Trip Report
Systematic list
- Red Junglefowl
Gallus gallus
At least 5 were calling in the evening of 10.11. around Khunia tower.Kalij Pheasant
Lophura leucomelanos
One female was seen on 23.11. from the road 1 km from Pelling to Dentam direction.Indian Peafowl
Pavo cristatus
12 ind. Gorumara, Khunia on 10.11., a pair along Moorty-river on 11.11., 20 ind. Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11., one male Chaphamari on 12.11., 10 ind. along the road to Chukchuki Lake, Gorumara NP on 13.11.Lesser Whistling-duck
Dendrocygna javanica
One in small pond of Khunia, Gorumara on 10.11., a flock of 9 in the pond of Chaphamari on 12.11., 2 ind. Chukchuki Lake, Gorumara, on 13.11.Ruddy Shelduck
Tadorna ferruginea
About 110 altogether Teesta River barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Gadwall
Anas strepera
About 100 ind. Teesta river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Eurasian Wigeon
Anas penelope
5 ind.Teesta river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.
Mallard
Anas platyrhynchos
Atleast 100 ind. Teesta river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Spot-billed Duck
Anas poecilorhyncha
10 ind. Teesta river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11Northern Shoveler
Anas clypeata
15 ind. Teesta river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Northern Pintail
Anas acuta
5 ind. Teesta river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Garganey
Anas querquedula
5 ind. Teesta river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Common Teal
Anas crecca
Atleast 800 ind. Teesta river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Common Pochard
Aythya ferina
One lonely male was seen from Teesta river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Ferruginous Pochard
Aythya nyroca
10 ind. Teesta river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Tufted Duck
Aythya fuligula
20 ind Teesta river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11. and one female was seen on the pond of Kalipokhari (3100 m). According to locals it was wild bird, which had arrived six days ago.Common Merganser
Mergus merganser
17 ind. Khecheopari Lake on 23.11.Eurasian Wryneck
Jynx torquilla
One was seen in the bushes of small river banks in Terai on 26.11. on the way from Darjeeling to Bagdogra near village called something like Karitura.Grey-capped Pygmy Woodpecker
Dendrocopos canicapillus
One was seen outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 11.11. and one was seen from the watching tower of Chaphamari
on 12.11.
Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker
Dendrocopos macei
4 ind. were seen outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 11.11.Darjeeling Woodpecker
Dendrocopos darjellensis
One was seen along Sandakphu trek between Maneybhanyang and Megma (altitude about 2400 m).Lesser Yellownape
Picus chlorolophus
One female was seen from Gorumara, Rhino-point on 12.11.Greater Yellownape
Picus flavinucha
One outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 11. and 12.11., one along Moorty river on 11.11., one in Gorumara, Chukchuki Lake on 13.11., one in Lava on 15.11. and one in Pelling on 22.11.Grey-headed Woodpecker
Picus canus
One female was seen from Gorumara Rhino-point on 12.11., two were seen in Pemanyangtse on 24.11. and two were heard at Sangachoeling on 25.11.Black-rumped Flameback
Dinopium benghalense
One was seen outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 12.11.Greater Flameback
Chrysocolaptes lucidus
Two were seen in Samsing on 11.11., one was seen from Gorumara, Rhino-point on 12.11., two were seen outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 12.11.Bay Woodpecker
Blythipicus pyrrhotis
One was seen and heard well in Rabdentse on 24.11. and another one was heard in Sangachoeling on 25.11.Great Barbet
Megalaima virens
Seen and heard in wooden hill areas: Lava (at least five), Sangachoeling (ten), Khecheopari Lake (five) and Pemanyangtse (ten).Lineated Barbet
Megalaima lineate
Seen and heard in low land forests: Gorumara, Khunia on 10.11. two ind., Gorumara, Moorty river one ind., Gorumara, Rhino-point one ind. on 12.11., Chaphamari five ind. on 12.11.Golden-throated Barbet
Megalaima franklinii
One was seen in Lava along the path to downhill jeep-track on 15.11.Coppersmith Barbet
Megalaima haemacephala
One was calling around Gorumara, Khunia on 10.11.Oriental Pied Hornbill
Anthracoceros albirostris
About seven individuals were seen nicely in Gorumara, Rhino-point on 12.11.Indian Roller
Coracias benghalensis
Altogether four birds were seen en-route in Terai on 8. (2), 11. and 13.11.Common Kingfisher
Alcedo atthis
One was seen along Moorty-river on 11.11.Stork-billed Kingfisher
Halcyon capensis
Two were seen in Gorumara, Rhino point on 12.11.White-throated Kingfisher
Halcyon smyrnensis
One to six birds daily in Gorumara area and one along Teesta-river in Ranpo on 21.11.Green Bee-eater
Merops orientalis
One was seen en-route in Gorumara on 12.-13.11.Chestnut-headed Bee-eater
Merops leschenaulti
A flock of two birds was seen sitting on the top of the leafless tree in the evening from Chaphamari watching tower on 12.11.Grey-bellied Cuckoo
Cacomantis passerinus
One juvenile or hepatic female with unbarred tail was seen in the garden of Bagdogra airport on 26.11.Asian Koel
Eudynamys scolopacea
One was heart in the airport of Delhi on 8.11. while waiting for connection flight to Bagdogra.Green-billed Malkoha
Phaenicophaeus tristis
One was seen in Gorumara near Chukchuki Lake.Lesser Coucal
Centropus bengalensis
Two were seen from Khunia watching tower, Gorumara on 10.11. and one from the tower of Chaphamari 12.11. All birds were in tall grass.Vernal Hanging Parrot
Loriculus vernalis
Two were seen from Chaphamari tower on 12.11. and five around Chukchuki Lake, Gorumara on 13.11. All sightings concerned flying birds above forest.Alexandrine Parakeet
Psittacula eupatria
Common in Gorumara area were up to 40 birds were seen daily.Rose-ringed Parakeet
Psittacula krameri
About five birds were seen in Gorumara on 11.11. and five in Chaphamari on 12.11.Red-breasted Parakeet
Psittacula alexandri
The most common Parakeet in Gorumara area. Up to 60 (+100 unidentified parakeet) were seen daily in this area.Himalayan Swiftlet
Collocalia brevirostris
A flock of about 100 birds was seen flying on the Hills from Samsing on 11.11.Asian Palm Swift
Cypsiurus balasiensis
Three to 15 birds were seen daily in Terai (mainly in Gorumara area).House Swift
Apus affinis
A flock of 50 birds was seen above Darjeeling just before sunset on 9.11. and a flock of 60 birds in same situation on 25.11.Crested Treeswift
Hemiprocne coronata
About 15 birds were seen flying above forest before sunset from Chaphamari tower on 12.11.Collared Owlet
Glaucidium brodiei
One was seen nicely just after sunrise sitting on the same branch of small tree at least 6:00-6:30 in Siri Khola on 20.11. It reminds me from Pygmy Owls in Finland!Asian Barred Owlet
Glaucidium cuculoides
Only seen in Sangachoeling: one on 22.11. and three on 25.11. All sightings early in the morning including one calling in dawn.Short-eared Owl
Asio flammeus
One was seen flying around searching for prey in evening dusk in Tonglu (3000m) on 17.11.Rock Pigeon
