"The Mysterious Case of the Disappearance of Brahminy Starlings from Lahore"

02nd December, 2023

The scientific name of the Brahminy Starling is "Sturnia pagodarum."

Brahminy Starlings are commonly found in the Indian subcontinent, including countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. They typically inhabit various habitats such as open woodlands, gardens, cultivated areas, and urban environments. These birds are known for their adaptability and can thrive in diverse landscapes, often seen in parks, farmlands, and even near human settlements.

Twenty-five years ago, Lahore echoed with the melodious tunes of Brahminy Starlings that filled the city's skies. Their graceful flights and harmonious songs epitomized Lahore's avian diversity. However, a shift occurred as other Myna species became more prevalent, gradually leading to the disappearance of Brahminy Starlings from Lahore's ecosystem, leaving behind an enigmatic absence.

Salman Rashid, a prominent travel writer, reminisced about observing Brahminy Starlings amidst towering banyan trees near Kot Lokhpot. These recollections evoked memories of an era when these exquisite birds were an integral part of Lahore's ecological fabric. I, too, witnessed their presence during my school days in the '90s, cherishing their existence in the school gardens.

Surprisingly, nearly two decades later, during my visit on December 2, 2023, I observed the resurgence of Brahminy Starlings in the border areas of Lahore. Several of these birds were perched on a tree, a hopeful sign of their attempt to reclaim their once-familiar habitat.

This resurgence emphasizes the imperative need to protect nature and foster a harmonious coexistence with other wildlife.