Pune: Bird sightings increase at Vetal Tekdi, over 140 species spotted this year

Pune, November 17, 2024: A heartening rise in bird sightings has been observed at Vetal Tekdi in Pune this year, where around 140 different species of birds were spotted during a bird-watching event held from November 5 to 12, 2024. This is a healthy rise from the 111 species seen during the same period last year.

Among the 140 species, some rare birds such as Eurasian Wryneck, Grey-necked Bunting and Taiga Flycatcher were seen. Raptor species such as Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Shaheen Falcon, White-eyed Buzzard and Booted Eagle were also seen and photographed by the participants. “This increase in bird sightings showcases the richness of the biodiversity at Vetal Tekdi,” said Ranjeet Rane, a member of the Vetal Tekdi Bachav Kruti Samiti.

Over 40 birding enthusiasts from across Pune participated in this year’s bird-watching event. They were competing in the “Best Checklist” and “Best Trip Report” categories. Participants documented their bird-watching trips on the eBird platform and shared their documents with a panel for evaluation. Over 50 checklists were created during the week, along with detailed trip reports, as participants traversed various trails in Tekdi, and competed for the title of “Vetal Tekdi Birding Champion”.

Rane also expressed concern over certain projects that threaten Tekdi’s sensitive ecosystem, such as the Balbharati-Paud Phata road, which could harm the area. He stressed the growing opposition against such development proposals and the need to raise awareness of the area’s rich biodiversity.

The event highlighted the importance of preserving Vetal Tekdi’s unique birdlife for future generations, with sightings of species such as the Indian Rollers, Spotted Owlets and Purple Heron reflecting the ecological significance of the area.