Red-wattled Lapwing loses to the Daman. Mount Abu

Nature taking its toll 'Survival of the fittest'

The birds defended their nest for over a week after the initial surprise attack by the Daman caught them off guard it swallowed 2 eggs, a few days ago it swiped one more egg. Today 12 April 2019 it finally got the last remaining egg. It was painful to watch the Red-wattled lapwings fighting to save its eggs at the cost of almost losing their own lives. A group of passerby was on the verge of stoning the Daman on its last foray for the solitary egg that had survived. I had to shout and stop them from their wanton act of inter fearing with the dictates of nature. The photographs and the small video I've posted says it all. 

Red-wattled Lapwing - Vanellus indicus

Red-wattled Lapwing - Vanellus indicus

Red-wattled Lapwing - Vanellus indicus TRYING TO ATTACK DAMAN

Daman or Rat snake

This short video says it all.

⇓⇓

The final drama between the  Red-wattled Lapwing and the Daman

The Impending woes Forest fires Mount Abu.

‘The Tinderbox ready to go BOOM,' Mount Abu.

Firefighters pressed into service

Wildfire in Mo0unt Abu Forest on the way to Abu Road

Fire on the Mountain

While driving down Abu Road, we witnessed heavy activity and frantic vehicular movement. The forest department, the fire brigade and private water tankers were all pressed into service to contain the wildfire that had started midway up the slopes near Chippaburry.

This year, because of the drought conditions caused by the scanty rainfall, have caused our green vegetation to go bone-dry. Ideal conditions such as hot temperatures, a strong wind, and dry weather for combustion. With these existing factors, all that’s needed is a spark in the form of arson. A burning cigarette butt thrown carelessly or a glass bottle thrown by drinkers at the side of the footpaths that magnifies a ray of sunlight ignites grass around it.

Mount Abu has witnessed many outbreaks of forest fires over the years. Fighting fire is not only dangerous, but our departments are also ill-equipped and understaffed to tackle any major fire outbreak. Firefighting in the forest area is one of the most dreadful challenges faced by man. Our DFO Balaji Kari has been for months getting his men ready for such wildfire outbreaks. Abuites are in for a rough tourist season this summer with rationed water. Bad roads and the last thing we need is the forest fire to add to our woes.  

Congratulations to the Team Of Abuites who helped in dousing off the fire.

Red-wattled Lapwing NO match for the Daman Snake Mount Abu

Red-wattled Lapwing is NO match for the Daman Snake 

6 April 2019.

I have been observing the Red-winged lapwings for a little over a week. This year she changed her nesting site. The birds have been constantly vigilant in chasing away the mongoose, the stray dogs that pass by, and the raptors that approach too close. They avoid the few cats that roam this area. 

Yesterday the ruckus the pair created caused a small flock of lapwings to appear out of nowhere got my curiosity I immediately grabbed my camera and went out to investigate. The birds were battling a losing battle against a nine-foot Daman that had sneaked upon the mother sitting on her eggs. 

All the ruckus and the feigning by the birds to draw the snake away from the eggs failed. It filled me with rage and wanted to intervene, but then held back letting nature take its course. I saw the snake swallow two eggs and then all hell broke loose one bird pecked the snake on the crown of its head, and two others moved in dangerously close to attack. The snake spooked and moved off from the nest with the birds giving it chase. For a long time, they flew around in circles making a ruckus.

The Lapwing approached her nest cautiously, poked around adjusted the two remaining eggs using her protective body and settled down. The chicks in the eggs are probably ready to hatch any day now. Really wonder if nature will be grateful to let the two eggs hatch, but I have my reservations, it’s a eat dog eat world we live in I’m sure the Daman will come to make a meal of the other two eggs left behind. I can hear the birds making a ruckus I'll go have a dekko and get right back to finishing this episode.

Yes, the Daman returned, but the birds being vigilant could steer him away from the nest. They have won this round but for how long before this slippery slimy god's creation decides it’s time for a meal. Till then, it’s adieu 

Red-wattled Lapwing - Vanellus indicus TRYING TO ATTACK DAMAN

Daman at the nest swallowed two eggs 

Red-wattled Lapwing - Vanellus indicus TRYING TO ATTACK DAMAN

Trying to draw out the Daman 

Getting the Damans attention 

Feigning injury 

Daman the Abu Rat snake

Non-poisonous Snake

Two eggs remaining 

Daman made a meal of two eggs.

To read more on this Red-wattled Lapwing click the link below

Folklore and myth of the Red-wattled lapwing Rajasthan.