Columba livia
Common in the villages and cities of lowland and bigger villages of mountain area, were up to 100 birds were seen daily. Also a flock of 11 birds was seen in Sandakphu (3600m) on 18.-19.11.Speckled Wood Pigeon
Columba hodgsonii
About 70 birds (including a flock of 60 birds + 20 C.hodgsonii/puchricollis) were seen in Lava on 14.11. Two Specked or Ashy Wood Pigeons were seen also in Tiger Hill on 9.11.Ashy Wood Pigeon
Columba pulchricollis
One was seen in the mountain area between Bagdogra and Darjeeling on 8.11. and a flock of four was seen flying above forest near Toglu on 17.11.Oriental Turtle Dove
Streptopelia orientalis
The second common dove species of the trip. Seen every second day. However most sighting were from Terai, were up to 30 birds were seen (Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11.). Recorded also in mountain area in Lava, Sandakphu trek and Darjeeling in small numbers. One bird seen in Rhino-point showed whitish sides and tips of tail indicating subspecies meena. Others showed grey sides of tail suggesting subspecies agricola.Spotted Dove
Streptopelia chinensis
Seen only in Terai, were up to 30 birds (+20 Streptopelia sp) were seen daily.Red Collared Dove
Streptopelia tranquebarica
All sightings from Terai: two in Khunia, Gorumara on 10.11., nine in Rhino-point, Gorumara and three in Chaphamari on 12.11.Eurasian Collared Dove
Streptopelia decaocto
All sightings also from Terai: five in Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11., two in Garumara Jungle Camp on 13.11. and five around Bagdogra on 26.11.Barred Cuckoo Dove
Macropygia unchall
One was seen nicely sitting on branch of big tree around Khecheopari Lake on 23.11. and singles were seen flying at dawn in Pemanyangtse on 24.11. and in Sanghachoeling on 25.11.Pompadour Green Pigeon
Treron pompadora
Two were seen from Rhino-point, Gorumara with other pigeons and doves on 12.11.Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
Treron phoenicoptera
About 40 birds were seen from Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11. where they came to salt in the morning along with other pigeons and doves.Green Imperial Pigeon
Ducula aenea
A flock of about 20 birds was seen nicely with other doves and pigeons from Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11.Mountain Imperial Pigeon
Ducula badia
About 20 (several flocks) were seen flying high in the mountains in the morning from Suntalekhola Forest Rest House on 11.11.White-breasted Waterhen
Amaurornis phoenicurus
All records in Gorumara area: one in small pond next to Khunia watching tower on 10.11., two in pond of Chaphamari watching tower on 12.11. and two in Chukchuki Lake on 13.11.Common Moorhen
Gallinula chloropus
Two were seen in the pond of Chaphamari watching tower on 12.11. and about 12 were seen in Chukchuki Lake, Gorumara on 13.11.Common Coot
Fulica atra
Only recorded from Teesta-river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11. where at least 25 were seen.Eurasian Woodcock
Scolopax rusticola
One was seen nicely walking or running away along detritus in Rabdentse on 24.11.Pintail Snipe
Gallinago stenura
One was seen in flight from Khunia, Gorumara on 10.11.Common Redshank
Tringa totanus
One was seen from Teesta-river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Marsh Sandpiper
Tringa stagnatilis
One was seen from Teesta-river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Common Greenshank
Tringa nebularia
A large flock of at least 50 was seen from Teesta-river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Green Sandpiper
Tringa ochropus
Two were seen along Moorty-river on 11.11. and one was seen in the pond of Chaphamari watching tower on 12.11.Common Sandpiper
Actitis hypoleucos
One was seen from Teesta-river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11. and two were seen along the Moorty-river on 11.11.Temminck’s Stint
Calidris temminckii
A flock of about 7 were seen from Teesta-river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Long-billed Plover
Charadrius placidus
One of the unexpected observations of the trip! At least three (perhaps four) birds in two (three) flocks were seen on stony banks of Moorty-river, Gorumara (see specific map of the sighting site, Map 2.) on 11.11. They were quite difficult notice, because their plumage resembles much of the stones of river banks, before your were too close (about 20 meters) and plovers started to fly. However they did not fly far, usually about 100m, when it was possible to watch them
with telescope. One bird gave opportunity to take few photographs.
Picture 3. Long-billed Plover in Moorty-river.
Little Ringed Plover
Charadrius dubius
Four was seen along Moorty-river on 11.11.River Lapwing
Vanellus duvaucelii
Two birds were seen at the same place with Long-billed Plover along Moorty-river on 11.11. and two birds were seen from Rhino-point, Gorumara next to the pigeons and doves on 12.11.Northern Lapwing
Vanellus vanellus
A flock of 110 was present at Gazoldoba (Teesta-river barrage) on 10.11.Red-wattled Lapwing
Vanellus indicus
Surprisingly scarce with just one bird seen from the Khunia watching tower, Gorumara on 10.11. and two birds were in the pond of Chaphamari on 11.11.Brown-headed Gull
Larus brunnicephalus
Three birds were flying and sitting on sandy banks of Teesta-river (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Oriental Honey-buzzard
Pernis ptilorhyncus
Four observations of single first-calendar year birds: one bird was seen from Rhino-point Gorumara on 12.11., one bird took a brief sit on the TV-aerial of the Gorumara Jungle Camp on 13.11.!, one bird was seen sitting on tree on the way from Lava to Kalimpong on 15.11. and one bird was seen migrating west direction with Hen Harrier at Sanghachoeling on 22.11.
Picture 4. Oriental Honey-buzzard in Garumara Jungle Camp.
Black-shouldered Kite
Elanus caeruleus
One bird was eating a prey on tree at Khunia, Gorumara on 10.11. and another one was seen sitting on wire in lowland on the way from Gorumara to Lava.Black Kite
Milvus migrans
Small numbers (up to 20 birds) were seen daily in lowlands.Himalayan Griffon
Gyps himalayensis
One was seen at Maneybhanyang on 16.11., about 10 at Rimbik on 20.11. and six (+four Gyps sp) were migrating to west at Sangachoeling on 22.11. Nearly all were young birds with a few sub-adults.Eurasian Griffon
Gyps fulvus
Nine were seen during Sandakphu trek between Tonglu and Sandakphu on 17.-18.11., about 15 were seen migrating with Steppe Eagles at Rimbik on 20.11. and two were seen at Teesta on 21.11.Crested Serpent Eagle
Spilornis cheela
All observations around Gorumara area: one was seen from Khunia watching tower on 10.11., one was seen at Suntalekhola on 11.11., two were seen from Rhino-point, Gorumara and two at Chaphamari on 12.11.Hen Harrier
Circus cyaneus
One juvenile was seen migrating western direction in the morning at Sangachoeling on 22.11.Eurasian Sparrowhawk
Accipiter nisus
One was seen in Lava on 15.11., four were seen migrating south-southwest directions on the way from Kalipokhari to Bhikebhanjhang on 18.11. and single migrating birds were seen at Rimbik on 20.11. and at Sangachoeling on 22.11.
