The Keoladeo Jackals

Winters amidst the beautiful landscape of Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur are a treat to both the eyes and the camera. One such enchanting morning in park, we decided to dedicate towards the not so common, ground dwellers of the park.

Keoladeo National Park is not just home to some of the most unique and endangered species of avian life, but also home to a wide range of mammals.

While meandering through the park, we came across an altogether different landscape, tall golden grass covered the land, with cool breeze caressing and the air, devoid of any bird songs.

As we walked further on the dirt path, we sensed movement in all four directions surrounding us.

Before we could gather back our thoughts, a small clan of golden jackals sprang across the path ahead, we immediately made the road our bean bag and let the shutter noise embrace the air.

soon after, there was movement towards our left, a male jackal stood, not more than 15 feet away from us, meeting our astounded gaze with his alert.

Our guess was right.

A female jackal sat on our right, at the same distance as the male in the opposite direction.

At this point we were surrounded by a whole troop of golden jackals.

Their coat radiated in the afternoon sun.

After a brief session of territorial dispute and an unsuccessful attempt to grab the female's attention, the jackals retreated into the Keoladeo expanse.

Moments like these are truly a blessing to witness. Getting a glimpse into the lives of one of the most fascinating animals found in India.

Here is us trying to capture some interesting moments from the wild at Keladeo NP.