Rare Siberian Flycatcher sighted for first time in Andhra Pradesh

The tiny Dark-sided Flycatcher, was photographed at Nulakamamidi forest, Dummakonda Hill range, Alluri Seetaramaraju district

Sangareddy: A rare migrant bird native to Europe, China, and Siberia, was sighted for the first time in the Telugu states.

The tiny Dark-sided Flycatcher, also called the Siberian Flycatcher, was photographed at Nulakamamidi forest, Dummakonda Hill range, Alluri Seetaramaraju district in Andhra Pradesh on January 25 by environmental conservationist and wildlife field biologist, Jimmy Carter Polimati.

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The sighting of the tiny 14 cm long bird had added to the already rich avifaunal diversity of Andhra Pradesh. With the new sighting, the number of birds recorded in Pradesh touched 483.

Speaking to Telangana Today, Jimmy Carter, said that the little bird’s journey is awe-inspiring since it travels thousands of kilometres crossing the Himalayas and seas to avoid the harsh weather in Western countries during the winter.

It will return to its home country by traveling again thousands of kilometres before the beginning of summer here. He further observed that bird sightings are also rare in Tamil Nadu and Western Ghats.

The area, where the Siberian Flycatcher was recorded, falls under the proposed Gudem-marripakalu biosphere reserve. Though it still needs to be explored, the biosphere is now home to a record 249 bird species.

The area is known for its rich wildlife bio-diversity. Jimmy Carter, a seasoned wildlife photographer, has photographed 336 bird species in Andhra Pradesh so far. Jimmy Carter, who loved to travel to every nook and corner of the State, also recorded many rare butterflies, wild animals, and plants during his journey.