouds lift and the skies clear, October promises new arrivals and fresh excitement — a time when the first winter visitors return to the hills. Stay tuned for my October birding notes, where migration takes centre stage and Mount Abu’s landscape shifts from monsoon mist to crystal-blue mornings.

Bird of the Fortnight.

Common Hawk-Cuckoo - Hierococcyx varius

Common Hawk-Cuckoo - Hierococcyx varius Sept 2025 MT Abu ..mp4

Ashy Prinia - Prinia socialis

Asian Green Bee-eater - Merops orientalis

Asian Green Bee-eater - Merops orientalis Sept 2025 Mt Abu

Brown Rock Chat - Oenanthe fusca

Brown-headed Barbet - Psilopogon zeylanicus

Brown-headed Barbet - Psilopogon zeylanicus Sept 2025 Mt Abu.mp4

Dusky Crag-Martin - Ptyonoprogne concolor

Gray Wagtail - Motacilla cinerea

Greenish Warbler - Phylloscopus trochiloides

Indian Silverbill - Euodice malabarica

Indian Yellow Tit - Machlolophus aplonotus

Indian Yellow Tit - Machlolophus aplonotus Sept 2025 Mt Abu .mp4.

Jungle Babbler - Turdoides striata

Jungle Bush-Quail - Perdicula asiatica

Jungle Bush-Quail - Perdicula asiatica Sept 2025 Mt Abu ..mp4.

Lesser Whitethroat - Sylvia curruca

Long-tailed Shrike - Lanius schach.

Oriental Honey-buzzard - Pernis ptilorhynchus

Peregrine Falcon (Shaheen) Falco peregrinus

Peregrine Falcon (Shaheen) Falco peregrinus.

Purple Sunbird - Cinnyris asiaticus.

Red-whiskered Bulbul - Pycnonotus jocosus

Scaly-breasted Munia - Lonchura punctulata

Spot-breasted Fantail - Rhipidura albogularis

Spot-breasted Fantail - Rhipidura albogularis.

Spotted Dove - Streptopelia chinensis

White-throated Kingfisher - Halcyon smyrnensis

Yellow-throated Sparrow (Gymnoris xanthocollis)

Birding in December 2024: Winter Migrants in Mount Abu.

Beginning on November 14, 2024, the onset of winter and its crisp, chilly air greeted Mount Abu, setting the scene for an exciting bird-watching opportunity. During the first two weeks of December, nighttime temperatures ranged from 5°C to -5°C, with daytime temperatures staying cool and enjoyable — ideal for anyone wanting to enjoy the winter sunlight.

There’s nothing as refreshing as winter birding in Mount Abu. The region attracts an array of migratory birds, making it a dream destination for birdwatchers. This time of year, Abu becomes a haven for transient waterfowl, with sightings of the Common Pochard, Eurasian Coot, Eurasian Moorhen, Gadwall, Green-winged Teal, Northern Pintail, Northern Shoveler, Tufted Duck, Common Sandpiper, and Common Snipe. Several varieties of sandpipers, wagtails, and cormorants also make their brief stop here, offering prime photo opportunities.

December is the time to observe a variety of warblers, flycatchers, and raptors in motion, adding elegance and charm to the landscape.

During the period of December 1st to 15th, I captured an amazing assortment of birds, highlighting Mount Abu’s allure to migratory species. Use the comment section below if you want to learn more about the birds of Mount Abu or share your own experiences.

Engage, share your thoughts, and discuss the fascinating world of birds in our beloved hill station!

Bird of the fortnight.

Common Buzzard - Buteo buteo

Common Buzzard Dec 2024 Nt Abu.m4v