Thursday, March 19, 2015

Eaglenest 2015 ( 12th March )



Lesser Adjutant

Brown Shrike

Black Kite

Asian Openbill

Asian Pied Starling

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

House Crow 

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Indian Roller

Red-vented Bulbul

Common Myna

Chestnut-headed Bee-eater

Coppersmith Barbet

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Third Sunday Nature Trail - 15th June 2014

Its time again to reconnect with nature and enjoy the flora / fauna around Bannerghatta. This month's Third Sunday Nature Trail is on 15th June 2014.The meeting point is Ramakrishna Mission School ,Shivanahalli at 6.30 am.

Wikimapia coordinates : 12°43'21"N 77°34'18"E

Trail route is Ramakrishna Mission School to Ashram Farm Patch behind the school campus.

Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, cap, water bottle,binocular ( if you have), a camera ( if you like to shoot) ,rain wear and snacks ( if you don't mind sharing with others..:-))is what you need to carry during the trail.The trail is free and open to all ages who can walk till around noon.

How to reach Shivanahalli ? Take the Bannerghatta Road from the Bangalore City. Cross the Bannerghatta circle - the road curves to the left at that junction near the Bannerghatta Police Station. Proceed further towards Jigani Industrial township. Halfway, on the right hand side at Raagi Halli Bus Stop, take a right turn  and drive for about 10 kms. Do not take any side roads (rare and few) that you will come along . Travelling through the Bannerghatta National Park reserved forest, you will have to cross the Ragihalli village to come over to Shivanahalli. The Ramakrishna Mission School is located at the entrance of the Shivanahalli village.

We recommend car-pooling between participants. 


In case you find it difficult to reach the venue , pl call at 9845383882 for direction.


Also request the participants to observe and note the sightings and share it on bngbirds@yahoogroups.com. 

We also look forward to see our photographs of the trail on the forum too...:-)

NOTE : 

We are grateful to Swami Vishnumayanandji, for letting us use the Ramakrishna mission campus,Shivanahalli to organize our trails.Many of the participants have been donating pooled money to the mission which is used for the community and conservation work around the school/village and the park. Swamiji has requested that whosoever would like to donate, pl donate individually and directly to him, so that he can meet each of them, howsoever small the amount may be.

IMPORTANT NOTE : 

We as organizers shall not be responsible for any delays & alterations in the program or expenses incurred - directly or indirectly - due to natural hazards,weather,injury or any untoward incident that may happen during the trail.Hence, request you all to follow and be with the Ashram's resource person for the day and not to stray towards beyond the set trail.

Happy Birding and be a ethical birder !!

Thursday, April 17, 2014

Third Sunday Trail - 20th April 2014

Hi!


Its time again to reconnect with nature, and enjoy the flora and fauna around Bannerghatta.

This month's Third Sunday Trail will be held on 20th April 2014

Place : Around Hulimangala

Meeting Time : 6.30 am

Meeting Point : Hulimangala Govt.School

Wikimapia Coordinates:12°48'49"N 77°38'14"E

Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, cap,snacks,water bottle,binocular ( if you have),camera ( if you like to shoot) ,rain wear and a note book & pen if you like to list the things that you see, is what you need to join the trail. 

This outing is free and open to all ages who can walk the trail of around three to four hours.

We recommend car pooling.

Also request the participants to observe and note the sightings and share it on bngbirds@yahoogroups.com. 

We also look forward to see our photographs of the trail on the forum too...:-)

For bus/route details to reach the nearest bus stop Koppa Gate ( around 3.5 kms from the meeting point ) you can log on www.tellmyroute.com

In case you find it difficult to locate the meeting point, please call on 9845383882  to get the direction.

Happy Birding,



Geetanjali Dhar

Thursday, March 13, 2014

Third Sunday Trail - Shivanahalli - 16th March 2014

Hi!



Its time again to reconnect with nature, and enjoy the flora and fauna around Bannerghatta.


This month's Third Sunday Trail will be on 16th March 2014 at Shivanahalli.

Wikimapia coordinates : 12°43'21"N 77°34'18"E

Meeting time : 6.30 am

Trail route is Mission School to Plantation area and Bannerghatta Forest Patch behind the campus.

Comfortable clothing,Good walking shoes, a Cap, water bottle & snacks ,Binocular ( if you have), a camera ( if you like to shoot) ,rain gear for unexpected shower is what you need.Free and open to all ages who can walk this trail of around three hours .


