The greater painted-snipe (Rostratula benghalensis) is a species of wader found in a variety of wetland habitats, including swamps and the edges of larger water bodies such as lakes and rivers. This species is sexually dimorphic with the female being larger and more brightly coloured than the male. (for a change). The female is normally polyandrous with the males incubating the eggs and caring for the young. They are rather shy and retiring, skulking close to the vegetation so that they can retreat to cover if disturbed.
These birds sometimes exhibit a dancing movement with its head steady but rocking the rest of the body. Captured here is such a male and synced with Kodava vaalaga as background music.
The female for comparison at http://www.indianaturewatch.net/displayimage.php?id=666206
Shot in Coorg Outskirts, Oct 2025Â â’¸ Dr.Bishan Monnappa.