Two unidentified small
Accipiters (probably
nisus too) were seen (in Samsing on 11.11. and in Lava on 14.11.).Common Buzzard
Buteo buteo
Recorded only during Sandakphu trek: one bird (+ one Buteo sp) at Tonglu on 16.11., three around Kalipokhari on 18.11. and one at Rimbik on 20.11.Black Eagle
Ictinaetus malayensis
One was seen at Suntalekhola on 11.11., singles were seen in Lava on 14.-15.11., a flock of two birds were seen at Siri Khola on 20.11. and one was seen at Sangachoeling on 25.11.Steppe Eagle
Aquila nipalensis
Migrating birds were seen daily during the Sandakphu trek altogether about 145 individuals, with the best sightings at Rimbik were about 120 eagles migrated nicely over the village with in one hour of forenoon while we were waiting for transport to Darjeeling. Good migration was also recorded at monastery of Sangahoeling on 22.11., were 57 were counted (44 ind. 12:30-14:00) migrating western direction very nicely. Two days later the migration was poorer and we saw only tree
migrating individuals from the ruins of Rabdentse. Most of eagles were juveniles or sub-adults with only few adult birds (e.g. on 22.11. 17 1cy, 17 sub-adults and five adults were identified).Bonelli’s Eagle
Hieraaetus fasciatus
One juvenile was seen at Gairibans on 17.11.Booted Eagle
Hieraaetus pennatus
One indidual of dark-morph was gliding with Black Kite on the way from Garumara to Chaphamari on 12.11.Rufous-bellied Eagle
Hieraaetus kienerii
One adult was seen nicely in flight just above us in Lava on 14.11. (2000 m).Mountain Hawk Eagle
Spizaetus nipalensis
One was seen in Lava on 14.11., two in Siri Khola on 20.11. and one in Rabdentse on 24.11.Collared Falconet
Microhierax caerulescens
One was nicely in flight and sitting on the top of leafless tree from Chaphamari watching tower.Common Kestrel
Falco tinnunculus
Altogether about ten birds were seen including sightings around Bagdogra (2), at Moorty-river, around Mal (2), during Sandakphu trek (4) and at Sangachoeling.Black-necked Grebe
Podiceps nigricollis
Two were seen from Teesta-river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11. and one was seen in Kheckheopari Lake (1900m) on 23.11.Little Cormorant
Phalacrocorax niger
Recorded only in lowlands with the best numbers of about 70 in Gazoldoba (Teesta-river barrage) and about 70 flying to roost at Moorty-river in the evening of 11.11.Indian Cormorant
Phalacrocorax fuscicollis
One was seen from Teesta-river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11.Great Cormorant
Phalacrocorax carbo
About 15 at Gazoldoba (Teesta-river barrage), three flew to roost in the evening at Moorty-river on 11.11., six along Teesta-river on the way to Sikkim on 21.11. and two in Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Little Egret
Egretta garzetta
Three at Gazoldoba (Teesta-river barrage) on 10.11., about ten along Moorty-river on 11.11. and five from Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11.Grey Heron
Ardea cinerea
Three were seen at Gazoldoba (Teesta-river barrage) on 10.11.Great Egret
Casmerodius albus
Five were seen at Gazoldoba (Teesta-river barrage) on 10.11.Intermediate Egret
Egretta intermedia
Two were seen in the pond of Chaphamari watching tower on 12.11.Cattle Egret
Bubulcus ibis
Recorded daily (up to 100 birds) in lowlands.Indian Pond Heron
Ardeola grayii
About 15 were seen from Khunia watching tower, Gorumara on 10.11. and about 40 birds in the poind of Chaphamari tower on 12.11. In addition, several en-route observations in lowlands.Black Ibis
Pseudibis papillosa
An unexpected flock of 29 birds was resting on river bank of Teesta-river in Gazoldoba on 10.11.Black Stork
Ciconia nigra
Three were seen from the Teesta-river barrage (Gazoldoba) and two from Khunia watching tower on 10.11.Lesser Adjutant
Leptoptilos javanicus
One was seen from Khunia watching tower on 10.11. and another in the pond of Chaphamari tower on 12.11.Long-tailed Broadbill
Psarisomus dalhousiae
A flock of at least three birds was seen surrounding forests of the tower of Chukchuki Lake on 13.11.Golden-fronted Leafbird
Chloropsis aurifrons
Two were seen from Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11. and two at Chukchuki Lake on 13.11.Orange-bellied Leafbird
Chloropsis hardwickii
Three (two female plumages and one 1cy (?) male with few black spots on the breast) on the way from Pelling to Sangachoeling on 22.11. and 25.11. and one bird in female-plumage in Pemanyangtse on 24.11.Brown Shrike
Lanius cristatus
Altogether ten (plus several Lanius sp) were seen in lowlands on 8.-13.11. Two observations in the middle of forest (Suntalehhola and outside Garumara Jungle Camp).Long-tailed Shrike
Lanius schach
Altogether eight birds of the black-headed subspecies
tricolor were seen in lowlands on 10.-13.11.Grey-backed Shrike
Lanius tephronotus
Five were seen in Gorumara area on 12.-13.11. and one in Terai on the way to Bagdogra (Karitura?) on 26.11.Yellow-billed Blue Magpie
Urocissa flavirostris
Three in Tiger Hill on 9.11. and 15 during the Sandakphu trek (seven on 16.11, five on 17.11. and three on 19.11.). All observation between 2000-3000m.Green Magpie
Cissa chinensis
One in Siri Khola (1900m) on 20.11. and one in Sangachoeling (1800m) on 22.11. were the only sightings.Rufous Treepie
Dendrocitta vagabunda
All sightings of about 25 birds were in forest areas in the Gorumara area on 11.-13.11.Grey Treepie
Dendrocitta formosae
Replaces Rufous Treepie in higher altitudes. Recorded in Tiger Hill, Suntalekhola (10), Lava (2), Sangachoeling (10), Kheckheopari Lake (15) and Pemanyangtse (10).Spotted Nutcracker
Nucifraga caryocatactes
Eight birds were seen during Sandakphu trek on 17.-19.11 between altitudes 2200-3200m.House Crow
Corvus splendens
Common especially in the lowlands, were up to 100 birds were seen daily. Also recorded in mountain areas in the bigger villages and cities (e.g. about 150 in Darjeeling on 9.11.).Large-billed Crow
