Red-throated pipit

Varthur lake, Bangalore, Karnataka

The Red-throated Pipit is often underrated due to its plumage, but it is a rare and distinctive species of pipit. It is primarily found in muddy grasslands near water bodies. Sometimes, it is difficult to identify because of its plumage, but once spotted, it is hard to lose sight of. It is similar in size to the Paddyfield Pipit but has darker streaks on its back, and its pinkish or reddish throat is quite prominent. During the breeding season, its colors become even more vibrant.

In Varthur, this bird was a delightful sight for everyone. Once a fellow birder spotted it, people flocked to the area daily to search for and photograph it. It wasn’t always easy to find, but with multiple birders searching, it often caught attention. In 2023, Bangalore experienced lower-than-usual rainfall. As a result, lake beds began drying up rapidly, making it harder to spot the bird after 9 a.m. due to the heatwave. As the lake bed dried up quickly, the bird frequently changed its position, making it even more challenging to locate. However, I am truly grateful to Mother Nature for giving me the opportunity to observe and photograph this beautiful bird.

Female Red-throated pipit