I proceeded to Thano Forest Reserve Area around 20 kms from Dehradun near Jolly Grant Airport on 12th March 23 along with Ram Soni and Nakul. We were aware that a special bird Chestnut – headed Tesia may be present in the specific area as vegetation is suitable . In past also there was record of this very tiny tailless bird.
Adorably round and tailless small ground-dweller , deep cinnamon-brown head , and yellow throat is unique . It prefers densely vegetated wet or damp areas, often in the vicinity of streams . Forages actively on the ground in deep cover , seldom venturing out into the open .
After waiting for some time Ram Soni could get the faint glimpse of the Tesia near the stream of water and subsequently alerted us. We then planned to stay for few hours in the search of the bird , we discussed about the specs of the bird its colour its habit and all of us kept watching in different directions of the dense and damp vegetation and kept looking for the bird on the ground.
Our search ended after appx 60 minutes of waiting patiently . Again it was Ram Soni who could see the bird in the open area, over the drain and we were excited but kept our calm and could get few clicks of the bird . However after 15 seconds the bird disappeared in the dense vegetation . The moment of capturing the bird which I was searching for the last five years in Dehradun was just amazing and very fulfilling.
Life teaches us that for achieving anything we have to keep patience and maintain our excitement . We mainly go to the forests as one gets fresh air , brisk walking , meditates by searching for the birds on perches , avoid gadgets like mobile etc for few hours .
Enjoy the mother nature and if you find a beautiful bird than appreciate the colours of nature.
Keep birding !
