Hoopoe Bird!
November 11, 2008
This is a Hoopoe bird. I’ve seen a few in motion from a distance, but this one was very accommodating and stood still to pose for me. Unfortunately, his crest was not unfurled. They are very impressive when in full plumage array. (http://www.birdsoman.com/Birds/091-Hoopoe/Hoopoe/Hoopoe.htm) He was happily hunting for bugs in the area around the base of a tree.
I really enjoy the variety of birds here. The campus has a lot of trees, bushes and fountains, so birds are drawn to it like an oasis. In the afternoon, it can be quite noisy as they are bathing in the fountains and chattering to each other in the trees.
We also have yellow or red vented bulbuls (their butts are vibrant yellow or red, but you have to be under them looking up to see it – dangerous position.) There is another very common bird on campus, but it is not listed in the bird book I bought, so I am still wondering what it is. It is about the size of a robin and acts very similar, but is colored very differently. They are amusing, because they will get up on the windowsills and peck at the window as if they want to be let in. They’ve provided comic relief for many a long meeting, I suspect.
We also have many doves. They are a rosy brown color. They make lovely cooing sounds and toddle all over campus.
Living the Travel Channel 
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