Wings Over Chitwan and Nepal: Annual Bird Census Takes Flight

The annual bird census commenced across Chitwan yesterday led by the Bird Education Society's Chitwan chapter. Volunteers equipped with cameras, GPS, and sound recorders began the exhaustive week-long exercise surveying avian species near the Rapti River, Budhirapti wetlands, and adjoining regions of eastern Chitwan today.

Tikaram Giri, district president of the conservation society, revealed that post eastern Chitwan, the census shall extend to cover western Chitwan /node/10059areas by January 21 as per schedules. The nationwide bird counting started on Saturday, a day before it started in Chitwan. 

Chitwan, known for its rich biodiversity, is home to over 650 recorded bird species as per recent surveys. The area forms the core of the Terai Arc Landscape harboring rare endemic birds like the Bengal Florican and sacred Garuda.

The annual census aids conservation efforts by assessing population trends, and new threats, and expanding bird atlas records. They also gauge the impacts of climate change or human activities allowing data-driven policy reforms for habitat restoration. Being located along the East Asian Flyway, Chitwan's surveys provide critical migratory bird data as well.

The Bird Education Society coordinates nationwide through university partnerships for the annual Great Himalayan Bird Count initiative that involves extensive field studies producing checklists for each site. The cumulative findings help update Nepal's avian records and guide wildlife research attracting ornithologists globally to the Himalayan country that boasts more than 850 recorded bird species.

Birdwatching in Chitwan:

Chitwan is a treasure trove of biodiversity, with over 650 documented bird species. The diverse habitats, ranging from grasslands and wetlands to forests and rivers, attract a magnificent collection of avian creatures. Chitwan National Park, Upardang Gadhi, Madi jungle areas, Sauraha, Beeshazar Lake, Rapti River, etc. are some of the major hotspots.

Some Notable Species in Chitwan:

• Bengal Florican: An exceedingly rare grassland bird occasionally seen in Chitwan's Terai plains.
• Greater Spotted Eagle: A majestic predator with an impressive wingspan, soaring above the park.
• Himalayan Goldenback: A striking woodpecker exhibiting a vivid orange back as well as a black-and-white head; found in the lower Himalayan slopes.
• Slender-billed Vulture: As a critically endangered scavenger, Chitwan offers a vital habitat for this bird's conservation efforts.
• Bar-headed Goose: Known for their long-distance migration across the Himalayas, they spend winters in Nepal's warmer plains.
• Spiny Babbler: As a bird only found in Nepal, Chitwan's Upardang Gadhi is a major hotspot for these birds.

Seasonal Differences:

Birdwatching in Chitwan is thrilling year-round, with each season offering unique experiences:

• Spring (March-May): With many birds breeding during this time, one can expect abundant birdsong and vibrant displays.
• Summer (June-August): Monsoon rains give rise to lush vegetation, luring migratory birds and yielding excellent viewing opportunities.
• Autumn (September-November): Clearer and drier days facilitate easier birdwatching, as migrating birds increase their diversity.
• Winter (December-February): Some Himalayan bird species descend to lower elevations during the colder months, allowing for sightings of rare species.