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A Report from birdtours.co.uk

List of Birds Seen in India and Nepal,

Jos Stratford

5th December 2003 - 4th January 2004

The following list details all records of the 403 species seen during the month of my travels on the sub-continent. Names used are generally those as given in 'Birds of the Indian Subcontinent' by Grimmett et al, though where another name is in widespread use it is also given. Species order is in the 'standard' systematic order, rather than the (rather annoying) alternative order in the Grimmett guide.

For ease of reading, records are divided into those seen in India and those in Nepal. Finally, in some cases, for species very common or widespread, a summary of total records is given, rather than listing every single bird.

Little Grebe *

India. With about 40 daily, Little Grebes were common on the jheels at Keoladeo National Park. In the Ranthambhore area, ten were noted on a lake inside the national park and about 15 at Soorwal Lake.

Great Crested Grebe * Podiceps cristatus

India. Just two birds were seen - both on Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Darter *

India. Abundant at Keoladeo National Park, with at least a hundred seen daily, including many nesting pairs. Elsewhere, a single noted on the Ramanga Dam at Corbett National Park

Nepal. The only two records were two singles on pools near Tiger Tops at Chitwan.

Little Cormorant *

India. Occurring in their hundreds and breeding, Keoladeo National Park was the best locality for this species. Otherwise, the sole record in India was of a pair at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Nepal. On the big rivers, Little Cormorants were seen at both Bardia and Chitwan - up to four each day on the Karnali and up to five on the Rapti.

Indian Cormorant *

India. Other than six at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore, Indian Cormorants were only noted at Keoladeo National Park. There, however, as with the previous species, this bird was abundant, with hundreds seen at the colonies and around the jheels.

Great Cormorant *

India. Though pairs were noted in the breeding colonies, this species was not abundant at Keoladeo National Park and daily counts were in the tens rather than hundreds. In the Corbett and Ramnagar areas, however, it was the only cormorant seen and the records consisted of at least 65 on Ramanga Dam and five on the Kosi River.

Nepal. All on the Rapti River, three were seen at Chitwan and 14 at Hetauda.

Great White Pelican *

India. Giving poor views due to the shimmering heat haze, six birds were noted on a sandbank right in the centre of Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore. None at Bharatpur.

Little Egret *

India. Less common than expected. Perhaps overlooked to a degree, only about five were seen daily at Keoladeo National Park, while further records consisted of five at Soorwal Lake, two in Ranthambhore National Park, four on the Kosi River and up to 18 around the Ramanga Dam at Corbett National Park. In addition, occasionals were noted from the train on route from Bharatpur to Ranthambhore and back towards Delhi again.

Nepal. The best numbers were along the Rapti River - about 15 daily at Chitwan and a flock of 45 at Hetauda. Elsewhere, two singles were noted at Bardia and four along the Bagmati River near Kathmandu.

Great White Egret *

India. Abundant at Keoladeo National Park, with totals exceeding a hundred on a daily basis. Five were also seen in Ranthambhore National Park, two at the nearby Soorwal Lake and up to ten on Ramanga Dam in Corbett National Park. Several were also seen from the train window between Bharatpur and Ranthambhore.

Nepal. Only noted at Chitwan, where one or two were seen each day.

Intermediate Egret *

India. As with Great White Egret, this species was abundant at Bharatpur, occurring in large numbers each day. Elsewhere, the only record was four on Ramanga Dam, Corbett.

Cattle Egret *

India. Though commonly seen when travelling across the Ganges plain, relatively small numbers were seen at the birding localities visited - about ten daily at Keoladeo National Park and about 40 at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Nepal. Occasionals were noted throughout the lowland Terai, but otherwise the only records were five at Chitwan and about 45 along the Bagmati River in Kathmandu.

Indian Pond Heron *

India. Fairly common and widespread. About 35 were seen daily in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, three in Ranthambhore National Park, four along the Kosi River at Ramnagar and up to six each day at Corbett. Additionally, several were noted whilst travelling across the Ganges plain.

