Rare Cotton Pygmy Goose Sighting in Lahore

( 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.

Rare Sighting of the Oriental Turtle Dove in Lahore

( All pictures are taken by me, kindly respect copyrights) 

05th October 2024 (date of sighting)

On October 5, 2024, while visiting Lahore Safari Park, I was met with an unexpected sight: a flock of six Oriental Turtle Doves, elegantly perched within the Giraffe enclave. This was a rewarding experience and a remarkable occurrence given the limited sightings of these doves in the Lahore region.

Oriental Turtle Dove: A Rare Guest in Lahore:-

The Oriental Turtle Dove (Streptopelia orientalis) is generally found in the northern regions of Pakistan—Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and the northern parts of Punjab. Among the five commonly seen dove species in Pakistan—the Eurasian Collared Dove, Red-Collared Dove, Laughing Dove, Spotted Dove, and Oriental Turtle Dove—the latter is arguably the rarest in the Lahore area. 

Historically, the Oriental Turtle Dove was documented in Lahore’s vicinity by A.J. Currie in 1916 in *The Birds of Lahore and Its Vicinity*. His account covers various bird sightings in Lahore’s outskirts, including Attari and Mureedka. Currie’s documentation, including Oriental Turtle Doves, has shaped our understanding of avian species distribution in the region. Since then, there have been few, if any, confirmed records of this species from Lahore, particularly in the age of digital photography, making this recent sighting a true milestone.

Dove Species in Pakistan:-

Each dove species in Pakistan has a particular range, adding layers of diversity to the avian ecosystem:

1. Eurasian Collared Dove and Laughing Dove are the most common doves in Pakistan, seen nearly everywhere except in Gilgit-Baltistan.

2. Red-Collared Dove is more localized, with a stronghold in Punjab and some areas of Sindh.

3. Spotted Dove is found primarily in northern Punjab and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

4. Oriental Turtle Dove typically frequents Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and northern Punjab, making my sighting in Lahore highly unexpected.

A Brief History of Vagrant Doves in Pakistan:- 

Pakistan has seen occasional vagrant sightings of European dove species in select areas like Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan, though these have been rare and largely undocumented since the early 20th century. Given the prevalence of digital cameras, recent vagrants are likely to be documented, yet sightings remain scarce. This rarity adds to the intrigue surrounding my encounter with Oriental Turtle Doves in Lahore, possibly indicating a shift in range or migratory habits.

Observing the Flock:-

The doves appeared settled, resting peacefully among the trees, their plumage blending beautifully with the surrounding greenery. Each had a mix of soft browns and subtle grays, with a characteristic black and white neck pattern distinguishing them from other doves. The flock remained undisturbed, offering ample time for observation and photography.

Significance of the Sighting:- 

This sighting reconnects us with Lahore’s ornithological past, highlighting the unexpected return of the Oriental Turtle Dove to the city. It encourages birdwatchers to continue exploring and observing changes in habitats and the dynamics of bird populations. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to reflect on Lahore's avian history. Whether this is a unique occurrence or indicative of a broader trend will be a topic of interest for future research and observation.

Sighting of a Great Bittern in Lahore Suburbs: A Rare Encounter

( All pictures are taken by me, kindly respect copyrights) 

06th October 2024 (date of sighting

Every Sunday, I ventured into the suburbs of Lahore with my camera, exploring ponds and marshes that serve as bird sanctuaries. On one such day, during a quiet stretch of birdwatching, I caught a glimpse of movement in the tall grasses near a marshy wetland. Initially, I thought it was a common resident like a Purple Heron, but something about its posture made my heart race. Raising my camera, I realized I had spotted a Great Bittern.

The Great Bittern (*Botaurus stellaris*), a large heron-like bird, is known for its exceptional camouflage, blending seamlessly with reeds in wetlands. This elusive bird often remains hidden, its presence betrayed only by its deep, booming call, which resonates through marshes during breeding season. Spotting it in Lahore, where wetland habitats are shrinking due to urbanization, felt extraordinary.

The bird stood motionless in its signature "bittern stance," neck extended upward, mimicking the vertical lines of the reeds. For several moments, it remained still, and I felt a profound connection to this rare creature. This species is notoriously difficult to observe due to its secretive nature, freezing in place when alarmed. Seeing it so clearly was a rare privilege.

Great Bittern sightings in Lahore and its suburbs are extremely rare, and I haven’t seen any recent records on eBird. Their preferred habitats—undisturbed wetlands—are rapidly disappearing due to urban expansion, leaving fewer places for these birds to thrive. This sighting, however, suggests that small pockets of suitable habitat may still remain.

As a birdwatcher, it reinforced my passion for conserving the remaining natural habitats around Lahore. Such rare sightings show that there is still much to discover in the wildlife around us, and it’s crucial to protect what remains.

𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗕𝘂𝘁𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗱: 𝗔 𝗥𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗘𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝘀𝗸𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝗮𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗲

( All pictures are taken by me, kindly respect copyrights) 

08th September 2024

Male & Female

Urbanization often disrupts wildlife habitats, yet occasionally it produces unexpected benefits. A prime example is the Lahore-Sialkot motorway, where human development has unintentionally fostered a thriving microhabitat. The elevated road and its sloping embankments have become a refuge for various bird species. On these grassy slopes, Prinias flit through the undergrowth, bee-eaters dazzle with their swift flights, and bitterns stalk quietly around the wet patches. Ponds formed by runoff have further enriched the area, creating a bustling ecosystem amid the modern infrastructure.

Not long ago, I was fortunate to spot a pair of Barred Buttonquails along these embankments. They were quietly foraging on the ground, nearly invisible due to their remarkable camouflage. Their barred brown and gray plumage blended perfectly with the dry earth, making them easy to miss unless observed closely. It was a rare and thrilling encounter with these elusive ground-dwelling birds, experts at remaining hidden.

The Barred Buttonquail (*Turnix suscitator*), often mistaken for a true quail, belongs to the unique *Turnicidae* family. Unlike most birds, these buttonquails follow an unusual reproductive strategy. In a fascinating role reversal, the larger, more colorful female leads the courtship, while the smaller male takes on the responsibility of incubating the eggs and raising the chicks. This rare behavior is just one example of nature’s remarkable adaptations.

Male smaller in size

Female larger in size

Pair

Barred Buttonquails thrive in areas that offer plenty of cover and food, favoring grasslands, scrub, and forest edges. They are often drawn to agricultural fields, where the quiet environment provides ideal foraging grounds. The motorway’s embankments have inadvertently created such a habitat, giving these birds a safe space to search for seeds, insects, and small invertebrates.

Despite the busy traffic nearby, this new habitat highlights nature's resilience. The construction, designed to elevate the road, has unexpectedly formed grassy slopes that now provide shelter for species like the Barred Buttonquail. Observing this pair reminded me how wildlife adapts and thrives in even the most unexpected places, coexisting with human development.

Witnessing the Majestic Migration of Demoiselle Cranes Over the River Ravi

( All pictures are taken by me, kindly respect copyrights) 

15th September 2024

On the 15th of September, 2024, I experienced an unforgettable moment by the River Ravi near Lahore—a flock of 28 Demoiselle Cranes flying overhead, their calls echoing as they headed south. It was a captivating sight, part of their incredible migration.

At 5 p.m., while standing near the Shahdara Reserved Forest, the peaceful ambiance was interrupted by a series of loud, distinct calls. Glancing upward, I spotted a group of cranes flying low over the river. Initially, I wondered if they were searching for a place to land, but their movements suggested otherwise. Half of the flock veered westward, toward the historic British railway bridge that stretches across the Ravi. It seemed like a change in direction, but soon became clear they were simply waiting for the rest of their group to catch up. Moments later, thirteen more cranes joined them from behind, prompting the scattered flock to regroup. With their formation restored, they gracefully ascended and followed the river's trail, heading towards Saifan before vanishing beyond the horizon, crossing into Indian territory. I could only hope they reached their destination safely, a journey that would take them all the way to Rajasthan.

The Demoiselle Crane, known for its graceful appearance, is the smallest of all crane species. The name "Demoiselle," meaning maiden in French, was given by Queen Marie Antoinette, reflecting its elegance. These cranes travel each year from Siberia and Central Asia to warmer regions like Rajasthan and Sindh, passing through Pakistan along routes like Zhob, Dera, Bannu, and Kurram.

Flying in flocks of up to 400, they soar at altitudes of 16,000 to 26,000 feet, their calls often announcing their arrival. Their migration south begins in September, with Pakistan lying directly in their path as they head to their wintering grounds in Rajasthan and parts of Pakistan.

This brief encounter at the River Ravi reminded me of the cranes' incredible endurance, a journey that reflects the beauty and rhythm of nature.

1. Cranes Crossing over my head at low height

Flying towards British Railway Bridge

Half of the flock flew towards British Railway Bridge

Flying towards the British Era Railway Bridge over Ravi

Regrouping of Both the flocks and now gaining height

Change the direction towards the East follow the river trail and enter Indian Territory

Cropped Shot

Another cropped shot

Another cropped shot

Another Cropped shot

Gaining height

Entering the Indian Territory 

15 ستمبر 2024 کو، میں نے دریائے راوی کے کنارے لاہور کے قریب ایک ناقابل فراموش لمحہ دیکھا—28 ڈیموزیل کرینز کا ایک غول میرے سر کے اوپر سے پرواز کر رہا تھا، ان کی آوازیں فضا میں گونج رہی تھیں جب وہ جنوب کی طرف جا رہے تھے۔ یہ ایک دلکش منظر تھا، ان کی شاندار ہجرت کا ایک حصہ۔

