Red-wattled Lapwing NO match for the Daman Snake Mount Abu

Red-wattled Lapwing is NO match for the Daman Snake 

6 April 2019.

I have been observing the Red-winged lapwings for a little over a week. This year she changed her nesting site. The birds have been constantly vigilant in chasing away the mongoose, the stray dogs that pass by, and the raptors that approach too close. They avoid the few cats that roam this area. 

Yesterday the ruckus the pair created caused a small flock of lapwings to appear out of nowhere got my curiosity I immediately grabbed my camera and went out to investigate. The birds were battling a losing battle against a nine-foot Daman that had sneaked upon the mother sitting on her eggs. 

All the ruckus and the feigning by the birds to draw the snake away from the eggs failed. It filled me with rage and wanted to intervene, but then held back letting nature take its course. I saw the snake swallow two eggs and then all hell broke loose one bird pecked the snake on the crown of its head, and two others moved in dangerously close to attack. The snake spooked and moved off from the nest with the birds giving it chase. For a long time, they flew around in circles making a ruckus.

The Lapwing approached her nest cautiously, poked around adjusted the two remaining eggs using her protective body and settled down. The chicks in the eggs are probably ready to hatch any day now. Really wonder if nature will be grateful to let the two eggs hatch, but I have my reservations, it’s a eat dog eat world we live in I’m sure the Daman will come to make a meal of the other two eggs left behind. I can hear the birds making a ruckus I'll go have a dekko and get right back to finishing this episode.

Yes, the Daman returned, but the birds being vigilant could steer him away from the nest. They have won this round but for how long before this slippery slimy god's creation decides it’s time for a meal. Till then, it’s adieu 

Red-wattled Lapwing - Vanellus indicus TRYING TO ATTACK DAMAN

Daman at the nest swallowed two eggs 

Red-wattled Lapwing - Vanellus indicus TRYING TO ATTACK DAMAN

Trying to draw out the Daman 

Getting the Damans attention 

Feigning injury 

Daman the Abu Rat snake

Non-poisonous Snake

Two eggs remaining 

Daman made a meal of two eggs.

To read more on this Red-wattled Lapwing click the link below

Folklore and myth of the Red-wattled lapwing Rajasthan.

This small video clip I took today Will the pair see their chicks?

World water day 22 March Mount Abu.

World Water Day 22 March 2019 Mount Abu.

Lower Khodra Dam

Lower Khodra Dam

Upper Khodra Dam

Upper Khodra Dam( Photos to this post Per kind favour Mohan from St. Mary's school and Charles Guide 

Navigating the Waters: Mount Abu’s Survival Battle on World Water Day 2019. 

Introduction:

Every year on March 22, World Water Day is a global reminder of the crucial need for water conservation. This day has special importance in the charming hill resort of Mount Abu, tucked in the Aravalli Range and Rajasthan’s sole hill station. The town is at a crossroads in its quest for sustainable water management, as it faces a recurrent water problem and the aftermath of a poor monsoon.

Water Problems at Mount Abu:

Mount Abu’s reliance on the monsoon for water supplies has long been a concern, and last year’s poor monsoon has further aggravated the situation. In response to worries about water scarcity, officials are considering harsh measures, such as closing schools during the hot summer months, to protect this valuable resource.

Roads and Sewerage Systems Reconstruction:

To make matters worse, 80% of Mount Abu’s roadways are now under development, to install sewage lines. This decision has prompted local outrage, with many questioning the decision to prioritise a sewage infrastructure above the much-anticipated “Salgaon Dam Project.” Residents are cynical of the continuing sewage project, calling it a “ghost project” in the face of an urgent need for a stable water supply.

The Salgaon Dam Project: A Glimmer of Hope

In contrast to the uncertainties surrounding the sewage project, the Salgaon Dam Project provides a ray of optimism for Mount Abu locals. The project offers a long-term water supply, which will be a lifeline for a community dealing with an erratic monsoon pattern. This project is of great significance, as it highlights Mount Abu's commitment to infrastructure development by creating new gardens around the picturesque Nakki Lake.

 Prioritising Critical Needs:

 The current situation in Mount Abu highlights the critical necessity to prioritise projects that address the town’s immediate water needs. As the municipality navigates this difficult moment, budget allocation choices should prioritize initiatives that assure a safe and sustainable water supply. The Salgaon Dam Project is a positive step forward, pointing out the town’s commitment to securing its future against the oncoming threat of water shortage.