How to reach Shivanahalli ? Take the Bannerghatta Road from the Bangalore City. Cross the Bannerghatta National Park - the road curves to the left at that place near the Bannerghatta Police Station. Proceed further towards Jigani Industrial township. Halfway, on the right handside you will see a bus stop and a road turning right there. Take a right turn there and drive for about 10 kms. Do not take any side roads (rare and few) that you will come along . Travelling through the Bannerghatta National Park reserved forest, you will have to cross the Ragihalli village to come over to Shivanahalli. The Ramakrishna Mission is located at the entrance of the Shivanahalli village.

IMPORTANT NOTE :
We as organizers shall not be responsible for any delays & alterations in the program or expenses incurred - directly or indirectly - due to natural hazards,weather,injury or any untoward incident that may happen during the trail.Hence, request all of you to follow and be with the village resource person for the day and not to stray beyond the set trail.


Be a ethical birder !!


Happy Birding.

Geetanjali Dhar

+91 9845383882

Thursday, February 13, 2014

Third Sunday Trail-Jaipurdoddi-16th Feb '14

Friends,

Its time again to reconnect with nature, and enjoy the flora and fauna around Bannerghatta.This month's Third Sunday Trail will be held on 16th February 2014

Place : Around Jaipurdoddi Village

Meeting Time : 6.30 am

Meeting Point : Balaji Tea Shop in Jaipurdoddi Village

Wikimapia Coordinates: 12°42'30"N 77°34'10"E

Reaching Jaipurdoddi : Take the Bannerghatta Road from the Bangalore City. Cross the Bannerghatta National Park - the road curves to the left at the Bannerghatta Police Station. Proceed further towards Jigani. Halfway, on the right hand side you will see the Ramakrishna Mission, Shivanahalli hoarding. (You will also notice a Swamy Ayyappa temple hoarding). This is Ragihalli Gate Bus Stop.Take a right turn there and drive for about 11 kms. Do not take any side roads (rare and few) that you will come along . Travelling through the Bannerghatta National Park reserved forest, you will have to cross the Ragihalli village to come over to Shivanahalli.Once at Shivanahhalli Village, take the new road on the right which leads to Jaipurdoddi. 

Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, cap,snacks,water bottle,binocular ( if you have),camera ( if you like to shoot), and a note book & pen if you like to list the things that you see, is what you need to join the trail.Pl. also use mosquito repellent cream
while on this trail. This outing is free and open to all ages who can walk the trail of around four to five hours.

We recommend car-pooling between participants. While confirming participation please also indicate your contact details and the route you will be taking to reach.If traveling in your own car, please do indicate if any spare capacity is available. 

Pl. call on 9845383882 if you find it difficult to locate the place.

Important Note :We, as organizers shall not be responsible for any delays & alterations in the program or expenses incurred or injuries - directly or indirectly - due to natural hazards,weather,or any untoward incident that may happen during the trail. 

Happy birding, 

Geetanjali Dhar

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Bird List Seen on 15/12/2014

Haragadde Lake, IN-KA
Dec 15, 2013 6:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Protocol: Area
10.0 ac
Comments:     This was as part of the scheduled Third Sunday Nature Trail
40 species

Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis)  5
Little Cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger)  3
Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea)  1
Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)  6
Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)  8
Indian Pond-Heron (Ardeola grayii)  3
Black-shouldered Kite (Elanus caeruleus)  1
Shikra (Accipiter badius)  2
Black Kite (Milvus migrans)  2
Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus)  1
Purple Swamphen (Porphyrio porphyrio)  50
Eurasian Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus)  6
Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra)  30
Red-wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus)  4
Pheasant-tailed Jacana (Hydrophasianus chirurgus)  4
Spotted Dove (Streptopelia chinensis)  1
Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis)  1
White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis)  3
Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis)  4
Green Bee-eater (Merops orientalis)  7
Blue-tailed Bee-eater (Merops philippinus)  10
Indian Roller (Coracias benghalensis)  1
Coppersmith Barbet (Megalaima haemacephala)  1
Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri)  50
Brown Shrike (Lanius cristatus)  1
Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus)  2
House Crow (Corvus splendens)  4
Red-rumped Swallow (Cecropis daurica)  20
Red-whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus)  6
Blyth's Reed-Warbler (Acrocephalus dumetorum)  2
Ashy Prinia (Prinia socialis)  2
Oriental Magpie-Robin (Copsychus saularis)  1
Pied Bushchat (Saxicola caprata)  2
Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis)  10
Pale-billed Flowerpecker (Dicaeum erythrorhynchos)  4
Purple-rumped Sunbird (Leptocoma zeylonica)  4
White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla madaraspatensis)  2
House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)  10
Red Avadavat (Amandava amandava)  1
Nutmeg Mannikin ( Scaly Breasted Munias )(Lonchura punctulata)  7