Nepal. Recorded at all sites visited in the Terai, with five daily at Bardia, up to nine each day at Chitwan and two at Hetauda. In the Kathmandu area, the only birds seen were 12 along the Bagmati River.

Grey Heron *

India. As well as about 40 daily at Keoladeo National Park, a single was seen at Soorwal Lake and up to four each day at Ramanga Dam in Corbett.

Purple Heron *

India. Though only seen at Keoladeo National Park, Purple Herons were fairly common there, with about 20 noted daily.

Green-backed Heron(Little Heron) *

Nepal. Total records consisted of two singles on the Karnali River at Bardia, a single on a pool at Chitwan and another by the Rapti River at Hetauda.

Black-crowned Night Heron *

India. In the lakeside trees near the temple at Keoladeo National Park, about 40 birds were seen at roost on each visit. Elsewhere, two birds were also seen in Ranthambhore National Park.

Black Bittern *

India. Seen just before dusk, a single gave good views on a small pool along the Ramband Trail at Keoladeo National Park.

Painted Stork *

India. The huge breeding colonies of Painted Storks at Keoladeo National Park were undoubtedly the highlight of this wetland. Along both the main trail and Ramband jheel, the colonies comprised of many hundreds of birds, with greater numbers also coming in at dusk. Other than feeding birds in surrounding farmland, the only records away from Keoladeo National Park were two seen from the train near Ranthambhore.

Asian Openbill *

India. Mixed in with the Painted Storks, about 50 were seen daily at Keoladeo National Park.

Nepal. At Chitwan, three were seen on the floodplain of the Rapti River and four on pools near Tiger Tops.

Woolly-necked Stork *

India. As well as about 15 daily at Keoladeo National Park, up to seven were seen each day dropping onto the streams and pools in the grassland in front of Dhikala at Corbett.

Nepal. Both records in the lowland Terai, three were noted at Bardia and two at Chitwan.

Black Stork *

India. Only seen at Corbett, with five on the stream in front of Dhikala camp on the first day and a single at the same place the next day.

Nepal. Circling above the Rapti River, a flock of 11 were noted at Chitwan.

Black-necked Stork *

India. Pairs or singles were seen each day at Keoladeo National Park, though only 11 birds were noted in total over the four days. Elsewhere, the only record was of a pair on two occasions adjacent to Dhikala Camp at Corbett.

Lesser Adjutant *

Nepal. All at Chitwan, three were seen in flight over the Rapti River and two on pools on route to Tiger Tops.

Eurasian Spoonbill *

India. Abundant at Keoladeo National Park - a single flock of about 250 birds was noted not far from the main track and up to forty daily elsewhere in the reserve. Away from Bharatpur, the only record was of about 35 at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Glossy Ibis *

India. One record only - a pair at Keoladeo National Park.

Black-necked Ibis *

India. As well as good numbers in surrounding farmland, at least 150 were seen daily at Keoladeo National Park. Elsewhere, however, the only birds were ten at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Black Ibis *

Nepal. Following a total of ten along the rivers at Bardia, 16 were also noted along the Rapti River at Chitwan and a further single near Tiger Tops.

Greylag Goose *

India. Flocks of at least 600 birds were seen on the jheels in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, particularly on the Ramband jheel. In addition, two singles were noted with the Bar-headed Geese at Soorwal Lark near Ranthambhore.

Bar-headed Goose *

India. Favouring a jheel not far from the main track, a flock of about 200 birds was seen daily in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur. A flock of about 150 was also seen on the agricultural margins to Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Lesser Whistling-Duck *

India. Up to 60 were noted daily in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, most abundant on the Ramband jheel.

Ruddy Shelduck *

India. A scatter of records, including four on a lake in Ranthambhore National Park, about 60 at the nearby Soorwal Lake, 35 on the Kosi River at Ramnagar and five at Ramanga in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Recorded at all lowland sites visited in Nepal - about ten on the river at Bardia, up to 45 daily at Chitwan and about 25 along the Rapti at Hetauda.

