Kabita

I choose to monitor one of the very common bird in my area, which visits almost everyday on my terrace, Common pigeon ( Columba livia, Order: Columbiforms). Eventhough, I see this bird daily, I have never noticed it carefully. I always run behind the rare birds, as most of the birdwatchers,  but never consider observing this common bird in around my home. Hence, I decided to follow Melissa and do some research on this common pigeon. Habitat: common and widespread resident urban bird, commonly found in temples, farm, villages and towns. Altitudinal range 75- 4200m. Food : cultivated food mainly seeds also green shoots Nesting and breeding: It generally nests in holes, rock crevices and ruined walls. They breed throughout the year. Distinctive behaviour: they live in large flocks and their flight in the flock is spectacular to watch, following a certain pattern. This bluish Grey bird has glistering metallic green, purple and magenta sheen on neck and upper breast which shines gloriously in sun. Sound : goootr-goo ... communicate each other Migration : resident bird After this information on hand, I started observing the common pigeon. I observed that they were not comfortable with my camera, as they fly as soon as they see my camera. it took me couple of days of observation to take this picture. The pigeon was sun basking in the first sun in this winter morning. I observed grooming and scratching the feathers. He was sun basking as well as checking me from time to time. Finally, seems like he has no problem from my presence. I learned to be patient and  more observant, thereby respecting their space from this exercise. thank you pc : sorry for the photos as they are not real crash hot, as I was using 28- 300mm lens Nikon D600.

Wow Scott you have captured some real emotions and expressions. First impression I got going through your pictures was something like..... "Who is that spying on me?? ... "Ahhh I will be fine ....."  ..... "No, its not ... here I come... watch out ... " Awesome.