Hoopoe

This hoopoe, Upupa epops, is known locally as a hudhud.

There was a pair of birds feeding everyday on the hotel lawns. As soon as they found a juicy, fat grub, the Indian crows and Indian mynah birds would attack the hoopoe to try to steal the grub.

The other species are a real pest at mealtimes, scavenging food from the guests plates. In the mornings, bird handlers would bring either a Gyr Falcon or Lanner Falcon to scare off the birds. They are not permitted to hunt them as all bird species are protected and only the sheiks can hunt.

The crows and mynahs have been smuggled into the country by the vast workforce from India as they are regarded as good luck objects.

The hotel also had three guinea fowl patrolling the grounds, three ducks and two peahens.

At times the lawn had the appearance of a Disney film.

Bye Bye Dubai