Gulmohar for Snacks!

Burst of Red: Gulmohar flowering, Mumbai, May 2019

Gulmohar is blooming all over the Mumbai city now. The burst of red amidst the green seems like a contained fire that is hosting the most fun party ever. So many birds visit the tree sporting their contrasting colour against the fiery background. What is interesting is the number of birds I am seeing who are snacking on the petals of this tree. Uptil now, I have seen House Crows, House Sparrows, Coppersmith Barbets, Rose ringed Parakeets eating the petals.

Rose-ringed Parakeet (Female) eating a Gulmohar Petal.

Its not like they come to the tree to snack. They fly to the tree, perch on a branch. After a few minutes, they pluck a petal and snack on it! It almost feels like they did not come to the tree with the intention of eating. But they just want to try and see what that shiny red piece tastes like! It’s just there in front of your eyes. One taste!

Coppersmith Barbet also munching on the Gulmohar Petal

It is a delight to watch these birds on the Gulmohar trees every day! Have you seen other birds eating the petal of this tree, as well? Do share your observations!

Note: Gulmohar (Delonix regia) is a species of flowering plant in the bean family Fabaceae, subfamily Caesalpinioideae. It is an exotic species for India. It is noted for its flamboyant display of flowers. (Source: Wikipedia)

If you want to report your tree sightings through different seasons, do so here: https://www.seasonwatch.in/

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My name is Adithi Muralidhar. I am a nature enthusiast based in Mumbai, India.

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