Today’s spotlight on The Present World (TPW) features the enchanting Asian green bee-eater in residential Baridhara, a bird that captivates with its vivid hues and fascinating behaviors. Captured in two beautiful images, one showcases a solitary bee-eater, while the other reveals a pair in a moment of companionship.

A vivid image capturing the striking green plumage of the Asian green bee-eater as it sits gracefully on a slender branch, its eyes vigilant for prey

The Asian green bee-eater, known for its dazzling green plumage tinged with blue, especially around the chin and throat, is a sight across Asia, from Iran to Vietnam. With a length of about 9 inches, of which 2 inches are the elongated central tail feathers, these birds blend beauty and agility. Despite their similar appearances, males and females cannot be distinguished visually.

These birds are not just about looks; their habitat and behavior are equally intriguing. They thrive in open grasslands, thin scrubs, and forests, often far from water bodies. The Asian green bee-eater is a resident bird, meaning it stays within its range throughout the year. However, it may move around seasonally due to the climate and food availability.

One of the most fascinating aspects of these birds is their diet, primarily consisting of insects like bees, wasps, and ants. They exhibit incredible skill in catching their prey mid-air, followed by a meticulous process to make their meal sting-free and more accessible to swallow.

Their social behavior is also noteworthy. While they can be found alone, it’s common to see them in small groups, sometimes even huddling together on a wire in the more excellent morning hours. They are known for their communal roosting habits, gathering in large numbers and presenting a spectacular sight as they move excitedly and loudly.

A heartwarming moment between two Asian green bee-eaters, sitting side by side on a perch, showcasing their social nature and the subtle variations in their emerald feathers.

Interestingly, the Asian green bee-eater adapts well to urban environments and is often spotted perching on television antennas. They engage in short, swift flights to catch insects early in the morning and late in the afternoon, demonstrating their adaptability and the seamless way they fit into natural and human-made landscapes.

Through these stunning photographs, we glimpse the vibrant life of the Asian green bee-eater, a bird that embodies the beauty and complexity of the natural world.

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.