Rujlan Ahmad - WildLife Photographer

Partners for Life...

Wandering Whistling Ducks...

Location Uae April 2024 Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF Dubai
1. Wandering Whistling Ducks are expert navigators, traveling thousands of kilometers during migration.

2. They have a unique whistling call that can be heard from quite a distance.

3. These ducks are highly social and often form large flocks during migration.

4. Wandering Whistling Ducks are excellent swimmers and divers, spending much of their time in water.

5. They have specialized bills for filtering food from the water, such as small crustaceans and insects.

6. Despite their name, Wandering Whistling Ducks are quite territorial during breeding season.

7. These ducks are monogamous and form strong pair bonds that can last for life.

8. They prefer shallow wetlands and marshes for breeding and feeding.

9. Wandering Whistling Ducks are known to hybridize with other duck species in areas where their ranges overlap.

10. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their habitats and ensure their continued survival.

In the middle of the desert in Dubai, a brief encounter with this hunk. He stopped, looked at me, paused for a while, and then ran away... as if he wanted me to capture some pictures ❤️

"Chinkara gracefully embodies the spirit of the desert, a symbol of resilience and beauty in the arid landscapes."

Nature's timeless beauty, painted in shades of black and white. A serene landscape that whispers in grayscale, where every nuance of light and shadow tells a silent tale...

who can guess this place? Nikon D850 Nikon 24-70 2.8
Nikon

"

Look at these colours , just looking like a wow

The Glossy Ibis, known for its stunning iridescent plumage, graces the wetlands of Dubai with its elegant presence. These graceful birds add a touch of natural beauty to the city's landscape.

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF Nov 2023

Glossy Ibises are waterfowl characterized by their glossy, dark feathers and long, slender bills. They inhabit wetlands and marshy areas, foraging for food in shallow waters. In Dubai, these birds find suitable habitats in various wetland areas, contributing to the region's diverse avian population.

Colour or No Colour

"Graceful glider on tranquil waters, the Little Grebe – a pint-sized marvel in nature's aquatic ballet. 🌿🦢 "

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF Location Dubai United Arab Emirates











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"Precision is not just a skill; for the osprey, it's an unwavering commitment to perfection, never missing the mark and soaring with unparalleled accuracy."

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF Location Dubai United Arab Emirates

Let's know 5 best facts about this beautiful beast...

1. **Unique Hunting Technique:** Ospreys are skilled raptors known for their unique hunting technique. They hover in the air, then dive feet-first to catch fish with their powerful talons.

2. **Global Distribution:** Ospreys have a widespread distribution and can be found on every continent except Antarctica. They are adaptable birds that inhabit a variety of environments, from coastal regions to inland water bodies.

3. **Remarkable Eyesight:** Ospreys have excellent eyesight, enabling them to spot prey from great heights. Their eyes have a specialized structure that allows them to see well both in air and underwater, aiding in their fishing prowess.

4. **Nesting Habits:** These birds are known for their large stick nests, often built on elevated structures like cliffs, trees, or man-made platforms. They exhibit strong nest site fidelity, returning to the same nesting site year after year.

5. **Migration Instinct:** Many osprey populations are migratory, covering vast distances between their breeding and wintering grounds. During migration, they showcase impressive navigational skills, often following specific routes or flyways.

Common shelduck

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF

The Common Shelduck, a species of waterfowl, provides several benefits to the environment:

1. **Biodiversity:** Shelducks contribute to the biodiversity of wetland ecosystems, supporting a variety of other species by providing food and habitat.

2. **Natural Pest Control:** They help control insect populations by consuming insects and larvae, which can be harmful to crops and other plants.

3. **Seed Dispersal:** Shelducks inadvertently aid in seed dispersal as they move around, helping to regenerate plant life in different areas.

4. **Water Quality:** Their feeding habits can improve water quality by consuming algae and other organic matter, which can help maintain a balanced aquatic ecosystem.

