Spooky Spectacle at Kannamangala

This week, I went birdwatching at Kannamangala Lake, and it seemed like the birds were throwing their own Halloween party. I was able to capture a few eerie bird photos. Join me in this blog post to view both spooky shots and some non-spooky ones.

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I arrived at Kannamangala Lake just five minutes before sunrise.

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In the early morning, the birds were flying eastward, preparing for their daily activities.

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The lake was shrouded in mist.

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As the sun rose, it cast an elegant glow through the serene mist.

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Flowers are falling, making the paths beautiful this season.

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I've often observed bird photographers patiently stationed in one spot, awaiting photo opportunities, a practice quite unlike my usual habit of wandering around in search of birds. However, today, I decided to change things up and try what others often do — staying in one place and capturing the avian wonders that presented themselves.

So, I discovered a cozy spot by the lakeside and settled in. At first, the birds took flight, but soon they began to return.

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The first to make a comeback was an Indian Spot-billed duck.

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Following that, a couple of them arrived and began preening.

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The Aylesbury duck, a likely escapee from a nearby farm whom I've been tracking for several months, appears to have formed a friendship with the Indian Spot-billed ducks. It was a heartwarming sight to see them all swimming together.

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The little grebes arrived, continually diving and resurfacing.

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A gray heron was patiently waiting for an unwary fish to pass by and getting visibly annoyed if any bird ventured too closely.

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A spooky Indian pond heron appeared, seemingly on the prowl for a fish to catch.

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Even the little grebe took on a spooky appearance after a fishing dip.

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The spooky heron locks onto its target.

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It skillfully spears the tail end of a tilapia fish. 

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And in no time, it gulps it down.

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Another heron swoops in, effortlessly catching a tilapia fish.

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Amidst the carnage, it was a pleasant surprise to spot a couple of migrant wood sandpipers.

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While all this excitement unfolded, a bronze-winged jacana brought a touch of serenity to the moment.

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Now, another Indian Pond heron made a ferocious dash.

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And it successfully caught a small fry.

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Then, a little egret tried to fish but got frustrated when it didn't work out.

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A white-browed wagtail sat on a bridge railing, singing its lovely song.

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A Ditch Jewel Dragonfly made an appearance as the sun warmed up.

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A common gull butterfly also made an appearance.

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In a display of elegance, a Great egret took flight and joined the scene.

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It also managed to catch a small fish.

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An Indian Spot-billed duck engaged in some playful dabbling and seemed to connect with its own reflection in a water.

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It was a day of no disappointments. Even the initially unsuccessful little egret found its groove and successfully caught a small fish.

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Sitting in one spot for birdwatching turned out to be quite successful, and I had the chance to see a variety of birds. It was a pleasant change from my usual strolling, although I still prefer walking around because it gives me more exercise and satisfaction.

I hope you enjoyed the post. Happy Halloween to those who celebrate! Don't forget to leave a comment.

Linked with Mosaic Monday