'Unexpected visitor': Rare little bunting bird spotted for the first time in Rajasthan's Mount Abu

(Representative Image: Canva)

The quiet village of Oriya in Mount Abu recently witnessed an exciting surprise. Birdwatcher and photographer Sahil Zutshi spotted a little bunting, a bird never seen before in Rajasthan. The unexpected sighting has thrilled nature enthusiasts and experts alike.

Zutshi described his joy at the rare encounter. "I was observing tree pipits foraging in the fields when a little bunting appeared," he said, TOI reported. “The next morning, I saw a small flock again. It’s exciting news for Mount Abu and Rajasthan.”

Little bunting, a small migratory bird, typically winters in northeast India and southern China. It breeds in the taiga regions of northeast Europe and northern Asia. The species prefers agricultural areas where it feeds on grains.

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Climate change could be the cause

Experts believe this unusual sighting might be linked to climate change. Ashwin Viswanathan, a scientist with the Nature Conservation Foundation, shared his thoughts. “This is the first recorded sighting in Rajasthan,” he said. “Climate change could have driven the bird here, as it avoids extreme cold. However, this requires further research.”

The little bunting’s appearance aligns with recent reports of sightings in northern India. Areas like Gurugram, Chandigarh, and parts of Punjab have also recorded visits.

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A senior forest official emphasised the importance of conserving Rajasthan’s ecosystems. “Sightings like this highlight the need to preserve forests and wetlands,” he said.

The unexpected arrival of the little bunting has brought attention to the region’s biodiversity. Birdwatchers remain hopeful the small flock will linger in Mount Abu for some time.