Arunachal Pradesh, a state located in the remote north-eastern corner of India. The region is home to just about a million people but with varied culture and tradition, a land whose history and geography has seen the twists and turns of time, making it fascinating. The fascination continues with the number of bird species that migrate here during different times of the year.
The different altitudes and seasons bring in variety of different birds. We choose a time just before monsoons. The regions we visited were Mishmi Hills, which is a part of Lower Dibang Valley in the east and Sela Pass along with Eagle-nest in the west of Arunachal Pradesh. If one looks at the topography of the state, its obvious that one can only travel by road in north-south (or south-north) direction. This is simply because the terrain has rivers and endless valleys.
Hence, our travel cum birding route for the next 18 days transited through the state of Assam. We did cover birding spots like Tinsukia, Digboi, Nameri in Assam.
Day 1: 21st April 2017:
We had arrived at Dibrurgarh a day earlier and traveled to Tinsukia, which was approximately a hour's drive. We stayed there overnight. Early morning we drove from Tinsukia in Assam towards Mishmi hills, via Roing in Arunachal Pradesh. The in-line permits were made at the state border itself.
We were heading towards The Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, a sanctuary that had derived its name from Mehao Lake, a vast and virgin lake located at a distance of 17 km from Roing.
Roing itself was a picturesque town in the valley by the side of the Dibang River. The entire region is criss-crossed with numerous streams, rivers and rivulets.
The ascending drive from Roing to Mayodia (56 km from Roing) along the winding twelve-necked point locally called as Baro Golai, bestowed a sense of adventure. The altitudes varied from a mere 400 meters to almost 2600 meters. By early evening we reached Coffee House (a bungalow) near Mayodia Pass, after driving through the rugged mountainous belt and the panoramic landscapes which were simply beyond my comprehension.
The night in the coffee house was very chilly and due to the damp walls felt we were in an Igloo. Glad could find some extra duvets to take to keep warm, inspite of wearing warm clothing.
Day 2: 22nd April 2017: Mishmi Hills
Mishimi Hills that falls under two Dibang Valley districts namely Lower Dibang Valley and Upper Dibang Valley, was a unique hill, amidst lofty hills, lush green forests and breathtaking landscapes which provide a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the landscape. The place wears a tranquility of its own and the view of snow-capped mountains adds serenity to its environment.
The region stretched over three eco-zones tropical evergreen forests, sub-tropical & temperate forests, temperate broad leaved forests and temperate conifer forests. It seemed like a real ocean of green paradise.
The sun was bright and harsh and while we looked around the edges of the grasslands, the Watercock and Swamp Francolin, would take to flight at the slightest sound. The humidity levels were dehydrating and we decided to wind up for the day and retire early that evening.
Day 8: 28th April 2017: Tinsukia - Nameri (09-10 hours)
Today was the day when we had to drive from Tinsukia which is in East of Assam to Nameri which is on the West of Assam. As the distance was almost 400kms, decided to drive out very early in the morning (2.30am)
Just as the day broke, a few kilometers before Jorhat we sighted the endangered Greater Adjulants. It was a large flock of about 15-20 and after spending some time with them headed towards our destination for the day.
The earlier Inner-line permits to enter Arunachal Pradesh had expired and we took fresh permits, from The Deputy Resident Commissioner, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh Parvati nagar, Tezpur, Assam.
By early evening we reached Nameri Eco Camp and checked in. The same evening we could do some birding around the camp. While, we had our dinner, it had started to rain here as well. We were only hoping the weather would be clear and be fine by morning, so that we could take the approx 7-8 kms trek to catch the glimpse of the White-winged Duck and obviously a strong desire to get a frame of the endangered species.
Day 9: 29th April 2017: Nameri
Nameri National Park is located in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in the Sonitpur District of Assam, India, about 40 kilometres from Tezpur and is the third national park in Assam. The Pakhui (Pakke) Sanctuary of Arunachal Pradesh adjoins the Park on its North-Eastern point.
Early morning we crossed the swiftly flowing Jia Barely river in a very small canoe.
Though it seemed it would pour, it was a very dry and humid day. There are two main birding areas where we could look for the White-winged Duck. The first area is off the main track, by about a kilometer and a half, which was full of knee height grass which was moist and hand plently of leeches. The soil was very moist and slippery, due to the last night rainfall. It looked very scenic and scary too, as we were just four of us walking a little distance from each other and avoiding to step even on a twig. As we were given to understand the bird is very shy and sensitive at this time of the year.
We were to take the small birding trek, but it was very foggy and windy too. So we decided to drive downhill towards Tawang and walk on the trek on the return. As we crossed the pass for about 7-8 kms, found a patch of grass along the stream. On scanning the area sighted a pair of Solitary snipe. They in sometime flew and settled near a large boulder and were so still for the next few minutes, till we left for Sela pass.
The weather had started to get cooler and we had started our return journey. At Se La Pass the weather was still the same very foggy and started to drizzle as well, we had to drive on towards Dirang.
Day 13: 3rd May 2017: Dirang-Mandala -Eaglenest-Lama Camp
Today, Chewang planned another route to reach mandala, through a village, which was home to a couple of Black-tailed Crakes. They were busy foraging.
Soon, we drove towards Mandala. The elevations changed drastically, after each bend from 1500 meters to 3600 meters. Enroute, heard some bird calls and stopped near a very bushy region and sighted the Russet Bush Warbler.
It started to get cooler as we drove to closer to Mandala, There was an excellent mixed forests of Oak and coniferous forest, also noticed a lot of de-forestation that had been done. Surely, an unknown birder's paradise with no defined boundaries and none of these areas are protected. But as we had to head out to Eaglenest, did not wait here longer. We sighted a few birds have listed them in tabular form:
Our drive back was on the much familiar route till Tenga was very comfortable. Here we took a diversion towards the much awaited destination, the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary. We checked into Lama camp by late evening. The weather here was very cold and frequent showers had begun in the region too. As night we drove around and sighted the flying squirrel.
Day 14: 4th May 2017: Lamacamp- Bompu
Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary in western Arunachal Pradesh, has pristine mountain forests and dense canopies. It was indeed a paradise.
The morning was very quite, the bird density for some reason was low. We had realized that birding was going to be difficult. However, small flocks of Yuhina, Fulvetta and Laughing thrush were seen.
We soon reached Alubari, the area known for Bugun Liochicla. We heard the call from a distant, but no sign of the bird. We did sight the Lesser Cuckoo, Striated Bulbul, apart from common birds of the region.
We then drove for a few meters back towards the camp and then walked around and did sight birds like Scarlet Finch, Brown-flanked Bush Warbler, a flock of laughing thrushes that were moving upwards.
By noon we reached back Lama camp, checkout and started our drive towards Bompu camp, enroute kept birding. It would rain and stop, the weather was foggy. We stopped by the place, where a Yellow-rumped Honeyguide was being sighted regularly.
Just at about 10kms south of Lama Camp, was the sanctuary’s highest point at 9,186 feet. We drove slowly down from here, towards the Sunderview open ground, and then on towards Bompu Camp. This stretch of road is surrounded by a tall temperate forest, with moss hanging from the trees.
The tents here in Bompu camp were similar to the ones in Lama camp, basic with a bed and side table.
Birding was good but realised, photography wasn't going to be easy.
Day 15: 5th May 2017: Bompu
Eaglenest’s jungles are known as cloud forests because of the veil of mist that frequently covers the landscape.
Bompu Camp, which was about 30kms from Lama camp had lots of bamboo trees. The landscape around the camp had open fields and dense forest too, which made it a great place birding.
We drove towards the Sessni Camp, though it was raining since morning. We kept birding from the vehicle as much as possible. The road descended down the steep hillside in a series of hairpin bends. The happy rains kept pouring and we moved till Khellong.
We waited there for few minutes. As the rain stopped went walking around the place, sighted the Silver-eared Mesia and few other birds. On the way back to Bompu camp, stopped by a batch of bamboo forest and sighted the Lesser Rufous-headed Parrotbills, they were busy foraging on the outer side of the bamboo trees.
