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Citizen Scientists Spot Rare Birds in Pune
14 Feb
Summary
- The Great Backyard Bird Count is a global event from Feb 13-16.
- Citizen scientists are using Merlin and eBird to record sightings.
- Pune documented the rare European Honey Buzzard last year.
Pune has transformed into a hub for avian observation as the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) commenced this Friday, February 13th, and will continue through Monday, February 16th. This global citizen science event encourages individuals to spend at least 15 minutes observing birds and uploading their findings to the eBird platform. Guided bird walks are being organized across various city locations, including hills, riverbanks, lakes, and parks, engaging participants from diverse backgrounds.
Organizers are introducing tools like the Merlin app for bird identification and eBird for data recording. This initiative is crucial for gathering real-time data on bird distribution, supporting research into migration patterns and the effects of urban development. Pune has already contributed significant findings, including the sighting of the European Honey Buzzard last year, a rare occurrence in Maharashtra. This year, the Eurasian Hobby, typically found in the Himalayas, has also been spotted locally, underscoring the value of widespread community observation.
India saw over 6,500 participants submit 66,000 checklists in 2025, reporting more than 1,080 species. This collective effort is vital for understanding how wildlife adapts to urban environments. The GBBC turns individual birdwatching into a community activity, fostering awareness about the ecosystem's avian inhabitants. Participation is open to all until February 16th.
