The Spotted Dove for WBW

High up on the tallest of trees, on the electrical wires or on the ground, the Spotted Dove makes its presence known by its gentle and soothing calls. Last year a pair built a nest on our mango tree but the crows did let them have a moment's peace. The pleasure of having doves nesting on one the few trees in our compound seems to be dim. But not the sight of these pretty birds. These photos were taken in the last couple of days. I found one preening on a cloudy day, one perched on a tree and the last one was foraging on the ground.

To see the most amazing birds head over to World Bird Wednesday.

The Black Drongo

The Black Drongo is a bird found in the tropics in lightly wooded habitats from south-west Iran through India and Sri Lanka to southern China and Indonesia. Like the sparrows and the crows, the drongo is a regular visitor to our gardens. The glossy black feathers of this bird also have blue metallic hues. The tail is long and forked and both sexes look similar. Juveniles are said to have dull brown feathers but I have never seen one so far.Like the bee-eaters, drongos are also fond of sitting on the power lines and preying on insects. These pictures were taken in the gardens of the local Cultural Centre where the drongos are seen in large numbers. 

Drongos are said to be fearless and aggressive. Although their length is 28 cms only they are known to attack larger birds if their young or nests are in danger. Although their call is said to be varied I often hear the sweetest ones when they perch themselves on the mango tree or on the power lines near our house.


This is my entry for World Bird Wednesday. Please click on the link to see birds of many different feathers....