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Third Sunday Trail - 15th December - Haragadde Kere

Hi!

Its time again to reconnect with nature, and enjoy the flora and fauna around Bannerghatta.

This month's Third Sunday Trail will be on 15th December 2013 at Haragadde Kere.

Google map points for the meeting place : 12.764361,77.654068

Meeting time : 6.30 am

Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, a cap, water bottle & snacks ,binocular ( if you have), a camera ( if you like to shoot) light woolen wear for the windy morning is what you need.Free and open to all ages who can walk this trail of around three hours .

We shall also try and explore Hennagara Kere if time permits.

Happy Birding.

Geetanjali Dhar

+91 9845383882

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Third Sunday Trail-17th November 2013-Shivanahalli

Hi!


Its time again to reconnect with nature, and enjoy the flora and fauna around Bannerghatta.

This month's Third Sunday Trail will be on 17th November 2013 at Shivanahalli.

Wikimapia coordinates : 12°43'21"N 77°34'18"E

Meeting time : 6.30 am

Trail route is Mission School to Plantation area and Bannerghatta Forest Patch behind the campus.

Comfortable clothing,Good walking shoes, a Cap, water bottle & snacks ,Binocular ( if you have), a camera ( if you like to shoot) ,rain gear for unexpected shower is what you need.Free and open to all ages who can walk this trail of around three hours .

How to reach Shivanahalli ? Take the Bannerghatta Road from the Bangalore City. Cross the Bannerghatta National Park - the road curves to the left at that place near the Bannerghatta Police Station. Proceed further towards Jigani Industrial township. Halfway, on the right handside you will see the Ramakrishna Mission, Shivanahalli hoarding. (You will also notice a Swamy Ayyappa temple hoarding). Take a right turn there and drive for about 10 kms. Do not take any side roads (rare and few) that you will come along . Travelling through the Bannerghatta National Park reserved forest, you will have to cross the Ragihalli village to come over to Shivanahalli. The Ramakrishna Mission is located at the entrance of the Shivanahalli village. 

Happy Birding.

Geetanjali Dhar
+91 9845383882

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Third Sunday Trail - 15th September 2013 - Kasavanakunte

Hi!

This month's Third Sunday Trail will be held on 15th September 2013.

Place : Forest patch around Kasavanakunte Village

Meeting Time : 6.30 am

Meeting Point : Gate of Pride Valley View through Begihalli Village

Wikimapia Coordinates for the meeting place :12°46'48"N 77°36'9"E

Kindly note that we have requested the local village boys to be with group for the trail. Its an appeal to the participants to follow these boys and not venture out on their own as the entire surrounding area is frequented by wild elephants. Kasavanakunte village is on the periphery of the Bannerghatta National Park.

Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, cap, water bottle,binocular ( if you have), a camera ( if you like to shoot),rain wear and snacks ( if you don't mind sharing with others..:-))is what you need to carry during the trail.

We recommend car-pooling between participants.

For bus/route details to reach the nearest bus stop is Begihalli ( around 2.00 kms from the meeting point ) you can log on www.tellmyroute.com

Call 9845383882  in case you are not able to find the route.

IMPORTANT NOTE : 

We as organizers shall not be responsible for any delays & alterations in the program or expenses incurred - directly or indirectly - due to natural hazards,weather,injury or any untoward incident that may happen during the trail.Hence, request  all of you to follow and be with the village resource  person for the day and not to stray beyond the set trail.

Happy Birding,

Geetanjali Dhar
http://www.bangalorebirding.blogspot.com

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Third Sunday Trail-21st July 2013-Bhootanahalli surroundings


Hi!

Its time again to reconnect with nature, and enjoy the flora and fauna around Bannerghatta.

