Of Feathered Friends and Forest Trails
#intothewildwithrufus
Barking Deer | Malabar Barbet
There is a distinct visual poetry out there in the forests – that’s ready to enliven the hearts and minds of those of us who would take time to venture into the woods, and talk to Mother Nature in all her grandeur. Added, there is also a profound sense of restorative therapy that’s the sole domain of the forests – something that’s in sharp contrast to the monotonous daily grind of our city lives!
Our morning began with the sighting of the wire-tailed
swallow perched coincidentally sitting on a stark wire, captured during
mid-song! 😊
As we ventured deeper into the dappled light of the foliage, we stood motionless for the sight of our lives! - the cautious, unblinking gaze of an Indian Muntjac (Barking Deer) – a rare sight to behold! Not far off, a Gray Langur held court upon a weathered branch, observing our passage with its characteristic, dignified calm.
Then came the awesome sight of the morning! A bulk of Asian elephants moving gracefully through the thicket. Partially obscured by a dense screen of branches and leaves, they were a magnificent reminder of the deep, untamed wildness that persists just beyond the edges of our paved routines.
We were then treated to the breathtaking, saturated hues of a white-throated Kingfisher. Further along, we managed to spot for the very first time – the stunning Malabar Barbet, peering curiously from a cluster of broad leaves.
Then we had a darshan of a small minivet, (both male and female) sitting majestically on a slender, bare branch!
Not far away, a splash of vibrant yellow caught the eye – the cute yellow-browed bulbul, sitting quietly against the pale blue sky.
A true treat for the eyes was the Plum-headed Parakeet. And then came the unmistakable silhouette of a Malabar Grey Hornbill. Perched high up, its large, curved beak and watchful eye gave it a majestic aura against the backdrop of the clear sky.
Well, a bird walk is never just about the birds alone! it’s also about the ecosystem that sustains them. Yes! we came across a heavy cluster of wild figs ranging from pale green to soft pinks and yellows!
Indeed, these fruits are the lifeblood of the forest, acting as a sumptuous feast for hornbills, barbets, and monkeys alike.
We also encountered a hornet’s nest suspended among the leaves. The sheer size of the papery structure, swarming with its industrious builders, was both intimidating and awe-inspiring - a stark reminder of the busy yet beautiful ecosystems thriving just above our heads.
As we lowered our eyes, we spotted an alert Spotted Deer (Chital) who stood beautifully camouflaged amongst the dry brush! The perfect ending to the walk was spotting a doe standing protectively next to her tiny, delicate fawn.
Indeed today’s nature walk was a beautiful reminder of the wild vibrancy that exists when we take the time to step quietly and look closely!
No comments:
Post a Comment