Our Friends of Nature: Thanjavur district

Friday, 6 December 2013

Asian Openbill Stork - Anastomus Oscitans

We were driving past the Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, towards Velankanni. The paddy fields filled our eyes; the greenery was soothing. Suddenly, we sighted a small group of Asian Openbill storks, sitting way far inside paddy field.

My zoom lens wasn't sufficient to capture a stunning photo of the group; however, could get a decent photo, and enlarged and cropped the photo to present only the required details.

Though tempted to walk in to the paddy field and observe the birds closer, we decided to stand far far away so that we do not intrude the natural habitat of the birds. It's ridiculous to disturb Nature and its elements only for a sake of a photo.

Happy weekend!

Regards,
Asha

Monday, 25 November 2013

Rose-ringed Parakeet - Psittacula Krameri

Who doesn't love parakeets? We have several parakeets at our neighborhood, and these birds visit our garden too. During summer when our mango tree blooms flowers and flaunts fruits, the tree is filled with parakeets. It's soothing to listen to their calls during the mornings and evenings.

During our drive through the Thanjavur district, we sighted number of Rose-ringed Parakeets. They flew in pairs, some courting, and some flirting. The male and female rose-ringed parakeets look different; the male birds sport a ring around the neck. We observed the courting dance, and was it

fun to watch!

The rose-ringed parakeets are resident (original) of India. They mainly feed on fruits, buds, grains, and so on.Their population is decreasing due to pet trade. Because these birds can mimic human speech, people like to keep them as pets. Well, if one is desperate to keep these birds as pets, please grow a garden; these birds will naturally visit and stay at your house.

Interesting read - http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/Rare-turtles-tortoises-and-parakeets-rescued-in-a-raid-from-Crawford-market/articleshow/24035466.cms