Corvus macrorhynchos
Recorded nearly daily in rural mountain areas in small numbers (usually less than 15 individuals). However, a flock of 70 birds were seen between Maneybhanyang and Megma on 16.11. and a flock of 15 individuals outside Sandakphu village (3600m) on 18.11.Ashy Woodswallow
Artamus fuscus
Three at Khunia on 10.11., two at Garumara Jungle Camp and two at Moorty-river on 11.11. and five at Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11.Black-hooded Oriole
Oriolus xanthornus
Atleast five were seen around Garumara Jungle Camp on 11.-13.11., two at Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11. and two at Chukchuki Lake on 13.11.Maroon Oriole
Oriolus traillii
One young or female seen in Pemanyangtse on 24.11. was the only record.Large Cuckooshrike
Coracina macei
Two were seen outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 11.11.Black-winged Cuckooshrike
Coracina melaschistos
Two were seen from Rhino-point, Gorumara and one from the tower of Chaphamari on 12.11. One more was seen at Chukchuki Lake on 13.11.Grey-chinned Minivet
Pericrocotus solaris
One male was seen from Chaphamari tower on the top leafless tree in the evening of 12.11.Long-tailed Minivet
Pericrocotus ethologus
One male was seen at Gairibans on 18.11.Short-billed Minivet
Pericrocotus brevirostris
A flock of eight birds was seen in Lava on 15.11. Two flocks of unidentified minivets were seen in the mountain area; three on the way to Pelling on 21.11. and two at Sangachoeling on 25.11.Scarlet Minivet
Pericrocotus flammeus
About 15 in Suntalekhola and ten outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 11.11. and ten at Rhino-point on 12.11.Yellow-bellied Fantail
Rhipidura hypoxantha
Three were seen at Suntalekhola on 11.11., three at Siri Khola on 20.11. and two at Sangachoeling on 22.11.White-throated Fantail
Rhipidura albicollis
Singles of the dark-breasted races, seen at Lava on 14.11. and Sangachoeling (2) on 22.-23.11.Black Drongo
Dicrurus macrocercus
Recorded only in the open areas of lowlands, where every day five to 20 individuals were seen.Ashy Drongo
Dicrurus leucophaeus
Clearly the most numerous drongo in the lowland forestal areas. Recorded every day (up to 25 birds) in Gorumara area.White-bellied Drongo
Dicrurus caerulescens
One was seen from Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11.Bronzed Drongo Dicrurus aeneus
Only record of two individuals at forest next to Moorty-river on 11.11.Lesser Racket-tailed Drongo
Dicrurus remifer
One in Suntalekhola and one outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 11.11., two at Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11. and one at Chukchuki Lake on 13.11.Spangled Drongo
Dicrurus hottentottus
At least ten birds were seen at Khunia, Suntalekhola, Garumara Jungle Camp, Rhino-point, Chaphamari, Chukchuki Lake and in mountain area on the way from Darjeeling to Bagdogra.Greater Racket-tailed Drongo
Dicrurus paradiseus
Two were seen at Suntalekhola on 11.11., one outside Gorumara Jugle Camp on 12.11. and two at Chukchuki Lake on 13.11.Black-naped Monarch
Hypothymis azurea
One was seen at Chukchuki Lake on 13.11.Asian Paradise-flycatcher
Terpsiphone paradisi
One female or young bird was seen at Suntalekhola on 11.11.Common Iora
Aegithina tiphia
Two were seen at Chukchuki Lake on 13.11.Brown Dipper
Cinclus pallasii
Two were seen from the bridge of Siri Khola on 20.11. and three in Teesta-river at Rangpo (seen inside the Sikkim visa office!) on 21.11.Chestnut-bellied Rock Thrush
Monticola rufiventris
Single males were seen in Lava on 13.11. and in Sangachoeling on 22.11.Blue Rock Thrush
Monticola solitarius
A pair was seen at Teesta-river barrage (Gazoldoba) on 10.11., one female at Garumara Jungle Camp and a pair along Moorty-river on 11.11.Blue Whistling Thrush
Myophonus caeruleus
Common nearly every visited forest area, but more abundant in the middle altitude forests. The highest area where recorded was Gairibans (2600m), where three individuals were seen on 18.11. The biggest day count was 30 individuals on 23.11.Plain-backed Thrush
Zoothera mollissima
A flock of two in Lava on 14.11., one between Maneybhanyang and Megma (2400m) on 16.11., a flock of two in Siri Khola on 19.11. (1900m) and one (+ a flock of four Zoothera sp) at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Long-tailed Thrush
Zoothera dixoni
One was seen nicely on abandoned jeep track of Gairibans on 17.11. (2700m).Scaly Thrush Zoothera
Zoothera dauma
One was seen outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 12.11. and a flock of three was seen nicely at Pemanyangtse on 24.11.White-collared Blackbird
Turdus albocinctus
A flock of three (two males and one female) was seen at Tiger Hill on 9.11. and single female was seen at dawn in the village of Tonglu (3070m).Grey-winged Thrush
Turdus boulboul
A flock of five was seen in Lava on 15.11. (1800m) and few flocks up to 20 birds were seen at Sangachoeling and Pemanyangtse (altogether atleast 45 birds) on 22.-25.11.Dark-throated Thrush
Turdus ruficollis
A flock of at least two birds were seen in Sandakphu trek between Manabhajang and Megma (2400m).Gould’s Shortwing
Brachypteryx stellata
One was seen very nicely from about 10 meters just before arriving Gairibans on the side of the road on 17.11.Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher
Ficedula strophiata
Five was seen during the Sandakphu trek (one near Gairibans on 17.11. and four between Gurudum and Siri Khola on 19.11.) and atleast 13 were seen in Sangachoeling, Pemanyangtse and Kheckheopari Lake altogether on 22.-25.11.
Picture 5. Scaly Thrush in Pemanyangtse.
Taiga Flycatcher
Ficedula albicilla
Common in Gorumara area, were about 30 birds were recorded. Easy to separate from Red-throated Flycatcher by voice, which is more drier and quicker than Red-throated’s resembling calling of e.g. Brown or Red-backed Shrike [3].