5. **Erosion Control:** Wetlands where shelducks reside often have vegetation that helps prevent soil erosion, which is crucial for maintaining the stability of the surrounding land.

6. **Tourism and Education:** Shelducks, being charismatic birds, attract birdwatchers and tourists, contributing to local economies. Additionally, they serve as educational tools, raising awareness about the importance of wetland conservation.

7. **Indicator Species:** Their presence or absence can indicate the health of wetland ecosystems. Monitoring shelduck populations can provide valuable information about the overall condition of their habitats.

8. **Cultural Significance:** In some cultures, shelducks hold cultural or religious significance, fostering a connection between humans and nature, which can promote environmental conservation efforts.

Conserving the habitats of Common Shelducks is vital not only for the well-being of this species but also for the overall health and balance of wetland ecosystems and the services they provide to the environment and society.

Citrine Wagtails

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF Gulmarg Kashmir July 2023








1. **Distinctive Appearance:** Citrine Wagtails (Motacilla citreola) are small, vibrant birds known for their striking yellow plumage and black markings, making them easily identifiable among other wagtail species.

2. **Migration Patterns:** These birds are migratory and are often found in parts of Asia, including Kashmir, during their winter migration. They breed in northern Asia and migrate to southern Asia and Africa for the winter.

3. **Beneficial Insect Control:** Citrine wagtails play a vital role in controlling insect populations. They primarily feed on insects such as flies, mosquitoes, and small insects found in wetlands and agricultural areas. This natural pest control can benefit Kashmir's agriculture by reducing insect damage to crops.

4. **Ecological Indicator:** Citrine wagtails are considered ecological indicators, meaning their presence or absence can indicate the health of an ecosystem. Their presence in Kashmir suggests a healthy wetland ecosystem, which is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting other wildlife species.

5. **Cultural Significance:** In addition to their ecological importance, Citrine wagtails hold cultural significance in many regions, symbolizing various qualities in different cultures. Appreciating and conserving these birds can foster a sense of pride and connection to nature among the people of Kashmir.

These factors highlight the ecological importance of Citrine wagtails and how their presence benefits the natural balance and agricultural landscape in Kashmir.

These are the most annoying birds around. Their sounds are so irritating but yet they look so beautiful, amazing feathers, beautiful colours...

Egyptian Goose...

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF Location Dubai United Arab Emirates October 2023

1. **Native Habitat:** Egyptian geese (Alopochen aegyptiaca) are native to Africa, particularly in the Nile Valley and sub-Saharan Africa.

2. **Distinctive Appearance:** They are known for their striking appearance with a chestnut-brown eye patch and a contrasting white ring around it. Their body is mainly brown, and they have distinctive white wing patches.

3. **Monogamous Birds:** Egyptian geese are monogamous and form long-term pair bonds. Mated pairs often stay together year-round.

4. **Habitat:** They are adaptable birds and can be found in a variety of wetland habitats, including lakes, rivers, marshes, and reservoirs. They are also commonly seen in urban areas near water bodies.

5. **Feeding Habits:** Egyptian geese are herbivorous, feeding on grasses, seeds, and agricultural crops. They may also consume small invertebrates occasionally.

6. **Noisy Birds:** They are quite vocal and have a range of honking calls, especially during the breeding season.

7. **Breeding:** Egyptian geese typically build their nests close to water, using reeds, grass, and feathers. The female usually lays around 5 to 12 eggs, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs.

8. **Conservation Status:** Egyptian geese are not considered globally threatened, and their populations are stable. They are often seen as a symbol of ancient Egyptian art and have cultural significance in some regions.




ae


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Black Swan and Green Grass..

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF Dubai October 2023

Swans day out...

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF Location Dubai Al Qudra 08.10.2023

"In the verdant valleys of Kashmir, female redstarts grace our skies, their presence a testament to nature's beauty and harmony."

Nikon D850 |500PF| |July 2023

1. Natural Pest Controllers: Redstarts feed on insects and other small invertebrates, helping to control pest populations. This natural pest control is essential for maintaining the ecological balance in Kashmir's ecosystem, ensuring the health of local flora.