This small video clip I took today Will the pair see their chicks?

World water day 22 March Mount Abu.

World Water Day 22 March 2019 Mount Abu.

Lower Khodra Dam

Lower Khodra Dam

Upper Khodra Dam

Upper Khodra Dam( Photos to this post Per kind favour Mohan from St. Mary's school and Charles Guide 

Navigating the Waters: Mount Abu’s Survival Battle on World Water Day 2019. 

Introduction:

Every year on March 22, World Water Day is a global reminder of the crucial need for water conservation. This day has special importance in the charming hill resort of Mount Abu, tucked in the Aravalli Range and Rajasthan’s sole hill station. The town is at a crossroads in its quest for sustainable water management, as it faces a recurrent water problem and the aftermath of a poor monsoon.

Water Problems at Mount Abu:

Mount Abu’s reliance on the monsoon for water supplies has long been a concern, and last year’s poor monsoon has further aggravated the situation. In response to worries about water scarcity, officials are considering harsh measures, such as closing schools during the hot summer months, to protect this valuable resource.

Roads and Sewerage Systems Reconstruction:

To make matters worse, 80% of Mount Abu’s roadways are now under development, to install sewage lines. This decision has prompted local outrage, with many questioning the decision to prioritise a sewage infrastructure above the much-anticipated “Salgaon Dam Project.” Residents are cynical of the continuing sewage project, calling it a “ghost project” in the face of an urgent need for a stable water supply.

The Salgaon Dam Project: A Glimmer of Hope

In contrast to the uncertainties surrounding the sewage project, the Salgaon Dam Project provides a ray of optimism for Mount Abu locals. The project offers a long-term water supply, which will be a lifeline for a community dealing with an erratic monsoon pattern. This project is of great significance, as it highlights Mount Abu's commitment to infrastructure development by creating new gardens around the picturesque Nakki Lake.

 Prioritising Critical Needs:

 The current situation in Mount Abu highlights the critical necessity to prioritise projects that address the town’s immediate water needs. As the municipality navigates this difficult moment, budget allocation choices should prioritize initiatives that assure a safe and sustainable water supply. The Salgaon Dam Project is a positive step forward, pointing out the town’s commitment to securing its future against the oncoming threat of water shortage.

 On World Water Day 2019, Mount Abu sits at the crossroads of progress and preservation. The continuing infrastructure upgrades and the promise represented by the Salgaon Dam Project testify to the town’s dedication to solving its water challenges. As the community faces obstacles, it serves as a reminder that long-term progress must be based on meeting the basic needs of its citizens. Only by collaboration and deliberate prioritisation can Mount Abu ensure a water-rich future despite Rajasthan’s parched landscapes.

Holidays and weekends Mount Abu

Weekends and holidays in Mount Abu are ideal for taking in the natural beauty.

Mohan and I can't wait to go birdwatching in the peaceful countryside of Mount Abu. We have certain spots, such as the peaceful duck pond in the gorgeous Orea region, the towering Gurushikar, and the spotless Gaumukh. Today, we decided to explore the environment more by hiking through a woodland trail. We had a wonderful experience encountering the local birds.

We were treated to the beautiful sight of various native bird species as we went through the verdant forest. Our winter visitors included the brilliant Red-vented Bulbul, the spectacular Indian Robin, the singing Coppersmith Barbet, the fragile Purple Sunbird, the attractive Indian Silverbill, and the beautiful Black Redstart. The beautiful Flame of the Forest trees captivated us (scientifically known as Butea monospermy).

Butea monospermy Flame of the forest 

On this special day, Maha Shivaratri, I couldn't help but think of the Flame of the Forest tree's deep cultural and spiritual importance. It is regarded as sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. These trees are regarded as holy by Hindus owing to the tri-foliate shape of their leaves, which represents the Holy Trinity. The centre leaf depicts Vishnu, the Preserver, with Brahma, the Creator, on the left and Siva, the Destroyer, on the right. For us, the tree represents Agni, the beloved "God of Fire." They primarily offer the blossoms of these plants in Lord Shiva worship, notably on the auspicious day of Shivratri.

The Flame of the Forest tree has numerous cultural links in different parts of India. They closely associated it with the start of spring in West Bengal and the vibrant Holi celebration in Rajasthan. On this auspicious day of Maha Shivaratri, we send our heartfelt greetings from the glorious home of the gods to all, encouraging you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of nature, culture, and spirituality that Mount Abu has to offer. May it fill your day with serenity, pleasure, and a strong connection to the natural world. Maha Shivaratri greetings!