'Flights' to Vidarbha

Note: This article is for an essay-writing competition organised by Nisarg. The topic is 'Winter migrants coming to Vidarbha- a study'. I've modified the essay into an article to upload it on my blog. Though a poor piece of literature, the content could be useful for birdwatchers.

Life on earth is a challenge for all living creatures. From the tiniest of insects to the largest of whales, all animals face several difficulties throughout their lives; but nevertheless, they adjust, they adapt to the situations and fight back. As winter approaches, life becomes difficult for many mammals because of a sudden decrease in food supplies. Hence to protect themselves from the winter chill, some mammals grow a winter coat; others store food in advance, while the rest go in for hibernation. Birds can do none of these. Therefore in winter, birds leave their breeding grounds in search for warmer climes with adequate food supply. This is called migration; an interesting adaptation to survive the challenges of life.
The Vidarbha district, with its large and small wildlife sanctuaries and national parks and green cities like Nagpur, plays host to plenty of winter migrants. Different birds prefer different habitats. The following is a report on the winter migrants coming to Vidarbha, on the basis of their habitats-

Forest & Secondary Growth- Birds like the flycatchers favour lightly wooded areas. The migratory flycatchers found in Vidarbha are Asian Brown Flycatcher (Muscicapa daurica), Red-throated Flycatcher (Ficedula parva) and Verditer Flycatcher (Eumyias thalassina), and another flycatcher, the Grey-headed Canary (Culicicapa ceylonensis), reported recently from Seminary Hills in Nagpur could passibly be a winter vagrant to the region. The Ashy Drongo (Dicrurus leucophaeus) is another winter migrant; a breeder in the Himalayas and North-eastern India, is commonly seen in forests and well-wooded areas of Vidarbha. The Oriental Turtle Dove (Streptopilia orientalis), an uncommon winter migrant to this part can also be seen along forest edges and wooded regions (usually near water bodies). The Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus) is essentially an open forest raptor. Warblers like the Greenish Warbler (Phylloscopus trochiloides), Common Chiffchaff (P. collybita) and Lesser Whitethroat (Sylvia curruca) are also found in lightly wooded areas. The Blue-capped Rock Thrush (Monticola cinclorhynchus), a bird of dense, moist forest, was recorded in Seminary Hills on 7th October ’07. It could be on passage to Western Ghats, which is its regular wintering range.

Wetlands & Marshes- Wetlands attract the highest densities and species of migratory birds, of which ducks are the star attraction. Migratory ducks like the Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula), Common Pochard (A. ferina), Ferruginous Pochard (A. nyroca) Red-crested Pochard (Rhodonessa rufina), Ruddy Shelduck (Tadorna ferruginea), Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata), Northern Pintail (A. acuta), Gadwall (A. strepera), Common Teal (A. crecca), Garganey (A. querquedula) and Eurasian Wigeon (A. penelope) can be found here. Northern Shovelers, Tufted Ducks and Common Pochards are the earliest to arrive, while Garganey make a late arrival (usually in late December- early January) along with Ferruginous Pochards; a near threatened bird that is now rarely seen in Vidarbha. The Bar-headed Goose (Anser indicus), a summer migrant and breeder in Ladakh, migrates down south in winters and is seen in large lakes. Many species of waders also migrate to the wetlands of Vidarbha. These include Common Redshank (Tringa totanus), Common Greenshank (T. nebularia), Green Sandpiper (T. ochropus), Wood Sandpiper (T. glareola), Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos), Little Stint (Calidris minuta) and Temminck’s Stint (C. temminckii). Among the widespread but rarely encountered snipes, possibly 3 species occur in Vidarbha- Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago), Pintail Snipe (G. stenura) and Jack Snipe (Lymnocryptes minimus). Snipes are essentially marsh dwellers and are difficult to look for. The Ruff (Philomachus pugnax) which arrives just after the monsoon is an uncommon winterer to this region. The Black Stork (Ciconia nigra), a rare bird, is commonly seen in Pench National Park. Where there is prey, there are predators. The large congregations of waterfowl attract raptors like the Eurasian Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus) which specializes in hunting ducks and waders. Ospreys (Pandion haliaetus), which have nearly a worldwide distribution, are exclusively fish-eaters are a common sight in lakes and reservoirs. Great Crested Grebes (Podiceps cristatus) and Whiskered Terns (Childonias hybridus) are uncommon migrants to Vidarbha. Brown-headed Gulls (Larus brunnicephalus) had straggled to Nagpur in November ’07. Among the warblers, the Blyth’s Reed (Acrocephalus dumetorum), Clamorous Reed (A. stentorius) and Paddyfield Warbler (A. agricola) are found in reedbeds. 2 species of wagtails- Citrine (Motacilla citreola) and Yellow wagtail (M. flava) are exclusively found near lakes and jheels. The Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica), a resident in the Himalayas, spends the winter mainly around water bodies. Over thousands of these tiny birds can be seen perched on the wires above Telangkhedi Lake.

