Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

19th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
An Indian Roller flying with its bright blue wings spread-out and a shiny beetle held between its beaks

An Indian Roller ((Coracias benghalensis) captures a dung beetle from the ground and flies away with the insect held between its beaks to a safe location where it can eat it in peace without being harassed by other birds. The spectacular wings are outstretched to display the intense deep blue and pale blue bands underneath.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 05.2021
Date Uploaded: 11.2021
Photo Location: Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Camera: NIKON D5500
Copyright: © Chandana Roy