[Red-throated Flycatcher
Ficedula parva]
Two birds were calling like Red-throated Flycatcher, which voice is familiar to us from Finland, in Suntalekhola on 11.11., but they were not seen, which why they were not finally identified.Little Pied Flycatcher
Ficedula westermanni
One male was seen at the gate of Gorumara National Park (next to the statue of one-horned rhino) in the early morning of 12.11., while we were waiting for that the park would open.Slaty-blue Flycatcher
Ficedula tricolor
One was seen at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Verditer Flycatcher
Eumyias thalassina
Singles were seen in Darjeeling on 9.11. and at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Large Niltava
Niltava grandis
One beautiful male was seen at Pemanyangtse on 24.11.Small Niltava
Niltava macgrigoriae
A pair was seen at Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11. and one male at Khukchuki Lake on 13.11.Rufous-bellied Niltava
Niltava sundara
One female was seen at Suntalekhola on 11.11. and one male outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 12.11.Pygmy Blue Flycatcher
Muscicapella hodgsoni
One was seen at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher
Culicicapa ceylonensis
Recorded only in lowland forests: around Garumara Jungle Camp (atleast five) and Rhino-point, Gorumara (2).Orange-flanked Bush Robin
Tarsiger cyanurus
Single adult males were seen in Lava on 14.11. and in Sangachoeling on 22.11. and one was seen in Pemanyangtse on 24.11.Golden Bush Robin
Tarsiger chrysaeus
One was seen at Sangachoeling on 22.11. + several possible ones were calling in same area (Sangachoeling and Pemanyangtse), but not managed to see.White-browed Bush Robin
Tarsiger indicus
Three were seen (two females) and heart outside Lava village on 14.11.Rufous-breasted Bush Robin
Tarsiger hyperythrus
Two males were seen on the way from Sandakphu to Gurudum (in the altitude of 3200m and 3500m). Two probable ones were heart in Gairibans two days before, but not seen and confirmed.Oriental Magpie Robin
Copsychus saularis
Two to five birds were seen daily in Gorumara area (also in Garumara Jungle Camp) and one bird in the garden of Bagdogra airport on 26.11.White-rumped Shama
Copsychus malabaricus
Only records at Chukchuki Lake, where at least five birds were seen on 13.11.Blue-capped Redstart
Phoenicurus coeruleocephalus
One male was seen in the village of Sandakphu (3600m) in the morning of 19.11 on the eastern edge of distribution of the species.White-throated Redstart
Phoenicurus schisticeps
One male was seen on the way to Sandakphu (3500m) on 18.11.Blue-fronted Redstart
Phoenicurus frontalis
One of the most common species in the higher altitudes (2000-3000m). Altogether about 130 birds were seen in Tiger Hill, Lava (the best day count 25 birds), during Sandakphu trek, Sangachoeling, Pemanyangtse and Kheckheopari Lake. Voice resembles call of Eurasian Robin "tik".White-capped Water Redstart
Phoenicurus leucocephalus
About 15 to 20 birds were seen along mountain streams and rivers (e.g. in Gairibans, Siri Khola).Plumbeous Water Redstart
Phoenicurus fuliginosus
About 15 birds were seen along mountain streams and rivers (e.g. Teesta, Siri Khola, Kheckheopari Lake).Little Forktail
Enicurus scouleri
Three birds were seen along the mountain river between Gurudum and Siri Khola (2).Slaty-backed Forktail
Enicurus schistaceus
One tailless (!) bird was along a small stream in Suntalekhola on 11.11.Spotted Forktail
Enicurus maculatus
One was seen nicely along very small stream of abandoned jeep track of Gairibans on 17.11.Siberian Stonechat
Saxicola torquata
About 20 birds were seen in lowlands. Most of these (about 15) at Khunia, Gorumara on 10.11.Grey Bushchat
Saxicola ferrea
Two males were seen along the ring-road of Lava village on 14.11. and one female was seen near Gayzing on 25.11.Chestnut-tailed Starling
Sturnus malabaricus
Common in Gorumara area, where it was recorded every day in open areas and forests as well. The biggest day count was on 11.11. about 100 birds.Common Starling
Sturnus vulgaris
One was seen at the airport of Delhi on 8.11., while we were waiting for connection flight to Bagdogra.Asian Pied Starling
Sturnus contra
Common in lowlands, where few tens were recorded. The best day count was on 11.11. 40 birds.Common Myna
Acridotheres tristis
Common in lowlands, where few tens were seen every day and recorded also in some bigger mountain cultivation areas like Darjeeling (up to ten birds) and Kalimpong. The best day count on 11.11. 50 birds + 50 Myna sp.Jungle Myna
Acridotheres fuscus
Several were seen in lowlands: one was sitting on Gaur in Khunia on 10.11. and about 7 were seen from Rhino-point, Gorumara and three outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 12.11.Hill Myna
Gracula religiosa
Common in forests in Gorumara area. Recorded in Khunia (3), Samsing (50), Moorty-river (3), Rhino-point (5), Garumara Jungle Camp (5) and Chaphamari (50).Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch
Sitta castanea
Recorded only in Gorumara area: Gorumara Jungle Camp (atleast 3), forest next to Moorty-river (3) and Rhino-point (3).White-tailed Nuthatch
Sitta himalayensis
Replace Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch at higher altitude sites. Recorded in Lava (6), during Sandakphu trek (20, up to 3000m) and in Sangachoeling, Pemanyangtse and Kheckheopari Lake (16 altogether).Eurasian Treecreeper
Certhia familiaris
Three singles in flocks of tits near Sandakphu between altitudes 3200-3500m.Winter Wren
Troglodytes troglodytes
Two dark birds, probably the subspecies of
nipalensis, were seen around Kalipokhari (3100m).Rufous-vented Tit
Parus rubidiventris
Grey-bellied subspecies
beavani was the most common tit-species between altitudes 3100-3600m. About 65 birds were seen in Sandakphu trek within two days 18.-19.11.Coal Tit
Parus ater
The second numerous tit over altitude of 3000m. About 18 birds were seen in Sandakphu trek on 18.-19.11. One was also seen in Sangachoeling (2000m) on 25.11.Grey-crested Tit
Parus dichrous
As numerous as previous in high altitudes. About 16 birds were seen in mixed flocks of Rufous-vented and Coal Tits (above 3000m) during Sandakphu trek on 18.-19.11.Great Tit
Parus major
Two birds were seen in Garumara Jungle Camp on 11.-13.11.Green-backed Tit
Parus monticolus
The most common tit in middle altitudes. Altogether about 60 birds were seen in Lava, during Sandankphu trek (where recorded atleast up to 2800m), at Sangachoeling, Pemanyangtse and Kheckheopari Lake. The biggest day count was on 23.11. 15 birds.Yellow-browed Tit
Sylviparus modestus
15 birds were seen in four flocks from Tonglu to Gairibans (Sandakphu trek) on 17.11. and two birds were seen both at Sangachoeling on 22.11. and at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Black-throated Tit
Aegithalos concinnus
A flocks of about ten birds were seen in Darjeenling (on 9.11.), in Lava (on 15.11.), at Kheckheopari Lake (on 23.11.) and at Pemanyangtse (on 24.11.). All flocks at the same altitude around 2000m.Rufous-throated Tit
Aegithalos iouschistos
Four flocks (up to 12 birds, 32 altogether) were seen during Sandakphu trek between altitudes 2500-2800m on 17.- 19.11.Plain Martin
Riparia paludicola
About ten birds were flying along the Moorty-river on 11.11.Barn Swallow
Hirundo rustica
One was seen at Rimbik (altitude 2300m) on 20.11.Red-rumped Swallow
Hirundo daurica
Three were flying with Barn Swallow in Rimbik on 20.11.Asian House Martin
Delichon dasypus
At least five were flying with Himalayan Swiftlets in Samsing on 11.11.Nepal House Martin
