Spotting a pair of Legendary Surkhab, a Family of Cranes a Flock of Geese and a Pied Kingfisher

It was a pleasant surprise to spot the legendary Surkhab, or the Ruddy Shelduck, at Chandu Budhehra; however, in poor lighting, with a lot of fog enveloping the whole area. I was using a Canon R7 body with a Canon 600 mm, STM, F/11 lens. Unfortunately, the 600 mm lens needs a lot of light. It has taken me quite a few years to understand what my elders meant when they mentioned the term, 'Surkhab ke par'.

However, the Chandu Budhera wetland can offer some amazing sightings ofSarus Cranes. It is rare to spot two Sarus Cranes together, but spotting two parents along with their offspring is pretty rare! The wetland is now a favourite nesting ground for Bar-headed Geese. They prefer the  Chandu Budhera wetland for the lush green fields. I was able to capture a few family moments with the Sarus Cranes. The father-infant bonding is very touching indeed! There is so much to learn from nature.

Spot-billed Ducks can also offer a study in colours, especially when it comes to those bright red spots on both sides of their beaks. I spotted a few Spot-billed ducks on the way to the wetland. They appeared to be enjoying the warmth of the rising sun.

There are times when even the most common birds, like the Spot-billed Duck, can give you a pleasing shot. The preening duck in the photograph pasted above has come up nicely. The warm tones of the rising sun (during the golden hour) have given the photograph a unique effect!

Chandu Budhera is also a winter home to a large number of Greylag Geese. One can often find these Geese in the early morning, feeding on roots, stubble and tubers.

Chandu Budhera is home to the Pied Kingfisher, and it is a treat to spot it diving for fish. I was lucky enough to photograph it while hovering.