The best part is almost, all of the region is accessible by a vehicle, though the road is narrow starting from Tenga, going up to Lama Camp, crossing Eaglenest Pass, downhill to Bompu and Sessni Camps, and finally touching down till the village of Khellong.
Day 16: 6th May 2017: Bompu - Lama Camp - Tenga
The moist weather made us preponed our check-out. on our drive back, we returned to area near Lama Camp to look again for the elusive Bugun liocichla. Chewang and we set out, searching the trail along the Alubari Road. Chewang exclaimed, “Bugun!” and we started to follow its call. Red-faced Liochicla were seen, but we moved on. At a certain point, there was no trail and only we could follow each other in a single line, Chewang had his ears on the bird and was tracking its swift movements, while Shiva had his eyes on the bird got two shots of the male, as for me, could only see the movement, missed getting a good glance or a frame and bird swiftly disappeared.
We transited through Sessa, a small town in the west Kameng district. At one time also known for the Blyth's Kingfisher, however the road construction had possibly flushed the bird away. However we stopped for a brief time and scanned the area along the flowing stream, sighted a brown dipper and a flock of long tailed sibias. Sessa, was a good place for road side birding, for spotting low-altitude forest birds.
As we had left a day early, decided to take a stop-over in the town of Tenga.
Day 17: 7th May 2017: Tenga - Nameri
Most of the places we visited this trip had rains and the birds we sighted were much lesser than anticipated. So we once again thought of going to visiting Nameri Eco Camp in anticipation of getting the White-winged Duck.
We reached by early evening. We headed towards the river again hoping to see the Wreathed Hornbills that had crossed over from the National park during sunset. We were not diasappointed. Though the light was low and dark, managed to get some frames.
Day 18: 8th May 2017: Nameri- Guwahati
Early morning we took to the trek, crossing the river. The place looked so familiar, as we had done the trek two times earlier. This time, we had a completely different approach. We sent the guide alone to the likely spots. He returned from the second saying, its there and wading. This time, Shiva Shanker and Satish T set out first. Minutes later, the guide came back and asked me to join them. Luckily it had not noticed us this time. It was at a distance and we could get some frames of the bird.
Finally, we packed our equipment and headed back to Guwahati to take our journeys back home!
Thanking my fellow birders, Chewang Bonpo, Satish Thayapurath, Shiva Shankar and Yash Kothiala who accompanied me and made this trip memorable. Our drivers, Bidyut (for East Arunachal), Dilip and Prem (for West Arunachal). Birding Guide in Tinsukia, Digboi and Maguri Beel, Probin Hatiburah.
The consolidated list of our sighting is shared below. Image will be uploaded on our facebook page soon. Total bird sighting 300 in number of which 53 were lifers, taking my life list bird count to 709.
Happy Birding!
The different altitudes and seasons bring in variety of different birds. We choose a time just before monsoons. The regions we visited were Mishmi Hills, which is a part of Lower Dibang Valley in the east and Sela Pass along with Eagle-nest in the west of Arunachal Pradesh. If one looks at the topography of the state, its obvious that one can only travel by road in north-south (or south-north) direction. This is simply because the terrain has rivers and endless valleys.
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Day 1: 21st April 2017:
We had arrived at Dibrurgarh a day earlier and traveled to Tinsukia, which was approximately a hour's drive. We stayed there overnight. Early morning we drove from Tinsukia in Assam towards Mishmi hills, via Roing in Arunachal Pradesh. The in-line permits were made at the state border itself.
We were heading towards The Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, a sanctuary that had derived its name from Mehao Lake, a vast and virgin lake located at a distance of 17 km from Roing.
Roing itself was a picturesque town in the valley by the side of the Dibang River. The entire region is criss-crossed with numerous streams, rivers and rivulets.
The ascending drive from Roing to Mayodia (56 km from Roing) along the winding twelve-necked point locally called as Baro Golai, bestowed a sense of adventure. The altitudes varied from a mere 400 meters to almost 2600 meters. By early evening we reached Coffee House (a bungalow) near Mayodia Pass, after driving through the rugged mountainous belt and the panoramic landscapes which were simply beyond my comprehension.
The night in the coffee house was very chilly and due to the damp walls felt we were in an Igloo. Glad could find some extra duvets to take to keep warm, inspite of wearing warm clothing.
Day 2: 22nd April 2017: Mishmi Hills
Mishimi Hills that falls under two Dibang Valley districts namely Lower Dibang Valley and Upper Dibang Valley, was a unique hill, amidst lofty hills, lush green forests and breathtaking landscapes which provide a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the landscape. The place wears a tranquility of its own and the view of snow-capped mountains adds serenity to its environment.
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During our first session in the morning, sighted the endemic Mishmi Wren Babbler, Barwing-Wren Babbler and Manipur Fulvetta.
While we waited at a bend, a Blyth’s Tragopan was heard and soon could see a female crossing the road.
We then spent the entire day in different birding spots looking for its mate, but no luck. However we sighted many other birds like the Ward's Trogon, Black-breasted Parrotbill, Beautiful Sibia.
Post sun-set we drove out towards the Mayodia pass, scanning the area along the road for the Himalayan Wood Owl, who was been seen often in the recent days. We sighted one perched on a stone, along the cliff. It was too close, so we had to take back the vehicle, but no sooner we stopped it took to flight. We had to continue our drive for about 2 odd kms and saw it again, perched on a tree. This time it was very comforatable and allowed us to get close.
That night a vehicle had broken down just before coffee house and travelers had checked into the bungalow, being the only habitable place until one reaches Hunli town, which maybe only 40 kms away, but is good 3-4 hour drive.
The extra duvets were not available and had to wear a couple of more layers to combat the winter. It was indeed the coldest night of my life.
Day 3: 23rd April 2017: Mishmi Hills and Tiwarigaon
The day like any other north-eastern state breaks very early as 4am and we were ready to go birding. It was raining since last night and continued till almost 9am, its when we could leave the coffee house.
No sooner we moved out, the downpour started again. On two instances we sighted the Yellow-throated martens. The monsoon had reached the region much earlier than our expectation. By Lunch, also it continued to pour so we decided to descend till Tiwarigaon. All along, the rain accompanied us and we did see many Mithun's, who are considered as a descendant from the wild Indian gaur. They plays an important role in the socio-economic and cultural life of the local tribal population. Mithun's are usually reared for sacrificial purposes and/or for barter trade and left open to graze freely in the region.
We stopped by a small stall in Tiwarigaon, where we had hot soup and noodles. The weather was still wet, so thought lets reach coffee house and move upwards. Enroute, we did sight the a flock of Long tailed Sibia's. All other birds were either busy or roosting due to the rains.
Whenever Chewang felt the habitat was right, would look for the birds, but somehow there was no sign of them. Our plans were further foiled as the vehicle broke down and we could make it back to Coffee house, only after hitching on a transport truck. The region has very little traffic, only essential supplies movement takes place.
By late evening, we realised the weather would not change and so rescheduled the plans and decided to descend till Roing early next morning and bird around the Nizamghat, where just 3-4 days back Bengal Florican was being sighted.
Day 4: 24th April 2017: Mishmi Hills-Roing-Nizamghat
We had sent our local guide yesterday itself to fetch for an alternate vehicle. While we waited for him, the drizzle had stopped. The large hawk cuckoo who was being heard for a long time, sat in the open.
No sooner he reached we loaded our stuff and reached Roing. Our vehicle was also repaired and post lunch, we drove for about fifteen kilometers towards Nizamghat.
The river flowing between lofty mountains and rocky surroundings with the soothing effect of lush vegetation looked like a promising birding spot, we sighted the Collared Treepie, Lesser Coucal, Drongo Cuckoo, Golden-headed Cistocila. Before we could reach the area for the Bengal Florican, the downpour began and the small ravel paved path became a difficult terrain and could not continue. Simply, had to turn back.