Delichon nipalensis
A flock of 60 birds were seen in Sikkim on the way to Pelling near Tarku on 21.11. and five were seen on the way from Pelling to Darjeeling on 25.11. Few other small flocks of unidentified martins or swallows were seen in the mountain area from car.Striated Bulbul
Pycnonotus striatus
About ten were seen at Pemanyangtse on 24.11. and two were seen at Sangachoeling on 25.11.Black-crested Bulbul
Pycnonotus melanicterus
About 25 birds of the subspecies
flaviventris were seen in the forests of Gorumara National Park on 12.-13.11.Red-whiskered Bulbul
Pycnonotus jocosus
Common in Gorumara area, where a few tens were seen every day. Clearly the biggest numbers were seen at Khunia, where up to 150 birds hanging around tall grass area.Himalayan Bulbul
Pycnonotus leucogenys
About 12 birds in two flocks were seen one kilometre outside Pelling to Dentam direction on 23.11. and one bird was seen on the border of Sikkim and West Bengal on 25.11., when policeman was checking our passports.Red-vented Bulbul
Pycnonotus cafer
Common in Gorumara area were 10 to 20 birds were seen daily. Few records also in higher altitudes like one bird in Pelling on 25.11.Mountain Bulbul
Hypsipetes mcclellandii
Two flocks were seen: At least six birds in Lava on 15.11. and seven birds in Rabdentse on 24.11.Black Bulbul
Hypsipetes leucocephalus
One of the most numerous and the loudest species in middle altitudes (1700-2200m). Recorded in big numbers in Lava (250+) and Sangachoeling-Pemanyangtse-Kheckheopari Lake area (150+). Small numbers were also seen in Tiger Hill (7) and in lower altitude in Suntalekhola (5).Hill Prinia
Prinia atrogularis
A flock of two (pair?) was seen from the monastery of Sangachoeling on 25.11.Chestnut-headed Tesia
Tesia castaneocoronata
Only one bird was managed to see well but briefly in Pemanyangtse on 24.11.Slaty-bellied Tesia
Tesia olivea
One was seen well for 20 seconds from the path of Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Brownish-flanked Bush Warbler
Cettia fortipes
One was seen in Lava on 14.-15.11. and three around Pelling-Sangachoeling on 22.-25.11. All were in short shrub and were found from the "chuk"-voice.Aberrant Bush Warbler
Cettia flavolivacea
Three were seen along the road of Tiger Hill on 9.11. and one was heart in Gurudum on 19.11. All were found from the "drr-drr-drr"-voice.Grey-sided Bush Warbler
Cettia brunnifrons
Two were in short reeds of Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11. and three were around Pelling and Sangachoeling in short shrub on 22.-23.11. All were found from the "zip, zip, zip..."-voice.Blyth’s Reed Warbler
Acrocephalus dumetorum
One was seen well outside Chaphamari WC on 12.11. "Tsak"-voice of unidentified
Acrocephalus was also heart in Khunia.Clamorous Reed Warbler
Acrocephalus stentoreus
One bird was seen in bush in Terai during short stop in village called something like Karitura on 26.11.Common Tailorbird
Orthotomus sutorius
A few sighting in lowland. About five around Garumara Jungle Camp on 11.11.Common Chiffchaff
Phylloscopus collybitus
A flock of three birds were seen near Tonglu (Sandakphu trek) in altitude of 3000m. Greyish plumage and blackish bill and legs suggested subspecies
tristis.Buff-barred Warbler
Phylloscopus pulcher
Three were seen in Lava on 14.11. and one was seen in the beginning of Sandakphu trek on 16.11. in altitude of 2300m.Ashy-throated Warbler
Phylloscopus maculipennis
The most common
Phylloscopus-species in higher altitudes. Altogether about 100 birds were seen in Lava, during Sandakphu trek (where up to 3300m), Sangachoeling, Pemanyangtse and Kheckheopari Lake.Lemon-rumped Warbler
Phylloscopus chloronotus
Much rarer than previous. Four were seen during Sandakphu trek (between altitudes 2700-3500m), three were seen in Sangachoeling and one in Pemanyangtse.Yellow-browed Warbler
Phylloscopus inornatus
Eight birds were observed at Suntalekhola on 11.11., three in Gorumara Jungle Camp on 12.11., one in Chukchuki Lake on 13.11. and two in Teesta on 21.11.Hume's Warbler
Phylloscopus humei
Three were observed in Tiger Hill on 9.11., two in Gorumara Jungle Camp on 12.11., one in Chaphamari on 12.11. and four around Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Greenish Warbler
Phylloscopus trochiloides
Four birds were observed in lowlands including singles in Garumara Jungle Camp on 10.11., Gorumara NP and Chaphamari WC on 12.11.Whistler’s Warbler
Seicercus whistleri
Only few Whistler’s or Golden-spectacled Warblers were seen and only very few were seen good enough to be identified based on criterions reported in trip report of Mike Prince (2003). All the identified birds were Whistler’s and observations were made at the garden of Garumara Jungle Camp (1) on 12.11. and at Kheckheopari Lake (5). Birds seen in Tiger Hill and Sangachoeling were not identified.Grey-hooded Warbler
Seicercus xanthoschistos
Fairly common in Sangachoeling-Pemanyangtse-Kheckheopari Lake area, where about 20 birds were seen on 22.- 25.11. Other records were singles in Lava on 13.11. and Siri Khola on 20.11.Chestnut-crowned Warbler
Seicercus castaniceps
Nearly all sightings at Sikkim in Sangachoeling-Pemanyangtse-Kheckheopari Lake area, were 10 birds were seen. One bird was also seen in Lava on 15.11.Broad-billed Warbler
Tickellia hodgsoni
One bird was seen in the end of Sandakphu trek near village of Gurudum on 19.11.Black-faced Warbler
Abroscopus schisticeps
A flock of seven birds were seen in Sangachoeling on 22.11.White-crested Laughingthrush
Garrulax leucolophus
At least two were seen in mixed flock with Lesser Neckled Laughingthrushes in Suntalekhola on 11.11.Lesser Necklaced Laughingthrush
Garrulax monileger
At least five in Suntalekhola on 11.11.Striated Laughingthrush
Garrulax striatus
Three were seen in Lava on 14.-15.11., two in Gairibans on 17.11., four in Sangachoeling on 22.11. and two at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Rufous-chinned Laughingthrush
Garrulax rufogularis
Two were seen at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11. and one in Rabdentse on 24.11.Spotted Laughingthrush
Garrulax ocellatus
Two were seen on the road of Tiger Hill with about ten Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrushes.Grey-sided Laughingthrush
Garrulax caerulatus
A flock of seven birds were seen at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Blue-winged Laughingthrush
Garrulax squamatus
Two birds were seen at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Scaly Laughingthrush
Garrulax subunicolor
One was seen in Sangachoeling on 22.11.Black-faced Laughingthrush
Garrulax affinis
All sighting during Sandakphu trek were altogether six birds were seen three days (two on 16.11., two 18.11. and one on 19.11.) between altitudes 2400-3500m.Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush
Garrulax erythrocephalus
Clearly the most common laughingthrush. Altogether about 40 birds were seen in Tiger Hill (15), Lava (14), Gairibans (1), Siri Khola (3) and Kheckheopari Lake (8).Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler
Pomatorhinus erythrogenys
Two were seen in Lava on 14.11.Streak-breasted Scimitar Babbler
Pomatorhinus ruficollis
A flock of at least five birds were seen in Pemanyangtse on 24.11. and a flock of at least two unidentified scimitar babblers were seen between Pelling and Sangachoeling on 25.11.Scaly-breasted Wren Babbler
Pnoepyga albiventer
Only one was seen good enough to confirm the species: one in Lava on 15.11., which even displayed song a few times.
