Red Munia in Rajarhat, Kolkata
Chasing the Crimson: My Quest to Photograph the Red Munia
Hey everyone! If you know me, you know I’m obsessed with birds! I’ve been trying to get some decent shots of the stunning Red Munia for ages. These little guys are seriously shy and quick, making them a real challenge. But guess what? This year, I finally managed to capture some photos I’m actually proud of! Let me take you along on my adventure to spot the amazing Red Munia!
Rajarhat Rendezvous: Spotting the Red Munia
My first stop was Rajarhat, near Kolkata, on September 7th, 2025. A huge thanks to Debarshi Duttagupta for sharing the location! I was birding solo for a while until Sutapa joined in. We finally spotted the Red Munia feeding low in the grasses. They were super cautious! We only got photos when they perched on the tall grass stalks before zooming off. It was a test of patience, but so rewarding to see the beautiful Red Munia in its natural habitat.
Red Munia perched on grass in Rajarhat, Kolkata (Bengal)
Suri Surprise: A Red Munia Family
Next up was Suri in Birbhum district, on September 13th. Massive shoutout to Somenath Mondal for the location tip! I booked a cab and started my journey at 1 AM (yes, that’s dedication!). I reached the spot by 5:30 AM and the location Somenath told me, at 6 AM. It was incredible – a hidden gem surrounded by fields of Kash flowers! The Red Munia come here to feed, find nesting material, and just chill. We spotted a whole family of Red Munia! I think there was a nest nearby. Even saw a juvenile male Red Munia! Birding was fantastic from 6:30 AM to 8:00 AM. Totally worth the early start!
Red Munia perched on grass in Suri, Birbhum (Bengal)
Red Munias in Kash Flower field, Suri, Birbhum (Bengal)
Red Munia perched on Kash Flower in Suri, Birbhum (Bengal)
Red Munia perched on grass in Suri, Birbhum (Bengal)
The Beauty of the Red Munia
Isn’t the Red Munia stunning? The males are especially vibrant, with their bright red plumage, contrasting with the fields! Did you know that Red Munias in Bengal often use the fluffy seeds of Kash flowers to line their nests? How cool is that?
Important Birding Etiquette: Respect the Red Munia!
Okay, birders, listen up! The Red Munia is super sensitive. It’s REALLY important to respect their space. Please, please, PLEASE don’t chase them or try to get too close. And NEVER play their calls to attract them! It stresses them out, especially the young ones. Our photographs are not more important than their well-being. Let’s be responsible birders and protect these amazing creatures and their Red Munia environment!
Other Sights (or Lack Thereof!)
While the Red Munia was the star of the show, I did spend some time looking around and appreciating the Kash Flowers. Sometimes, you don’t spot your target bird like in this 
situation.
Kash Flowers at the location of Suri, Birbhum, Bengal
Tips for Spotting the Red Munia
Want to see a Red Munia yourself? Here are my tips:
- Go Early: They’re most active in the morning.
- Be Patient: They’re shy, so take your time and observe from a distance.
- Look for Kash Flowers: They love these areas!
- Respect their Space: Give them plenty of room and avoid disturbing them.
Conservation Matters: Let’s Protect the Red Munia!
The Red Munia, like many bird species, faces threats from habitat loss and human disturbance. We can all do our part to protect them. Support conservation organizations, reduce your environmental impact, and spread awareness about the importance of bird conservation. If we all pitch in, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty of the Red Munia. Bird well, be responsible!
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