At one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity 💚💚💚

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Tracking the Terrestrial Emerald | An Encounter with the Highly Elusive State Bird of Tamil Nadu 💚

Spotting the Rare Maragatha Pura

Meet the Highly Elusive State Bird of Tamil Nadu

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Richard Grimmett et al, in their book titled, Birds of the Indian Subcontinent describe the Asian Emerald Dove as a - 

“broad-winged, short-tailed pigeon with emerald-green upperparts. Typically very rapid in flight. and allows only brief views…”

Correct me if I am wrong, but Salim Ali doesn’t seem to mention it as Asian Emerald Dove. When I asked a few birdwatchers, they said, probably he mentions it as ‘green dove’ or ‘green-winged pigeon’ or simply ‘emerald dove’. But I tried looking up volumes of Salim Ali, and I am yet to find the name that he had used, to refer to this bird. Yes, I am curious to know why the nomenclature has changed today! And that’s hence! 😊

Coming back to some peculiar characteristics of the Asian Emerald Dove -

Unlike many dove species that perch high in the branches, the Emerald Dove is heavily terrestrial. They spend the majority of their day walking across the damp forest floor (like the partridges), sifting through leaf litter searching for fallen fruits and seeds.

And despite their bright colours, they are notoriously difficult to spot in the wild! And that’s hence I cherish this snap lotsss! 😊

What’s more? The Emerald Dove (Maragatha Pura) is celebrated as the official State Bird of Tamil Nadu - serving as a living emblem of the state’s richly endowed natural heritage!

PS: You may want to watch our past vlogpost on the highly mysterious Asian Emerald Dove, HERE.

Photos (c) this blogger. But you are free to use them. 

Today's Lovely Birding Delights 💚

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