No matter how many times I visit Saul Kere, this little birding haven never disappoints. Every trip brings a new surprise, a familiar face or a fleeting moment in the wild that makes the early start worthwhile.
Here are a few glimpses from another memorable morning of birding at Saul Kere.
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The morning began with a lovely sighting of a small group of Indian Spot-billed Ducks making a graceful flypast.
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Another Indian Spot-billed Duck put on a display of its own.
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A White-throated Kingfisher perched prettily amidst the leafy branches.
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The Little Grebes kept me on my toes, popping up briefly between their frequent dives and disappearing underwater just as quickly.
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The golden sunlight filtering through the foliage, warm hues reflecting on the water and silhouettes of trees made for some lovely frames.
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A gathering on the overhead wires! A Black Drongo, a Pied Kingfisher and a White-browed Wagtail shared the same stretch of wire.
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The wagtails kept each other company, while the drongo joined them, making for an interesting little gathering against the muted urban backdrop.
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A pair of Indian Spot-billed Ducks took flight across the wetland, soon followed by two graceful Little Egrets.
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After a patient wait, the Pied Kingfisher finally put on a fishing show, hovering, diving and returning with a catch.
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A fleeting glimpse of the White-breasted Waterhen as it moved along the water's edge. Most times, all you get are a few precious moments with these shy wetland residents.
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Among the day's many encounters, this little Asian Brown Flycatcher was particularly pleasing to see. A winter visitor.
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A sunning break for this Oriental Darter, stretching out its wings to dry in the warmth of the morning sun.
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A Black Drongo perched quietly on a weathered branch.
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The Bronze-winged Jacana, with legs like stilts, seems to have little fear of sinking while wading!
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A morning swim for this group of Indian Cormorants, moving together like a well-rehearsed team!
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I watched this Intermediate Egret spring into action at the sight of prey. Its excitement building before a quick and successful catch.
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A Brown Shrike taking a moment to survey its surroundings.
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This White-cheeked Barbet spent quite a while peeking out of its nesting cavity, keeping an eye on the world outside.
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After all that waiting, it finally came out, only to disappear inside again!
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A Blue-faced Malkoha moved from branch to branch, pausing now and then to look around.
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And then, a closer look at this beautiful Blue-faced Malkoha!
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An Oriental Magpie-Robin perched proudly on a broken branch, enjoying the morning sunshine.
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Looks like the Oriental Magpie-Robin was enjoying a little moon-gazing moment!
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So, that was another lovely morning of birding at Saul Kere. Do share your thoughts in the comments!
