India, Feb. 16 -- There could be no couple which seems so desirous and committed to each other as Ruddy shelducks (Brahminy ducks). These migratory birds that never give the Sukhna lake a miss, however inhospitable its habitat may be to wintering avian tourists, are a picture of coupling elegance and commitment. A pair can be seen habituating the shade of trees to the left of the Bird Walk branching off from the regulator end.

These ducks are turning cinnamon-brown from orange-brown as the sun of spring ripens and prepares their colours ahead of breeding. Though the male and female resemble each other (as married couples oft do in enduring partnerships!), come breeding season and the drake grows a blackish necklace around his neck.

This...