Saul Kere’s Residents and Hyderabad Snapshots

With the migratory season well and truly behind us, I finally made a return visit to Saul Kere after a two month break. This time it was all about the resident birds, those steadfast feathered locals who stay put through the year. The bird activity was quieter compared to the bustling winter months, but I did manage to get some satisfactory shots that made the early morning outing worthwhile.

I had planned to share this post last week, but a short trip to Hyderabad with my son kept me away. Towards the end of this post, you will also find a few photos from that trip, including some architectural frames I could not resist capturing while we explored the city.

Here are the photos...

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In the soft light of early morning my first sighting of the day was a Common Moorhen gliding silently across the water. A familiar resident and always a delight to spot.

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Next up was a White-throated Kingfisher perched confidently on a wire.

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A Black Drongo perched quietly in the shadows watching the world go by with its usual sharp gaze.

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Bathed in liquid gold the Indian Spot-billed Duck took a moment to preen while the lake put on a light show of its own.

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As the lake turned to gold, a pair of Indian Spot-billed Ducks decided it was the perfect time to whisper sweet nothings. Clearly, the mood lighting was spot on.

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First, a glimpse through the foliage… then a flash of colour and it was gone. The Rufous Treepie gave me just enough to make the chase worthwhile.

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An Asian Green Bee-eater resting quietly in the soft morning light, its colours muted but unmistakable.

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Two Scaly-breasted Munias in quiet conversation until one suddenly remembered it had somewhere else to be.

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Rose-ringed Parakeets are never ones to sit still for long. Always a flurry of wings, chatter and mischief.

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Known for its repetitive call, the White-cheeked Barbet is a familiar sound in southern India.

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Caught mid-hide, the elusive White-browed Bulbul blends seamlessly into the thicket.

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Among the leaves, a purple-rumped sunbird at work.

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A spotted owlet peeps out briefly, then vanishes into its nest.

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As I waited in vain for the owlet’s second appearance, a loud flurry of wings drew my attention above. A tree full of rose-ringed parakeets had come alive. There was flirting, bickering, synchronized landings, and some clear jealousy. From cozy couple moments to a parrot dive-bombing into the middle of the group, it was chaos of the most colorful kind.

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Before I wrap up, sharing a few frames from our short Hyderabad trip.

I was travelling with my son, Nishant, and though it was a quick visit, we found time to walk around and soak in a bit of the city’s charm. These are all phone shots — spontaneous and unplanned — but I couldn’t resist capturing the iconic Charminar. 

The Charminar, which means “Four Minarets”, was built in 1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. With its grand arches and symmetrical minarets, the structure has become a timeless symbol of the city.

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The beautiful Nizamia General Hospital looks more like a palace than a hospital.

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Managed to get a quiet frame with my travel companion — my son, Nishant.

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Even when you're not travelling for photography, the phone camera in your pocket can still surprise you.

I hope you enjoyed this post. Do leave a comment, would love to hear your thoughts!