Open country & Scrub- Dry, arid terrain is most suitable for larks and certain species of pipits. The Greater Short-toed Lark (Calandrella brachydactyla) is the only migratory lark to be found here, though its status in Vidarbha is poorly known. Kamptee could be a potential habitat to see this species. Kamptee is a pipit hub, housing 3 migratory species- Tawny (Anthus campestris), Long-billed (A. similis) and Tree Pipit (A. trivialis); of which the Long-billed Pipit breeds locally and possibly migrates to Vidarbha in winter. Larks and pipits are an easy prey to the Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), which migrates from the Himalayas. Another migrant from the Himalayas, Tibet and further north is the race- lineatus of Black Kite (Milvus migrans), commonly named Black-eared Kite (M. m. lineatus). This wintering sub-species outnumbers the local populations in Vidarbha. The Booted Eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus) is another open country raptor. Other migratory birds, characteristic of this habitat are Common Rosefinch (Carpodacus erythrinus), Common Stonechat (Saxicola torquata), Blue Rock Thrush (Monticola solitarius) and Brown Shrike (Lanius cristatus), a rare migrant to this part of the country.

Grassland & Cultivation- Grassland eco-systems are primarily dominated by the harriers. 3 grassland species occur in Vidarbha- Montagu’s (Circus pygargus), Pallid (C. macrourus) and Pied Harrier (C. melanoleucos). All these are rarely seen in Vidarbha; infact the Pied Harrier has been recorded only thrice from this region! More research needs to be done on the status of these raptors in Vidarbha. The Blyth’s Pipit (Anthus godlewskii) is a rare migrant, whose status also remains unknown, though there have been sight records. Cultivations give a perfect hiding place for Common Quails (Coturnix coturnix) apart from providing prey to Common (Strunus vulgaris) and Rosy Starlings (S. roseus) and Black Redstarts (Phoenicurus ochruros). 2 species of buntings supposedly occur in Vidarbha but their status demands confirmation.

Vidarbha attracts over 70 species of migratory birds, yet their future looks bleak. There are countless threats to their survival, of which global warming and habitat destruction top the list. Climate change, a consequence of global warming, has changed patterns of bird migration. Untimely migration can adversely affect breeding behaviour. For example, I once saw a Wood Sandpiper in breeding plumage at Ambazari Lake on 20th May. Habitat destruction, like degradation of wetlands has affected many migratory waterfowl. Poaching of waterfowl, mainly ducks is another constant threat. Destruction of grasslands and use of pesticides has had negative impacts of grassland birds, particularly the Pallid Harrier, which is now endangered. Unplanned development on open country has disturbed the eco-systems existing there.
With so many problems to tackle, action must be taken immediately. Each and every individual’s contribution is needed to fight the climate change crisis. Awareness is the need of the hour. People must be educated about the phenomenon of bird migration and how it is being affected by global warming. Scientific researches and periodic bird surveys would help devise improvised methods for conserving habitats and protecting birdlife. Poaching, overfishing and the use of pesticides need to be controlled.
At this moment, every small step towards conservation matters a great deal. We must act immediately to ensure that our present does not become a thing of the past.

Climate Change Crisis in India

Note: The following article was written by me for a competition organised by the British Council, named 'Indian Climate Champion, 2008', an initiative to combat the crisis of climate change.

In an era of unabated and unplanned development, there is greatest possibility of the environment being irreversibly affected. One such crisis which has created a worldwide impact is global warming. With a sudden rise in temperatures throughout the world, climates have changed drastically, endangering the existence of each and every life form on earth. Here we look into climate change issues related to India.

Cause of the crisis- The primary cause of global warming is the increased emission of greenhouse gases particularly carbon dioxide and methane from automobiles, industries, burning of biomass etc. which has led to the depletion of ozone layer and has formed a ‘blanket’ for the outgoing ultraviolet rays causing a rise in temperature. In India, overpopulation and bursting fire crackers during Diwali are of major concern. More people mean more space to live in, which is supplemented by deforestation. As per the universally known fact that plants inhale carbon dioxide and release oxygen, it is easily understood that less number of trees means more carbon dioxide going to the atmosphere. Hence deforestation is another cause of climate change. From energy consumption to population explosion; virtually everything around us contributes a bit to global warming.