Day 5: 25th April 2017: Grasslands near Roing- Tinsukia
Woke up to another rainy day, but we decided to drive to the grasslands which were just a few kilometers away from Roing town. After waiting for more than a hour under a large tree and watching the rain drops fall, decided to return, so seeing the Black-breasted parrotbill was not possible. We sighted large flocks of the Scaly breasted Munia's. It was time and we took a call to return to Tinsukia immediately, which is a good 7-8 hour drive, as the shorter route through the streams was no longer motarable due to heavy rains.
Enroute, in the fields about 40 kms before Tinsukia, Satish sighted the Chinese Pond Heron, roosting at a distance, we could get some frames.
We reached Tinsukia comfortably by early evening. We met up with Mr. Peter Lobo that evening, who had returned from Eaglenest and was heading towards Mishmi Hills. It was indeed a lovely meeting. He shared his sighting and the potential hot spots we could possibly explore.
Day 6: 26th April 2017: Tinsukia- Joypur- Maguri Beel
Today we went for birding into the Joypur forest, though it was very humid and hardly any breeze, the place was unusually quieter said Probin Hatibaruah who accompanied us, along with Chewang.
Joypur forest was dense and at some places, due to tall trees, even the sunlight was not seen. A few meters inside and we heard the Large Scimitar Babbler, who soon disappeared. The Red-headed Trogon was seen but was very shy. Silver-breasted Broadbill was seen but very moving fast to the tip of the canopy.
We had to leave by lunch towards Dibrugarh airport to pick Shiva Shankar ji and Yash Kothiala, who were reaching today to join for the next 12 days.
No sooner they reached, we drove towards Maguri Beel. Beel is the local name for a Lake in Assamese. Maguri Beel is located just outside the Dibru Saikhowa National Park along the south bank of the Dibru River, which is a channel of the mighty Brahmaputra River, known for water and grassland birds.
One has to take a very small canoe ride to cross over to the birding spot. Since the area is not protected, it is heavily used for fishing and grass collecting. Soon, it was cloudy here too and started to drizzle. It was close to sunset time, and Probin suggested we come here again tomorrow to see the marsh babbler. Later as it the started to turn dark, sighted the Collared Scops Owl and Oriental scops Owl.
Day 7: 27th April 2017: Digboi - Maguri Beel
Today early morning we drove towards forests near Digboi, we sighted the Collared Treepie, Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker, Ruby-cheeked Sunbird, and then looked around for the Chestnut-backed Laughingthrush, we could see the skulker between the twigs of the shrubs. We then drove towards Maguri beel enroute we visited a small village where a few Gibbon families reside and they were quite active even during the afternoon time. The villagers take care of these families and have even insulated the electric wires, to ensure them from not being electrocuted.
We reached Maguri beel well in time, only to realize the downpour from the previous evening and night had flooded the grasslands and reaching the birding spot was not possible.
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The extra duvets were not available and had to wear a couple of more layers to combat the winter. It was indeed the coldest night of my life.
Day 3: 23rd April 2017: Mishmi Hills and Tiwarigaon
The day like any other north-eastern state breaks very early as 4am and we were ready to go birding. It was raining since last night and continued till almost 9am, its when we could leave the coffee house.
No sooner we moved out, the downpour started again. On two instances we sighted the Yellow-throated martens. The monsoon had reached the region much earlier than our expectation. By Lunch, also it continued to pour so we decided to descend till Tiwarigaon. All along, the rain accompanied us and we did see many Mithun's, who are considered as a descendant from the wild Indian gaur. They plays an important role in the socio-economic and cultural life of the local tribal population. Mithun's are usually reared for sacrificial purposes and/or for barter trade and left open to graze freely in the region.
We stopped by a small stall in Tiwarigaon, where we had hot soup and noodles. The weather was still wet, so thought lets reach coffee house and move upwards. Enroute, we did sight the a flock of Long tailed Sibia's. All other birds were either busy or roosting due to the rains.
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By late evening, we realised the weather would not change and so rescheduled the plans and decided to descend till Roing early next morning and bird around the Nizamghat, where just 3-4 days back Bengal Florican was being sighted.
Day 4: 24th April 2017: Mishmi Hills-Roing-Nizamghat
We had sent our local guide yesterday itself to fetch for an alternate vehicle. While we waited for him, the drizzle had stopped. The large hawk cuckoo who was being heard for a long time, sat in the open.
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The river flowing between lofty mountains and rocky surroundings with the soothing effect of lush vegetation looked like a promising birding spot, we sighted the Collared Treepie, Lesser Coucal, Drongo Cuckoo, Golden-headed Cistocila. Before we could reach the area for the Bengal Florican, the downpour began and the small ravel paved path became a difficult terrain and could not continue. Simply, had to turn back.
Day 5: 25th April 2017: Grasslands near Roing- Tinsukia
Woke up to another rainy day, but we decided to drive to the grasslands which were just a few kilometers away from Roing town. After waiting for more than a hour under a large tree and watching the rain drops fall, decided to return, so seeing the Black-breasted parrotbill was not possible. We sighted large flocks of the Scaly breasted Munia's. It was time and we took a call to return to Tinsukia immediately, which is a good 7-8 hour drive, as the shorter route through the streams was no longer motarable due to heavy rains.
Enroute, in the fields about 40 kms before Tinsukia, Satish sighted the Chinese Pond Heron, roosting at a distance, we could get some frames.
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Day 6: 26th April 2017: Tinsukia- Joypur- Maguri Beel
Today we went for birding into the Joypur forest, though it was very humid and hardly any breeze, the place was unusually quieter said Probin Hatibaruah who accompanied us, along with Chewang.
Joypur forest was dense and at some places, due to tall trees, even the sunlight was not seen. A few meters inside and we heard the Large Scimitar Babbler, who soon disappeared. The Red-headed Trogon was seen but was very shy. Silver-breasted Broadbill was seen but very moving fast to the tip of the canopy.
We had to leave by lunch towards Dibrugarh airport to pick Shiva Shankar ji and Yash Kothiala, who were reaching today to join for the next 12 days.
No sooner they reached, we drove towards Maguri Beel. Beel is the local name for a Lake in Assamese. Maguri Beel is located just outside the Dibru Saikhowa National Park along the south bank of the Dibru River, which is a channel of the mighty Brahmaputra River, known for water and grassland birds.
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Today early morning we drove towards forests near Digboi, we sighted the Collared Treepie, Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker, Ruby-cheeked Sunbird, and then looked around for the Chestnut-backed Laughingthrush, we could see the skulker between the twigs of the shrubs. We then drove towards Maguri beel enroute we visited a small village where a few Gibbon families reside and they were quite active even during the afternoon time. The villagers take care of these families and have even insulated the electric wires, to ensure them from not being electrocuted.
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Day 8: 28th April 2017: Tinsukia - Nameri (09-10 hours)
Today was the day when we had to drive from Tinsukia which is in East of Assam to Nameri which is on the West of Assam. As the distance was almost 400kms, decided to drive out very early in the morning (2.30am)
Just as the day broke, a few kilometers before Jorhat we sighted the endangered Greater Adjulants. It was a large flock of about 15-20 and after spending some time with them headed towards our destination for the day.
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By early evening we reached Nameri Eco Camp and checked in. The same evening we could do some birding around the camp. While, we had our dinner, it had started to rain here as well. We were only hoping the weather would be clear and be fine by morning, so that we could take the approx 7-8 kms trek to catch the glimpse of the White-winged Duck and obviously a strong desire to get a frame of the endangered species.
Day 9: 29th April 2017: Nameri
Nameri National Park is located in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas in the Sonitpur District of Assam, India, about 40 kilometres from Tezpur and is the third national park in Assam. The Pakhui (Pakke) Sanctuary of Arunachal Pradesh adjoins the Park on its North-Eastern point.
Early morning we crossed the swiftly flowing Jia Barely river in a very small canoe.
