What if we told you that a flock of dinosaurs was going to descend upon Mumbai tomorrow? Our seemingly ridiculous prophecy sounds much less alarming when you learn that the pigeon perched on your balcony, the crows cawing at your window, and every bird you could name, evolved from theropod dinosaurs, technically making them the last surviving flying dinosaurs among us.
 <img src="https://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/nov/Salim-Ali_1793837356_s.jpg" alt="Salim Ali" /> Salim Ali
This week, we remember one such avian species, the yellow throated sparrow, which piqued the iconic birder Salim Ali&rsquo;s interest as a child, and changed the history of Indian ornithology forever. In memory of the Birdman of India&rsquo;s 130th birth anniversary (November 12), we celebrate Bird Week by spotlighting the city&rsquo;s own peculiar winged creatures.
<h2>Yellow, there</h2>
I find the Shikra to be a fascinating sighting, especially within the densely populated city limits. When I moved to IC Colony in Borivli, I would often hear a call that resembled the Shikra in the mornings.
<img src="https://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/nov/Indian-Golden-Oriole_1793837286_s.jpg" alt="Indian Golden Oriole" /> Indian Golden Oriole
After multiple attempts to spot the bird of prey, I finally spotted one dashing and swooping down on its prey one day. The small raptor, with its sharp beak and powerful talon is a sight to behold.
<img src="https://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/nov/Kartik-a_1793837486_s.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" />
The Indian Golden Oriole is another species that often makes a grand appearance outside my window. You can identify it by its distinct fluting whistle. When the bird perches between the yellow flowers of the copper pod tree, you can only marvel at its beauty. A guest who was awestruck by its plumage even admitted, &ldquo;This is just like the birds we see on TV!&rdquo;
- Kartik Chandramouli, multimedia editor
<h2>Hear me out</h2>
My favourite birds to spot are Coppersmith Barbets and Common Tailorbirds. Both of them are so ubiquitous in the city, and are more easily heard than seen.
<img src="https://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/nov/Coppersmith-Barbet_1793837417_s.jpg" alt="Coppersmith Barbet" /> Coppersmith Barbet
The Coppersmith Barbet makes perfectly circular holes in dead trees to build its nest. If you&rsquo;ve heard this very consistent &lsquo;Tuk-tuk-tuk&rsquo; call, look for a small green bird with a red cap and bright yellow eye ring.
<img src="https://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/nov/Common-Tailorbird_1793837437_s.jpg" alt="Common Tailorbird" width="1280" height="720" />Common Tailorbird
The tailorbird is tiny but very loud for its size. Its call sounds like &lsquo;tui-tui-tui&rsquo;. They are very common in gardens across Mumbai, and you&rsquo;ll sometimes find them on your clothesline, pulling threads from your clothes.
<img src="https://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/nov/Sefi-George_1793837466_s.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" />
They use thread, spider silk, and plant fibres to stitch leaves together to make a nest.
- Sefi George, illustrator, nature educator
<h2>Chirpy plans</h2>
Grab your binoculars and head into the thick of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park&rsquo;s Shilonda, Kashimira, and Malad trails to meet the White Throated Kingfisher, Drongos, and other avian species in their winter plumage. ON November 7, 8 , 10 and 12 LOG ON TO @sanjaygandhinationalpark
<img src="https://images.mid-day.com/images/images/2026/nov/Adjutant-Storks_1793837506_s.jpg" alt="Adjutant Storks at the Mumbai Zoo in Byculla" width="1280" height="720" /> Adjutant Storks at the Mumbai Zoo in Byculla
Learn all about the resident and visiting birds at the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Zoo and Botanical Udyan through a guided trail, and make a pitstop to doodle a bird at the art corner. ON November 5, 6, and 7 LOG ON TO @themumbaizoo
Get a glimpse of the Bombay Natural History Society&rsquo;s vast collection of books and preserved bird specimens from the comfort of your home, through a talk by former BNHS director Dr Asad Rahmani. ON November 6; 3 pm LOG ON TO @bombaynatural historysociety&nbsp;

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