شام 5 بجے، جب میں شاہدرہ کے محفوظ جنگل کے قریب کھڑا تھا، تو پُرسکون ماحول بلند اور واضح آوازوں کی ایک سیریز سے ٹوٹ گیا۔ اوپر نظر ڈالنے پر، میں نے دیکھا کہ کرینز کا ایک غول دریا کے اوپر نیچی پرواز کر رہا تھا۔ شروع میں، میں نے سوچا کہ شاید وہ اترنے کے لیے کوئی جگہ تلاش کر رہے ہیں، لیکن ان کی حرکتیں کچھ اور ظاہر کر رہی تھیں۔ غول کا آدھا حصہ مغرب کی طرف، دریائے راوی پر پھیلے تاریخی برطانوی ریلوے پل کی طرف مڑ گیا۔ ایسا لگا جیسے وہ راستہ بدل رہے ہیں، لیکن جلد ہی واضح ہو گیا کہ وہ اپنے گروپ کے باقی حصے کا انتظار کر رہے تھے۔ کچھ لمحوں بعد، مزید تیرہ کرینز پیچھے سے آ ملے، جس سے غول نے دوبارہ اکٹھا ہو کر اپنی ترتیب بحال کر لی۔ وہ خوبصورتی سے اوپر اٹھے اور دریائے کے راستے کی پیروی کرتے ہوئے سفر جاری رکھا، سیفان کی طرف بڑھتے ہوئے اور بالآخر ہندوستانی سرحد میں داخل ہو گئے۔ میں صرف امید کر سکتا ہوں کہ وہ اپنی طویل مسافت، جو انہیں راجستھان تک لے جائے گی، کامیابی سے مکمل کر لیں گے۔

ڈیموزیل کرین اپنی نازک اور خوبصورت شکل کے لیے جانی جاتی ہے اور یہ کرین کی تمام اقسام میں سب سے چھوٹی ہے۔ "ڈیموزیل" نام، جو فرانسیسی زبان میں نوجوان لڑکی کے معنی میں ہے، ملکہ ماری انٹونیٹ نے اس پر رکھا، جو اس پرندے کی خوبصورتی کی عکاسی کرتا ہے۔ یہ کرینز ہر سال سائبیریا اور وسطی ایشیا سے راجستھان اور سندھ جیسے گرم علاقوں کا سفر کرتی ہیں، پاکستان سے ہوتے ہوئے، خاص طور پر ژوب، ڈیرہ، بنوں، اور کرم کے راستوں سے گزرتی ہیں۔

یہ پرندے 400 تک کے غول میں پرواز کرتے ہیں اور 16,000 سے 26,000 فٹ کی بلندی تک پہنچتے ہیں، اور ان کی آوازیں اکثر ان کی آمد کا اعلان کرتی ہیں۔ ان کی جنوبی ہجرت ستمبر میں شروع ہوتی ہے، اور پاکستان ان کے راستے میں ہے، جہاں سے گزرتے ہوئے انہیں راجستھان اور پاکستان کے کچھ حصوں میں اپنے سردیوں کے مسکن کی طرف بڑھتے دیکھا جا سکتا ہے۔

دریائے راوی کے کنارے یہ مختصر ملاقات مجھے ان پرندوں کی حیرت انگیز طاقت اور ہمت کی یاد دلاتی ہے، ان کا سفر صرف بقا کا نہیں بلکہ فطرت کی خوبصورتی اور ترتیب کا ایک حیرت انگیز مظہر ہے۔

Spotting the Singing Bush Lark from Lahore's Suburbs

11th May, 2021

(All photographs in this article are taken by the author)

In Lahore, at the edge of DHA, lies a strip of fields. Amidst the concrete jungle of DHA and the serene BRB canal, this spot emerged as a birding hotspot, a place I frequented often since 2017.

In April 2020, amidst the tall grasses, I spotted a Singing Bush Lark. Its tiny frame perched gracefully, filling the air with its sweet, melodious song.

The Singing Bushlark, scientifically known as Mirafra cantillans, stole my heart. Its captivating song echoed through the fields.

Its camouflaged plumage, blending seamlessly with the earthy tones around, caught my eye. But it was the distinctive facial markings that made it stand out—bold streaks around the eyes and cheeks, giving it a unique charm.

During the breeding season, the male's courtship displays were a sight to behold—soaring high, spinning in the air, all while singing its enchanting song.

And when it came to nesting, the Singing Bushlark showed its resourcefulness. Its ground nests, hidden among dense vegetation, were intricately woven, a haven for its young.

Some of these birds even embark on epic migrations, showcasing their incredible navigational skills and endurance.

Spotting that Singing Bushlark was more than just a birdwatching moment— it was a profound connection with the natural world, right in the heart of Lahore.