Kannamangala Lake's Avian Anglers

During the last weekend, I had a delightful time at Kannamangala Lake, where I crossed paths with a bunch of feathered fishermen. Some were nailing it without breaking a sweat, others were giving their all, and a few were putting on a show of sheer elegance. Check out these pics from my fun-filled bird-watching trip.

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I snapped this photo to highlight the lake's captivating features – the bridge that bisects the water, the almost-bridge-level water for eye-level bird shots, the lush trees and grass enveloping the lake, the majestic banyan tree, and of course, the enchanting sky.

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A common kingfisher perched itself on a signboard that humorously declared 'Fishing is prohibited.'

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It appeared as though the kingfisher was carefully reading the text.

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The kingfisher seemed to be heeding the message seriously, showing no signs of fishing intent. I attempted to capture some close-up shots while waiting in vain.

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But an Indian pond heron defied the sign and was spotted proudly flying around with a freshly caught fish.

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Meanwhile, a group of little egrets were busy fishing and fluttering about.

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Adding to the signboard mockery, a great cormorant gulps a sizable tilapia fish.

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A common kingfisher appeared to find the situation rather amusing.

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Then, I saw another great cormorant taking off.

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A shame plant flower. When I was a child, I used to delight in touching its leaves and watching them fold up.

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I had my first Red-rumped swallow sighting of the season.

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In the distance, a female Asian Koel was seen perched on a tree.

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I sat by the lake's edge to capture birds at eye level. In the distance, a Eurasian coot was peacefully gliding on the surface.

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Shortly after, little grebes made their appearance.

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Another cormorant, another tilapia – nature's timeless story of predator and prey.

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Then, I spotted an adorable puppy.

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Seems like the Black-crowned night heron was feeling quite sleepy, possibly due to a night of tireless fishing.

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After observing all these common fishermen, I decided to join the waiting game and capture the King of the lake. I found a cozy spot by the water's edge, patiently awaiting the common kingfisher to demonstrate its fishing abilities.

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The kingfisher fixed its gaze on an unsuspecting prey from its perch, then swiftly darted down. The first attempt was a resounding success.

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The tiny prey was gobbled up almost instantly.

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The kingfisher wanted more and went for it. Another try, another win.

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The kingfisher certainly enjoyed a king's breakfast. It went for few more attempts, and the third fish was caught. It's no surprise they call it the kingfisher!

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The final sighting of the day was an Indian pond heron, gracefully performing its stealthy walk along a branch and taking to the sky with elegance.

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I hope you enjoyed the post! Please don't forget to leave a comment.

Linked with Mosaic Monday