Impact on India- Rising temperatures throughout the world is being accompanied by the degradation of permafrost (the area covered by ice & snow). The most significant depletion is being observed in the polar regions posing a threat to Polar bears (among the first mammals to be recognized as endangered by IUCN because of global warming), several species of Penguins and the Red Knot (a critically endangered bird). Similar is the case with the Himalayan ranges. Melting of ice and Himalayan glaciers is a grave danger to the survival of Himalayan endemics (species with a range restricted to the Himalayas) and other life forms including human beings. Of all, the Snow leopard has been worst affected. Glaciers are an important source of perennial water supply. Melting of Himalayan glaciers will lead to acute water shortage, and lives of the people dwelling in the Ganges floodplains will be at risk. Glaciers like the Pindari glacier have already receded by over three-fourths of their original range. Like the increase in sea levels due to melting of polar ice caps, melting of Himalayan glaciers has caused a rise in water levels of inland drainage systems, which might submerge vast areas of land (for example, the Sunderbans delta is being threatened by rise in levels of the Ganges’ waters). Powerful floods along major river systems are an aftermath of the rise in water level. Heavy rains in western Maharashtra and contrastingly, poor rainfall in regions like Cherrapunji are similar symptoms. This suggests that the monsoon pattern in India itself is undergoing an erratic change.
The Indian coastline and island groups share the same plight as that of the Sunderbans and adjoining areas. It is estimated that by 2012, most of our coastal cities including Mumbai (already experienced a devastating flood off late) and Chennai (affected by the 2004 tsunami) will be submerged by the tremendous increase in sea levels.
Amphibian populations have reduced while an increase in the numbers of antigens and viruses has been observed. Amphibians breathe partially through their skin, hence any fluctuation in local environment affects local populations. On the other hand, rising temperatures provide a hospitable climate for antigens and viruses to perpetuate. This has led to a rise in diseases all over the world.

Role of NGOs- The role of Non-governmental Organizations in tackling global warming has been of great importance. The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) enforced the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) instead of unleaded petrol in metropolitan cities like New Delhi to reduce vehicular pollution. Sanctuary magazine has played a major role in spreading awareness through interesting articles and through its ‘Kids for Tigers’ programme. It has also organized a Climate Change Photography Contest in association with Worldwide Fund for Wildlife (WWF), India, Hewlett-Packard and ABN-Amro Bank with the motive of spreading awareness, as photographs are considered to be an effective conservation tool. Greenpeace, Indian and Bombay Natural History Society have been instrumental in promoting the use of compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), which consume less energy compared to incandescent bulbs. Other local organizations are also working for the same cause at the grassroot level; for instance a Mumbai-based organization had recently organized an hour’s power cut in the city to reduce energy consumption.
The work of NGOs in tackling the crisis is commendable; but it may not have the required effects unless individuals support the cause and contribute their bit. At the grassroot level, we, as individuals can take small steps like conserving water, paper and electricity; supporting the use of renewable energy, replacing incandescent bulbs with CFLs, and most importantly- protecting our forests as they act as major carbon sinks. The 3 Rs- Reduce, Reuse and Recycle are also to be implemented. Such small steps by all of us can have a significant impact. Afterall, ‘if a lot of us do a little, a lot gets done’.

The Fauna of Nagpur (2007)- A Field Report

The year 2007 began with the second half of the winter session of birding. The endangered Comb Ducks (Sarkidiornis melanotos) were seen at Telangkhedi Lake. Waders were plentiful at Ambazari Lake. The race- melanogrisea of Yellow Wagtail (Motacilla flava) arrived in this season in good numbers.

In Feb, Rohan Chakravarty photographed a Black Eagle (Ictinaetus malayensis) in flight at Bor Dharan, about 50 kms from Nagpur. This was a significant record, with photographic evidence of a bird rarely seen in Central India. Another sighting of his that needs special mention is of a Rufous Sibia (Heterophasia capistrata) at Bor WLS. Unfortunately no photographic evidence is available. Later, on 17th Feb, Rohan Chakravarty, Jay Kulkarni & Azar Ali saw a fight between a Little Pied (Ficedula westermanni) and a Red-throated Flycatcher (Ficedula parva) at Kamptee Cantonment. Again, photograph of the Little Pied Flycatcher, which is another new record for the region is lacking. On 18th Feb, a juvenile Laggar Falcon (Falco jugger) and a Tawny Pipit (Anthus campestris) were seen at Kamptee, both of which are local rarities. A pair of Eurasian Marsh Harriers (Circus aeruginosus) had spent the winter at the lake in Kamptee. It was common to see them attack waterfowl at the lake. A Blue-winged Leafbird (Chloropsis cochinchinensis) and a Grey Nightjar (Caprimulgus indicus) were seen at Kamptee Cantt. A pair of Black Ibises (Pseudibis papilossa) was seen at a field in Kamptee.