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| Yash Kothiala & Shiva Shanker along with Satish T & Chewang Bonpo |
On scanning the area for few minutes, retuned to the main trek to head towards the next spot which was another 3-4 kms away. No sooner we reached there, saw a large fallen log along the water body. Within seconds of our presence, saw a turtle plunge into the water who was basking on the log. Least did we know the turtle wasn't alone until we saw the pair of the white winged ducks take to flight, who were just roosting behind the log.
We trekked back and enroute sighted the Hooded Pitta, Striped Tit Babbler, Taiga Flycatcher, and few common birds. Overhaul the bird activity seemed low on that day in the forest. As we waited for the canoe sighted many River lapwings, Terns, Great thicknees who were foraging along the river banks along with Sand Larks and Little ringed Plovers.
Post an early lunch, we decided to rest as we all felt drained from the long trek. It was one of the best naps we had taken in the recent week. Evening we first spent some time watching the Great Hornbill feeding its chicks.
There were many nests of the Red-breasted Parakeets and Jungle Mynas on the bark of a single tree . They were busy as it was the nesting time. We walked to the river bank, to watch the day end, when suddenly saw a pair of birds flying from the national park side towards us. They flew at a distance away from us and we could only record frame, they were Wreathed Hornbills.
Just as the sun went down, could hear the calls of Brown Boobook. As we walked back to the camp, a Large Nightjar flew past us. While, we walked to have our dinner, the Brown Boobook, was roosting on a tree in the camp itself.
Day 10: 30th April 2017: Nameri- Dirang
As we had missed photpgraphing the White-winged Duck, made a slight change to the program that was of leaving for Dirang early morning. Instead, we did the trek again. This time, also the bird was not seen at the first birding point. Today we were even more cautious and did not want to flush the bird. We reached the second spot and scanned the area near the fallen log from a distance. Least, did we know that today the female had perched high on a branch, along the corner of the same log. All we could hear was the flapping of wings and it was gone, so was our hope to photograph it.
Following, breakfast we headed into Arunachal Pradesh, this time towards the west. We entered through Bhalukpong. The entire terrain started to change again as we moved from the foothills to the uphills towards our next halt, Dirang. Enroute, we kept birding, sighted the Maroon Oriole, Long-tailed Broadbill to name a few.
Day 11: 1st May 2017: Dirang – Sangti Valley
Dirang, a small town, on the bank of river Kameng (Known as Jia Bharali in Assam), in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. Since it is placed in the river valley the altitude is relatively low (1500 meters). The weather here was very pleasant.
Today, we felt we must take some rest, so until lunch we just lazed around and post lunch planned a visit to Sangti Valley, which is about 15 kms from Dirang, buried in the Eastern Himalayas. The river flowed and was not deep, we could comfortably wade through half way and get a closer look, at the Long billed Plover.
A couple of Paddyfield Pipit's were seen. At a distance, across the stream, saw a pair of Plumbeous Water Redstart who were busy collecting nesting material.
Day 12: 2nd May 2017: Dirang-Sela Pass
Early morning (3.30am) we headed towards Sela Pass and in about 3 hours, reached an elevation of 4170 meters. The Sela Pass (more appropriately called Se La, as La means Pass) is the high-altitude mountain pass located enroute to Tawang.
Enroute we sighted lot of birds at different altitudes.
The pass hardly had any vegetation and was snow-covered to a large extent, though it was summer time.
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| Habitat - White-winged Duck |
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Just as the sun went down, could hear the calls of Brown Boobook. As we walked back to the camp, a Large Nightjar flew past us. While, we walked to have our dinner, the Brown Boobook, was roosting on a tree in the camp itself.
Day 10: 30th April 2017: Nameri- Dirang
As we had missed photpgraphing the White-winged Duck, made a slight change to the program that was of leaving for Dirang early morning. Instead, we did the trek again. This time, also the bird was not seen at the first birding point. Today we were even more cautious and did not want to flush the bird. We reached the second spot and scanned the area near the fallen log from a distance. Least, did we know that today the female had perched high on a branch, along the corner of the same log. All we could hear was the flapping of wings and it was gone, so was our hope to photograph it.
Following, breakfast we headed into Arunachal Pradesh, this time towards the west. We entered through Bhalukpong. The entire terrain started to change again as we moved from the foothills to the uphills towards our next halt, Dirang. Enroute, we kept birding, sighted the Maroon Oriole, Long-tailed Broadbill to name a few.
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Dirang, a small town, on the bank of river Kameng (Known as Jia Bharali in Assam), in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. Since it is placed in the river valley the altitude is relatively low (1500 meters). The weather here was very pleasant.
Today, we felt we must take some rest, so until lunch we just lazed around and post lunch planned a visit to Sangti Valley, which is about 15 kms from Dirang, buried in the Eastern Himalayas. The river flowed and was not deep, we could comfortably wade through half way and get a closer look, at the Long billed Plover.
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Day 12: 2nd May 2017: Dirang-Sela Pass
Early morning (3.30am) we headed towards Sela Pass and in about 3 hours, reached an elevation of 4170 meters. The Sela Pass (more appropriately called Se La, as La means Pass) is the high-altitude mountain pass located enroute to Tawang.
Enroute we sighted lot of birds at different altitudes.
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Day 13: 3rd May 2017: Dirang-Mandala -Eaglenest-Lama Camp
Today, Chewang planned another route to reach mandala, through a village, which was home to a couple of Black-tailed Crakes. They were busy foraging.
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Day 14: 4th May 2017: Lamacamp- Bompu
Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary in western Arunachal Pradesh, has pristine mountain forests and dense canopies. It was indeed a paradise.
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We soon reached Alubari, the area known for Bugun Liochicla. We heard the call from a distant, but no sign of the bird. We did sight the Lesser Cuckoo, Striated Bulbul, apart from common birds of the region.
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By noon we reached back Lama camp, checkout and started our drive towards Bompu camp, enroute kept birding. It would rain and stop, the weather was foggy. We stopped by the place, where a Yellow-rumped Honeyguide was being sighted regularly.
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The tents here in Bompu camp were similar to the ones in Lama camp, basic with a bed and side table.
Birding was good but realised, photography wasn't going to be easy.
Day 15: 5th May 2017: Bompu
Eaglenest’s jungles are known as cloud forests because of the veil of mist that frequently covers the landscape.
Bompu Camp, which was about 30kms from Lama camp had lots of bamboo trees. The landscape around the camp had open fields and dense forest too, which made it a great place birding.
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We waited there for few minutes. As the rain stopped went walking around the place, sighted the Silver-eared Mesia and few other birds. On the way back to Bompu camp, stopped by a batch of bamboo forest and sighted the Lesser Rufous-headed Parrotbills, they were busy foraging on the outer side of the bamboo trees.
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Day 16: 6th May 2017: Bompu - Lama Camp - Tenga
The moist weather made us preponed our check-out. on our drive back, we returned to area near Lama Camp to look again for the elusive Bugun liocichla. Chewang and we set out, searching the trail along the Alubari Road. Chewang exclaimed, “Bugun!” and we started to follow its call. Red-faced Liochicla were seen, but we moved on. At a certain point, there was no trail and only we could follow each other in a single line, Chewang had his ears on the bird and was tracking its swift movements, while Shiva had his eyes on the bird got two shots of the male, as for me, could only see the movement, missed getting a good glance or a frame and bird swiftly disappeared.
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On the way out from Eaglenest, sighted the illusive Blackish-breasted babbler also called as the Sikkim Wedge-bill Babbler.
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Day 17: 7th May 2017: Tenga - Nameri
Most of the places we visited this trip had rains and the birds we sighted were much lesser than anticipated. So we once again thought of going to visiting Nameri Eco Camp in anticipation of getting the White-winged Duck.
We reached by early evening. We headed towards the river again hoping to see the Wreathed Hornbills that had crossed over from the National park during sunset. We were not diasappointed. Though the light was low and dark, managed to get some frames.