2. Biodiversity Indicator: The presence of redstarts in Kashmir indicates a diverse and healthy ecosystem. Their existence signifies the availability of suitable habitats and food sources, which is crucial for sustaining various wildlife species in the region.

3. Seed Dispersal: Redstarts inadvertently assist in seed dispersal as they feed on fruits and berries. By doing so, they contribute to the regeneration of plant species in Kashmir, supporting the growth of forests and green spaces.

4. Tourism and Education: Redstarts, being visually appealing birds, attract birdwatchers and tourists to Kashmir. This can boost local tourism and create opportunities for environmental education and awareness, encouraging the conservation of these birds and their habitats.

5. Climate Change Indicators: Bird species, including redstarts, can serve as indicators of climate change. Studying their patterns and behaviors in Kashmir provides valuable data for understanding how environmental changes affect wildlife. This knowledge is crucial for implementing conservation strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on the region's biodiversity.











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"In the quiet dance of nature, the Rock Bunting soars, a melody of colors against the rugged canvas of the rocks, reminding us that even in the harshest terrain, beauty finds its song."

The Rock Bunting is named so due to its preference for rocky habitats. It is often found in areas with rocky outcrops, cliffs, and rugged terrain. The term "Bunting" refers to a group of seed-eating birds known for their cheerful songs.

In Kashmir, the Rock Bunting can be found in rocky and hilly regions. Its habitat includes mountainous areas, rocky slopes, and cliffs, where it can find suitable nesting sites and forage for food such as seeds, insects, and small fruits. The rocky landscape provides natural shelter and breeding grounds for this bird species, making it well-adapted to the challenging terrain of Kashmir.

1. **Habitat:** Rock Buntings (Emberiza cia) are small passerine birds that inhabit rocky and mountainous regions across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. They are particularly found in rocky slopes, cliffs, and hilly terrains.

2. **Appearance:** These birds are characterized by their striking plumage, featuring a mix of warm brown and buff colors, often with streaks and spots. They have a distinct dark streak across their eyes and a pale throat.

3. **Diet:** Rock Buntings primarily feed on seeds, especially during winter months when insects are scarce. They also consume small invertebrates, berries, and fruits, making their diet quite varied based on seasonal availability.

4. **Nesting:** Their nests are often built in crevices or rocky ledges, providing natural protection from predators.

Quick selfy at one of the most amazing places i visited in my life...

Kashmir, where beauty and resilience intertwine, a land of breathtaking landscapes and enduring hopes, where the echoes of its history resonate through the valleys of time."

Gurez Valley July 2023 Nikon D850 Nikon 24-70



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Let's go black and white today ...

Siberian Stonechatand Ashy Drongo in a remote area of Kashmir India Gurez Valley

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF

Stonechat In Action...

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF Gurez Kashnir India

"Graceful as a kingfisher's flight, beauty and nature converge in vibrant harmony."

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF Wular Lake Kashmir India

The Ashy Drongo

Location kashmir
Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF

Lets know it little more,

The Ashy Drongo (Dicrurus leucophaeus) is a small, sleek passerine bird known for its distinctive ashy-gray plumage and striking red eyes.

Found in various parts of Asia, including India, the Ashy Drongo is a migratory bird that breeds in the Himalayas during the summer months.

In Kashmir, the Ashy Drongo can be spotted during the summer breeding season, typically from May to September. Its presence adds a touch of elegance to the region's diverse avian population.

Ashy Drongos are expert aerial foragers, often seen catching insects mid-air with their agile flight maneuvers. They have a knack for snatching insects from the air using their sharp bills.

These birds are known for their impressive mimicry skills. Not only do they have a range of melodious calls, but they can also imitate the sounds of other birds, animals, and even mechanical noises.

While they are quite social with other bird species, Ashy Drongos can display territorial behavior during the breeding season. They fiercely protect their nesting sites from potential threats.

