There’s a special kind of thrill that comes with venturing into a new landscape for birdwatching. The anticipation of what feathered wonders await, the unique sounds, the unfamiliar foliage – it all adds up to an unforgettable experience. My recent trip to Saswat, near Pune, Maharashtra, was precisely that: a vibrant tapestry of sights and sounds that left me utterly enchanted.
I had flown down to Pune for a specific purpose: to visit Gaurav’s renowned millet farm. For two intense days, from the first blush of dawn at 6:30 AM until the evening light began to fade around 7 PM, I was immersed in a birder’s paradise. It was August 2025, and the monsoon had left the landscape lush and alive, hinting at the bountiful harvest that lay ahead.
Gaurav’s farm, it turns out, is a true hidden gem, drawing birders from across India. There was a wonderful camaraderie among us, swapping stories and sharing binoculars, each person bringing their unique perspective to the shared joy of spotting a new species. Gaurav, it seems, has carved out a unique niche, almost a “monopoly” in the most charming sense, over this incredible birding haven. If any fellow birding leaders or enthusiasts are looking to organize a trip, I highly recommend reaching out to him directly at 9980845454 – his knowledge and hospitality are invaluable.
The weather added its own character to our adventure. On Sunday, a gentle rain graced us, transforming the farm into a shimmering, fresh canvas. The light shower only seemed to awaken more activity, proving that a little rain never dampens the spirit of a true birder!
The Golden Architect: Baya Weaver
Among the many fascinating birds we encountered, one truly stole the show with its vibrant display and diligent feeding: the magnificent Baya Weaver. I was lucky enough to witness a male in full breeding plumage, a true spectacle of nature’s artistry. It was perched precariously on a head of millet, actively extracting and consuming seeds with an almost surgical precision.
The raindrops visible in the soft-focus background of my observation added a poetic touch to the scene. Its bright yellow head and chest stood out dramatically against its brown, streaked back, making it impossible to miss. These little architects are simply incredible!
Fascinating Fact: Baya Weavers are highly adaptable granivores, meaning their diet primarily consists of seeds from various grasses and cultivated crops like millet. Their presence on Gaurav’s farm, actively feeding during the monsoon when grains are ripe and abundant, perfectly illustrates their reliance on agricultural landscapes for sustenance. They are true survivors, thriving in a human-modified world.
Identifying the Baya Weaver: When you spot one, look for that striking bright golden-yellow crown and nape, which contrasts sharply with the dark brown mask extending from its lores through the eyes. The underparts are a plain, unstreaked yellow, while the upperparts are streaked brown. Its stout, conical bill is a perfect tool for cracking seeds, and its behavior of diligently feeding on millet heads is a tell-tale sign. This distinguishes them from other similar weavers like the Streaked Weaver, which would have prominent streaking on its yellow underparts.
The Emerald Jewels: Vernal Hanging Parrots
While the Baya Weaver was a star, I also had several breathtaking encounters with the exquisite Vernal Hanging Parrot. These small, vibrant green jewels were everywhere, blending almost seamlessly with the lush green millet fields, only to be revealed by a flash of movement or their distinctive calls.
I observed one perched elegantly on the very top of a towering millet (Bajra) stalk. With its head tilted down, it was actively feasting on the ripening grains. Its bright red beak and a distinct red patch on its lower back/rump were clearly visible – truly a stunning splash of colour against the verdant backdrop. The soft, blurred expanse of green and hints of yellow in the background truly captured the essence of the farm.
Later, I was treated to the incredible sight of a Vernal Hanging Parrot mid-flight, its wings a blur of motion as it navigated through the dense foliage. In that fleeting moment, its bright blue primary feathers became visible, a beautiful contrast to its predominantly green body and that familiar red patch near its tail. They are truly acrobats of the air!
Fascinating Fact: Vernal Hanging Parrots are famous for their unique habit of sleeping upside down, much like bats! Beyond their acrobatic sleep habits, they have a diverse diet of nectar, fruits, and seeds. Their frequent visits to cultivated areas like Gaurav’s millet farm are crucial, as these fields provide a rich source of ripening grains, making such agricultural habitats vital for their foraging and survival.
Identifying the Vernal Hanging Parrot: Look for its small, compact body and predominantly bright green plumage. Key identifiers include its distinct bright red bill and that visible red patch on its lower back/rump. Unlike other common parakeets in the region (like the Plum-headed or Rose-ringed Parakeet), the Vernal Hanging Parrot has a very short, stubby tail – a crucial identification mark. In flight, you might catch a glimpse of blue on its primary wing feathers. Saswat, near Pune, is well within their known distribution range, so keep your eyes peeled!
Tips for Your Own Saswat Birding Adventure
If my experience has sparked your interest, here are a few pointers for planning your own visit to this fantastic location:
- Contact Gaurav First: This is a working farm, and Gaurav’s insights are invaluable. Call him at 9980845454 to coordinate your visit. He can guide you on the best spots and times.
- Embrace the Early Start: As with most birding, the early bird truly gets the worm (or the best sightings!). Be prepared to start as early as 6:30 AM.
- Pack Smart: Binoculars are a must. A good camera with a zoom lens will capture those special moments. Don’t forget a field guide for ID, a hat, water, and perhaps some light rain gear, especially during monsoon season – as I experienced, a little rain can add to the magic!
- Patience is Key: Birds often require quiet observation. Find a good spot, settle in, and let nature come to you.
- Respect the Habitat: Remember, you are on a private farm. Be mindful of crops, pathways, and the local environment. Leave no trace.
- Join a Group: Birding with others enhances the experience. You can share sightings, learn from more experienced birders, and enjoy the camaraderie.
Nature’s Delicate Balance: A Conservation Reflection
My two days at Gaurav’s millet farm were more than just a successful birding trip; they were a profound reminder of the delicate yet resilient balance between human activity and the natural world. It’s easy to overlook agricultural lands in our pursuit of pristine wilderness, but Saswat beautifully demonstrated how vital these cultivated spaces can be for diverse bird species.
The sight of Baya Weavers and Vernal Hanging Parrots thriving on millet crops underscores the critical role farmers like Gaurav play. Their practices, whether intentional or not, create crucial foraging grounds and habitats. This experience highlights the need for sustainable farming methods that not only ensure food security for humans but also provide sanctuary and sustenance for local wildlife.
As birders, we have a role to play too – not just in spotting and identifying, but in appreciating and advocating for these unique habitats. Documenting the species we see helps us understand their distribution and needs. By supporting initiatives that promote harmonious coexistence, we can ensure that places like Gaurav’s farm continue to flourish as havens for birds and people alike.
Photo Gallery
Leaving Saswat, I carried with me not just a list of observed species, but a heart full of gratitude and a renewed sense of wonder for the natural world. This trip was a powerful testament to the fact that extraordinary birding experiences can be found in the most unexpected places. Go explore, connect, and let the magic of Saswat’s millet fields captivate you!
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