Pune: Migratory birds arrive in the city as the winter approaches

Pune, October 30, 2024: As winter is setting in, Pune is gearing up for an important annual event – the arrival of migratory birds in the city. Vetal Tekdi, a popular birding spot, has become a temporary home for these exotic birds flying from the northern latitudes to escape harsh winters.

Winter is a critical period for migratory birds in central and southern Maharashtra, particularly in the Western Ghats forests. Sites like Nandur Madhmeshwar in Nashik and Bhigwan near Pune are favorite destinations for these birds.

Following the monsoon, brimming water bodies, cool weather, and plentiful food make Pune an ideal stopover for migratory birds. Birders are excited about the arrival of cuckoo family members, such as Common Cuckoos and Jacobin Cuckoos, which stop at Vetal Tekdi en route to or from Africa.

Other species, including the Blue-throated Flycatcher from northeast India and the Rusty-tailed Flycatcher from the Himalayas, also take refuge here before heading to the Western Ghats forests. This diversity creates a buzz among Pune’s birding community.

Ranjit Rane, a bird watcher and member of the Vetal Tekdi Bachao Kruti Samiti, told media that, “Scenes of birders huddled together are common as they try to catch a glimpse of these feathered friends.” To document Vetal Tekdi’s birdlife and introduce citizens to its natural heritage, the organization is hosting the second ‘Vetal Tekdi Birding Marathon’ from November 7 to 12.

Birding at #VetalTekdi has been abuzz with passage migrant sightings over the past month. As we wait the winters to kick in for more of our migratory friends to settle down, its a good time to remind ourselves about what is at stake when we vote in the upcoming #assemblyelections pic.twitter.com/ktMoDXVvN1

— Ranjeet Rane (@OldWonk) October 30, 2024

Pune and surrounding areas record visitors such as Eastern Orphean Warbler Blue Rock Thrush and Siberian Stonechat.