Saul Kere's Colorful Cast

 An overcast sky and a dull, gray morning weren’t exactly the most promising start for a birding trip to Saul Kere. But as I soon discovered, the birds had other plans! From flashes of brilliant blues to striking yellows and reds, the lake’s feathered friends turned the drab morning into a vibrant spectacle.

 Here are some snapshots of the unexpected colors that brightened up the day!

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The sun was a pale white orb, barely managing to pierce through the heavy clouds. It was the kind of morning that makes you wonder if the birds would bother showing up.

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With precise, calculated movements, the Little Egret waded through the shallows, darting its slender beak into the water in search of breakfast. The world around it may have been muted, but the egret was a picture of quiet determination.

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With the birds playing hard to get, I turned my attention to the bougainvillea. Its delicate pink and orange bracts glowed softly.

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After a long, frustrating walk along the lake with no bird sightings, I spotted a white-throated kingfisher. At first, I thought it would be the only bird of the day, so I dedicated a lot of time trying to capture flight shots as it tirelessly attempted to catch fish. These kingfishers use a sit-and-wait strategy before plunging into the water to snatch their prey.

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Saw a couple of spotted doves next. 

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When you're trying to be romantic, but your partner is just thinking about lunch.

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A small, unassuming bird perched delicately amongst the foliage.  Its plumage suggested a warbler species, possibly a Blyth's reed warbler, given the pale underparts, warm brown back, and relatively plain face. 

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A Rose-ringed Parakeet posed perfectly on a dead branch, showing off its beautiful plumage.

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Busy parent! The Parakeet is clearly hard at work tending to its nestlings. 

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An Oriental Magpie-Robin posed beautifully while sharing its melody.

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Spotted this Indian Golden Oriole and thought, 'What a beauty!' Then I realized it was also a foodie, showing off its praying mantis snack.

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A Coppersmith Barbet was busy excavating its nest cavity, clinging to the tree trunk as it carved out its home.

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I lingered a little longer at the lake, hoping for one last bird sighting, and was rewarded with a sighting of an Oriental Honey Buzzard.  Unfortunately, some pesky crows quickly chased it away before I could capture a photo.  

Disappointed but undeterred, I continued my walk and was delighted to spot this pair of Indian Spot-billed Ducks, a perfect ending to my morning.

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Many of you enjoyed the dashcam views of my city in my last posts, so I'm sharing another one!  Come along with me on my morning commute through Manyata Tech Park in Bangalore.  Keep an eye out for the cool murals we pass – they add a splash of color to the daily grind.

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I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into my morning. Do share your thoughts in the comments below!