This month's Third Sunday Trail will be held on 21st July 2013

Place : Bhootanahalli surroundings

Meeting Time : 6.30 AM

Meeting place : http://wikimapia.org/27914841/Third-Sunday-Trail-meeting-point-21-07-2013 (This is the marked wikimapia link)

Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, a cap, water bottle,rain wear,binocular ( if you have), a camera ( if you like to shoot) and snacks that you dont mind sharing is what you need to join the trail. This outing is free and open to all ages who can walk the trail of around three to four hours .

Please be noted that as coordinators we shall not be held responsible for any mishap that may happen during such trails. You are responsible for your own self! So request all to be responsible participants during such trails.

We recommend car-pooling between participants. While confirming participation please also indicate your contact details and the route you will be taking to reach Bannerghatta Circle. If traveling in your own car, please do indicate if any spare capacity is available.

Note : This trail may involve walking a lot on rough terrain hence not recommended for children.

Geetanjali Dhar

+91 9845383882

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Bird Count In Pakke Tiger Reserve ,Arunachal Pradesh - 3rd November 2013 to 9th November 2013

Dear Birdwatchers,


It is a pleasure to invite you and your friends for the citizen participatory initiative in Pakke Tiger Reserve-Arunachal Pradesh..An opportunity for the ordinary citizens who are also avid birders to take part in the scheduled bird count planned for the winter of 2013.


The initiative is being co-ordinated by Pakke Tiger Reserve Authority ,Help Tourism & IT Nature Club.


The aim is to collect a database of birds by using the "unlimited point count' in the allocated transects across the park.


The participation fee of Rs.6,000 per participant will be used for the conservation efforts in the park. This amount will be utilized by Pakke Tiger Reserve Authority & Ghora Aabhe Society for conducting regular livelihood programs for the community who are living on the fringes of the park to become partners in the conservation efforts.


Ghora Aabhe Society is a registered group of twelve village chiefs from around the park.Ghora Aabhe Society along with the forest department supports conservation efforts in and around the park.They enforce customary laws, institute penalties against hunting / logging and organize conservation awareness programs around Pakke Tiger Reserve. Representatives of the society also run the Pakke Jungle Camp - a community managed stay option in Seijosa under the guidance and support from Help Tourism.


Help Tourism ( www.helptourism.com ) is an award winning, reputed and pioneering rural tourism organization which has been regularly organizing capacity building and livelihood programs for the communities living around the protected areas in East & North East India such as Pakke Tiger Reserve.
You can request for  Participation Form and more details ​by emailing us at itnatureclub@gmail.com OR calling us on +91 9845383882


Date of the bird count : 3rd November 2013 to 9th November 2013.


Last date for submission of form along with payment : 15th August 2013
We strictly adhere to the first come first reserved principle for participation.
Join us with your birding friends for an amazing  birding and trekking experience in the Eastern Himalayas.
Best regards,

Geetanjali Dhar
www.itnatureclub.in

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Third Sunday Trail - Bird List - 16/06/2013

The day was cloudy but the number children who took part in the walk, brightened the entire trail.
As usual NTP was well represented .

As usual few more areas have been taken over by the builders and what was once a nice green patch has been converted into a layout.

Highlight of the trail was spotting a Yellow Wattled Lapwing, which I had not seen earlier around this patch.

All in all a nice pleasant walk through Kaleshwari. Another highlight was the discovery of a new eatery in Bannerghatta thanks to Prashanth Kumar, who however could not join us for the breakfast...

Bird List:

  1. Common Iora
  2. Yellow-wattled Lapwing
  3. Black Kite
  4. Ashy Prinia
  5. Plain Prinia
  6. Common Myna
  7. Large-billed Crow
  8. Green Bee Eater
  9. Rose-ringed Parakeet
  10. Red-whiskered Bulbul
  11. White-browed Bulbul
  12. Red-vented Bulbul
  13. Black Ibis
  14. Spotted Dove
  15. White-throated Kingfisher
  16. Pied Bushchat
  17. Little Egret
  18. Black Drongo
  19. Oriental Magpie Robin
  20. Common Hoopoe
  21. Greater Coucal
  22. Red-wattled Lapwing
  23. Plum-headed Parakeet
  24. Asian Koel
  25. Ashy Woodswallow


Thursday, June 13, 2013

Third Sunday Nature Trail - 16th June 2013

Hi!

