( All pictures are taken by me, kindly respect copyrights)
27th October 2024 (date of sighting)
The past two weeks of birdwatching had been unusually quiet. The smaller birds that normally flit around were nowhere to be seen, replaced by just a few scattered waders and ducks. It felt as though the seasonal changes had driven most of my feathered friends into hiding, and I found myself wondering if today would be just as uneventful.
The afternoon started calmly, with a soft breeze rustling the reeds and distant calls from a few waterfowl. I kept scanning the water’s edge, hoping for something special. Then, suddenly, a Cotton Pygmy Goose appeared! This tiny bird, with its beautiful plumage, stood out brightly against the calm reeds. It was a rare sight in Lahore, a delightful surprise that brought back all the thrill of birdwatching.
As I watched this little gem, memories of past sightings at this same spot came to mind. I remembered my excitement at seeing a Great Bittern here a few weeks back—another bird that rarely shows up around Lahore. I also recalled glimpses of other beautiful birds like the Garganey, the shy Barred Buttonquail, and the graceful Glossy Ibis. Each of those encounters had felt like a gift, and today’s sighting was no different.
Today's sighting of the Cotton Pygmy Goose rekindled my passion for birdwatching, highlighting the unexpected wonders of nature. This experience emphasizes the value of patience and perseverance, encouraging birdwatchers to explore Lahore's avian history and observe changes in habitats and bird populations.
