August instills an air of expectancy amongst birders. It is usually in this month that the first of the migrants begin to trickle in and many “oohs” and “aahs” follow the sightings of the odd Garganey or Wood Sandpiper. With the rains having been around, the increase in the amount of water and vegetation cover makes for pleasant and increased birding activity across the nation.
Resident birds
In most parts of India, this is the right time of the year to observe post-breeding activities of several birds. This may include dispersal of young birds, as is evident with White-eyed Buzzards in Rajasthan, or watching parents feeding fledglings. Around your house, it may be easy to spot and observe birds like prinias and sunbirds of all age groups. In certain parts of North India, you may be lucky to see a Bristled Grassbird displaying with it’s unique song and flight.
Visiting Birds
Several birders in the country are already reporting birds like Sand Plovers, Sandpipers, and even migratory waterfowl! Apart from these early appearances from some winter migrants, it is also the time to keep a look out for passage migrants such as European Rollers. In some parts of India, one may catch a sight of Spotted Flycatcher, Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin, etc. Rosy Starlings seem to be establishing a regular presence in NW India already as well.