Its time again to reconnect with nature, and enjoy the flora and fauna around Bannerghatta.
 
This month's Third Sunday Trail will be held on 16th June 2013.
 
Place : Road connecting Bannerghatta Anekal Road to Kaleshwari Forest Gate (First forest gate you encounter on your way to Shivanahalli ).We shall explore the surrounding of the village and the estates around there.

Meeting Time : 6.30 AM
 
Meeting place : Ragihalli Gate Bus Stop ( 12.800178,77.598994 )
 
Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, a cap, water bottle,rain wear,binocular ( if you have), a camera ( if you like to shoot) and snacks that you dont mind sharing  is what you need to join the trail. This outing is free and open to all ages who can walk the trail of around three to four hours .
 
Please be noted that as coordinators we shall not be held responsible for any mishap that may happen during such trails. You are responsible for your own self! So request all to be responsible participants during such trails.
 
We recommend car-pooling between participants. While confirming participation please also indicate your contact details and the route you will be taking to reach Bannerghatta Circle. If traveling in your 
own car, please do indicate if any spare capacity is available.
  
Geetanjali Dhar
http://www.bangalorebirding.blogspot.in
 +91 9845383882

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Third Sunday Trail -19th May 2013

Hi!

Its time again to reconnect with nature, and enjoy the flora and fauna around Bannerghatta.
This month's Third Sunday Trail will be held on 19th May 2013.

Place : Road connecting Bannerghatta Circle to Kaggalipura till the second forest gate.
Meeting Time : 6.30 AM
Meeting place : Tea Shop opp. Bannerghatta Police Station
Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, a cap, water bottle,rain wear,binocular ( if you have), a camera ( if you like to shoot) and snacks that you dont mind sharing  is what you need to join the trail. This outing is free and open to all ages who can walk the trail of around three to four hours .
We request all the participants to restrict themselves to walk on the road and not venture away from the road as lately there has been sightings of Leopard, Bears ,Wild Boars and of course Wild Elephants. As

coordinators we shall not be held responsible for any mishap that may happen during such trails. You are responsible for your own self! So request all to be responsible participants during such trails.

We recommend car-pooling between participants. While confirming participation please also indicate your contact details and the route you will be taking to reach Bannerghatta Circle. If traveling in your own car, please do indicate if any spare capacity is available.
  
Geetanjali Dhar
 +91 9845383882

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Third Sunday Nature Trail 21st April 2013 - Hulimangala

Hi!


Its time again to reconnect with nature, and enjoy the flora and fauna around Bannerghatta.

This month's Third Sunday Trail will be held on 21st April 2013

Place : Around Hulimangala

Meeting Time : 6.30 am

Meeting Point : Hulimangala Govt.School

Wikimapia Coordinates:12°48'49"N 77°38'14"E

Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, cap,snacks,water bottle,binocular ( if you have),camera ( if you like to shoot) ,rain wear and a note book & pen if you like to list the things that you see, is what you need to join the trail. 

This outing is free and open to all ages who can walk the trail of around three to four hours.

We recommend car pooling.

Also request the participants to observe and note the sightings and share it on bngbirds@yahoogroups.com. 

We also look forward to see our photographs of the trail on the forum too...:-)

For bus/route details to reach the nearest bus stop Koppa Gate ( around 3.5 kms from the meeting point ) you can log on www.tellmyroute.com

In case you find it difficult to locate the meeting point, please call on 9845383882  to get the direction.