In early March an immature Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala) was photographed at Sonegaon Lake by Anurag Ghatole. At the camp adjoining Jhilpi Lake, many Savanna Nightjars (Caprimulgus affinis) were seen hawking insects with Microchiropterans [Pipistrellus ceylonicus (?) & Pipistrellus coromandra]. The next morning, Grey Junglefowls (Gallus sonneratii) were heard. Jay Kulkarni and Rohit Chakravarty saw a male Crested Bunting (Melophus lathami). A solitary Long-billed Pipit (Anthus similis) was photographed at the campsite. This was the first photographic record of the species for Nagpur. In late March, egg-incubation of the Indian Courser (Cursorius coromandelicus) was observed at Kamptee by Rohan Chakravarty & Azar Ali.

On 8th April, a Laggar Falcon was seen for the second time at Kamptee. Early in April, Anurag Ghatole reported the hatching of the eggs of the Courser and the emerging of 2 young ones. On 21st April, at around 9.30 pm, Rohan & Rohit Chakravarty saw a dead Common Palm Civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) at Seminary Hills. On 22nd April, flocks of Yellow Wagtail races- thunbergi & zaissanensis were seen at Telangkhedi Lake. Kamptee was revisited on 29th April, and this time a Tree Pipit (Anthus trivialis) was photographed by Rohit Chakravarty at a farmhouse; giving a proper documented record of the species. A pair of Asian Paradise Flycatchers (Terpsiphone paradisi) and an Ashy Drongo (Dicrurus leucophaeus) were also seen.

On 20th May, a Wood Sandpiper (Tringa glareola) in breeding plumage, was seen at Ambazari Lake. Chestnut-tailed Starlings (Sturnus malabaricus) were seen in plenty.

On 3rd June, the first Pied Cuckoo (Clamator jacobinus) of the season was recorded from Telangkhedi Lake. A Common Ratsnake (Ptyas mucosus) was seen near the Citrus sinensis plantations. Flocks of Large Grey Babblers (Turdoides malcolmi) were seen on 3rd & 10th June. A pair of Blue-winged Leafbirds was also seen. On 16th June, the termites flew out for the first time and atleast 2 mating pairs of Common Indian Toads (Bufo melanostictus) were observed. On 17th June, the first breeding male Baya Weavers (Ploceus philippinus) were seen building nests on Phoenix dactylifera. An injured Fulvous Fruit Bat (Rousettus leschnaulti) was rescued at Sitabuldi by Pritish Panke, which was handed over to N-Nats. On 24th June, Nagpur recorded its first Drongo Cuckoo (Surniculus lugubris) from Botanical Garden. Also a Grey-bellied Cuckoo (Cacomantis passerinus) was photographed for the first time. Eurasian Cuckoos (Cuculus canorus) were seen/heard regularly at Telangkhedi Lake. On 25th June, termites flew out another time and many juvenile and sub-adult Black Kites (Milvus migrans) were observed feeding on them at Seminary Hills. A Black-lored Tit (Parus xanthogenys), another local rarity, was photographed at Seminary Hills. Many mating pairs of Bull Frogs (Hoplobatrachus tigerinus) were recorded on the same day. 2 geckos- Hemidactylus brooki & H. leschnaulti (?) were also seen at Botanical Garden. Velvet mites were common in the monsoon.

On 1st July, the Drongo Cuckoo numbers had multiplied at Botanical Garden to about 7, with reports of around 4-5 males and 2-3 females. They were last seen at Botanical Garden on 5th July. Drongo Cuckoos were later heard near Jhilpi Lake on 15th July. At Jhilpi Lake, Grey Junglefowls were heard again and a dung pile left by a Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) was found. An Indian Cuckoo (Cuculus micropterus) was also seen. Partly-metamorphosised tadpoles of Burrowing Frog (Tomopterna breviceps) were seen at a short stream. Immature White-eyed Buzzards (Butastur teesa) were observed courting.

