Mr Viral
On Sunday, birders in Delhi-NCR were in for an exciting treat as they spotted several rare vagrant bird species at Sultanpur National Park. Among the most notable sightings were the Baikal teal (Sibirionetta formosa) and the falcated duck (Mareca falcata), both of which have been elusive in the region for years. The Baikal teal, last seen in Sultanpur in 2013, made a highly anticipated return after over a decade. Meanwhile, the falcated duck, spotted last year in Surajpur, is still considered rare, with only a handful of sightings recorded over the past decade.
Ashray Kamath (19) was the first to spot the rarity – the Baikal teal. ‘We were birding at Sultanpur, and it was almost afternoon when we scanned a flock of ducks. One of the ducks looked very different from the rest; it had brighter yellow markings on its face. Curious to identify the unfamiliar duck, I researched teals and discovered it was a Baikal teal, a very rare find for the region. As soon as the news spread, over 70 birders rushed to the spot,’ shared Ashray.
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These sightings add to the growing trend of rare migratory birds visiting the Sultanpur region, making it a must-visit location for birdwatching enthusiasts. With its rich diversity of migratory and resident species, Sultanpur National Park offers an unmatched opportunity to witness rare and exotic birds in their natural habitat.
For those curious, Sultanpur National Park is a 1.42 square kilometre haven for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and wildlife photographers. The park is a part of the Delhi-NCR region’s vibrant birdwatching circuit and is known for its role as a significant stopover for migratory birds. It provides a critical sanctuary for a wide variety of species, especially during the winter months, making it one of the most important birding destinations in northern India.
Also read: 10 rarest birds that exist in india and where to spot these
Sultanpur National Park is home to more than 200 species of birds (resident and migratory). The park is a haven for waterfowl, especially during the migratory season, when thousands of ducks, geese, and waders converge. Species such as the Greater Flamingo, Black-necked Stork, Eurasian Spoonbill, and Northern Pintail are frequent visitors. The sighting of rare species like the Baikal teal and the falcated duck are indeed a happy news for nature enthusiasts in and around the city.
Also read: 7 best reasons to visit Bandipur National Park in Karnataka
Access and best time to visitSultanpur National Park is easily accessible from Delhi and Gurgaon, making it a perfect day trip for those looking to explore nature without venturing too far from the city. The best time to visit is between October and March, when the park’s bird population is at its peak. During these months, the park comes alive with a variety of migratory birds, and the cool weather makes for a pleasant visit too.
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