Birding Report - Lahore, Pakistan - January 13, 2024
Species Observed: Coots (Fulica spp.)
Location: Near Sialkot Motorway Interchange along the Ring Road, Lahore
Weather Conditions: Foggy skies, cold winds
Observations:
A decade ago, you could spot coots all over Lahore during winter, making ponds a lively sight. Sadly, due to hunting and more buildings popping up, these charming birds disappeared from the city.
But in January 2024, near the Sialkot Motorway Interchange along the Ring Road in Lahore, I saw something wonderful. A bunch of coots was hanging out in a pond—a bit like the good old days in Lahore.
Watching these innocent birds, I thought about how much Lahore has changed. The return of coots feels like a small sign of hope, maybe showing that people are starting to care more about keeping a balance between growing the city and saving nature.
I'm hopeful that folks in Lahore will understand how important these birds are and to live together with nature and take care of the special ecosystems that make our city lively and diverse.
