Even before the morning mist could dissolve, more than a 100 people went out to ‘raid’ the city and its surroundings on Sunday. Armed with a field guide and cameras they ‘shot’ the birds and returned with a rich haul — stunning photographs and even more memorable experiences.
Each of the bird enthusiasts participating in ‘HSBC Hyderabad Bird Race-2013’ organised by Birdwatchers’ Society of Andhra Pradesh (BSAP) had an exciting tale to narrate.
“I spotted an elusive Golden Oriole perched on a distant tree in the Nehru Zoological Park. I could capture it after much effort,” Basabdutta, a participant squealed, showing of pictures of her prized catch.
“Bird watching as a hobby helps us connect to nature and once you take it up there is no going back,” said Amar Veer Madas, another participant. He travelled more than 100 km around the city and captured more than 60 birds on his camera.
Participants were split into 27 teams with about four members each and first timers were paired with experienced members, BSAP honorary secretary M. Shafaat Ulla explained.
“Hyderabad plays host to about 200 bird varieties including migratory birds like Rosy Starlings and Flamingos,” he said and called for a proper survey to catalogue the bird population.
Winners
Anand, Mahipal, Deepu and Neetha from ‘Team Red Munias’ won the race having captured 155 bird species including the ‘Bird of the Day’ - Wryneck. Humayun, Anjali, Abhinav and Prasad from Team Falcons stood second (137 species) and Nishant, Trishla, Hemant and Mohan from Team Shrikes stood third (111 species).
The event was organised in association with Greater Hyderabad Adventure Club and was sponsored by HSBC. For birdwatching visit BSAP website ‘www.basp.in'