 On World Water Day 2019, Mount Abu sits at the crossroads of progress and preservation. The continuing infrastructure upgrades and the promise represented by the Salgaon Dam Project testify to the town’s dedication to solving its water challenges. As the community faces obstacles, it serves as a reminder that long-term progress must be based on meeting the basic needs of its citizens. Only by collaboration and deliberate prioritisation can Mount Abu ensure a water-rich future despite Rajasthan’s parched landscapes.

Holidays and weekends Mount Abu

Weekends and holidays in Mount Abu are ideal for taking in the natural beauty.

Mohan and I can't wait to go birdwatching in the peaceful countryside of Mount Abu. We have certain spots, such as the peaceful duck pond in the gorgeous Orea region, the towering Gurushikar, and the spotless Gaumukh. Today, we decided to explore the environment more by hiking through a woodland trail. We had a wonderful experience encountering the local birds.

We were treated to the beautiful sight of various native bird species as we went through the verdant forest. Our winter visitors included the brilliant Red-vented Bulbul, the spectacular Indian Robin, the singing Coppersmith Barbet, the fragile Purple Sunbird, the attractive Indian Silverbill, and the beautiful Black Redstart. The beautiful Flame of the Forest trees captivated us (scientifically known as Butea monospermy).

Butea monospermy Flame of the forest 

On this special day, Maha Shivaratri, I couldn't help but think of the Flame of the Forest tree's deep cultural and spiritual importance. It is regarded as sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. These trees are regarded as holy by Hindus owing to the tri-foliate shape of their leaves, which represents the Holy Trinity. The centre leaf depicts Vishnu, the Preserver, with Brahma, the Creator, on the left and Siva, the Destroyer, on the right. For us, the tree represents Agni, the beloved "God of Fire." They primarily offer the blossoms of these plants in Lord Shiva worship, notably on the auspicious day of Shivratri.

The Flame of the Forest tree has numerous cultural links in different parts of India. They closely associated it with the start of spring in West Bengal and the vibrant Holi celebration in Rajasthan. On this auspicious day of Maha Shivaratri, we send our heartfelt greetings from the glorious home of the gods to all, encouraging you to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of nature, culture, and spirituality that Mount Abu has to offer. May it fill your day with serenity, pleasure, and a strong connection to the natural world. Maha Shivaratri greetings!

The Super Wolf Moon 2019 MOUNT ABU.

SUPER BLOOD WOLF MOON 2019.

Evening sky on 21 Jan 2019

Super Full Moon on the 21 January 2019

It fully prepared me to photograph the Super Full Moon on January 21, 2019. I intended to photograph the moon from my rooftop since it provided a great perspective on the horizon. From the rooftop, I witnessed the clouds gathering and the temperature dropping. With the rain beginning to fall, I had to run for shelter. I will have to take a picture of the Full Moon on the 22nd, it seems.

At around 9 pm, I walked my dogs out and low and behold Chanda Mama, peeked out from behind the cloud cover. Smiled at me and said cheer up ole man, take up your camera and light up my world from the Abode of the Gods. 

I wasted no time. I immediately rushed and got my gun and managed a few fast shots at the smiling moon. The Wolf moon then faded behind a heavy blanket of cloud cover. 

Later in the night, we had a pretty heavy shower, much needed for refreshing the arid hillsides.

Photographers were also busy recording the Luna eclipse that was taking place. Does anyone recall the bearded Ching-Chong man on the moon while they were kids? It had me thinking here was all humanity busy clicking the eclipse of the moon and posting it on shared media. How was our man doing ?? He must have been busy shooting the Solar eclipse, which presented itself to him. The Chinese, with their high-tech equipment, could have covered the Solar eclipse. Unfortunately, they were on the dark side of the moon. The Solar eclipse from there must have been spectacular.

 Cheers All My first Howl to you 

ARAWOOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooo!

Wolf Moon 22 Jan 2019

Super Blood Full Moon 21 January 2019 Mount Abu

Super Full Moon on the 21 January 2019

The Wolf Moon

There are only five days before the Super Full Moon on January 21, 2019. The upcoming full moon of this month, referred to as the Wolf Moon, will be called the "Super Blood Wolf Moon." Despite the dramatic name, it has no connection to wolves detecting blood. To my readers, I encourage you to smile and tell your coworkers and friends that you're determined to stay connected this year. Make an effort to offer a joyful welcome, a simple hello, or even a symbolic howl on each full moon in 2019. OWOOOOOO!