Vernal Hanging Parrot
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There are 11 types of parrots found in India, and they differ in appearance and color to varying degrees. Generally, we refer to all of them as parrots. But did you know that among these 11, there is only one true parrot species, which is the ‘Vernal Hanging Parrot.
What is so different about this species?
It’s their tail which is short compared to others. The rest of the parrots are actually parakeets.
So, let’s begin this photographic journey to Shelar Farms. This farm is located near Pangare village, about 50 km from Swargate in Pune. We left Pune early in the morning at 5:30 AM (you will find the Google Maps link at the end of this article).
Great and sweet tea at ‘Dive Ghat’ with pleasant surroundings in front.
On the way to the farm, about 3-4 kilometers before we arrived, we saw a beautiful winding road, bushes, mountains, and a lovely sunrise.
Beautiful winding road, bushes, mountains and sunrise.
We arrived there precisely at 7 o’clock. The birds had begun to chirp, filling the air with their cheerful melodies, while the golden rays of the sun bathed the millet crops in a warm, inviting light.
The golden rays of the sun falling on the crops of millet
The morning was cool, accompanied by a gentle breeze and the soft glow of golden sun rays. Mist clung to the hills, creating a mystical atmosphere that enhanced the beauty of the lush green surroundings. This serene setting invited a sense of calm and rejuvenation, perfect for a day of exploration.
Colorful beautiful birds
Many birds were happily pouncing on the millet grains, their vibrant feathers glinting in the morning sunlight. The scene was lively, filled with flurries of wings as they darted from stalk to stalk, pecking at the golden grains. Excited by the sight, we quickly grabbed our cameras and began capturing the moment, focusing on each bird as it perched or hopped about. With every click, we tried to immortalize the beauty and energy of the scene, from the delicate movements of the birds to the serene backdrop of the lush fields.
I am Kedar, photographer at travelclix
I am Mandar, photographer @ travelclix
Since it was a Tuesday, there were no other photographers around, but there were definitely some companions. Near the fields, a few goat kids were grazing, while on the hill, cows were leisurely eating.
Goat kids were grazing near farm
on the hill these cows were grazing
Let’s look at the birds we photographed:
Baya Weavers
It is a beautiful bird with striking yellow and brown plumage. The male Baya Weaver is particularly vivid, showcasing bright yellow feathers on its head and belly, contrasted with a rich brown back. In contrast, the female is typically more subdued, exhibiting a mostly brown coloration that helps her blend into her surroundings, especially when nesting. The male is known for its impressive nesting skills, often weaving intricate hanging nests from grass and twigs to attract a mate. These nests, often seen swaying in the breeze, add to the charm of their habitat.
Baya weaver – male bird sitting on a crop of millet
Baya weaver – female and beautiful butterfly
You can see the beautiful nests of baya weaver on the trees along the banks of the river or in the trees in the fields. Their nests are remarkable and intricately designed. They are typically teardrop-shaped, hanging from the ends of tree branches. The nests are constructed from fine grasses and strips of leaves, woven tightly to create a sturdy structure.
Baya weaver – male bird sitting on a grain of millet
The entrance is usually located at the bottom, providing protection from predators. These nests can often be found in clusters, creating a stunning display of craftsmanship in the trees. The male weaver meticulously weaves the nest to attract a mate, showcasing his skills and creativity.
Baya weaver – male bird sitting on a grain of millet
Our observation during today’s birding was that a male Baya Weaver was hopping from millet stalk to stalk, feeding while keeping close to his family, which was also nearby.
Baya weaver – female bird sitting on a grain of millet
Baya weaver – female bird sitting on a grain of millet
This is female baya weaver and her chick. Look how the chick is always ready and eager to eat! 😄😄😄
baya weaver feeding her chick
Red Avadavat
The Red Avadavat is a beautiful bird that catches the attention of bird watchers due to its vibrant colors. The red hue and small spots on its body enhance its beauty.
Beautiful Red Avadvat
Gaurav Shelar, a young man, knowing the importance of this migratory parrot, has facilitated bird observation for photographers here. We chatted with Gaurav Shelar to learn more about this initiative which you will find in our Vernal hanging Parrot’s video.
Gaurav Shelar helping with bird watching
Common Rosefinch
This is Common Rosefinch. Isn’t it a beautiful bird?
The Common Rosefinch is a striking bird known for its vibrant pink plumage and melodious song. Often found in crops, meadows and forest edges, it captivates birdwatchers with its charming presence and cheerful chirps.
Common Rosefinch
Common Rosefinch
Common Rosefinch
Crested Bunting
This is Crested Bunting, in marathi it is called युवराज (Yuvraj).
Crested Bunting
The marathi name युवराज (Yuvraj) really suits him because of the crest on his head.
Crested Bunting
For a moment, while we were anticipating vernal parrot’s presence and watching other birds feed on the millets, this Short-toed Snake eagle flying behind the farm hills immediately caught our attention.
Short-toed Snake eagle
when you are in the open field and If you hear a constant “vat vat vat” like sound, then it’s mostly prinia and specifically it’s “Ashy” prinia which is very common bird.
Ashy Prinia
At that time the well-known photographer of Kerala Mr. Jayaraj Sir came there along with his other friends.
jayaraj sir with friends
jayaraj sir with friends
This is Scaly Breasted Munia. Sometimes you can see a bird with a very long green tail flies in the sky, if it’s not Indian Paradise Flycatcher, then it is probably a Scaly Breasted Munia.
Asian or Indian Paradise Flycatcher: Click here to watch the video
Scally Breasted Munia
This is Indian silverbill.
Indian silverbill
Many birds were coming and going. But the one we came here for, had not been seen for a long time. Oh..bird appeared on a tree, Look if you can spot it 🙂
find the parrot
Do you recognize me? I am Vernal Hanging Parrot 🙂
vernal hanging parrot
It hangs upside down from the tree and eats while hanging upside down, that’s why this parrot is called Vernal Hanging Parrot.
vernal hanging parrot
Rose Ringed parakeet, plum-headed parakeet, alexandrine parakeet are parakeets but in India vernal hanging parrot is the only parrot species.
vernal hanging parrot
It usually comes here from Konkan in search of food during monsoon. Their main food is small fruits, seeds, grains like young grains of millet. It is a bird found in parts of Southeast Asia as well as the Indian subcontinent. The male bird is glossy green in colour, with a red bill and a bluish patch on the throat. A dark red back on the side of the tail is found in male birds. If there is no blue throat area, it is a female or immature bird.
vernal hanging parrot
Pearl Millet or Bajri is grown here as a crop from August to September. Parrots start to see that they have corns. They remove the millet seeds from the corn and eat the juicy part and discard the seeds.
vernal hanging parrot
Isn’t it wonderful to see birds flying freely, frolicking and living fearlessly in the open air?
vernal hanging parrot
How to reach?
start from Swargate Pune to Saswad via Dive Ghat. Coming out of Saswad, there is a road on the right side to Veer Dam. Turning there, about 8-9 kms further is Shelar Farm on the right side of the road. If you look at google map it will be easy or you will not notice Shelar farm.
- Distance – Swargate Pune to shelar farms: 40 Km
- Best time to visit : July end to Mid october
