Endangered Indian skimmer spotted at Kistareddypeta Lake near Hyderabad

A rare sighting of the endangered Indian Skimmer at Kistareddypeta Lake near Hyderabad has excited the city’s birding community. The solitary bird, spotted by cardiac surgeon Dr Nisarga, is believed to be the first verifiable record of the species in the area.

HYDERABAD: For Dr Nisarga, chief of cardiac surgery and robotic cardiac surgeon in KIMS Hospitals in the City, one of his regular visits to Kistareddypeta Lake has turned out to be unique and rated “historic” too amongst the birding community of twin cities when he sighted a solitary skimmer.

“This marks the first verifiable record of the endangered species in the Hyderabad vicinity, sparking both excitement and curiosity among conservationists,” says Syam Sundar Potturi, an authority on birding from the City in a chat with ‘Telangana Today.’

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“The sighting wasn’t the result of an organised expedition, but rather a stroke of luck for Dr Nisarga, a leading heart surgeon, and his wife, Prateeka,” he said.

“Following a grueling surgery on a Monday afternoon, I have decided to unwind with a quick birding trip at 4:30 pm on March 9,” Dr Nisarga said.

“We were stunned to find the distinctive bird—typically known for its bright orange beak and unique ‘skimming’ flight—resting by the lake shore,” he said.

The Indian Skimmer is currently listed as endangered, with global population estimates hovering around a fragile 4,000 individuals, says Syam Sundar.

Traditionally, enthusiasts have had to travel great distances to catch a glimpse of the species: Chambal River: Their primary summer breeding ground/Bhairavapalem (Andhra Pradesh): A common wintering spot/Mid-Manair (Karimnagar): A location where numbers have recently increased.

“Until now, Hyderabad was never on the Skimmer’s known map,” Syam Sundar said.

“The appearance of a lone bird so far from its typical flock has led to various theories. Experts suggest the Skimmer may have become disoriented or separated from its pack during migration, ” he explained.

“Since the bird was not seen at the lake the following day, we speculate it may have been using the site as a temporary pitstop to recoup its energy before resuming its journey to rejoin its colony,” noted members of the local birding community, he pointed out.

While the “lone ranger” has moved on, the birding community in Hyderabad remains buzzing. While they celebrated the Nisargas’ rare find, the overarching sentiment is one of conservation-minded concern.

“The hope remains that this rare visitor successfully navigated its way back to the safety of the flock,” signed off Syam Sundar.