My Journal

Many of the wildlife and Bird Photographers go in search of Endemic species, to places thousands of miles across. Even i was in the same concept of photographing only the rare birds unless I saw this Very common cattle egret in the evening light. I was soon to realize that i never had made an attempt to patiently sit and photograph this bird. Saw this while coming from a family trip to mantralaya, pulled over to the side and spent some good 30 mins on this Bird.
As the name says, Cattle Egrets are most commonly found pecking the insect on the cattle, hence developing a mutual relationship. During the Breeding Season, the Cattle Egrets develope this golden brown coloured plumes which makes it one of the most beautiful birds to look at.

Cattle Egrets normally nest near the swamps or water bodies. Its global population estimated to be 3.8–6.7 million individuals.

Though they take the name Egret, mostly resembles the Herons with a 88–96 cm (35–38 in) wingspan; it is 46–56 centimetres (18–22 in) in length and weighs 270–512 grams (9.5–18.1 oz).[11] It has a relatively short thick neck, sturdy bill, and a hunched posture. The non-breeding adult has mainly white plumage, a yellow bill and greyish-yellow legs.

These spotted owlets of lalbagh have never disappointed me. Every time i go there, i make it a point to see them and come. Very friendly creatures.

Spotted Owlet is a common resident bird in open habitats including farmland and human habitation. It nests in a hole in a tree or building, laying 3-5 eggs.
The Spotted Owlet is small (21cm) and stocky. The upperparts are grey-brown, heavily spotted with white. The underparts are white, streaked with brown. The facial disc is pale and the eyes are yellow. There is a white neckband. Sexes are similar.

This species is nocturnal but is sometimes seen in the day. It can often be located by the small birds that mob it while it is perched in a tree. It hunts a variety of insects and small vertebrates. The call is a harsh chirurr-chirurr-chirurr.