Ambujam led Pitchu in a meandering, criss crossing trail, until they were standing near a huge Aala maram (banyan tree). The tree seemed a forest unto itself. Cuckoos, crows and parrots flitted busily among its branches while a red fox slunk away at their approach. “Stop here.” Pitchu looked expectantly at Ambu Mami. “Go around the Banyan tree to the other side and check.” Sure enough, when Pitchu went there, he found Usha and her calf relaxing in the shade of the huge tree.