Happy Birding,

Geetanjali Dhar

Friday, March 22, 2013

Third Sunday Trail-17th March 2013 - Bird List

Here is the list as prepared by Kishan and Sheshadri
Ashy Prinia (Prinia socialis)
Booted Eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus)
White-cheeked Barbet (Megalaima viridis)
Coppersmith Barbet (Megalaima haemacephala)
Small Green Bee-eater (Merops orientalis)
Red-whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus)
Red-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer)
White-browed Bulbul (Pycnonotus luteolus)
Pied Bushchat (Saxicola caprata)
Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis)
Jungle Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos)
Spotted Dove (Streptopelia chinensis)
Little Brown Dove (Streptopelia senegalensis)
Ashy Drongo (Dicrurus leucophaeus)
Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus)
White-bellied Drongo (Dicrurus caerulescens)
Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)
Lesser Golden-backed Woodpecker (Dinopium benghalense)
Tickell's Flowerpecker (Dicaeum erythrorhynchos)
Common Iora (Aegithina tiphia)
Pariah Kite (Milvus migrans)
Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopacea)
Red-wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus)
Jerdon's Chloropsis (Chloropsis cochinchinensis)
Black-throated Munia (Lonchura kelaarti)
Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis)
Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri)
Oriental Magpie Robin (Copsychus saularis)
Purple-rumped Sunbird (Nectarinia zeylonica)
Purple Sunbird (Nectarinia asiatica)
Common Tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius)
Shikra (Accipiter badius)
Grey Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea)
Blyth's Reed-Warbler (Acrocephalus dumetorum)
Booted Warbler (Hippolais caligata)
Greenish Leaf-Warbler (Phylloscopus trochiloides)
Oriental White-eye (Zosterops palpebrosus)
Oriental Honey-buzzard (Pernis ptilorhynchus)
Eurasian Golden Oriole (Oriolus oriolus)
Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus chinensis)
Black-headed Oriole (Oriolus xanthornus)
Black-naped Monarch Flycatcher (Hypothymis azurea)
Asian Paradise-Flycatcher (Terpsiphone paradisi)
Tickell's Blue Flycatcher (Cyornis tickelliae)
Small Minivet (Pericrocotus cinnamomeus)
Blue-headed Rock Thrush (Monticola cinclorhynchus)
White-throated Orange-headed Thrush (Zoothera citrina cyanotus)
Small Green-billed Malkoha (Phaenicophaeus viridirostris)
Green Sandpiper (Tringa ochropus) ?
Black-headed Cuckoo-Shrike (Coracina melanoptera)
Indian Scimitar Babbler (Pomatorhinus horsfieldii) Call
Unid Nightjar
Unid Pipit
Pasting herewith the observation noted by Sheshadri which is copied from his post on bngbirds@yahoo.com
"Thanks Kishan for the list.I thoroughly enjoyed the trip! Apart from seeing several birds up close,
met up people who I hadnt for quite some time! ( Of course meeting several new as well!)
Some additions/Corrections to the list.Some of us saw a big brownnish colored raptor fly by at quite a height and I thought it to be a booted eagle going by the white 'engine bars' near its neck. On checking with photographs, it turns out to be most likely a Tawny Eagle.

The munia seen were the white rumped munia L. striata and not the black throated! .The chloropsis was most probably a Gold fronted

There was also a bird, the size of a female blue capped rock thrush and pale brown to tawny color sighted by Ullas, TS Shrinivasa and several students from MCC. The bird was shot when it was preening itself and the head is not clearly visible in the photograph. Will post the details of this once it becomes clear what it was.

A pair of oriental Honey buzzards (OHB) were seen on a Eucalyptus tree with a nest. One bird was an adult and the other a Juv. Both birds took off on seeing some of us approach the tree to get a better look. Geetanjali
pointed out that the juv looked like a changable hawk eagle (spizaetus genus) however, by seeing them for about 10 mins we concluded it was indeed a OHB.

While editing a wiki article on this bird, I noticed that there is indeed and entry which says the Juv of OHB is known to appear like that of a larger spizaetus Juv in order to avoid being predated! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crested_Honey_Buzzard

Several trees were flowering and had attracted several birds! They broke the monotony of the dry parched landscape.
Regards
seshadri "

Thursday, March 14, 2013

Third Sunday Trail-Shivanahalli-17th March 2013

Its time again to reconnect with nature and enjoy the flora / fauna around Bannerghatta. This month's Third Sunday Trail will be held on 17th March 2013.The meeting point is Ramakrishna Mission School ,Shivanahalli at 6.30 am.


Wikimapia coordinates : 12°43'21"N 77°34'18"E

Trail route is Ramakrishna Mission School to Ashram Farm Patch behind the school campus.

Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, cap, water bottle,binocular ( if you have), a camera ( if you like to shoot) ,rain wear and snacks ( if you don't mind sharing with others..:-))is what you need to carry during the trail.The trail is free and open to all ages who can walk till around noon.

