Veteran Naturalist and Renowned 'BirdMan' Sunjoy Monga Passes Away.

Obituary | Dated: 04 Jun 2025

In May 2025, renowned Indian naturalist, wildlife photographer, and conservationist Sunjoy Monga, popularly known as 'BirdMan', passed away at the age of 63 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, after a prolonged battle with blood cancer. Born in 1961 in South Mumbai, Maharashtra, Monga made significant contributions to bird conservation and environmental awareness.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - In 2005, he founded the Mumbai Bird Race called 'WINGS – Birds of India,' which became an annual event promoting citizen participation in birdwatching and conservation efforts.
  • - Between 2006 and 2007, he raised early warnings about the alarming loss of 85% of wetlands in Uran, Maharashtra, emphasizing the threats posed by urbanization to flamingos and coastal biodiversity.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) Monga served as a governing council member of the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) based in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
  • (ii) He was the honorary warden of Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Maharashtra, a site he affectionately called the 'City Forest.'
  • (iii) As an author, he wrote several books including City Forest: Mumbai's National Park, Wildlife Reserves of India, Journeys Through India's Last Wild Places, and Birds of Mumbai, contributing greatly to wildlife literature and conservation awareness.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Which renowned Indian naturalist, known as 'BirdMan,' passed away in May 2025?

Correct Answer: Sunjoy Monga

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