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Early morning we took to the trek, crossing the river. The place looked so familiar, as we had done the trek two times earlier. This time, we had a completely different approach. We sent the guide alone to the likely spots. He returned from the second saying, its there and wading. This time, Shiva Shanker and Satish T set out first. Minutes later, the guide came back and asked me to join them. Luckily it had not noticed us this time. It was at a distance and we could get some frames of the bird.
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Thanking my fellow birders, Chewang Bonpo, Satish Thayapurath, Shiva Shankar and Yash Kothiala who accompanied me and made this trip memorable. Our drivers, Bidyut (for East Arunachal), Dilip and Prem (for West Arunachal). Birding Guide in Tinsukia, Digboi and Maguri Beel, Probin Hatiburah.
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| Time that we woke on and the Kms we walked during the trip |
Happy Birding!
| SR NO | COMMON NAME | SCIENTIFIC NAME | STATUS | PLACE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANSERIFORMES: Anatidae | ||||
| 1 | Lesser Whistling Duck | Dendrocygna javanica | Tinsukia | |
| 2 | Common Shelduck | Tadorna tadorna | Tinsukia | |
| 3 | Ruddy Shelduck | Tadorna ferruginea | Tinsukia | |
| 4 | White-winged Duck | Asarcornis scutulata | Endangered | Nameri |
| 5 | Garganey | Spatula querquedula | Rare/Accidental | Tinsukia |
| 6 | Northern Shoveler | Spatula clypeata | Tinsukia | |
| 7 | Indian Spot-billed Duck | Anas poecilorhyncha | Tinsukia | |
| GALLIFORMES: Phasianidae | ||||
| 8 | Hill Partridge | Arborophila torqueola | Heard Eaglenest | |
| 9 | Rufous-throated Hill Partridge | Arborophila rufogularis | Eaglenest | |
| 10 | White-cheeked Hill Partridge | Arborophila atrogularis | Near-threatened | Nameri |
| 11 | Chestnut-breasted Partridge | Arborophila mandelli | Vulnerable | Heard Eaglenest |
| 12 | Swamp Francolin | Francolinus gularis | Vulnerable | Tinsukia |
| 13 | Red Junglefowl | Gallus gallus | Nizamghat / Eaglenest | |
| 14 | Blyth's Tragopan | Tragopan blythii | Vulnerable | Mishmi Hills |
| 15 | Kalij Pheasant | Lophura leucomelanos | Eaglenest | |
| 16 | Grey Peacock-Pheasant | Polyplectron bicalcaratum | Heard in Eaglenest | |
| COLUMBIFORMES: Columbidae | ||||
| 17 | Rock Dove | Columba livia | Common | |
| 18 | Oriental Turtle Dove | Streptopelia orientalis | Common | |
| 19 | Eurasian Collared Dove | Streptopelia decaocto | Common | |
| 20 | Red Collared Dove | Streptopelia tranquebarica | Common | |
| 21 | Spotted-necked Dove | Streptopelia chinensis | Common | |
| 22 | Laughing Dove | Streptopelia senegalensis | Common | |
| 23 | Barred Cuckoo Dove | Macropygia unchall | Eaglenest | |
| 24 | Orange-breasted Green Pigeon | Treron bicinctus | Sela Pass | |
| 25 | Wedge-tailed Green Pigeon | Treron sphenurus | Sela Pass | |
| 26 | Emerald Dove | Chalcophaps indica | Eaglenest | |
| 27 | Green Imperial Pigeon | Ducula aenea | Nameri | |
| 28 | Mountain Imperial Pigeon | Ducula badia | Nameri | |
| 29 | Ashy Wood Pigeon | Columba pulchricollis | Eaglenest | |
| CAPRIMULGIFORMES: Caprimulgidae | ||||
| 30 | Grey Nightjar | Caprimulgus indicus | Eaglenest | |
| 31 | Large-tailed Nightjar | Caprimulgus macrurus | Nameri | |
| CAPRIMULGIFORMES: Apodidae | ||||
| 32 | White-throated Needletail | Hirundapus caudacutus | Eaglenest | |
| 33 | Himalayan Swiftlet | Aerodramus brevirostris | Eaglenest | |
| 34 | Asian Palm Swift | Cypsiurus balasiensis | Maguri Beel | |
| 35 | Alpine Swift | Tachymarptis melba | Maguri Beel | |
| CUCULIFORMES: Cuculidae | ||||
| 36 | Greater Coucal | Centropus sinensis | Tinsukia | |
| 37 | Lesser Coucal | Centropus bengalensis | Nizamghat | |
| 38 | Green-billed Malkoha | Phaenicophaeus tristis | Digboi | |
| 39 | Chestnut-winged Cuckoo | Clamator coromandus | Joypur | |
| 40 | Drongo Cuckoo | Surniculus lugubris | Nizamghat | |
| 41 | Large Hawk Cuckoo | Hierococcyx sparverioides | Mishmi Hills | |
| 42 | Common Hawk Cuckoo | Hierococcyx varius | Nameri | |
| 43 | Lesser Cuckoo | Cuculus poliocephalus | Eaglenest | |
| GRUIFORMES: Rallidae | ||||
| 44 | Black-tailed Crake | Zapornia bicolor | Dirang | |
| 45 | White-breasted Waterhen | Amaurornis phoenicurus | Dirang | |
| 46 | Watercock | Gallicrex cinerea | Maguri Beel | |
| 47 | Purple Swamphen | Porphyrio porphyrio | Maguri Beel | |
| 48 | Common Coot | Fulica atra | Maguri Beel | |
| PELECANIFORMES: Ciconiidae | ||||
| 49 | Greater Adjutant | Leptoptilos dubius | Endangered | Jorhat |
| 50 | Lesser Adjutant | Leptoptilos javanicus | Vulnerable | Jorhat |
| 51 | Asian Openbill | Anastomus oscitans | Jorhat | |
| PELECANIFORMES: Ardeidae | ||||
| 52 | Yellow Bittern | Ixobrychus sinensis | Maguri Beel | |
| 53 | Cinnamon Bittern | Ixobrychus cinnamomeus | Maguri Beel | |
| 54 | Black-crowned Night Heron | Nycticorax nycticorax | Maguri Beel | |
| 55 | Striated Heron | Butorides striata | Maguri Beel | |
| 56 | Indian Pond Heron | Ardeola grayii | Common | |
| 57 | Chinese Pond Heron | Ardeola bacchus | Tinsukia | |
| 58 | Cattle Egret | Bubulcus ibis | Common | |
| 59 | Great Egret | Ardea alba | Common | |
| 60 | Little Egret | Egretta garzetta | Common | |
| PELECANIFORMES: Threskiornithidae | ||||
| 61 | Glossy Ibis | Plegadis falcinellus | Jorhat | |
| PELECANIFORMES: Phalacrocoracidae | ||||
| 62 | Little Cormorant | Microcarbo niger | Common | |
| 63 | Great Cormorant | Phalacrocorax carbo | Maguri Beel | |
| CHARADRIIFORMES: Burhinidae | ||||
| 64 | Great Thick-knee | Esacus recurvirostris | Near-threatened | Nameri |
| CHARADRIIFORMES: Recurvirostridae | ||||
| 65 | Black-winged Stilt | Himantopus himantopus | Jorhat | |
| CHARADRIIFORMES: Charadriidae | ||||
| 66 | Grey Plover | Pluvialis squatarola | Nameri | |
| 67 | Long-billed Plover | Charadrius placidus | Sangit Valley | |
| 68 | Little Ringed Plover | Charadrius dubius | Nameri | |
| 69 | River Lapwing | Vanellus duvaucelii | Near-threatened | Nameri |
| 70 | Red-wattled Lapwing | Vanellus indicus | Common | |
| CHARADRIIFORMES: Scolopacidae | ||||
| 71 | Solitary Snipe | Gallinago solitaria | Sela Pass | |
| 72 | Common Sandpiper | Actitis hypoleucos | Nameri | |
| CHARADRIIFORMES: Glareolidae | ||||
| 73 | Small Pratincole | Glareola lactea | Nameri | |
| CHARADRIIFORMES: Laridae | ||||
| 74 | River Tern | Sterna aurantia | Near-threatened | Nameri |
| ACCIPITRIFORMES: Accipitridae | ||||
| 75 | Slender-billed Vulture | Gyps tenuirostris | Critically endangered | Tinsukia |