How to reach Shivanahalli ? Take the Bannerghatta Road from the Bangalore City. Cross the Bannerghatta circle - the road curves to the left at that junction near the Bannerghatta Police Station. Proceed further towards Jigani Industrial township. Halfway, on the right hand side at Raagi Halli Bus Stop, you will see the Ramakrishna Mission, Shivanahalli hoarding. (You will also notice a Swamy Ayyappa temple hoarding). Take a right turn there and drive for about 10 kms. Do not take any side roads (rare and few) that you will come along . Travelling through the Bannerghatta National Park reserved forest, you will have to cross the Ragihalli village to come over to Shivanahalli. The Ramakrishna Mission School is located at the entrance of the Shivanahalli village.

We recommend car-pooling between participants. 

In case you find it difficult to reach the venue , pl call at 9845383882 for direction.

NOTE : 
We are grateful to Swami Vishnumayanandji, for letting us use the Ramakrishna mission campus,Shivanahalli to organize our trails.Many of the participants have been donating pooled money to the mission which is used for the community and conservation work around the school/village and the park. Swamiji has requested that whosoever would like to donate, pl donate individually and directly to him, so that he can meet each of them, howsoever small the amount may be.

IMPORTANT NOTE : 
We as organizers shall not be responsible for any delays & alterations in the program or expenses incurred - directly or indirectly - due to natural hazards,weather,injury or any untoward incident that may happen during the trail.Hence, request you all to follow and be with the Ashram's resource person for the day and not to stray towards beyond the set trail.


Happy Birding!

Geetanjali

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Code of Ethics for Birders

As per the text from the American Birders' Association Code of Ethics

Code of Birding Ethics


1. Promote the welfare of birds and their environment.

1(a) Support the protection of important bird habitat.
1(b) To avoid stressing birds or exposing them to danger, exercise restraint and caution during observation, photography, sound recording, or filming.

Limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and never use such methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, or of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area;

Keep well back from nests and nesting colonies, roosts, display areas, and important feeding sites. In such sensitive areas, if there is a need for extended observation, photography, filming, or recording, try to use a blind or hide, and take advantage of natural cover.

Use artificial light sparingly for filming or photography, especially for close-ups.

1(c) Before advertising the presence of a rare bird, evaluate the potential for disturbance to the bird, its surroundings, and other people in the area, and proceed only if access can be controlled, disturbance minimized, and permission has been obtained from private land-owners. The sites of rare nesting birds should be divulged only to the proper conservation authorities.

1(d) Stay on roads, trails, and paths where they exist; otherwise keep habitat disturbance to a minimum.

2. Respect the law, and the rights of others.

2(a) Do not enter private property without the owner's explicit permission.

2(b) Follow all laws, rules, and regulations governing use of roads and public areas, both at home and abroad.

2(c) Practice common courtesy in contacts with other people. Your exemplary behavior will generate goodwill with birders and non-birders alike.

3. Ensure that feeders, nest structures, and other artificial bird environments are safe.

3(a) Keep dispensers, water, and food clean, and free of decay or disease. It is important to feed birds continually during harsh weather.

3(b) Maintain and clean nest structures regularly.

3(c) If you are attracting birds to an area, ensure the birds are not exposed to predation from cats and other domestic animals, or dangers posed by artificial hazards.

4. Group birding, whether organized or impromptu, requires special care.

Each individual in the group, in addition to the obligations spelled out in Items #1 and #2, has responsibilities as a Group Member.

4(a) Respect the interests, rights, and skills of fellow birders, as well as people participating in other legitimate outdoor activities. Freely share your knowledge and experience, except where code 1(c) applies. Be especially helpful to beginning birders.

4(b) If you witness unethical birding behavior, assess the situation, and intervene if you think it prudent. When interceding, inform the person(s) of the inappropriate action, and attempt, within reason, to have it stopped. If the behavior continues, document it, and notify appropriate individuals or organizations.

Group Leader Responsibilities [amateur and professional trips and tours].
4(c) Be an exemplary ethical role model for the group. Teach through word and example.

4(d) Keep groups to a size that limits impact on the environment, and does not interfere with others using the same area.

4(e) Ensure everyone in the group knows of and practices this code.

4(f) Learn and inform the group of any special circumstances applicable to the areas being visited (e.g. no tape recorders allowed).

4(g) Acknowledge that professional tour companies bear a special responsibility to place the welfare of birds and the benefits of public knowledge ahead of the company's commercial interests. Ideally, leaders should keep track of tour sightings, document unusual occurrences, and submit records to appropriate organizations.

