Mumbai tweens on how to elevate your birding experience

Young birders at a trail

AMID school, drum classes, reading and other growing interests, two tweens from Lower Parel are learning to watch out for the signs of nature. "They come to you in many ways," they say, "And when you spot one, be careful to not startle them." This writer reads about beverages, ghosts, early inhabitants of earth, gut microbiome and biodiversity. But without near to nil first-hand encounters with the environment, she bluntly asks the nine-year-olds, "How?" Aaryan shares, "Firstly, maintain silence. You shouldn't speak or cry out in excitement on spotting a rare bird species. Pointing at the winged wonder is also a no-no." The duo regularly attend trails hosted by Pali Hill-based Roots Nature Club and think such sessions are one of the best ways to witness the secrets of the universe.

Arman and Aaryan Jain

Their recent birding with the club founder, Pooja Hemdev Lalwani, introduced them to 30-odd bird species. "Winter is a great time to spot migratory birds in the city. There's not enough natural variety to soak in from our city balconies. I like that aunty [Lalwani] takes us to different locations in Mumbai. It's fun to cultivate a hobby in new places and among new faces," Arman notes. About his discoveries through these trails, he mentions the black kite - a bird that looks exactly like an eagle and is a bird of prey but only smaller in size. We also learn that some birds end up being named after cities. The avadavat or strawberry finch - identified by its beautiful white speckles on the wings and tail - is a word degeneration of Ahmedabad. Arman elaborates, "A drongo can mimic other bird sounds. Guess what? It can make high-pitched whistling notes like an eagle, scare off other animals, and steal their food."

Aaryan mentions that they have been to Nerul, Sewri mud flats and Bhandup Pumping Station. "Once we accompanied a naturalist on a walk inside Kanha National Park." Khushboo Jain, mother to the boys, adds that the club curates workshops thinking about both the child and their parents. "I am always looking forward to what they have to offer."

Birding trails
AGE GROUP: Six and above
TYPE: Biodiversity walk
PRICE: Rs 900
RATING: 3.5/4
AT: @rootsnatureclub