A Golden Dawn at Saul Kere

With the daytime heat creeping up, I made sure to set out at dawn, just as the world was waking up. The cool morning air, the golden sunrise, and a lake buzzing with bird activity made for a fantastic outing. Plenty of feathered friends showed up for the photoshoot, and some even posed like pros.

Here are the highlights from a productive morning at Saul Kere!

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In the pre-dawn darkness, the Indian Spot-billed Ducks quietly slipped into the water, their silhouettes barely visible against the floating vegetation. As the first light touched the lake, their subtle colors and markings became more pronounced, blending beautifully with the tranquil surroundings.

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In the dim morning light, a Taiga Flycatcher perched briefly, blending into the tangle of branches.

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The Taiga Flycatcher (Ficedula albicilla) is a small migratory passerine bird that breeds in the taiga forests of Siberia and migrates to South and Southeast Asia for the winter.

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The sun peeked through the leaves, casting a golden spell over Saul Kere. The birds had begun their morning chorus, and I was just lucky to be there.

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As the first light kissed the waters, the egret moved like a ghostly dancer on a golden stage.

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Proof that some clichés hold up — early birds (or kingfishers) really do get the worm!

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Watching the sun take a golden dip while the world rubs its eyes awake… some sights are better than sleep.

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Dressed in white, standing tall. This Cattle Egret knows how to strike a pose.

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Silence is rare, opinions are plenty. Meet the Yellow-billed Babbler, the loudest chatterbox with ruffled feathers and eyes full of judgment!

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Small in size but big in song. This Blyth's Reed Warbler knows how to make itself heard!

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With a tail this perfect, the Black Drongo knows how to steal the spotlight.

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Lush greens and golden hues, where nature fights to stand out despite the skyline’s intrusion.

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Tucked in its nest hole, the Spotted Owlet peeks out with a drowsy stare, unsure about starting the day.

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Its half-closed eyes may suggest sleep, but it stays watchful, ready to protect its nestlings. 

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A Rose-ringed Parakeet lands near the Spotted Owlet’s nest, unaware of the drowsy but watchful guardian peeking out from its hollow.

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The owlet blinked awake, its keen eyes locking onto the Rose-ringed Parakeet perched nearby.

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With a sudden burst of energy, the Spotted Owlet launched itself from its perch, wings flared and talons ready, startling the unsuspecting Rose-ringed Parakeet.

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The startled Rose-ringed Parakeet barely had time to react before the Spotted Owlet's sudden attack. With a frantic burst of wings, it dodged the oncoming assault and fled.

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The Owlet, satisfied with its swift defense, gracefully returns to its nest, settling back into its hollow perch. 

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With a final glance around, it fluffs its feathers and resumes its drowsy vigil, as if nothing had happened.

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This week's dash cam video captures the blue sky, puffy clouds, and the fresh leaves of trees in Bangalore.

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With the rising sun came a morning full of surprises—silent hunters, noisy chatterboxes, and dramatic aerial duels. From quiet foragers to fierce defenders, the morning at Saul Kere had it all. As the sun climbed higher, the birds retreated, and so did I.

What caught your eye the most? Drop a comment below!