A Fun Trip to See Birds!
Hi everyone! I went on a super cool trip to Saswad, near Pune, to see some amazing birds! It was August 31, 2025. I flew all the way from Calcutta! My friend Gaurav took me to his farm. It’s a special place where lots of birds come to eat the yummy millets (a kind of grain). This blog post is all about my adventure seeing the Vernal Hanging Parrot, Crested Buntings, and Baya Weavers..!
Vernal Hanging Parrot in Saswad near Pune
The Colorful Vernal Hanging Parrot
My favorite birds were the Vernal Hanging Parrots! These parrots are so small and green. They even have a little red spot near their tail. Did you know they sometimes sleep upside down like bats? It’s true!
Vernal Hanging Parrot in Saswad near Pune
Meeting the Crested Bunting
I also saw a bird called a Crested Bunting. It has a cool black head and brown wings. It likes to eat the millet seeds too! These Crested Buntings are so cute!
Crested Bunting in Saswad near Pune
Other Birds I Saw
I saw other birds too, like the Baya Weaver. It was so much fun watching all the birds eat and fly around.
Tips for Bird Watching
* Be quiet and patient.
* Bring binoculars to see the birds up close.
* Wear clothes that help you blend in.
My Trip Was Great!
I had a wonderful time in Saswad. I learned so much about birds. I hope you can go bird watching someday too! It’s a great way to learn about nature.
A Birdwatcher’s Paradise Found: Saswad and the Vernal Hanging Parrots
The air hung thick with anticipation as the cab sped towards Saswad on August 31, 2025. Leaving behind the urban sprawl of Pune after a short flight from Calcutta, I was headed to Gaurav Shelar’s millet farm – a burgeoning hotspot for birdwatching. Gaurav had promised a weekend immersed in avian activity, and the reality exceeded all expectations. This blog post details my trip to see the Vernal Hanging Parrots and Crested Buntings.
Vernal Hanging Parrot in Saswad near Pune
Gaurav, a passionate farmer and conservationist, has transformed one of his millet farms into a sanctuary for birds. From July onwards, the farm becomes a magnet for a diverse range of species seeking sustenance from the ripening grains. Birders from across India, and even a few international visitors, flock here to observe, photograph, and document the avian spectacle. I had the privilege of joining their ranks, armed with my camera and binoculars, eager to witness the beauty firsthand.
Information: You can contact Gaurav via WhatsApp on his phone number. This is Gaurav Shelar’s Phone number: +91 77568 69182
The Allure of the Vernal Hanging Parrot
Among the many species present, the Vernal Hanging Parrots ( _Loriculus vernalis_ ) were the undisputed stars. These diminutive, vibrant green parrots, with their characteristic red rumps and playful antics, were a constant source of delight. Watching them flit through the millet stalks, clinging upside down to reach the choicest grains, was an experience I won’t soon forget.
Vernal Hanging Parrot in Saswad near Pune
These parrots, belonging to the hanging parrot family, are known for their unique roosting behavior. They often sleep upside down, resembling bats, a behavior that likely provides them with better grip and concealment amidst the dense vegetation. The millet farm provides an ideal habitat for them, offering both food and shelter.
Encountering the Crested Bunting
Another delightful sighting was that of the Crested Bunting ( _Emberiza lathami_ ). These striking birds, with their distinctive black heads and chestnut wings, were often seen foraging on the ground, gleaning fallen millet seeds. Their presence highlights the ecological importance of the farm, demonstrating how agriculture can, with mindful management, coexist with biodiversity.
Crested Bunting in Saswad near Pune
The Crested Bunting is a member of the Emberizidae family. These buntings are frequently seen near agricultural lands. Their foraging behaviour suggests a reliance on the grains and seeds available in these areas. The thriving population of Crested Buntings indicates a healthy ecosystem within and around the millet farms.
Other Avian Inhabitants
While the Vernal Hanging Parrots and Crested Buntings took center stage, the farm also teemed with other avian life. I observed Baya Weavers diligently constructing their intricate nests, their architectural prowess a testament to their evolutionary ingenuity. Sparrows flitted about, adding their cheerful chirps to the symphony of the farm. Sadly, I didn’t spot the elusive Red Munia, but that only fuels my desire to return next season.
Baya Weaver in Saswad near Pune
Tips for Visiting and Photographing the Birds of Saswad
* Timing is key: Visit between July and September for peak bird activity.
* Respect the environment: Maintain a safe distance from the birds and their nests.
* Gear up: Bring binoculars, a telephoto lens (if you’re into photography), and comfortable walking shoes.
* Patience is a virtue: Birdwatching requires patience. Spend time observing, and you’ll be rewarded with incredible sightings.
* Hire Local Guide: Gaurav knows everything about the birds of the region, and it is recommended you hire him.
Final Thoughts
My weekend in Saswad was an enriching experience. It was a reminder of the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Gaurav’s dedication to creating a haven for birds is truly commendable. It is a great example of how agriculture and conservation can work hand-in-hand. If you’re a bird enthusiast, photographer, or simply someone seeking solace in nature, I highly recommend a visit to this hidden gem. I left Saswad rejuvenated, already planning my return trip, hoping to finally catch a glimpse of the elusive Red Munia.
