RED HEADS

The Downward Curved Bill  ( do see the featured image above) resembling the Crescent Moon gave the Ibis headed God of Ancient Egypt  his name “Thoth”.

Nature and Ancient Mythologies have always been deeply intertwined since time immemorial. In India this is more apparent than in other countries as many religions that originated from this land  are still practiced and followed by millions.

I spotted this family  of  Black Ibis or Indian Black Ibis or Red-Naped Ibis ( English), Pseudibis papillosa ( Scientific name) en-route to the breathtaking  Keshav temple at Somanathpur , Karnataka, India.

in-the-paddy-fields
Picnic time for this Ibis family 

The drive through rural Karnataka from Srirangapatnam to Somnathpur is not only historical but a treat for sore eyes as it runs along the River Cauvery ( or Kaveri) and is a welcome departure from  stressed highways.( do read an earlier post titled HEAVENLY RAYS)

The Indian Black Ibis is native to the Indian Subcontinent and was spotted hunting for food in the well irrigated paddy fields. Unfortunately it has disappeared from Pakistan for reasons unknown to me but thrives in India.

the-walk
Hunting for Fish or toads in a Paddy field

The picture below though out of focus is interesting as this apparently startled  Red Headed Indian Ibis was caught looking directly at the camera.

The Head if you observe is bereft of feathers.

I have read , though not convinced, that the legs turn Red during the breeding season. The  white patch ,which is just about visible in these pictures, on the shoulders and Red Head distinguish this Ibis from other species like the Glossy Ibis.

face-front
Why are you taking my picture at Lunchtime?

I wonder how the Ancient Egyptians detected this lovely RED HEAD which now resides only in the Indian subcontinent. Enchanting thought, what say you?

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mukul chand

51 year old entrepreneur who has traveled extensively around the world for work and pleasure , is based in New Delhi, India. A passionate traveler born with a love for flora and fauna, is an active naturalist and amateur photographer. Here he shares his unique insight into Incredible India revealing its mysterious and exotic treasures. Writing from his heart he shares his experiences as he crisscrosses this vast and amazing land.

23 thoughts on “RED HEADS”

    1. Nice to meet you here.Wish you glorious and enchanting bird watching times ahead.From the comments I have read there are certain species of Ibis in North America as well. On the side: whom did you vote for, quite a result.

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      1. I have a brief post about the election from late last night, when the results were in. My candidate did not win, but I’m avoiding catastrophising and the depths of depression, neither of which are helpful in my opinion. Instead I’m working with two church leaders to find ways to heal the wounds left by the deeply divisive Presidential campaign and praying that Trump will surprise those of us on the Left with good judgment and moderation in his governance.

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