Common Shelduck *

India. Eight birds were seen at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Comb Duck *

India. Best numbers were in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, where up to 30 were noted daily. Elsewhere, ten were also seen at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Pygmy Goose *

India. With up to 40 a day, Pygmy Geese were fairly common in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, particularly on the Ramband jheel. Four were also recorded at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Gadwall *

India. The most abundant of the ducks in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, flocks of at least 400 were noted on the Ramband jheel and smaller numbers throughout the reserve. A minimum of 250 were also present at Soorwal Lake (though only a small part of this large lake was counted).

Nepal. Three birds only, on the river at Hetauda.

Eurasian Wigeon *

India. About 80 were seen daily in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur and another 40 at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore

Mallard *

India. Three birds on the Kosi River at Ramnagar were the only birds seen on the whole trip.

Spot-billed Duck *

India. Scattered around the jheels, about 150 were seen each day in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur. Additionally, 20 were found at Soorwal Lake.

Common Teal *

India. Surprisingly, there were no Teal seen in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur. At Soorwal Lake, however, at least 500 were present and 14 were also seen at Ramanga in Corbett National Park.

Garganey *

India. One record only - a single at Soorwal Lake.

Northern Pintail *

India. Abundant at both Bharatpur and Soorwal Lake, approximate counts totalled about 200 daily at the two sites.

Northern Shoveler *

India. With at least 300 daily in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur and a similar number at Soorwal Lake, Pintail were one of the most numerous ducks present.

Red-crested Pochard *

India. The only records were in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, where 12 were seen near the temple and four on the Ramband jheel. Others were possibly overlooked in the duck flocks.

Common Pochard *

India. With about 40 daily, Pochards were reasonably common in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur. The only other record consisted of six birds at Soorwal Lake.

Ferruginous Duck *

India. Favouring the Ramband jheel, about 40 were seen on each visit to the wetland.

Tufted Duck *

India. On both occasions on the Ramband jheel, the two records in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur consisted of flocks of three and eight birds. Elsewhere, two were also noted at Soorwal Lake.

Goosander (Common Merganser) *

India. A flock of 18 birds was seen on the Kosi River at Ramnagar.

Nepal. As well as a single on the Karnali River at Bardia, up to 22 were seen daily on the Rapti River at Chitwan.

Oriental Honey Buzzard *

India. Fairly widespread. Records included a pair and juvenile at Bharatpur, an additional single at the same location, a pair and a single at Ranthambhore, two at Ramnagar and one at Corbett.

Nepal. Singles were seen on two occasions at Bardia.

Osprey *

India. Hunting around the Ramanga Dam and perched on dead trees, two Ospreys were seen at Corbett on the first day and a total of three on the next.

Nepal. Singles were noted along the Karnali River at Bardia and on two occasions on the Rapti River at Chitwan.

Black-shouldered Kite *

India. Common in the drier grasslands at Bharatpur, at least ten were seen beyond Python Point and occasionals elsewhere in the reserve. Otherwise, the only records were one at Ranthambhore, a few in agricultural areas across the Ganges plain and up to five each day on the floodplain of the Ramanga River at Corbett.

Black Kite *

India. Other than in Delhi, where abundant throughout the city, Black Kites were surprisingly few and far between - the only records were about five daily at Ramnagar (in the town and along the river) and a single each day at Naini Tal.

Nepal. Black Kites were numerous in urban Kathmandu, the best numbers being about 40 along the Bagmati River and at least 50 above the Swayambhunath temple complex. Away from the Kathmandu Valley, however, the only records were a couple of singles in the Terai en route from Bardia, one at Chitwan and two along the Rapti River at Hetauda.

Pallas's Fish Eagle *

India. At a traditional site for the species, a single adult bird was seen at Ramanga Lake in Corbett National Park.

Grey-headed Eagle *

Nepal. In Chitwan, on the Rapti River near Tiger Tops, an adult gave excellent views as it perched in riverside trees.

Lesser Fish Eagle *

India. Two birds were seen - a wintering immature on the Ramband jheel at Bharatpur and one alongside the lake in Corbett National Park

Lammergeier *

India. In the Naini Tal area, two were seen over the high ridge at Cheena Peak and a single drifted over the Mongoli Valley.