In August, at Botanical Garden, a juvenile Long-tailed Shrike (Lanius schach) was observed for 3 weeks. On 5th Aug, Bronzeback Treesnakes (Dendrelaphis tristis) were seen twice and on 12th Aug, a Trinket Snake (Elaphe helena) was seen near the fountain. Checkered Keelbacks (Xenochrophis piscator) were common in the ‘Kingfisher Pond’. A Burrowing Frog was seen at the fountain. A solitary Yellow Bittern (Ixobrychus sinensis) would be seen in flight after every 10 minutes, from the viewpoint. Nesting colonies of Baya Weavers were observed on Albizia procera & Roystonea regia and individual nests were seen on Ficus religiosa & Acacia nilotica. Shrikes preferred Bauhinia racemosa for nesting. August ended with a visit to Kamptee, which yielded rare sights of a Rock Eagle-Owl (Bubo bengalensis) & an Indian Fox (Vulpes bengalensis) both of which were photographed for the first time.


September began with the discovery of a nest of Spotted Owlets (Athene brama) at Telangkhedi Road and a sighting of the Rock Eagle-Owl at Botanical Garden. Male Baya Weavers were observed feeding the newly nest-independent juveniles. The Roystonea regia nesting colony had become inactive. The Eagle-Owl was again seen on 2nd Sept. An active nest of a Plain Prinia (Prinia inornata) was observed. In the first week of Sept, Swapnil Kuldiwar photographed a Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela) at MIDC, Ambazari. On 9th Sept, 2 Indian Nightjars (Caprimulgus asiaticus) were photographed at MIDC. A moth, Pseudomicronia coelata of the family Uraniidae was photographed at MIDC, which turned out to be a new record for the city. The area had a good population of Syke’s Larks (Galerida deva), Indian Bushlarks (Mirafra erythroptera) & Large Grey Babblers. By mid-Sept, Common Kestrels (Falco tinnunculus), Greenish Warblers (Phylloscopus trochiloides), Barn Swallows (Hirundo rustica) and Black-eared Kites (Milvus migrans lineatus) had arrived. On 30th Sept, a Short-nosed Fruit Bat (Cynopterus sphinx) was rescued at Anant Nagar.

On 7th Oct, a roost of a Barn Owl (Tyto alba) was discovered at Botanical Garden and the Rock Eagle-Owl of Telangkhedi was seen by Ambarish & Rohit Chakravarty. Shishir Dongre & Dr. Abheek Ghosh recorded the first Blue-capped Rock Thrush (Monticola cinclorhynchus) for Nagpur from Japanese Garden. Verditer Flycatchers (Eumyias thalassina) were seen by Neeraj Gade & Swapnil Kuldiwar at Seminary Hills & MIDC, Ambazari. A Whiskered Tern (Childonias hybridus) was seen at Ambazari Lake by Rohan Chakravarty & Pallavi Talware on 7th Oct. Other migrants seen on that day were Eurasian Wryneck (Jynx torquilla) & Black Redstart (Phoenicurus ochruros) at Botanical Garden & Telangkhedi; Northern Shovelers (Anas clypeata) at Ambazari Lake and Ashy Drongo at Maharaj Bagh. On 21st Oct, many Eurasian Thick-knees (Burhinus oedicnemus) were seen at Telangkhedi. Nest-building of the Black-headed Cuckooshrike on ornamental Bambusa vulgaris was seen. Nests of Paper wasps (Polistes sp.) & Dwarf bees (Apis florea) were observed on B. vulgaris.

Early in Nov, a male Blue Rock Thrush (Monticola solitarius) and an albino Jungle Babbler (Turdoides striatus) were photographed at Kamptee by Rohan Chakravarty. Meanwhile, Common Pochards (Aythya ferina) & Tufted Ducks (Aythya fuligula) had arrived at Ambazari Lake. A Blyth’s Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus dumetorum) was also seen and a solitary Brown-headed Gull (Larus brunnicephalus) had straggled to Ambazari; which was the first gull to be seen in the city in 9 years. The next day a Eurasian Wryneck was photographed by Rohan Chakravarty at Ambazari. On 12th Nov, a Leafbird pair was again observed at Telangkhedi and a juvenile Bonelli’s Eagle (Hieraaetus fasciatus); a bird rarely seen in the city was also recorded. Early in the month, an Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) was seen at Sonegaon Lake and later on 13th Nov, another was seen at Telangkhedi. A juvenile Common Hawk Cuckoo (Hierococcyx varius) was observed for 2 weeks and a Checkered Keelback was found in a well at Botanical Garden.

