White-rumped shama

Muthyala Maduvu, Anekal, Karnataka

This Shama is another gem of Muthyala Maduvu. People who visit there are sure to spot it, even if they don't know the exact area where it resides. However, 70% of the time, it remains on the ground, amidst clutter, foraging for arthropods. The only one that stays consistently in the forest is an adult male with beautiful plumage. About 30% of the time, it perches in the open, which provides an excellent opportunity for photographers or birdwatchers to take photos. This Shama is very famous for its beautiful, long, and loud call. When it calls, you'll want to watch it, as it produces many tones simultaneously. Sometimes, it even mimics other birds. The most beautiful part of this bird is its long tail with a white rump. When it calls or sits on a clear perch, it continuously erects its tail.

This is a female with dull plumage; it came this year to mate. It continuously collected nesting materials. Along with its male, it also flew here and there within a small radius, striking poses.