The common kestrel is one of my favourite #birds because their valor is uncommon. This small raptor doesn't take crap from intruders, even eagles thrice their size. Do they always win? Perhaps not. But to stand up and fight is already a victory of sorts. #Chennai #BirdsofChennai

I'm a 1%er by default because, as a birdwatcher, I belong to a very small percentage of the world's population. I hope the number doesn't go up. I'm not a "the more, the merrier" type of birdwatcher. Give me 100% more sun-kissed hoopoes, instead. #birds #Chennai #BirdsOfChennai

In 2021, I had to pick between working out and birdwatching on weekdays. Since I had gained a lot of weight, I chose fitness. But in 2022, having lost 17 kgs, I decided it's ok to wake up and reprioritize. This week, it led me to a rock-eagle owl. #birds #BirdsOfChennai #Chennai

Sick of people's trivial reasons for picking the most livable city? Let's start judging cities by how they treat migrants. It includes displaced humans hoping for a better life and migratory #birds like blue-tailed bee-eaters looking for a warmer winter. #BirdsOfChennai #Chennai

Last morning, I ran into an Indian paradise flycatcher. It has been 3 months since I saw one. But it has felt like 3 years. That's how much these #birds spellbind me. So, despite this moment lasting barely 3 seconds, it felt like 3 decades. #Chennai #BirdsOfChennai

It's 7:30 AM. I wipe the sweat off my brow and tip-toe, ungracefully, like Elmer Fudd. I'm getting ready to shoot. But instead of hunting an anthropomorphic rabbit, I'm looking to photograph a sleepy spotted owlet. It's 7:32 AM. "What's up, doc?" #birds #BirdsofChennai #Chennai

I had to fight with my parents for years to pursue a writing career. In the process, I dropped out of 2 colleges, cut ties with the family business, and left home. Becoming a birdwatcher was easier. Once upon a time, I saw an Indian roller. The rest is my story. #birds #Chennai

In India, black kites were once known as pariah kites. "Pariah" is a casteist slur meaning "untouchable" or "outcast." Even today, some still use their former name. While untouchability has been abolished by law, it remains woven into the mindset. #birds #Chennai #BirdsOfChennai

It's 8:00 AM. An Indian eagle-owl suddenly takes off. Love carpet-bombs my heart as tiny explosions erupt inside my chest - each louder than the last. But then, the owl turns mid-air and lands nearby. It's 8:01 AM. Love declares my heart a no-fire area. #birds #owls #Chennai

The plum-headed parakeet continues to be one of the most trafficked parakeets in India. Even though they officially safeguarded by the Wildlife Protection Act, black market traders continue to trap these #birds and sell them to the most heartless bidders. #BirdsOfKerala #Kerala

The hills of south India come alive with the silent screams of city folk looking for a break from urban life. Whenever I go there, the Indian white-eye is one of the first #birds that visit me. They're like stress balls that come alive when I need to depressurize. #Kodaikanal

Guided birdwatching tours are very bittersweet. While it's easy to photograph new #birds and learn about their habitats, I feel like I'm in the backseat of my own journey. It's why I prefer going solo. Plus, nothing beats unexpectedly seeing a flame-throated bulbul. #Kodaikanal

If it weren't for an impromptu trip to #Kodaikanal, a gorgeous hill station in south India, a decade ago - my life may have turned out very differently. I don't think I'd have even become a birdwatcher. So, thank you for everything, dear Kodai. For this rosefinch too. #birds

In 2020, I decided to tweet a bird photo daily, 5 times a week. I've since been surprised by how many of you loved #birds. But lately, it feels like a chore as I tweet, even when I have nothing to say. So, I'll return whenever I do. Until then, here's a spotted owlet for you.

Hey folks, I wasn't fired by Elon Musk, and I don't care which jet-flying tech bro owns Twitter. They all seem like sanctimonious clout chasers. However, so do we. Also, I'm here to share my love for #birds. So, please watch this spotted owlet be angrily cute for 10 seconds.