The great miss at the Sukhna

For those desirous of observing migratory birds at the Sukhna lake, the fall in numbers and species diversity due to an unfavourable habitat has resulted in an enhanced focus on hyperactive Great cormorants and dazzling Ruddy shelducks.

- ANUJ JAIN

While shelducks enchant us with their personality and cultural resonance, the cormorants are fascinating to observe as they duck into the waters and emerge dozens of feet away from the entry point with often a writhing fish. The cormorants have made good use of the anchored bamboo rafts to rest, dry their wings and indulge in squabbling and courtship behaviour.