Territorial fights, Darters, Keoladeo, Bharatpur National Park, Rajasthan, India
UNESCO Monument - Keoladeo - My first attempts at wildlife photography. It was early 2006 and we had camped overnight at Bharatpur National Park. I had a 300mm lens gifted from my best friends for my wedding and I was excited. I hadn't figured out to use it best, but when I saw these darters fighting for the branch I knew the camera or the lens didn't matter. Sometimes being in the right place at the right time is more important and the best gear is the one in your hand. Also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park is located in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Home to about 366 different species of birds, it’s also known for being the wintering and nesting ground for several non-indigenous, migratory birds. Initially a duck shooting ground, it was later on developed as a wholly man-made and man-managed wetland/place and is spread over 29 square kilometres. Hunting is now banned in this area and is a punishable offence. Besides birds, there are 379 floral species, 50 species of fish, 13 species of snake, seven species of lizard, seven species of amphibians, seven turtle species and variety of other invertebrates. This place is a reminder of the rich biological heritage of India.
