Go on a 3-day bird-watching trail this long weekend

If you love birds or are keen to spot the migratory flamingos before they leave the city, sign up for a three-day birding trail this weekend. Organised by iNaturewatch Foundation, a city-based charitable trust, the Creekwatch For Birds trail will be conducted at three locations. On Friday, head to Talawe Wetlands in Nerul, to soak in the view of the Panvel Creek.

"It's one of the few spots in Navi Mumbai that presents a wonderful opportunity to spot birds in their natural habitat," shares project officer Krutika Dalvi, who will conduct the trail. Here, you can spot waders or long-legged shore birds found on the coastal belt, including beaches, mudflats and wetlands. These include storks, flamingos, curlews or herons. "Owing to the minute differences between most wader species, these birds often pose an identification challenge to amateur birders," shares Dalvi, who will help identify the birds using binoculars and spotting scope.

In the following two days, visit Bhandup Pumping Station and Sewri Mudflats to spot Lesser and Greater Flamingos. "Guests will learn about their migratory patterns and get to spot forest birds like barbets and orioles. We will also spread awareness on the importance of mangroves," she adds.