| 76 | Black Eagle | Ictinaetus malaiensis | Eaglenest | |
| 77 | Black-winged Kite | Elanus caeruleus | Assam plains | |
| STRIGIFORMES: Strigidae | ||||
| 78 | Himalayan Wood Owl | Strix nivicolum | Mishmi Hills | |
| 79 | Asian Barred Owlet | Glaucidium cuculoides | Maguri Beel | |
| 80 | Oriental Scops Owl | Otus sunia | Maguri Beel | |
| 81 | Collared Scops Owl | Otus bakkamoena | Maguri Beel | |
| 82 | Brown Boobook | Ninox scutulata | Nameri | |
| TROGONIFORMES: Trogonidae | ||||
| 83 | Red-headed Trogon | Harpactes erythrocephalus | Joypur | |
| 84 | Ward's Trogon | Harpactes wardi | Near-threatened | Mishmi Hills / Eaglenest |
| BUCEROTIFORMES: Bucerotidae | ||||
| 85 | Great Hornbill | Buceros bicornis | Near-threatened | Nameri |
| 86 | Oriental Pied Hornbill | Anthracoceros albirostris | Nameri | |
| 87 | Wreathed Hornbill | Rhyticeros undulatus | Nameri | |
| 88 | Rufous-necked Hornbill | Aceros nipalensis | Near-threatened | Eaglenest |
| PICIFORMES: Indicatoridae | ||||
| 89 | Yellow-rumped Honeyguide | Indicator xanthonotus | Near-threatened | Eaglenest |
| PICIFORMES: Picidae | ||||
| 90 | White-browed Piculet | Sasia ochracea | Mishmi | |
| 91 | Speckled Piculet | Picumnus innominatus | Mishmi | |
| 92 | Rufous Woodpecker | Micropternus brachyurus | Eaglenest | |
| 93 | Greater Yellow-naped Woodpecker | Chrysophlegma flavinucha | Mishmi | |
| 94 | Lesser Yellow-naped Woodpecker | Picus chlorolophus | Mishmi | |
| 95 | Streak-throated Woodpecker | Picus xanthopygaeus | Nameri | |
| 96 | Bay Woodpecker | Blythipicus pyrrhotis | Eaglenest | |
| 97 | Greater Flame-backed Woodpecker | Chrysocolaptes lucidus | Nameri | |
| 98 | Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker | Dendrocopos macei | Nameri | |
| 99 | Rufous-bellied Woodpecker | Dendrocopos hyperythrus | Mandala | |
| PICIFORMES: Ramphastidae | ||||
| 100 | Great Barbet | Psilopogon virens | Mishmi/Eaglenest | |
| 101 | Golden-throated Barbet | Psilopogon franklinii | Mishmi/Eaglenest | |
| 102 | Blue-throated Barbet | Psilopogon asiaticus | Assam Plains | |
| 103 | Lineated Barbet | Psilopogon lineatus | Assam Plains | |
| CORACIIFORMES: Meropidae | ||||
| 104 | Blue-bearded Bee-eater | Nyctyornis athertoni | Nameri | |
| 105 | Chestnut-headed Bee-eater | Merops leschenaulti | Nameri | |
| CORACIIFORMES: Coraciidae | ||||
| 106 | Indian Roller | Coracias benghalensis | Assam Plains | |
| CORACIIFORMES: Alcedinidae | ||||
| 107 | Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher | Ceyx erithaca | Nameri | |
| 108 | Blue-eared Kingfisher | Alcedo meninting | Nameri | |
| 109 | Common Kingfisher | Alcedo atthis | Nameri | |
| 110 | Ruddy Kingfisher | Halcyon coromanda | near Digboi | |
| 111 | White-throated Kingfisher | Halcyon smyrnensis | Assam Plains | |
| PSITTACIFORMES: Psittaculidae | ||||
| 112 | Red-breasted Parakeet | Psittacula alexandri | Near-threatened | Nameri |
| 113 | Vernal Hanging Parrot | Loriculus vernalis | Nameri | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Pittidae | ||||
| 114 | Hooded Pitta | Pitta sordida | Nameri | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Eurylaimidae | ||||
| 115 | Long-tailed Broadbill | Psarisomus dalhousiae | Sessa | |
| 116 | Silver-breasted Broadbill | Serilophus lunatus | Joypur | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Campephagidae | ||||
| 117 | Long-tailed Minivet | Pericrocotus ethologus | Sessa | |
| 118 | Scarlet Minivet | Pericrocotus flammeus | Sessa | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Vireonidae | ||||
| 119 | Green Shrike-babbler | Pteruthius xanthochlorus | Eaglenest | |
| 120 | Black-eared Shrike-babbler | Pteruthius melanotis | Mishmi | |
| 121 | Black-headed Shrike-babbler | Pteruthius rufiventer | Eaglenest | |
| 122 | White-browed Shrike-babbler | Pteruthius flaviscapis | Eaglenest | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Oriolidae | ||||
| 123 | Maroon Oriole | Oriolus traillii | Sessa | |
| 24 | Black-hooded Oriole | Oriolus xanthornus | Nameri | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Dicruridae | ||||
| 125 | Black Drongo | Dicrurus macrocercus | Assam Plains | |
| 126 | Bronzed Drongo | Dicrurus aeneus | Joypur | |
| 127 | Lesser Racket-tailed Drongo | Dicrurus remifer | Mishmi | |
| 128 | Ashy Drongo | Dicrurus leucophaeus | Mishmi | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Rhipiduridae | ||||
| 129 | White-browed Fantail | Rhipidura aureola | Eaglenest | |
| 130 | Yellow-bellied Fantail | Rhipidura hypoxantha | Mishmi | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Laniidae | ||||
| 131 | Brown Shrike | Lanius cristatus | Assam plains | |
| 132 | Long-tailed Shrike | Lanius schach | Mandala | |
| 133 | Grey-backed Shrike | Lanius tephronotus | Mandala | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Corvidae | ||||
| 134 | Rufous Treepie | Dendrocitta vagabunda | Assam plains | |
| 135 | Collared Treepie | Dendrocitta frontalis | Roing / Digboi | |
| 136 | Yellow-billed Blue Magpie | Urocissa flavirostris | Mishmi | |
| 137 | Common Green Magpie | Cissa chinensis | Mishmi | |
| 138 | Eurasian Jay | Garrulus glandarius | Mishmi | |
| 139 | Eurasian Nutcracker | Nucifraga caryocatactes | Mandala | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Dicaeidae | ||||
| 140 | Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker | Dicaeum cruentatum | Digboi | |
| 141 | Fire-breasted Flowerpecker | Dicaeum ignipectus | Mishmi | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Nectariniidae | ||||
| 142 | Streaked Spiderhunter | Arachnothera magna | Sessa | |
| 143 | Ruby-cheeked Sunbird | Chalcoparia singalensis | Digboi | |
| 144 | Fire-tailed Sunbird | Aethopyga ignicauda | Sela Pass | |
| 145 | Black-throated Sunbird | Aethopyga saturata | Mishmi | |
| 146 | Green-tailed Sunbird | Aethopyga nipalensis | Common | |
| 147 | Mrs. Gould's Sunbird | Aethopyga gouldiae | Dirang/Eaglenest | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Irenidae | ||||
| 148 | Orange-bellied Leafbird | Chloropsis hardwickii | Sessa | |
| 149 | Golden-fronted Leafbird | Chloropsis aurifrons | Digboi | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Estrildidae | ||||
| 150 | Scaly-breasted Munia | Lonchura punctulata | Roing | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Motacillidae | ||||
| 151 | Olive-backed Pipit | Anthus hodgsoni | Eaglenest | |
| 152 | Paddyfield Pipit | Anthus rufulus | Dirang | |
| 153 | Yellow Wagtail | Motacilla flava | Maguri Beel | |
| 154 | Grey Wagtail | Motacilla cinerea | Eaglenest | |