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Bird List - Kasavanakunte -17th Feb 2013

Missed the outing again. Here is the list prepared by Ulhas Anand.


  1. Grey Junglefowl
  2. Indian Peafowl
  3. Indian Pond Heron
  4. Eastern Cattle Egret
  5. Crested Honey Buzzard
  6. Black Kite
  7. Brahminy Kite
  8. Short-toed Snake Eagle
  9. Bonneli's Eagle
  10. Common Kestrel
  11. Spotted Dove
  12. Laughing Dove
  13. Rose-ringed Parakeet
  14. Greater Coucal
  15. Spotted Owlet
  16. White-throated Kingfisher
  17. Common Kingfisher
  18. Blue-bearded Bee-eater
  19. Green Bee-eater
  20. White-cheeked Barbet
  21. Coppersmith Barbet
  22. Small Minivet
  23. Bay-backed Shrike
  24. Black Drongo
  25. Ashy Drongo
  26. White-bellied Drongo
  27. White-spotted Fantail
  28. Asian Paradise Flycatcher
  29. House Crow
  30. Indian Jungle Crow
  31. Jerdon's Bush Lark
  32. Red-vented Bulbul
  33. Red-whiskered Bulbul
  34. White-browed Bulbul
  35. Barn Swallow
  36. Red-rumped Swallow
  37. Ashy Prinia
  38. Common Tailorbird
  39. Indian Scimitar Babbler
  40. Puff-throated Babbler
  41. Yellow-billed Babbler
  42. Oriental Magpie Robin
  43. Indian Robin
  44. Tickel's Blue Flycatcher
  45. Pale-billed Flowerpecker
  46. Purple Sunbird
  47. Purple-rumped Sunbird
  48. Loten's Sunbird
  49. White-rumped Munia
  50. White-browed Wagtail

Sunday, February 10, 2013

Third Sunday Nature Trail - Kasavanakunte - 17th February 2013


Hi!

This month's Third Sunday Trail will be held on 17th February 2013.

Place : Forest patch around Kasavanakunte Village

Meeting Time : 6.30 am

Meeting Point : Gate of Pride Valley View through Begihalli Village

Wikimapia Coordinates for the meeting place :12°46'48"N 77°36'9"E

Kindly note that we have requested the local village boys to be with group for the trail. Its an appeal to the participants to follow these boys and not venture out on their own as the entire surrounding area is frequented by wild elephants. Kasavanakunte village is on the periphery of the Bannerghatta National Park.

Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, cap, water bottle,binocular ( if you have), a camera ( if you like to shoot),rain wear and snacks ( if you don't mind sharing with others..:-))is what you need to carry during the trail.

We recommend car-pooling between participants.

For bus/route details to reach the nearest bus stop is Begihalli ( around 2.00 kms from the meeting point ) you can log on www.tellmyroute.com


Call 9845383882  in case you are not able to find the route.

Imp. Note
IMPORTANT NOTE : 

We as organizers shall not be responsible for any delays & alterations in the program or expenses incurred - directly or indirectly - due to natural hazards,weather,injury or any untoward incident that may happen during the trail.Hence, request  all of you to follow and be with the village resource  person for the day and not to stray beyond the set trail.

Happy Birding,

Geetanjali Dhar
http://www.bangalorebirding.blogspot.com

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Third Sunday Nature Trail - Hulimangala-20th Jan 2013


Hi!

Yes, though its a bird race day , the trail this time is for those who are not taking part in the race..:-)

This month's Third Sunday Trail will be held on 20th January 2013.

Place : Around Hulimangala

Meeting Time : 6.30 am

Meeting Point : Hulimangala Govt.School

Wikimapia Coordinates:12°48'48"N   77°38'15"E

Comfortable clothing,good walking shoes, cap,snacks,water bottle,binocular ( if you have),camera ( if you like to shoot) and a note book & pen if you like to list the things that you see, is what you need to join the trail. This outing is free and open to all ages who can walk the trail of around three to four hours.

We recommend car-pooling between participants.

For bus/route details to reach the nearest bus stop Koppa Gate ( around 3.5 kms from the meeting point ) you can log on www.tellmyroute.com

Pl. call Subir at 9731395620 in case you have problem in locating the meeting point
.
Happy racing and Happy Birding,

Geetanjali Dhar
http://www.bangalorebirding.blogspot.com