After a Decade, Rare Birds Come Back as Migrant Numbers Jump in Pune

Winter birding in Pune has taken an extraordinary turn this year, surprising local naturalists with the sudden rise of rare migrant species across the city’s hill ranges. What was once considered a quiet season has transformed into one filled with unusual sightings, prolonged stopovers, and the return of birds that had vanished from the region for nearly a decade.

Wildlife biologist Arnav Gandhe, who has monitored Mahatma Tekdi for more than ten years, described this season as one of the most remarkable he has ever recorded. His biggest shock came earlier this week when an Amur falcon appeared on Mahatma Tekdi — a bird last seen on the same hill back in 2012–13. After twelve long years, the species has suddenly resurfaced, stirring excitement among birders. Known for its extraordinary mig