| 155 | White-browed Wagtail | Motacilla maderaspatensis | Nameri | |
| 156 | White Wagtail | Motacilla alba | Nameri | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Fringillidae | ||||
| 157 | Spot-winged Grosbeak | Mycerobas melanozanthos | Sela Pass | |
| 158 | Common Rosefinch | Erythrina erythrina | Sela Pass | |
| 159 | Scarlet Finch | Haematospiza sipahi | Eaglenest | |
| 160 | Dark-rumped Rosefinch | Carpodacus edwardsii | Sela Pass | |
| 161 | Himalayan White- browed Rosefinch | Carpodacus thura | Sela Pass | |
| 162 | Grey-headed Bullfinch | Pyrrhula erythaca | Eaglenest | |
| 163 | Blanford's Rosefinch | Agraphospiza rubescens | Mandala | |
| 164 | Golden-naped Finch | Pyrrhoplectes epauletta | Mandala | |
| 165 | Dark-breasted Rosefinch | Procarduelis nipalensis | Mandala | |
| 166 | Plain Mountain Finch | Leucosticte nemoricola | Mandala | |
| 167 | Yellow-breasted Greenfinch | Chloris spinoides | Mandala | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Emberizidae | ||||
| 168 | Crested Bunting | Melophus lathami | Dirang | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Paridae | ||||
| 169 | Sultan Tit | Melanochlora sultanea | Eaglenest | |
| 170 | Coal Tit | Periparus ater | Mandala | |
| 171 | Rufous-vented Tit | Periparus rubidiventris | Mandala | |
| 172 | Green-backed Tit | Parus monticolus | Common | |
| 173 | Yellow-cheeked Tit | Machlolophus spilonotus | Mishmi | |
| 174 | Yellow-browed Tit | Sylviparus modestus | Mishmi | |
| 175 | Fire-capped Tit | Cephalopyrus flammiceps | Mandala | |
| 176 | Black-throated Tit | Aegithalos concinnus | Dirang | |
| 177 | Rufous-fronted Tit | Aegithalos iouschistos | Mandala | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Cisticolidae | ||||
| 178 | Golden-headed Cisticola | Cisticola exilis | Nizanghat | |
| 179 | Grey-breasted Prinia | Prinia hodgsonii | Mishmi | |
| 180 | Graceful Prinia | Prinia gracilis | Maguri Beel | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Locustellidae | ||||
| 181 | Striated Grassbird | Megalurus palustris | Maguri Beel | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Pnoepygidae | ||||
| 182 | Pygmy Wren Babbler | Pnoepyga pusilla | Mishmi Hills | |
| 183 | Scaly-breasted Wren Babbler | Pnoepyga albiventer | Mandala | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Hirundinidae | ||||
| 184 | Wire-tailed Swallow | Hirundo smithii | Maguri | |
| 185 | Barn Swallow | Hirundo rustica | Maguri | |
| 186 | Dusky Crag Martin | Ptyonoprogne concolor | Maguri | |
| 187 | Sand Martin | Riparia riparia | Nameri | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Pycnonotidae | ||||
| 188 | White-throated Bulbul | Alophoixus flaveolus | Joypur | |
| 189 | Ashy Bulbul | Hemixos flavala | Eaglenest | |
| 190 | Mountain Bulbul | Ixos mcclellandii | Eaglenest | |
| 191 | Black Bulbul | Hypsipetes leucocephalus | Mishmi/Eaglenst | |
| 192 | Striated Bulbul | Pycnonotus striatus | Eaglenest | |
| 193 | Red-whiskered Bulbul | Pycnonotus jocosus | Assam Plains | |
| 194 | Red-vented Bulbul | Pycnonotus cafer | Common | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Phylloscopidae | ||||
| 195 | Ashy-throated Warbler | Abrornis maculipennis | Mishmi | |
| 196 | Grey-cheeked Leaf Warbler | Seicercus poliogenys | Eaglenest | |
| 197 | Whistler's Leaf Warbler | Seicercus whistleri | Eaglenest | |
| 198 | Chestnut-crowned Leaf Warbler | Seicercus castaniceps | Eaglenest | |
| 199 | Large-billed Leaf Warbler | Seicercus magnirostris | Mandala | |
| 200 | Grey-hooded Leaf Warbler | Seicercus xanthoschistos | Dirang | |
| 201 | Rufous-faced Warbler | Abroscopus albogularis | Sessa | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Scotocercidae | ||||
| 202 | Slaty-bellied Tesia | Tesia olivea | Mandala | |
| 203 | Grey-sided Bush Warbler | Cettia brunnifrons | Mandala | |
| 204 | Chestnut-headed Tesia | Cettia castaneocoronata | Mandala | |
| 205 | Grey-bellied Tesia | Tesia cyaniventer | Eaglenest | |
| 206 | Brownish-flanked Bush-Warbler | Cettia fortipes | Sela Pass | |
| 207 | Yellowish-bellied Bush-Warbler | Cettia acanthizoides | Eaglenest | |
| 208 | Spotted Bush-Warbler | Bradypterus thoracicus | Maguri | |
| 209 | Russet Bush-Warbler | Bradypterus mandelli | Mandala | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Zosteropidae | ||||
| 210 | Striated Yuhina | Yuhina castaniceps | Mishmi Hills | |
| 211 | Black-chinned Yuhina | Yuhina nigrimenta | Mandala | |
| 212 | Stripe-throated Yuhina | Yuhina gularis | Mandala | |
| 213 | Whiskered Yuhina | Yuhina flavicollis | Mandala | |
| 214 | Rufous-vented Yuhina | Yuhina occipitalis | Mandala | |
| 215 | White-naped Yuhina | Yuhina bakeri | Mandala | |
| 216 | Oriental White-eye | Zosterops palpebrosus | Dirang | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Timaliidae | ||||
| 217 | Rufous-throated Wren Babbler | Spelaeornis caudatus | Near-threatened | Eaglenest |
| 218 | Rusty-throated Wren Babbler | Spelaeornis badeigularis | Vulnerable | Mishmi |
| 219 | Bar-winged Wren Babbler | Spelaeornis troglodytoides | Mishmi/Mandala | |
| 220 | Blackish-breasted Babbler | Sphenocichla humei | Near-threatened | Eaglenest |
| 221 | Chevron-breasted Babbler | Stachyris roberti | Near-threatened | Mishmi |
| 222 | White-browed Scimitar Babbler | Pomatorhinus schisticeps | Eaglenest | |
| 223 | Streak-breasted Scimitar Babbler | Pomatorhinus ruficollis | Eaglenest | |
| 224 | Large Scimitar Babbler | Erythrogenys hypoleucos | Joypur | |
| 225 | Golden Babbler | Cyanoderma chrysaeum | Nameri / Digboi | |
| 226 | Rufous-capped Babbler | Stachyridopsis ruficeps | Common | |
| 227 | Pin-striped Tit-babbler | Macronus gularis | Joypor/Nameri/Digboi | |
| 228 | Puff-throated Babbler | Pellorneum ruficeps | Joypor | |
| 229 | White-hooded Babbler | Gampsorhynchus rufulus | Eaglenest | |
| 230 | Yellow-throated Fulvetta | Pseudominla cinerea | Eaglenest | |
| 231 | Rufous-winged Fulvetta | Pseudominla castaneceps | Eaglenest | |
| 232 | Manipur Fulvetta | Fulvetta manipurensis | Mishmi Hills | |
| 233 | Brown-throated Fulvetta | Fulvetta ludlow | Mandala | |
| 234 | Golden-breasted Fulvetta | Lioparus chrysotis | Mishmi Hills | |
| 235 | Fire-tailed Myzornis | Myzornis pyrrhoura | Sela Pass | |
| 236 | Black-throated Parrotbill | Paradoxornis nipalensis | Mishmi Hills | |
| 237 | Lesser Rufous-headed Parrotbill | Paradoxornis atrosuperciliaris | Eaglenest | |
| 238 | Greater Rufous-headed Parrotbill | Paradoxornis ruficeps | Eaglenest | |
| 239 | Jungle Babbler | Turdoides striata | Eaglenest | |
