Monsoon Bird Walk at Sunder Nursery Yields 35+ Vibrant Species
Trip Report: Delhi Earth Walk – Avian Monsoon Magic
Date: 3rd August 2025
Venue: Sunder Nursery, Delhi
Walk Leader: Mr. Ishtiyak Ahamad
Participants: 22 Adults + 4 Kids
On 3rd August 2025, we conducted this week’s Delhi Earth Walk at the beautiful and biodiverse Sunder Nursery, located near Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi. The walk, titled “Avian Monsoon Magic”, was led by Mr. Ishtiyak Ahamad, a seasoned wildlife and biodiversity expert with over 13 years of experience. Currently working as Manager – Nature Education and Training with Give Me Trees Trust, Mr. Ahamad has previously served as an Education Officer at BNHS and has conducted over 5,000 nature education sessions and walks.
Weather Update & Rescheduling:
The walk was originally scheduled from 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM, but due to heavy morning rain, I connected with Mr. Ahamad over a call, and we mutually decided to reschedule the start time to 7:00 AM based on the weather forecast. The revised timing was promptly communicated to all participants via our dedicated WhatsApp group.
However, a few participants who missed the message arrived early. Mr. Ahamad reached the venue by 6:30 AM, and I arrived shortly after at 6:45 AM. All remaining participants, along with senior birdwatcher Dr. Rajesh Kalra, gathered by 6:50 AM. Before beginning the walk, I gave a short briefing on Sunder Nursery and also shared information about the upcoming Global Wildlife Fair, scheduled from 10th to 12th October at the Constitution Club of India, Delhi.
Birding Highlights:
The walk officially commenced around 7:00 AM, and we were immediately greeted by the sight of a Yellow-footed Green Pigeon, followed by delightful sightings of:
Black-rumped Flameback, Ashy Prinia, Indian Spot-billed Duck with chicks (a heartwarming highlight!) ...and many more
In total, the group recorded 46 bird species, a fantastic turnout considering the rainy start.
Educational Insights:
Mr. Ahamad shared his in-depth knowledge of:
- Bird migration patterns
- Breeding seasons
- Habitat preferences
- Behavioral traits
Additionally, he expanded the scope of learning by introducing participants to native trees and butterflies. He identified and explained the ecological importance of tree species like. Neem, Kadamb, Semal, Peepal, Guava, Bale Patthar, Pasendu, Peelu, Safed Siris, Anjeer, and more
We also observed butterflies such as:
- Plain Tiger
- Common Jay
- Common Mormon
Closing:
The walk concluded at 9:15 AM with smiling faces, enriched minds, and newfound appreciation for the biodiversity of urban green spaces. A special highlight was the active engagement and curiosity of the children, who not only enjoyed the walk but also absorbed the knowledge enthusiastically.
The walk was a perfect blend of nature observation, education, and community bonding amidst the lush monsoon greenery of Sunder Nursery.