migratory birds visit – Winter migratory birds in the Nilgiris have been arriving in large numbers over the past few weeks, bringing excitement among bird-watchers in the district who have documented some of the first-time visitors. Chandrashekhar Das, keystone foundation ecologist and avid bird-watcher, said he has recorded two bunting species for the first time this year. “Grey-necked Bunting was seen in Kotagiri, while Black-headed Bunting was seen in Masinagudi.

These discoveries mark a significant addition to the avifaunal list of the district. Apart from these rare first-time sightings, several regular winter migrants have also been seen in the hills,” he said.

Mr Das said these species include the Eurasian wryneck, Kashmir flycatcher, pin-tailed snipe, whiskered tern, Indian blue robin and blue rock thrush along with many other seasonal visitors. Murali Murthy, another bird-watcher from the Nilgiris, said many birds of prey, including the Greater Spotted Eagle and Steppe Eagle, have been seen in greater numbers this year compared to previous years.

“From the deep reaches of Russia, steppe eagles have been recorded taking even small mammals and dropping them from great heights and subsequently eating the meat. It is really exciting to see such an amazing raptor heading to the Nilgiris to escape the Russian winter,” Mr Murali said. Higher numbers may indicate harsher winters in the birds’ home range or better availability of food here.

He has also recorded Northern Pintail and Booted Warblers in the Nilgiris this winter.