| 240 | Himalayan Cutia | Cutia nipalensis | Eaglenest | |
| 241 | Greater Necklaced Laughing-thrush | Garrulax pectoralis | Joypor | |
| 242 | Chestnut-backed Laughingthrush | Garrulax nuchalis | Near-threatened | Digboi |
| 243 | White-throated Laughing-thrush | Garrulax albogularis | Mandala | |
| 244 | Grey-sided Laughing-thrush | Garrulax caerulatus | Eaglenest | |
| 245 | Rufous-necked Laughing-thrush | Garrulax ruficollis | Eaglenest | |
| 246 | Blue-winged Laughing-thrush | Trochalopteron squamatum | Eaglenest | |
| 247 | Bhutan Laughingthrush | Trochalopteron imbricatum | Eaglenest | |
| 248 | Black-faced Laughing-thrush | Trochalopteron affine | Eaglenest | |
| 249 | Chestnut-crowned Laughing-thrush | Trochalopteron erythrocephalum | Eaglenest | |
| 250 | Long-tailed Sibia | Heterophasia picaoides | Mishmi Hills / Sessa | |
| 251 | Beautiful Sibia | Heterophasia pulchella | Mishmi Hills / Mandala | |
| 252 | Rufous Sibia | Heterophasia capistrata | Mishmi Hills | |
| 253 | Silver-eared Mesia | Leiothrix argentauris | Joypur / Eaglenest | |
| 254 | Red-tailed Minla | Minla ignotincta | Eaglenest | |
| 255 | Red-faced Liocichla | Liocichla phoenicea | Eaglenest | |
| 256 | Bugun Liocichla | Liocichla bugunorum | Vulnerable | Eaglenest |
| 257 | Hoary-throated Barwing | Sibia nipalensis | Eaglenest | |
| 258 | Streak-throated Barwing | Sibia waldeni | Mishmi Hills | |
| 259 | Blue-winged Minla | Siva cyanouroptera | Eaglenest | |
| 260 | Chestnut-tailed Minla | Chrysominla strigula | Mandala | |
| 261 | Rusty-fronted Barwing | Actinodura egertoni | Eaglenest | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Sittidae | ||||
| 262 | White-tailed Nuthatch | Sitta himalayensis | Mishmi/Eaglenest | |
| 263 | Velvet-fronted Nuthatch | Sitta frontalis | Nameri | |
| 264 | Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch | Sitta cinnamoventris | Nameri | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Sturnidae | ||||
| 265 | Asian Pied Starling | Gracupica contra | Common | |
| 266 | Common Myna | Acridotheres tristis | Common | |
| 267 | Hill Myna | Gracula religiosa | Nameri | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Cinclidae | ||||
| 268 | Brown Dipper | Cinclus pallasii | Dirang | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Muscicapidae | ||||
| 269 | Oriental Magpie Robin | Copsychus saularis | Common | |
| 270 | White-rumped Shama | Kittacincla malabarica | Sessa | |
| 271 | Dark-sided Flycatcher | Muscicapa sibirica | Mandala | |
| 272 | Pale-chinned Blue Flycatcher | Cyornis poliogenys | Nameri | |
| 273 | Large Blue Flycatcher | Cyornis magnirostris | Eaglenest | |
| 274 | Blue-throated Blue Flycatcher | Cyornis rubeculoides | Sessa | |
| 275 | White-gorgetted Flycatcher | Anthipes monileger | Eaglenest | |
| 276 | Asian Verditer Flycatcher | Eumyias thalassinus | Common | |
| 277 | White-browed Shortwing | Brachypteryx montana | Mishmi Hills / Mandala | |
| 278 | Little Forktail | Enicurus scouleri | Sessa | |
| 279 | Black-backed Forktail | Enicurus immaculatus | Joypor | |
| 280 | Slaty-backed Forktail | Enicurus schistaceus | Sessa | |
| 281 | Blue Whistling Thrush | Myophonus caeruleus | Common | |
| 282 | Golden Bush Robin | Tarsiger chrysaeus | Mandala | |
| 283 | Rufous-breasted Bush Robin | Tarsiger hyperythrus | Eaglenest | |
| 284 | Taiga Flycatcher | Ficedula albicilla | Nameri | |
| 285 | Snowy-browed Flycatcher | Ficedula hyperythra | Eaglenest | |
| 286 | Rufous-gorgetted Flycatcher | Ficedula strophiata | Mandala | |
| 287 | Ultramarine Flycatcher | Ficedula superciliaris | Dirang | |
| 288 | Slaty-blue Flycatcher | Ficedula tricolor | Eaglenest | |
| 289 | Pygmy Blue Flycatcher | Ficedula hodgsoni | Eaglenest | |
| 290 | Blue-fronted Redstart | Adelura frontalis | Mandala | |
| 291 | Plumbeous Water Redstart | Rhyacornis fuliginosa | Common | |
| 292 | White-capped Water Redstart | Chaimarrornis leucocephalus | Sessa | |
| 293 | Daurian Redstart | Phoenicurus auroreus | Dirang | |
| 294 | Blue-capped Rock Thrush | Monticola cinclorhyncha | Common | |
| 295 | Chestnut-bellied Rock Thrush | Monticola rufiventris | Common | |
| 296 | Blue Rock Thrush | Monticola solitarius | Common | |
| 297 | Grey Bush Chat | Saxicola ferreus | Common | |
| PASSERIFORMES: Turdidae | ||||
| 298 | Green Cochoa | Cochoa viridis | Sessa | |
| 299 | Grey-winged Blackbird | Turdus boulboul | Eaglenest | |
| 300 | White-collared Blackbird | Turdus albocinctus | Eaglenest |
Very well written Tour report Aseem Sir
ReplyDeleteThank you Chewang sir, without you this trip would not have been possible.
DeleteIt is always a pleasure to read your very nicely written tour reports. It inspires people to go out and explore new areas and see the Exotic Birds.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Kaajal ji for reading and appreciating. Regards,
DeleteAssemji as always a fantastic naration and collection of photographs!!
ReplyDeleteAlok ji, it's all thanks to mother nature. Thank you so much for your kind appreciation. Regards,
DeleteSuperb trip report.
ReplyDeleteThank you Alka ji for appreciating. It was indeed nice meeting you, though briefly in Nameri. Regards
DeleteExcellent tour report and amazing photography. .it's really pleasing to read your tour report. .it is a guide to birder going there first time ..
ReplyDeleteThanks a lot for your appreciation Vilas. The place indeed is awesome and worth many visits... Happy Birding!
DeleteExcellent would be a small word to describe this report.
ReplyDeleteGlad you liked the report. Thank you very much for your kind words.
DeleteExcellent trip report Sir! images are superb too! Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for reading and appreciating the report, Rajkimar ji
DeleteSuperb photos and narration
ReplyDeleteThank you very much, glad you liked the report and photos
DeleteSuperb! I need some guidance for my travel this year
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, you can always write to me on my email id. Will surely pass on as much information I can. Happy Birding!
DeletePl inform us about the camera and other gears like lens you used in this tour.
ReplyDeleteHi, have used Telephoto lens mounted on DX frames. You can click at the link of the photos (Listing of sightings) at the end of the blog, which will take you to a page on Facebook. All possible details desired by you including EXIF is shared. Happy Birding!
DeleteArunachal Pradesh does look beautiful and scenic!
ReplyDeleteOh yes it’s one the most beautiful state and hope it remains. Thanks a lot!
Delete