December was a bonanza month for Ambazari Lake. On 6th Nov, Neeraj Gade & Ruchik Pande recorded the first Pied Harrier (Circus melanoleucos) from Ambazari. The next day, Nagpur saw its first Jerdon’s Bushlark (Mirafra affinis). A sighting of an Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus) still awaits confirmation. On 8th Nov, 2 more new records were added to the list- a Bar-headed Goose (Anser indicus) & a Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus). An Osprey was regularly observed. Ambazari attracted the largest number of waterfowl including species like Ruddy Shelducks (Tadorna ferruginea), Gadwalls (Anas strepera), Red-crested Pochards (Rhodonessa rufina), Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope) & near-threatened birds like Darters (Anhinga melanogaster) & Black-headed Ibises (Threskiornis melanocephalus). Great Cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo) were also seen. Wild Pigs (Sus scrofa) were common around the lake. The year ended on a happy note with a final visit to Botanical Garden, where a Spectacled Cobra (Naja naja) & a 6ft long Rock Python (Python molurus) were seen.


For additional information about the sightings of the year, following links could be useful-
http://www.dropshots.com/rohitchak_77
http://www.dropshots.com/rohitchak77
http://picasaweb.google.com/rohitchak77

Statements Change; but is the Tiger Same?

The question in everyone’s mind; still unanswered! With each passing day, the Maharashtra Forest Department changes its statement; sometimes admitting that the tiger they killed was not the true man-eater and at another moment they would strongly feel that the Talodhi man-eater is dead.
The incident took place in Talodhi village near Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, where a man-eating tiger (tiger or tigress?)had been creating havoc, which was finally gunned down on 30th November ’07 following an order passed by the Principal Chief ‘Conservator’ of Forests (PC’C’F). The reason for putting the word conservator in single quotes is clear. At a stage where the world is battling to protect the tiger, curb man-animal conflict; our dear PCCF…oops! PC’C’F has found a new solution to this crisis. PC’C’F- inspired by Corbett, eh? But let me tell you, situations have changed now and this solution will take us nowhere.
Moving on to the next flaw in the issue- the incorrect sex determination. Earlier the tiger was supposed to be a female. A photograph taken using camera trapping methods revealed a tigress with prominent mammary glands. But after the tiger was shot dead, it was found to be a male! So now the big question; has the forest department killed the right one or not?? To this the forest department on the day of the killing expressed conformity in having shot the right tiger. So is it that the tiger changed its sex?!? Hmmm…I’ve never heard of a sex changing tiger, have you? Well lets ask our forest officials about this unusual phenomenon. So what’s your answer, forest department?
For a few more days the forest department was rigid with its statement that the Talodhi tiger (whether the man-eater or not, no one knows!) is dead. Then suddenly came a bolt from the blue, with one of the officials claiming that the tiger which was shot dead was not the real man-eater! So what do the officials say about this ‘pseudo’ man-eater? The Deputy Chief ‘Conservator’ of Forests (Dy’C’F), Brahmapuri Forest Division admitted the change in statement saying, “The tiger was not the man-eater but a threat to humans.” A threat to human lives?!?! But why may I ask? Just because it strayed into the village? And hence the department felt the need for killing it! What a policy to follow! When the entire nation is desperately struggling to save the tiger, these people, who claim to be their real ‘protectors’ have started taking steps which endanger its existence even more! Utterly shameful! Disgraceful comment, Mr. Dy’C’F!
If this much was not enough, another twist in the tale was added on 6th December ’07 when the Veterinary Doctor who performed the post-mortem of the tiger (which was supposedly a ‘threat to humans’) charged the forest department of tampering with a key tiger sample. The Vet claimed that the officials had interchanged the samples which had wild boar’s flesh and hair with bullock’s meat and paddy grass. All this to support their earlier claim, that the tiger had killed and eaten a bullock, hence posing a threat to humans lives! Nothing much surprising because everything from tiger numbers to other important data related to forests are all manipulated by the forest department! So this one does not shock me. All I have to say is, “Good presence of mind, department!”
Next, and the last of all the surprises till today was the killing of another villager by a tiger! What next forest department? Another shoot at sight order?
So before the forest department sets off to commit another crime, we- the people, the citizens of this country must all awaken together to Mother Nature’s call for help and save our National Animal from the clutches of its so called ‘protectors’!

Mother Nature We Are With You!

A poetry for N-Nats' song on nature conservation.

