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UDUPI: Bird watchers had a field day at the 11th edition of Manipal Bird day, notwithstanding the pandemic restrictions. A total of 78 birders turned up for the annual exercise which Manipal Birders Group organised on Sunday. Despite the Covid restrictions, the event proved to be a great experience to enthusiastic birders who took part in it. Maintaining social distancing, wearing of maskers and use of hand sanitizers was strictly adhered to.

The day began with a ‘Bird Walk’ at 6.30am. The birders divided themselves into smaller groups of 10-12 members and followed 11 different trails which took them through different terrains such as hills, plains, paddy fields and wetlands. The idea was to sight as many birds as possible and record their presence in the region. By the time the walk ended at about 10am, the different groups had recorded sightings of 122 species of birds.

After the walk concluded, the different groups gathered at Indrali temple for a discussion session. New and senior birders shared their experiences about the bird day and highlights of what they saw. On this occasion, the formation of Manipal Birding and Conservation Trust (MBAC) was also announced. The trust will focus on conservation of the trails in and around Manipal. A few butterfly hosting plants were also distributed on this occasion.

Hand painted bookmarks were given to the participants as a souvenir. The bird species spotted included Asian Brown Fly Catcher, Black Rumped Flame Back woodpecker, Black headed IBIS, Orange breasted green pigeon, Plum headed parakeet, spur fowl, White Browed Bulbul to name a few. Manipal Birders Club conducts regular birding sessions every Sunday from 6:30 am and visits different locations around Manipal to record the birds.

Tejasvi S Acharya of Manipal Birders Club told TOI that sighting of Eurasian Hoopoe excited the birders for they were spotting this winter migrant after a gap of two years. Around 20 of the birders for this annual exercise including six children were newcomers and rest were regulars, he said. The Club for its regular Sunday outing chooses one of the 16 trails in and around Manipal. Interested may visit Manipal Birders Club Facebook page or call Tejasvi (74115-21633).