A Mini Bird Sanctuary in my Backyard – Part 2

My first blog, A Mini Bird Sanctuary in My Backyard—Part 1, has gone viral. Google Analytics showed me that many bird enthusiasts have visited our blog site. I wasn’t aware that so many birds and wildlife lovers are out there. And this world is still beautiful because of them.  Some even requested my location so that they could come, watch, and photograph them.  I feel blessed to be born in this world among the company of these beautiful birds, wildlife and the homo sapiens who love them.  Watching these heavenly birds in my backyard with the backdrop of magnificent Chitradurga, often adorned by the clouds and rainbow, has become my favourite pastime. Here is the following list of birds that have been visiting our backyard. 

Coppersmith Barbet (Psilopogon haemacephalus)

The Coppersmith Barbet (Psilopogon haemacephalus) is a small, colorful bird, about 17 cm in length, found widely across South and Southeast Asia. It is easily identifiable by its bright red forehead and throat, yellow eye-ring, green plumage, and streaked belly. Named after its distinctive “tuk…tuk…tuk” call that resembles a coppersmith striking metal, this bird is often heard before it is seen. Coppersmith Barbets inhabit various environments, including urban areas, gardens, forests, and woodlands. They primarily feed on fruits like figs but also consume insects and nectar. These birds are known for nesting in tree cavities they excavate using their strong bills. Well adapted to living alongside humans, they are commonly seen perched on wires, branches, or tree trunks during the day as they actively forage for food.

Rufous Treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda)

The Rufous Treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda) is a striking and easily recognizable bird, distinguished by its long, graduated tail and vivid colouration. Its body is predominantly rufous or reddish-brown, contrasted by a deep black head and neck, and greyish-white wings that add to its distinctive appearance. This species is widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent, thriving in a range of habitats from dense forests to open gardens and even urban areas. Known for their loud, varied, and melodious calls, Rufous Treepies are highly vocal birds, often heard before they are seen. They are omnivorous feeders, with a diet that includes fruits, seeds, insects, small vertebrates, and occasionally carrion. Social by nature, Rufous Treepies are frequently observed in pairs or small groups, displaying playful behaviour and a curious disposition. Their adaptability and boldness make them a common and familiar sight in their native range.

Green Bee-eater (Merops orientalis) 

The Green Bee-eater (Merops orientalis) is a small, vibrant bird easily recognized by its bright green plumage and long, slender tail feathers. Measuring about 16–18 cm in length, including its elongated tail, this species is distinguished by its golden-brown or rufous crown and nape, and a throat that often displays a deeper, more intense green. The bird’s striking red or reddish-brown eyes contrast beautifully with its overall green colouration. Widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Middle East, Green Bee-eaters are commonly found in open habitats such as grasslands, scrublands, and agricultural fields. They are adept insect hunters, particularly favouring bees and wasps, which they catch mid-air with remarkable agility. Social by nature, these birds are often seen in small groups, perching in open areas like wires or branches while scanning for prey. Their soft “trill” or “chirrup” calls are often heard before the bird is spotted. Green Bee-eaters nest in burrows dug into sandy banks or soft soil, laying 4 to 7 eggs, and sometimes engaging in cooperative breeding with helpers assisting the breeding pair. Their acrobatic flight and vibrant appearance make them a delightful sight in the regions they inhabit.

Common Iora (Aegithina tiphia)

The Common Iora (Aegithina Sophia) is a small, colourful bird measuring about 13-15 cm long, widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia. Males in breeding plumage are striking with bright yellow bodies, a black crown, back, and wings with white wing bars, while females are olive-green above with yellow underparts. Outside the breeding season, the black parts of males may turn greenish. This species inhabits various environments, including open forests, gardens, scrublands, and mangroves. They have a slender, slightly curved black bill, and their short black tail features white outer feathers. The Common Iora is highly active, often seen foraging for insects and spiders among foliage, sometimes hanging upside down to reach its prey. They typically nest in small cup-shaped nests placed in tree forks, laying 2-4 eggs. Known for their high-pitched, musical whistles and warbles, these birds are usually seen in pairs or small groups, often heard before they are seen due to their distinctive calls. The vibrant yellow and black plumage of the males, combined with their lively behaviour, make the Common Iora a delightful presence in their habitats.

Ashy Prinia (Prinia socialis)

The Ashy Prinia (Prinia socialis) is a small bird, measuring about 13–14 cm in length, commonly found across the Indian subcontinent, including India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. It has greyish-brown upperparts, whitish or pale grey underparts with a buffy or rufous tint on the flanks, and a long tail often held upright with white tips on the outer feathers. This insectivorous bird primarily feeds on small insects and spiders, foraging actively among shrubs and low vegetation. It is frequently seen in open areas, scrublands, gardens, and agricultural fields, including urban and suburban environments. The Ashy Prinia builds cup-shaped nests in shrubs or tall grasses, with both parents caring for the 3–5 eggs they typically lay. Known for its sharp, repetitive “trik-trik” calls, this active and restless bird is often seen perched on low shrubs, wires, or fences, engaging in short, quick flights close to the ground. Its slender body, upright tail, and lively behaviour make it a familiar sight in gardens and open areas throughout its range.

Prof. Dr. Prahlada N. B
22 August 2024. 
Chitradurga 

Coming soon: Part – 3.