Surat Birdwatchers Spot 55+ Species During Wildlife Week Expedition

SURAT: More than 55 bird species, including the Siberian Stonechat, European Roller, Pied Cuckoo and Common Hoopoe, were recorded during a special bird-watching expedition organised by Nature Club Surat at Abhva as part of National Wildlife Week celebrations.

The two-hour expedition began at 6.37 am, with a team of more than 15 nature enthusiasts covering nearly two kilometres around the Savita Sharda Girls’ Hostel area. Armed with binoculars, participants observed birds in their natural habitats and documented their calls, behaviour and movement.

The sighting of several migratory and distinctive species became the highlight of the morning. The Siberian Stonechat and Common Rosefinch, which arrive from distant regions during the onset of winter, attracted particular attention from birdwatchers.

The European Roller, known for its striking blue plumage, and the Common Hoopoe, recognised by its prominent crest, were among the other notable sightings. Participants also recorded the Pied Cuckoo, often associated with the arrival of the monsoon, as well as the Common Kingfisher, Brown Rock Chat and Bay-backed Shrike.

Organisers said the diversity of birds found within an urbanising landscape demonstrated the ecological value of Surat’s surrounding areas.

“The presence of such rich biodiversity despite rapid urban development is encouraging. Events like these help people, particularly youngsters, understand the importance of protecting our natural surroundings,” organisers said.

The expedition was organised to combine nature observation with awareness about wildlife conservation. Participants closely observed the birds without disturbing their habitats, while documenting the diversity found across the surveyed area.

Nature Club Surat said such activities can play an important role in encouraging citizens to appreciate local biodiversity and become more conscious of conservation.

The organisers expressed satisfaction with the response to the Wildlife Week initiative and said similar awareness programmes and bird-watching activities would continue in the future.

The event also provided nature enthusiasts with an opportunity to understand how urban and semi-urban green spaces continue to support a wide range of resident and migratory birds, underlining the need to preserve such habitats amid continuing development.