Pune Records Second-Highest Bird Species Sightings In Maharashtra
Pune Records Second-Highest Bird Species Sightings In Maharashtra
Pune recorded the second-highest bird species sightings in Maharashtra, with 248 species observed during the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) held from February 14 to 17. Maharashtra ranked fourth nationwide, documenting 418 species out of the total 1,077 recorded across India.
A major highlight of this year’s count was the sighting of the rare European Honey Buzzard at Vetal Tekdi. Other unique sightings included the Peregrine Falcon at Kavadi Pat, Steppe Eagle at Mahatma Hill, Forest Wagtail at the Ram-Mula River, and Bluethroat at the NDA Campus.
According to Ranjeet Rane, a coordinating member of the initiative, Pune submitted 3,672 checklists, covering 422 birding hotspots. Popular locations included ARAI-Vetal Tekdi (114 species), Bhigwan (104), Kumbhar Gaon Bird Sanctuary (103), Mula River in Baner (97), and Kavadi Pat (95).
The 12th edition of GBBC saw enthusiastic participation from bird lovers, with over 200 enthusiasts joining more than 20 bird walks across Pune. The initiative plays a crucial role in documenting biodiversity and has prompted calls for similar events to map plant species and microorganisms in the city’s natural habitats.