At least 13 wren babblers were seen too quickly or more often just heart calling "tsek"-voice of wren babblers repeated every 5 to 10 seconds inside the thick undergrowth of jungle. Observation sites of unidentified were Lava (4), Sangachoeling (4), Kheckheopari Lake (1) and Pemanyangtse (4).Pygmy Wren Babbler
Pnoepyga pusilla
One was seen in Pemanyagtse good enough to confirm the species on 24.11.Rufous-capped Babbler
Stachyris ruficeps
Three were at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11. and one between Pelling and Pemanyangtse on 24.11.Grey-throated Babbler
Stachyris nigriceps
A flock of three were seen in Lava on 15.11.Striped Tit Babbler
Macronous gularis
A flock of five were seen at Chukchuki Lake on 13.11.Jungle Babbler
Turdoides striatus
A flock of 20 birds was calling loudly outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 11.-12.11.Red-billed Leiothrix
Leiothrix lutea
Fairly common altitudes around altitude of 2000m. About 70 individuals were seen in Tiger Hill (3), Lava (20), Gairibans (2, in altitude 2700m), Siri Khola (5), Sangachoeling (20), at Khecheopari Lake (10) and Pemanyagtse (10).Black-headed Shrike Babbler
Pteruthius rufiventer
A flock of two birds were seen in Tiger Hill on 9.11.Green Shrike Babbler
Pteruthius xanthochlorus
One bird was seen well near Kalipokhari in altitude of 3000mBlack-eared Shrike Babbler
Pteruthius melanotis
Two birds were seen both in Sangachoeling on 22.11. and in Pemanyagtse on 24.11.Rusty-fronted Barwing
Actinodura egertoni
Two birds were seen during the first day of Sandakphu trek between Maneybhanyang and Megma in altitude of 2400m and three birds were seen in Pemanyagtse on 24.11.Hoary-throated Barwing
Actinodura nipalensis
Two were seen in Lava on 14.11., five in Gairibans (2700m) on 17.11. and two between Sandakphu and Gurudum (3000m).Blue-winged Minla
Minla cyanouroptera
A flock of ten birds were seen at the monastery of Sangachoeling on 22.11.Chestnut-tailed Minla
Minla strigula
Nearly 30 individuals were recorded during Sandakphu trek (up to 2800m). 12 birds were seen in Lava on 14.11. and 15 birds were seen in Sangachoeling on 22.11.Red-tailed Minla
Minla ignotincta
Recorded only in three times: two in Darjeeling on 9.11., a flock of 20 birds in Lava on 15.11. and a flock of 10 birds at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.Golden-breasted Fulvetta
Alcippe chrysotis
Two flocks were seen during Sandakphu trek: three birds between Tonglu and Gairibans (2900m) on 17.11. and six between Sandakphu and Gurudum (2600m) on 19.11.Rufous-winged Fulvetta
Alcippe castaneceps
Two in Lava on 13.11., two near Gurudum (2400m) on 19.11. and 20 birds both in Sangachoeling on 22.11. and Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11.White-browed Fulvetta
Alcippe vinipectus
Fairly common in mountain area: Tiger Hill (30), Lava (5), Sandakphu trek (70, up to 3400m) and Sangachoeling (2).Nepal Fulvetta
Alcippe nipalensis
Recorded only in Sikkim: five in Sangachoeling on 22.11., one at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11. and three in Pemanyangtse 24.11.Rufous Sibia
Heterophasia capistrata
One of the most numerous and the loudest birds in the middle altitudes (around 2000m). More than 400 birds were seen: Tiger Hill (10), Lava (90+), Sandakphu (20), Sangachoeling (100+), Kheckheopari Lake (100) and Pemanyagtse (100).Whiskered Yuhina
Yuhina flavicollis
The most numberous and common Yuhina species. Nearly 250 birds were seen in middle altitudes: Lava (50), Sandakphu trek (70, up to 2800m), Sangachoeling (50), Kheckhepari Lake (30) and Pemanyantse (40).Stripe-throated Yuhina
Yuhina gularis
15 were seen in Lava on 14.-15.11. and about 20 during Sandakphu trek (up to 3000m).Rufous-vented Yuhina
Yuhina occipitalis
Recorded in Lava, were about 50 birds were seen on 14.-15.11., and in Sandakphu trek, where 20 birds were seen (up to 2800m).Black-faced Yuhina
Yuhina nigrimenta
A flock of four were seen at Suntalekhola on 11.11.White-bellied Yuhina
Yuhina zantholeuca
About 10 birds were seen in Lava on 14.11.Fire-tailed Myzornis
Myzornis pyrrhoura
One was seen in Lava on 14.11. (2300m)Brown Parrotbill
Paradoxornis unicolor
A flock of about eight birds was seen between Sandakphu and Gurudum (2500m) in thick bamboo.Yellow-bellied Flowerpecker
Dicaeum melanoxanthum
One male was seen in Lava on 14.11. and a pair was seen in Pemanyangtse on 24.11.Pale-billed Flowerpecker
Dicaeum erythrorynchos
One bird was seen outside Garumara Jungle Camp on 11.11.Fire-breasted Flowerpecker
Dicaeum ignipectus
Two were seen in Lava on 13.-14.11. and one was seen Siri Khola on 20.11. More abundant in Sikkim were about 12 birds were seen in Sangachoeling, Pemanyangtse and at Khecheopari Lake.Ruby-cheeked Sunbird
Anthreptes singalensis
One was seen from Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11.Green-tailed Sunbird
Aethopyga nipalensis
The most numerous sunbird. Three were seen in Tiger Hill, about 50 in Lava and 40 in Sikkim.Fire-tailed Sunbird
Aethopyga ignicauda
One was seen in Lava, 12 (+25 unidentified sunbirds) during Sandakphu trek (between altitudes 2700-3000m) and two in Pemanyangtse on 24.11.Streaked Spiderhunter
Arachnothera magna
Two were seen in Suntalekhola on 11.11. and two in Lava on 14.11. (altitude of 2400m).House Sparrow
Passer domesticus
Recorded only in lowland cultivations: Siliguri (15), Gorumara (2) and Bagdogra (20).Eurasian Tree Sparrow
Passer montanus
Replaced the House Sparrow at higher altitudes in Sikkim and in Lava and Darjeeling area. The best day count on 10.11. about 50 birds. One was also seen in Siliguri on 10.11.White Wagtail
Motacilla alba
Most of the records in lowlands: five in Teesta-river barrage on 10.11. (three ssp.
