by Abha Batra (98114 17012)
Saptaparni (Alstonia scholaris) is a large, fast growing evergreen tree, native to the moist forests in the submontane Himalaya which, surprisingly grows well in Delhi too. Now, (November) is the best time to identify it, because it is in full bloom these days! It is laden with creamy white flowers in dense clusters, which are highly fragrant, especially in the evenings. The glossy leaves seem to be compound, but a closer look reveals a whorl of 4-8 (mostly seven, hence the name ‘Saptaparni’ or ‘Satpatia’) simple leaves around a central stem. Another diagnostic feature is the fruit, which is in the form of spindly, green beans upto 40 cms long, in bunches, that burst open to release flat seeds with long hairs that help them fly long distances.
Fun Fact: The wood is white, soft, and light and used to make minor furniture like writing tablets, hence the name “scholaris”. The bark of an old tree is fluted. It has high medicinal value.
Rufous Treepie: It is a beautiful, yet fierce looking big bird that has a long tail, a black beak with a hooked tip, a slate grey head and breast. The diagnostic feature is its rufous or orangish coloured body. You cannot miss it as it is a frequent visitor to our parks! The male and the female sexes look alike. It belongs to the crow family and has a harsh and loud call. It feeds on berries and insects.
Fun Fact: Its scientific name is Dendrocitta vagabunda, also called “ Taka Chor” in Hindi, because it likes to seek out and steal shiny items such as coins and jewellery, like its cousin, the crow, and line its nest to attract the female. It occasionally preys upon the eggs and young ones of other birds. A true vagabond!
