It can be easy to let birding activity slip into a bit of a lull in July as the monsoon makes its presence felt across much of the country. But the rains are hardly a reason to cut down on watching birds! A number of interesting observations can be made during this time of the year.
Heronries across India are in full swing and resident waterfowl species breed in this season. The monsoon also brings about changes in birdlife in several areas, from the influx of migrants like Pittas and Orioles in parts of India to the disappearance of some common species from other regions. Are there any interesting patterns playing out in the under-birded monsoon months in your region? The best way to find out is to list often!
The challenge this month is simple. Upload a minimum of 31 eligible checklists* of at least 15 minutes duration. Also, the 31 lists should be spread in such a way that you have at least 15 lists in the first half of the month (1-15 July), and at least 16 lists in the second half (16-31 July).
Although not part of this month’s challenge, do consider adding sounds, photos, and behavioural comments. If you are observing/documenting breeding birds please follow these practices: maintain a suitable distance; don’t use playback; don’t trample habitats where birds are likely to nest. If you fear that others may notice your observations and disturb the birds you have seen nesting, you can delay adding your comments or photographs for a few weeks. Please follow the basic principles of birding ethics, including in photography.
Please upload all your lists by 10 August 2022 so that we can announce the results soon after that.
Here are the general rules of our monthly challenges. And check out the yearlong challenges for 2022 as well! You can keep track of fresh lists coming in from India on this page.
A list of challenges at the global level can be seen here.
Header Image: Ashy Prinia Prinia socialis ©Manju Sinha/ Macaulay Library