leucopsis and two ssp.
baicalensis/duchunansis), 30 along Moorty-river on 11.11. (most of these ssp.
alboides, but few ssp.
leucopsis) and five around Bagdogra on 26.11. (probably ssp.
pensonata). Two birds were seen higher altitudes: one in Lava on 14.-15. (ssp.
alboides) and one near Rimbik on 20.11.Citrine Wagtail
Motacilla citreola
Single female-plumage birds were seen along Moorty-river on 11.11. and on the pond of Chaphamari on 12.11.Yellow Wagtail
Motacilla flava
A flock of about 300 flew to roost in tall grass in Khunia on 10.11. and about 150 (+100
Motacilla sp) were seen along Moorty-river on 11.11.Grey Wagtail
Motacilla cinerea
One was seen flying over Moorty-river on 11.11. and one was seen near Siri Khola along small mountain stream on 20.11. and about seven birds were seen in Sikkim along small mountain streams or at the Kheckheopari Lake (1).Richard’s Pipit
Anthus richardi
Two birds were seen in flight and calling typically "Pshriuh!"Paddyfield Pipit
Anthus rufulus
One bird was seen from the Teesta-river barrage on 10.11. and about five were along Moorty-river on 11.11.Olive-backed Pipit
Anthus hodgsoni
Clearly the most common and numerous pipit. Nearly 100 birds were seen including sightings from Tiger Hill (5), Lava (60), Sandakphu trek (6) and Sikkim (20).Alpine Accentor
Prunella collaris
One bird was seen nicely along the jeep-track near Toglu (3000m) on 16.11.Rufous-breasted Accentor
Prunella strophiata
Three were seen in Tiger Hill on 9.11., eight in Lava on 14.11. and one in Rabdentse on 24.11.Maroon-backed Accentor
Prunella immaculata
A flock of three birds were seen both in Lava (2300m) and in Gairibans (2600m).White-rumped Munia
Lonchura striata
One bird was seen in lowland between on the way from Darjeeling to Bagdogra on 26.11.Scaly-breasted Munia
Lonchura punctulata
Two males were seen at tower of Khunia, Gorumara on 10.11.Yellow-breasted Greenfinch
Carduelis spinoides
About 75 in Lava (including a flock of 70 birds seen from our balcony of Yankee Resort), 20 birds in Sangachoeling and six birds in Pelling.Plain Mountain Finch
Leucosticte nemoricola
Very abundant in high altitude areas (especially during Sandakphu trek), probably due to good seed year of coniferous trees, where they were often seen feeding. Birds were typically seen in quite big flocks flying over and local used to call the species "bird, which never lands". A flock of about 50 birds were seen from Tiger Hill on 9.11. and a flock of 30 birds outside Darjeeling on 15.11. During Sandakphu trek about 1000 birds were seen, including about 500 birds
between Sandakphu and Gurudum mainly eating the seeds of coniferous trees or flying around in different size of flocks (down to 2700m). The biggest flock was about 120 birds on 18.11.Dark-breasted Rosefinch
Carpodacus nipalensis
One male was seen in Lava on 14.11. and five female-plumage birds were seen from the monastery of Pemanyangtse on 24.11.Common Rosefinch
Carpodacus erythrinus
One was observed migrating from Tiger Hill on 9.11.White-browed Rosefinch
Carpodacus thura
Three was seen near Tonglu (3000m) on 17.11. and about 12 birds of ssp.
thura were seen around Sandakphu (3600m)Crimson-browed Finch
Propyrrhula subhimachala
One female was seen near Sandakphu (3500m) on 18.11.Red Crossbill
Loxia curvirostra
Quite good numbers in higher altitudes were probably related to good seed year of coniferous trees. Recorded in Tiger Hill (10), Lava (3) and during Sandakphu trek (50). The best numbers were at the same area with Plain Mountain Finches between Sandakphu and Gurudum.Red-headed Bullfinch
Pyrrhula erythrocephala
A flock of about seven birds were seen nicely in Lava along the path to Tiffen Dara on 14.11.White-winged Grosbeak
Mycerobas carnipes
Two birds (at least one was female) were seen in Lava on 14.11.Crested Bunting
Melophus lathamani
A pair was seen at Khunia watching tower, Gorumara on 10.11. and three (two males and one female) were seen in lowlands on the way from Darjeeling to Bagdogra near the village called something like Karitura on 26.11.Little Bunting
Emberiza pusilla
Singles were seen at Kheckheopari Lake on 23.11. and in Rabdentse on 24.11. Several "tsik"-calling buntings were heart and seen flying over in Tiger Hill (3), during Sandakphu trek (3) and in Sangachoeling (2).
Other wildlife
Assamese Macaque
Macaca assamensis
Fairly common along roadsides (especially near Teesta) in lower altitudes (up to 50 animals were seen during the best days).
Rhesus Macaque
Macaca mulatta
One seen near Gurudum on 19.11.
Bat-species
One small size bat was flying in dawn on 24.11. Surprisingly no bats were seen in lowlands.
Himalayan Yellow-throated Marten
Mustela flavicula
Two were playing on the road early in the morning on the way to Kheckheopari Lake.
Orange-bellied Himalayan Squirrel
Dremomys lokriah
Two were seen in Sandakphu trek on 16.11.
Hoary-bellied Himalayan Squirrel
Callosciurus pygerythrus
Three in Kheckheopari Lake, two in Pemanyangtse and one in Sangachoeling.
Himalayan Striped Squirrel
Callosciurus macclellandi
Two in Pemanyangtse, three in Kheckheopari Lake and one in Rabdentse.
Mouse sp
One in mouth of cat near Megma on 16.11.
Indian Elephant
Elephas indicus
A few tamed animals were seen around Rhino-point, Gorumara, but none wild animals were seen.
Great One-horned Rhino
Rhinoceros unicornis
A herd of three was seen among tall grass from Rhino-point, Gorumara on 12.11. We needed to watch them for five minutes before we managed to see their horns!
[Wild boar
Sus cristatus]
One probable was seen among tall grass from Khunia tower, Gorumara in the late evening.
Gaur
Bos gaurus
A herd of 16 at Khunia, Gorumara, a herd of 10 at Rhino-point, a herd of 14 at tower of Chaphamari and one near Chuckhuki Lake, Gorumara.
Indian Muntjac (Barking Deer)
Muntiacus muntjak
Two were heart barking near Gairibans.
Spotted Deer
Axis axis
A herd of one male, three females and one young were seen from Rhino-point, Gorumara.
Garial
Gavialis gangeticus
Three were seen in a cage next to Moorty-river.
Gecko sp
One was seen inside our room in Garumara Jungle Camp.
© Aleksi Lehikoinen 2006
email: aleksi.lehikoinen_at_helsinki.fi
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