Ashy Drongos play a significant role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling insect populations. Their diet primarily consists of insects, making them valuable pest controllers in the ecosystem.

Despite their small size, Ashy Drongos are known for their courage and fearlessness. They have been observed mobbing and driving away much larger birds, such as crows and eagles, to protect their territory.

The Ashy Drongo's presence in Kashmir adds to the region's biodiversity and serves as a wonderful opportunity for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers to observe and appreciate these charismatic birds in their natural habitat.

If you're lucky enough to spot an Ashy Drongo in Kashmir, take a moment to enjoy its graceful flight and mesmerizing calls, and perhaps even try to identify the unique sounds it imitates from its surroundings!

The Green Sandpiper

Wular Lake 2023
Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF







The green sandpiper (Tringa ochropus) is a migratory bird species that can be found in Wular Lake in Kashmir during its winter migration. These birds travel from their breeding grounds in northern Europe and Asia to their wintering grounds, which include wetlands and lakes in different parts of the world, including Wular Lake. Their presence in Wular Lake adds to the rich biodiversity of the region and contributes to the ecological balance of the wetland ecosystem.

Lets know some fun Facts about this bird,

1) The green sandpiper (Tringa ochropus) is a small wader bird known for its distinctive white belly and prominent greenish legs.

2) Despite its name, the green sandpiper is not actually green in color; it has a brownish-gray plumage with white and buff markings.

3) These birds are skilled insectivores, often foraging in shallow waters or damp areas for insects, crustaceans, and small invertebrates.

4) Green sandpipers are known for their unique nesting habits, sometimes choosing to build their nests in old tree nests of other birds rather than on the ground.

5) They have a remarkable migratory behavior, breeding in northern Europe and Asia, and then traveling to wintering grounds in Africa, southern Asia, and parts of Europe.

Whiskered Tern

Discover the fascinating world of Whiskered terns - agile fliers with mesmerizing 'whiskers' and a penchant for aquatic acrobatics! 🐦🌊

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF Location Kashmir Wular Lake

Whiskered Tern Fun Facts

Whiskered Terns are medium-sized birds known for their distinctive black facial markings and long white whiskers that give them their name.

They are migratory birds, typically visiting Kashmir during their breeding season from March to August.

These terns prefer shallow wetlands, lakes, and marshes for nesting and foraging, making Kashmir's wetlands an ideal habitat for them.

Whiskered Terns are excellent fliers and are often seen performing graceful aerial displays, swooping low over the water's surface to catch insects and small fish.

They have a unique hunting technique called "plunging" where they dive headfirst into the water to catch prey, making a distinctive splash.

During the breeding season, their calls can be heard as a series of sharp "klee" or "klee-ik" sounds.

These birds are highly social and often gather in large flocks, especially during migration periods.

The global population of Whiskered Terns is considered stable, but they may face threats from habitat loss and degradation, making their conservation important.

Barn Owl 🦉

It was complete darkness, and due to high iso, you may find additional noise in pictures. But for me, that's ok as long as we didn't disturb him by lighting torch.

Graceful Ruff in Kashmir's Wetlands: Witness the mesmerizing beauty of this Ruff as it elegantly roams the marshes during migration."

The "Ruff" (Calidris pugnax) is a bird species belonging to the sandpiper family. It is known for its distinctive breeding plumage, with males having a ruff of feathers around their neck and head. They can be found in wetlands and marshes, including some areas in Kashmir during their migration periods

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF
Location Kashmir Wular Lakes India

White Throated Kingfisher...

Wular Lake kashmir India
Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF
July 2023

Is anyone listening,

See how people are abusing our natural reserves and nobody cares.

Local Gujjar community living near forest area most cut these huge trees for their day to day requirement.

Can we share this image with someone who can help to save these beautiful trees. It takes min 50 years for this tree to grow and 50 mins for someone to bring it down.

"Caught this magnificent owl in all its glory 🦉✨

Towny Owl Kashmir July 2023

Nikon D850 Nikon 500PF