Indian Roller or Neelkanth is a beautiful bird. It is seen usually here in the North India from August and till winters. Usually one can spot the bird sitting on the transmission lines passing over the fields or on the top of trees like mangoes.
It sits at one place for a long periods of time. It swoops down to catch insects like beetles or grasshoppers. It is not easily scared when you take pictures.
The bird is about 26–27 cm long. It is similar in appearance to European rollers which are also here during summer. The difference is that breast is brownish and not blue as in the European Roller. The crown and vent are blue.
The bird is associated with Lord Shiva in Hindu mythology and is considered to be a good omen if it is seen on Dusshehra or Diwali.
During my visits to the fields or open areas near my residence, I have come across this bird many times and have taken quite a few pictures.
