Ramnagar (Uttarakhand): The biodiversity of Ramnagar’s Corbett National Park and the rivers, streams, and rivulets flowing through and around it is world-renowned. It’s not just tigers, elephants, and deer that inhabit this area, but also hundreds of species of colorful birds, which further enhance the natural richness of the region. One of these birds is the Common Kingfisher, whose name is as grand as its size is small.
The Common Kingfisher is not easily spotted. Due to its small size and rapid flight, it often remains hidden from view. This bird is found along the banks of clean rivers, streams, and rivulets where there is an abundance of fish. Its body, adorned with blue-green and orange colors, makes it incredibly attractive, but its agility makes capturing it on camera a challenge.
Recently, nature enthusiast and photographer Sanjay Chimwal captured a beautiful and rare moment of a Common Kingfisher on his camera. In this picture, the kingfisher can be seen catching a fish. Clutching the fish in its beak, the bird seems to be enjoying the success of its hunt. This scene not only showcases its amazing hunting skills but also offers a vivid glimpse into the balance of nature.
According to experts, the presence of the Common Kingfisher in an area is also considered an indicator of the cleanliness of the water sources there. Therefore, the presence of this bird in Corbett and its surrounding rivers and streams is proof that the natural environment here is still largely intact. This scene captured by Sanjay Chimwal is special for wildlife enthusiasts and ornithologists. It not only highlights the rich biodiversity of Corbett but also conveys a message of awareness about nature and its conservation. Ankit Badola, the SDO of Ramnagar Forest Division, said that the Common Kingfisher, also known as Ramchiraiya, Neelkanthi, or Machhimar in Hindi, is famous for its colorful plumage and swift hunting style. Its behavior is very interesting and disciplined. He explained that it is a solitary bird and prefers to live alone. Except during the breeding season, it maintains a distance from other kingfishers and defends its hunting territory. This bird sits still on a branch or stone by the side of a river, stream, or pond, carefully watching the water. As soon as it spots a fish, it dives with lightning speed to catch its prey.
It often slams its catch against a stone to make it easier to swallow. He added that the kingfisher is a very wary bird. Upon sensing a human presence or any danger, it flies away with a loud call. This is why it is challenging to observe it closely or capture it on camera.
