(delhibirdpix) Portraits # 002 - The Migratory Birds of Prey - # 16.13- Long-Legged Buzzard (Buteo rufinus) - 2015-502

Murder Writ Large - getting full frame with these guys is scary.

Taken at Dhanauri Kalan (50 KMs SSE of Delhi), Greater Noida, U.P., India

on 17th January.

Started at about 0900 with hopes of good, sunny and windy weather - ideal for

photography.  Half way through, the fog started and then a bit later it was a

crawl in the thick for - driving by the tail lights of the vehicle ahead. Just near

the Wetland ran into Vikas-Rajiv who were returning not being able to see

any thing.

I ventured on - thinking I would catch up on my sleep (deprived due jet lag

- not mine but grand-daughter's who wakes up at 3-3.30 in the morning and

I have to serve her break-fast or dinner whatever it is.).  

Almost ran in a Sarus but for its clarion call - it was calling not knowing which

way to fly and join the flock.

Also, got lost on the trails that even my jalopy possibly remember.

Then, the light came through after 12 and then it was chasing the Raptors

that were the highlight of the day.

There was a 'kill' if one of the fields - A Greater Spotted, a Bonelli's and

later a Steppe Eagle (I think) were feeding together and in turn unless

chased by the crows.  When chased away, they posed for me.

Catch of the Day - A Bonelli's, a Steppe (I think), a Greater Spotted Eagle,

two Long-Legged Buzzards and a Short Eared Owl and an Egyptian Vulture.

All others - ducks, waders, larks, pipits and of course, over 20 Sarus by the

time light went off at 3.

Cheers.

Anand Arya
353, Sector 15A
NOIDA 201301
INDIA
+ 91 98182 61909
www.anandarya.com
www.okhlabirdpark.com
"This is a copyrighted image. Not to be used for any purpose without prior permission."
Canon 1D M4 + 800mm