Mayureshwar

Mayureshwar is an excellent place to sight the elusive Indian Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes).

The Indian or Bengal Fox (Vulpes bengalensis) usually hides beneath vegetation or in its subterranean den during the heat of the day.

Chinkara (Gazella bennettii), also called the Indian Gazelle, is found in arid plains and dry scrub forests, such as Mayureshwar.

As its name suggests, the Short-toed Snake Eagle (Circaetus gallicus) mostly preys on reptiles like snakes and lizards.

The Steppe Eagle's (Aquila nipalensis) diet mostly consists of fresh carrion. Like other scavenging raptors, it is susceptible to poisoning by the veterinary use of diclofenac.

Bonelli's Eagle (Aquila fasciata) is a large predator and is known to hunt smaller and medium-sized birds. It also preys on small mammals from the ground.

The Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse (Pterocles exustus) is usually found in large flocks. It is known to fly long distances every day in search of water to drink.

Indian Coursers (Cursorius coromandelicus) are usually found foraging for insects in dry, stony land. They prefer habitats where the grass is shorter than they are, since tall grass blocks their view.

Grey Francolins (Francolinus pondicerianus) are found in cultivated lands as well as scrub forest. Their call, a distinctive, loud and repeated 'Ka-tee-tar...tee-tar' lends them their local name, teetar.

The Bay-backed Shrike (Lanius vittatus) impales its prey upon a sharp point, such as a thorn. The prey, thus pinned, can be torn into with their strong hooked bills.

The White-bellied Minivet (Pericrocotus erythropygius) is usually found in dry open forests and scrubland, making Mayureshwar an ideal habitat.

The Grey-necked Bunting (Emberiza buchanani) breeds in Baluchistan and winters in this area.

During its courtship season, the Indian Bush Lark (Mirafra erythroptera) exhibits an amazing song-flight display.

The Red Turtle Dove (Streptopelia tranquebarica) is a species of the plains and is often seen in small flocks.