Nagarahole Tiger Reserve Day-6
We began the day early, gathering for a quick cup of coffee before heading out for our morning safari. There was a heavy mist, creating an eerie and mysterious atmosphere. As we entered the park, the thick fog reduced visibility. Almost immediately, we encountered the same pack of Wild Dogs we had seen the day before. The pups were still with them, playing and staying close to their parents. The early morning darkness, and dense mist, made it difficult for photography. However, we enjoyed observing their behaviour in the stillness of the morning.
After spending some time with the Wild Dogs, we ventured deeper into the park. Soon, we heard alarm calls coming from the direction of the park’s resthouse. This was the same area where we had spent time yesterday. We positioned ourselves near the area and waited, hoping the panther would make an appearance. At first, the alarm calls from deer and langurs were clear and persistent, raising our hopes. But as time passed, the calls gradually faded, and despite our patience, Blackie the melanistic leopard remained hidden. Eventually, we had to leave as the park was closing for the morning. We spotted yet more woodpeckers on the way out and a Changeable Hawk-eagle
In the afternoon, we set out for another safari, determined to make the most of the day. The morning mist had cleared, and the improved visibility gave us hope for good sightings. As we drove along one of the tracks near a water hole, we noticed some movement—a hawk had just caught its prey. We stopped to scan the trees and soon spotted it in a clearing close to the track. The hawk had captured a water rail and was feeding in plain view, offering us a chance to take some striking, though somewhat gruesome, photos.
After observing the hawk for a while, we continued on, heading towards an area where we heard more alarm calls from both deer and langurs. These calls often signal the presence of a predator, so we decided to wait and see what might appear. We spent about 40 minutes scanning the area, listening closely to the calls. Then, suddenly, I saw it. “I see a leopard!” I shouted to the rest of the group. Everyone quickly turned their attention to where I was pointing, and sure enough, deep in the woods, through a narrow gap in the trees, a leopard was lying down, perfectly camouflaged against the undergrowth.
The leopard remained still, blending into its surroundings so well that it was almost invisible. We tried to find a better angle, carefully repositioning our vehicle to get a clearer view. Eventually, everyone in the group managed to catch a glimpse of the leopard through the trees. Although the sighting was brief, it was incredibly rewarding after such a long wait. As the day drew to a close and the park’s closing time approached, we reluctantly had to leave and head back towards the gate.
On our way out, just as we were nearing the park’s exit, we were treated to one more incredible sight—a majestic tusker grazing beside the road. The large male elephant was close enough for us to see the intricate details of his wrinkled skin and the impressive length of his tusks. It was a perfect end to the day, and we watched him for a few minutes before continuing on our way.
We returned to the lodge just as the park was closing for the evening. Back at the lodge, we gathered with the rest of the group to recount the day’s experiences over a refreshing beer. Afterward, we headed to dinner, enjoying the meal and conversation before retiring for another early night.