Orange-billed Babbler

Orange-billed Babbler - 'Demelichcha' in Sinhalese, 'Pulinir paravai' in Thamil. They are also called 'Seven Sisters' because they are always seen in groups around seven in number and are very garrulous. Photo taken in our home garden, Avissawella, Sri  Lanka.

Brown-headed Barbet entering its nest, Avissawella, Sri Lanka.

This Barbet couple built their nest in the hole of  a 'Veralu' tree and 3 yong ones  came out and flew away. This couple was prevented from using the earlier nest by a very aggressive couple of  'Mynahs', who subsequently laid  eggs  there and brought up their brood of young ones. The Barbet couple found a hole in the same 'Veralu tree and have prepared this place for the second brood.

Myna, Sub-species ?

Visits  my home garden. They are raising a  family in the hole of a tall 'Veralu' tree opposite our house. My neighbours tell me that they can be taught to 'speak' in captivity.