As the bird migration season begins, Navi Mumbai's wetlands, notably the controversial NRI and TS Chanakya wetlands in Nerul, have become havens for flocks of migratory birds. Birders have been gathering to capture sightings of these majestic species despite ongoing concerns about illegal waterbody encroachments and land grabbing by local mafias. Last weekend alone, more than 1,700 migratory birds were spotted in the NRI wetlands, including rare species like Ruddy Shelducks, which have delighted bird watchers and photographers.

The delayed retreat of the monsoon this year has postponed the migration season, but bird enthusiasts report an impressive variety and number of species. Veteran birder and photographer Seema Tania, known for her extensive bird counts during migration periods, highlighted a diverse array of visiting birds. “This season, we’re seeing ducks such as northern pintails and northern shovelers, black- and brown-headed seagulls, as well as threatened species like Eurasian curlews. Shorebirds like common greenshanks, common redshanks, Tibetan sand plovers, sandpiper curlews, Dunlins, and rare broad-billed sandpipers have also been spotted,” she explained. In addition, she noted significant numbers of northern pintails, brown-headed gulls, and painted storks, as well as passage migrants like the bay-backed shrike. 

Notably, a flock of 100 blue-tailed bee-eaters was observed in TS Chanakya wetland on Sunday morning. Another birder, Yash Shetty, managed to capture a Ruddy Shelduck pair at the NRI Wetland—a rare sighting in this region. According to Shetty, the species tends to pause briefly in local water bodies before moving on. “While a few winter migrants arrive as early as September, October to early November typically sees the peak influx. This year, due to delayed monsoon withdrawal and prolonged high temperatures, there have been some delays, but the numbers are now picking up," noted naturalist and writer Sunjoy Monga.

Despite the beauty and ecological importance of these migratory birds, their habitats face severe threats. Wetland degradation, encroachment, and drying up of water bodies have placed these birds at risk. Seema Tania emphasized that habitat loss is pushing many species towards survival threats. “Habitat degradation is a critical issue, endangering countless birds that rely on these wetlands,” she said.

Monga echoed these sentiments, stressing the urgent need for protection and conservation. “A significant percentage of winter migrants are wetland species.

Unfortunately, many political leaders and planning agencies show little interest in safeguarding these rich ecosystems. As climate change intensifies, preserving Mumbai and Navi Mumbai's mangroves and wetlands is imperative. We must take decisive action to protect what remains of these crucial habitats,” he urged.