When there’s no one to wake me up,
A sweet bird call awakes me,
So if I’m asked about my second mother,
My answer would be thee,
When I’m out of bed on a gloomy day,
A colourful butterfly makes me happy,
So if I’m asked about my second mother,
My answer would be thee.

In today’s world, deforestation is being done,
On top of that, the burning UV rays of the sun!
All adding to our mother’s pain,
And her tears fall to the earth as acid rain!
In this world only a few care for you,
But remember mother, we are always with you.

For money and for fun, they kill our dumb cousins,
I understand dear mother, you are suffering from their sins,
It’s horrible to see you dying in front of our eyes,
My request to developers, ‘Please be a bit wise’.
In this world, your protectors are so few,
And remember mother, we are always with you.

Life in a Metro

Introduction- As time went by, the human civilization became more and more advanced. Under the dominance of the human race, trees were and are still being chopped off, as jungles are being converted into urbanized settlements. Yet in these concrete jungles, people share their homes with a variety of creatures and this article is an ‘ode’ to their extreme adaptability. The title of this article has been inspired from Anurag Basu's film. The only difference being in the content matter as Mr.Basu's film portrays the life of people in cities, whereas this article deals with how animals adapt themselves to urban conditions.

People hold a popular misconception. They feel that, to sight animals visiting jungles is a necessity; quite ignorant of the fact that they share their home with plenty of creatures. These wild animals, deprived of their natural habitat are forced to seek refuge in and around human settlements. But even in this modified habitat they are equally at home as they would have been in the jungles.

To begin with mammals, the Common Mongoose tops my list of extremely adaptable animals. The Common Mongoose is a specialised city dweller with its body perfectly designed for its respective mode of life. The short limbs and elongated body give it easy entrance into houses, while its non-retractile claws help it in digging holes to capture its prey (mainly ground dwelling shrews and rodents) and to climb the compound walls. In places of high human interference, Mongooses may also become nocturnal. Rodents like the House Rat (Rattus rattus) and House Mouse (Mus musculus) have purely become a commensal of Man. Spread to almost every part of the world through human agency, these creatures have become parasitic on Man. The Rodents emerge from their daytime haunts (usually dark areas in kitchens, pipelines etc) at night, where they come face to face with another nocturnal forager- the Grey Musk Shrew. Shrews feed exclusively on insects and are thus helpful to Man. On the other hand, Rodents being carriers of diseases are parasitic on Man. Unfortunately Shrews, sometimes are persecuted for their mouse-like appearance. Other mammals showing notable adaptability are the Civets. Civets spend the day hidden between boulders or in hollows on trees and emerge at night. At night they raid plantations along with fruit bats or predate over small game like hares and other rodents.
Cities host a rich array of birdlife. Birds show a preference for particular habitats, but some like the White-throated Kingfisher are equally at ease around habitations and scrub jungle as in ponds and deciduous forests. In cities, White-throated Kingfishers feed mainly on frogs, crabs and even snakes! Among others, commendable adaptability is displayed by Mynas, Bulbuls, Sunbirds, Sparrows, Doves, Pigeons (Passerine birds) and likewise. Mynas and the Passerines build their nests on grilled windows, bathroom windows and along parapets; whereas Sunbirds and Bulbuls feed on spiders, moths etc which roost on the walls of buildings during the day. Another specialised insect-hunter is the Black Drongo, sometimes seen hawking winged insects at night with the help of glowing street lights and halogens. Other night predators are Owls, Owlets and Nightjars. Owlets spend the day in tree hollows, while Nightjars stay concealed among leaf litters, both coming out at night from their respective haunts to feed on insects along with insectivorous bats. Owls (mainly the Barn Owl) reside in old buildings, emerging at night to hunt rodents, thus proving beneficial to agriculture. Raptors like the Black Kite and Shikra and in some places even the Peregrine Falcon are very well adapted to the city life. Shikras are successful in every habitat, whereas Black Kites prefer open country. In Pune city, Black Kites are found in large numbers, where pairs can be seen nesting on trees, forts and on high street lights.
Extreme urban adaptability among the herps is exhibited by the Hemidactylus geckos (House geckos). Of these, the Northern House and Brook’s Gecko are widespread and are almost inseparable from the buildings. Geckos being nocturnal, benefit from the glowing bulbs and tube-lights which attract moths in large numbers, thereby providing an easy prey for the geckos. Common Tree Frogs again are a commensal of Man. These frogs can be seen in buildings where they find the atmosphere of toilets congenial.
With thousands of creatures sharing homes with millions of people, cities are a miniature jungle. These creatures have their own distinct lifestyle, well adapted to succeed in this artificially modified environment. Man might be the most intelligent animal, but these are animals which have fought, and are still fighting against all odds. As far as intelligence is concerned, these animals are at par with Man. After all, surviving in an environment continuously altered by ‘the most intelligent animal’ also needs brains!

