Winter migrant birds have arrived in large numbers in the Nilgiris, exciting local bird-watchers with new sightings. Chandrasekar Das from Keystone Foundation recorded two bunting species for the first time this year. “The Grey-necked Bunting was observed in Kotagiri, while the Black-headed Bunting was sighted in Masinagudi. These discoveries mark significant additions to the district’s avifaunal list,” he said. Regular visitors like the Eurasian Wryneck, Kashmir Flycatcher, Pin-tailed Snipe, Whiskered Tern, Indian Blue Robin, and Blue Rock Thrush have also been seen. Bird-watcher Murali Moorthy noted an increase in birds of prey. “Many Greater spotted eagles and Steppe Eagles have been documented in greater numbers than before. All the way from Russia, the Steppe Eagle has been recorded to carry small mammals and drop them from great heights before eating the meat. It’s truly exciting to see such an amazing raptor make its way to the Nilgiris to avoid the Russian winter,” he said. The higher numbers may indicate harsher winters back home or better food availability here. Northern pintails and booted warblers have also been spotted recently.