Where do you live?
I live in Anand, Gujarat.
When did you start watching birds?
I have been birding actively since 1997.
Who would you consider your birding mentor?
I learnt a lot about birdwatching from Dr. Justus Joshua, Director, Green Future Foundation, Udaipur, Rajasthan. He is a great naturalist.
Please describe a memorable birding experience.
My most memorable birding experience was birdwatching in and around Kutch, Gujarat. The area has a variety of habitats and ecosystems, and hence a great diversity of birds.
What are your favourite migrants?
My favourite migrant birds are flamingos.
What is your favourite place to watch migrants?
I especially like to visit Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary (Gujarat) to watch migratory birds.
Do you have any advice for beginning birdwatchers and naturalists?
My advice for beginners is: “Have passion and patience…always!”
Why do you think people should care about birds and nature?
We should be concerned about birds because I believe they are the inter-linking elements between humans and nature.
Is there any other information that you’d like to share with MigrantWatchers?
I maintain a blog that focuses on the biodiversity of Gujarat. It has some very useful links for people who are interested in nature.
You can see Hiren B. Soni’s MigrantWatch contributions here.