This frisky little fellow is called the Streaked laughing Thrush. Very common around our house in Shimla, this particular picture was taken by Umang at The Institute of advanced Studies. By far my favourite place in Shimla. We were just walking around the beautiful grounds (if you are visiting the place the first time the tour of the inside of the building is not to be missed). The grounds are filled with very pretty flowers and trees and the facade of the building is very impressive. As it is located on a hill top the views are many and very pleasing. From Umang's point of view you can see the Train track and get an excellent view of the airport at Jubbarhatti. Some time we intend to be there early morning , me for the birds which are many(if I saw so many during the afternoon I am sure I will get more early in the day) and Umang for a view of the plane landing. An excellent vantage point.

Umang was a long time taking this picture. Though not a rare,tiny or very shy bird they are rather tricky to click as they barely sit in a place for more than a second.

One thing that photographing birds is sure to teach us is the art of patience, waiting for the bird to come out in the open to be photographed, waiting for a hidden bird identified only by its call, waiting for the person with the camera to finish(that takes really long :) ). That and very strong neck and shoulder muscles. Even though I did not do any neck exercises this summer, I believe my muscles are in excellent tone from continuously looking up into the trees for a glimpse. The shoulders benefit from hauling all the rather heavy paraphernalia of lenses camera etc over long walks and holding up the camera to the trees for long stretches of time. :) I am enjoying myself.