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.

Saturday, January 18, 2025

Mount Abu Avian Wonders Await to be discovered.January 2025

Mount Abu’s avian wonders and chilled feathers await you: January 2025 Birds.

Greetings to all nature lovers from the serene hillsides of Mount Abu! As we step into the hopeful embrace of 2025, I’m thrilled to bring you tales from this charming retreat, known as the “Abode of the Gods.”

New Year, New Horizons

Before diving into the world of winged wonders, allow me to extend my heartfelt New Year’s greetings to all my readers. Wishing you a year filled with boundless happiness, amazing adventures, and awe-inspiring experiences.

Winter’s Icy Embrace

January has arrived full force, blanketing Mount Abu in winter’s frosty grip. A crisp, icy beauty painted the landscape as the first week’s temperatures lingered near 0°C. Although the air is noticeably cold, it makes for excellent birdwatching.

Unexpected Birding Pleasures

This winter, the avian life in Mount Abu has been nothing short of spectacular. My 2025 birding journey began with an exhilarating addition to my checklist: the **Ferruginous Duck** (Aythya nyroca). This elegant visitor was first documented in the area by Sahil Zutzi Oria in December 2024, and seeing it in person felt like a gift from nature. ( Checklist Mount Abu birds )

Every moment of birdwatching in Mount Abu is magical thanks to its clean air and peaceful winter setting. Allow me to showcase some of the feathered beauties I encountered during the first week of January. Each photograph is a snapshot of time, capturing the vibrant bird life that thrives here.

Stay tuned for more as I continue to explore the hidden treasures of Mount Abu’s winter birding season. Bird lovers and nature enthusiasts should head to the hills to witness the avian magic.

Wishing you all a year filled with adventure and awe!

Bird of the Week

Ferruginous Duck - Aythya nyroca

A Lifer for me. First recorded by Sahil Zutzi Oria in December 2024

1 Jan 2025.

Brown Rock Chat - Oenanthe

Indian Yellow Tit - Machlolophus aplonotus

Yellow-throated Sparrow (Gymnoris xanthocollis)

2 Jan 2025.

Barn Swallow - Hirundo rustica

Eurasian Sparrowhawk - Accipiter nisus

Long-tailed Shrike - Lanius schach

3 Jan 2024.

Indian Pond-Heron - Ardeola grayii

Large-billed Crow - Corvus macrorhynchos

Long-tailed Shrike - Lanius schach

White-throated Kingfisher - Halcyon smyrnensis - Regurgitation

It's almost midnight Tomorrow will post on the rest of the bird of the week till them Adios!

Friday, January 17, 2025

December 2024’s last two weeks of birdwatching.Mt Abu.

Birding in the last two weeks of Dec 2024.

The last fortnight of December often marks an exceptional period for birding, with winter migrants and raptors painting the skies and landscapes. This year’s birdwatching in Mount Abu, however, wasn’t quite what I expected.

The absence of the usual raptors was stark. The Eurasian Sparrowhawk stood out as the only active raptor in the area, patrolling the skies. Warblers and flycatchers, often seen flitting about during this season, were also scarce. Climate shifts or habitat disruption may explain the changes in bird behaviour I’ve observed this year, which is a thought on my mind. Regardless, I’m hopeful I’ll spot a new species before the year ends.

As we transition into the new year, I have set my sights on a location I call “The Duck Pond,” which is a must-visit spot for birders. This miniature Thol, nestled near the Mahadeva Temple en route to Achalgarh, offers a serene retreat for waterfowl and other bird species. For a great birding experience, visit this hidden gem in the first or second week of January 2025.

Let me take you on a brief journey to this favourite haunt of mine. The Duck Pond is a small yet picturesque water body surrounded by verdant greenery. It’s a place where patience and quiet observation often yield delightful surprises. From ducks and waders to an occasional kingfisher darting across the water, the diversity of bird life here is a joy to witness.

Stay tuned for my upcoming blog post detailing my exploits at The Duck Pond. Until then, I invite you to enjoy the slideshows and photographs I’ve curated for your viewing pleasure. Here’s to celebrating the beauty of nature.

Bird of the Fortnight

Eurasian Sparrowhawk - Accipiter nisus

Eurasian Sparrowhawk - Accipiter nisus.mp4

Ashy Drongo - Dicrurus leucophaeus

Ashy Drongo - Dicrurus leucophaeus Dec 2024 Mt Abu.mp4

Ashy Prinia - Prinia socialis

Asian Koel - Eudynamys scolopaceus Rare visitor

Black Drongo - Dicrurus macrocercus Winter visitor

Black-winged Kite - Elanus caeruleus Local migrant.

Brahminy Starling - Sturnia pagodarum Resident.

Brown Rock Chat - Oenanthe fusca

Brown-headed Barbet - Psilopogon zeylanicus Territorial dispute

Cattle Egret - Bubulcus ibis

Common Rosefinch - Carpodacus erythrinus

Common Tailorbird - Orthotomus sutorius

Gray Wagtail - Motacilla cinerea

House Sparrow - Passer domesticus

Indian Pond-Heron - Ardeola grayii

Indian Robin - Copsychus fulicatus

Indian Yellow Tit - Machlolophus aplonotus

Jungle Babbler - Turdoides striata

Long-tailed Shrike - Lanius schac Dec 2024 Nt Abu.mp4

Oriental Magpie-Robin - Copsychus saularis.

Purple Sunbird - Cinnyris asiaticus

Red-whiskered Bulbul - Pycnonotus jocosus

Rose-ringed Parakeet - Psittacula krameri Mt Abu

Rufous Treepie - Dendrocitta vagabunda

Shikra - Accipiter badius

Spotted Dove - Streptopelia chinensis

White-bellied Drongo - Dicrurus caerulescens

White-throated Kingfisher - Halcyon smyrnensis

Yellow-throated Sparrow (Gymnoris xanthocollis)

Thursday, January 9, 2025

Mount Abu has migratory birds for those that seek.

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