Changing Seasons, Changing Phases...a la vision of Botanical Garden

Situated in the heart of the city, adjacent to the Telangkhedi Lake, lies the Botanical Garden of Nagpur. It is a heaven for birdwatchers and a paradise for birds. Because of its location, Botanical Garden and the areas surrounding it have 5 major eco-systems namely- garden, lake, pond, plantations and forest. The varied habitats make it a rich bio-diversity hotspot of Nagpur. To support such a vast diversity and to maintain these habitats and ecologies, seasons play a vital role. With every season, Botanical Garden turns over a new look. The wildlife changes too. Lets have a look at how seasons affect the diversity, the habitats and the appearance of Botanical Garden.

1. Summer- After four months of cold weather, the hibernating reptiles come out of their burrows. Summer is the season of the Garden Lizard. By mid-April, the males sport a handsome breeding plumage to attract the females and can be seen displaying their bright red colouration from elevations. Skinks are frequently encountered in the gardens. Reptiles thrive in this dry weather. Apart from reptiles, Botanical Garden has its share of summer migrants. Minivets are common near light forests and Paradise Flycatchers- the most awaited summer migrants choose to reside among plantations and gardens. In the summers, Little Terns migrate from the coasts to inland water bodies. The Telangkhedi Lake and the Kingfisher Pond(called so because the unfailing attitude of Kingfishers to be present there always) inside Botanical Garden dry up, but still sprout with life. Just after sunrise, Peafowls, Pheasant-tailed Jacanas and Yellow-footed Green-Pigeons can be seen around Telangkhedi Lake. Even the Eurasian Cuckoo had once been sighted by our group on a tree on the banks of Telangkhedi Lake. Due to acute water shortage inside the garden, Bull Frogs and Skittering Frogs seek refuge in the fountains. Summer is the blooming season of the Flame of the Forest(Palas) which adds beauty to the forests adjoining Telangkhedi Lake.

2. Monsoon- After a long dry season, the monsoons bring a much needed relief. Monsoon is a season of renewal. The gardens turn green again, Kingfisher Pond gets filled up to the brink and even more, water of the Telangkhedi Lake spreads over vast areas. The forests adjoining Telangkhedi Lake become lush green and inaccessible. Some parts inside Botanical Garden become inaccessible too due to high density of plants and water logging. Birdlife also changes considerably with the arrival of Pied Cuckoos and Scaly-breasted Munias, who drop down for nesting purposes. The clever polygamist- the Baya Weaver also begins to nest in this season. Bitterns, though mainly nocturnal, may be encountered in the day time as well. The most noticeable of all the migrants is the Blue-tailed Bee-eater. Large numbers gather on the banks of Telangkhedi Lake, which at this time is full of Coots and Moorhens as the monsoons mark the beginning of the breeding season for them. Snakes also come out of their burrows. Ratsnakes can be seen swimming in the Kingfisher Pond. Bull Frogs return to the Kingfisher Pond, while Skittering Frogs can be spotted in stagnant water bodies.

3. Winter- Winter marks the beginning of the breeding season for most birds. Many species migrate from far off lands to this place- the Botanical Garden and adjoining areas. Winter is Green Bee-eater time in Nagpur, who come here as a result of their seasonal local migrations. Bee-eaters can be seen perched on any wire, from where they launch aerial attacks on winged insects. Inside Botanical Garden, Red-throated and Asian Brown Flycatchers are commonly seen. The rare Verditer Flycatcher is also seen from mid-October to November end. But the delight of winter is the Osprey which stays in Telangkhedi Lake from November to mid-February. Other migratory raptors recorded from the Telangkhedi Lake region are Western Marsh Harriers and Booted Eagles. Our group had also spotted a Bonelli's Eagle and a Crested Serpent Eagle in this region in December, 2006. The huge Grey Heron is also seen in the winter months. In the orange plantations, Rollers remain engaged in performing their elaborate courtship rituals. Migratory waders like Stints, Sandpipers and Snipes are common around lakes and ponds. This is not a season for the herps as they return to their warm burrows for hibernation.

As time goes by and seasons change, Botanical Garden too sports new looks. Species keep coming and going. Water level rises at one time and then suddenly drops down. But whatever the season is, this paradise is always full of life.