These photographs of the Kite offer an intimate glimpse into the life of one of Bangladesh’s most majestic raptors, highlighting the intricate bond between parent and offspring amidst the lush greenery of Baridhara.
The Brahminy Kite, is easily identifiable by its distinctive white head and chest contrasted against a reddish-brown body. The series of photographs captures the bird in various stages of nurturing and protecting its young, emphasizing the familial bond and the nurturing aspect of these impressive birds of prey.

The first image shows a Brahminy Kite delicately feeding its chick, the tender moment underscoring the care and dedication the parent exhibits. Nestled within a sturdy nest of twigs, the downy chick eagerly receives nourishment, a poignant representation of the life cycle in the wild. This image captures the essence of survival and the importance of parental care in the animal kingdom.

In the second photograph, the adult Brahminy Kite is seen peeking out from behind the branches, its piercing eyes vigilant and protective. The bird’s presence in the nest, surrounded by a fortress of twigs, symbolizes security and resilience, inviting us to appreciate the complexity of avian behavior and the instinctual drive to safeguard their young.

Another image showcases the parent bird standing proudly beside its chick, the soft down of the juvenile contrasting with the sleek, mature feathers of the adult. This juxtaposition of youth and maturity highlights the growth and development process of these magnificent birds. The Brahminy Kite’s role as a provider and protector is vividly depicted, demonstrating the natural harmony and balance in the avian world.

Lastly, the photograph of the two fluffy chicks sitting side by side in the nest represents hope and continuity. Their wide, curious eyes and unsteady posture reflect the beginning of their journey into adulthood. These fledglings, though still dependent on their parent, symbolize the future of their species and the ongoing cycle of life.
The Brahminy Kite is a medium-sized bird of prey from the Accipitridae family, which includes eagles and harriers. These kites are prevalent across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia, thriving in coastal and inland wetlands. Primarily scavengers, they feed on dead fish and crabs, but their diet also includes live prey such as hares and bats. Their adaptability and survival skills are further evidenced by their ability to engage in kleptoparasitism, stealing food from other birds, and capitalizing on dolphins herding fish to the surface.

These kites exhibit fascinating behavioral traits, such as communal roosting, with up to 600 individuals gathering in one location. Juveniles are known for their playful behavior, dropping leaves and attempting to catch them in mid-air. Even when landing in water during fishing attempts, these kites are capable swimmers, showcasing their resilience and adaptability.

Photographer: Pawankumar Tulshidas Badhe, an Indian diplomat based in Dhaka, has a diverse background in diplomacy, having had postings in Geneva and Vienna, and a special focus on human rights, disarmament, and press relations. His passion for wildlife photography and bird watching flourished during the COVID-19 lockdown. Badhe enjoys exploring nature with his wife, Kirti, and their son.
IG @jurabhead