Egyptian Vulture *

India. Following three in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur and a single over nearby farmland, four were also seen along the Kosi River at Ramnagar.

White-rumped Vulture *

India. Following a disease that has ravaged vulture populations in India, the only sightings of this formerly abundant species were of two at Ranthambhore, two above the river at Ramnagar and a single in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Rising on a morning thermal, five were seen over the Karnali River at Bardia.

Long-billed Vulture *

India. Only seen at Ranthambhore, where two were seen near the entrance on the first day and a single two days later.

Nepal. With White-rumped Vultures, at least one was noted over the Karnali River at Bardia.

Himalayan Griffon Vulture *

India. Less abundant than expected - the only record was a pair drifting over Cheena Peak at Naini Tal (Eurasian Griffons were also seen here).

Eurasian Griffon Vulture *

India. Widespread in the Himalayan foothills, with total records consisting of two at Ramnagar, up to three each day in Corbett National Park (sunning on the grasslands in front of Dhikala Camp) and, in the Naini Tal area, four over Cheena Peak and two in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Two records - a pair in Bardia National Park and a single near the summit at Nagarjung in the Kathmandu Valley.

Eurasian Black Vulture (Cinereous Vulture) *

India. Favouring the area around Dhikala, a total of six were seen in Corbett National Park.

Red-headed Vulture *

India. The most abundant of the vultures in India, seen at all sites visited. Total records consisted of two at Bharatpur, one or two each day at Ranthambhore, two at Ramnagar, up to eight daily at Corbett and a single at Sat Tal in the Naini Tal area.

Crested Serpent Eagle *

India. A total of four birds were noted - singles at Ranthambhore and Ramnagar and a pair in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Singles were seen on two occasions at Chitwan.

Black Eagle *

Nepal. Soaring above the quarry area, an adult was seen on my second visit to Phulchowki Mountain in the Kathmandu Valley.

Eurasian Marsh Harrier *

India. The best location was Bharatpur, where up to four were noted daily. Elsewhere, singles were also seen at Soorwal Lake and in Corbett National Park.

Pied Harrier *

India. One of the most stunning raptors of the trip, an adult male was watched at length quartering the grasslands in front of Dhikala Camp in Corbett National Park. An immature male was also on the same place.

Hen Harrier *

India. Sharing the grasslands with the above species, a total of four Hen Harriers were seen at Dhikala in Corbett National Park.

Shikra *

India. Single birds were seen each day in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, either in the woodlands or along the vegetated bunds between the jheels.

Nepal. One sighting only - a lone bird at Sheopuri in the Kathmandu Valley.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk *

India. Three widely dispersed records - singles at Ranthambhore, Ramnagar and Naini Tal.

Nepal. On one occasion only, a single was noted at Chitwan.

Common Buzzard *

India. Naini Tal provided the only sighting in India, with a single in the Sat Tal valley.

Nepal. Sharing a thermal with several other raptors, one Common Buzzard was noted at Nagarjung in the Kathmandu Valley.

Lesser Spotted Eagle *

India. In my four days at Bharatpur, a total of five Lesser Spotted Eagles were positively identified, occurring both in the jheels and in the drier areas beyond Python Point.

Greater Spotted Eagle *

India. This impressive eagle appeared to be more common than Lesser Spotted Eagle at Bharatpur and was seen daily, with a maximum of four hunting the jheel along the main trail.

Steppe Eagle *

India. The most abundant of the eagles seen in India, with records at all sites visited except Ranthambhore. Generally, one to two birds were seen daily, though this was up to three at Corbett.

Nepal. Not seen in the lowland Terai, but there were a number of sightings in the Kathmandu Valley - two at Nagarjung and singles along the Bagmati River, at Sheopuri and over Kathmandu itself.

Bonelli's Eagle *

India. A pair of Booted Eagles were seen in Corbett National Park.

Booted Eagle *

Nepal. A single at Nagarjung in the Kathmandu Valley was the only record of the trip.

Changeable Hawk Eagle *

India. Giving good views, a perched individual at Corbett was the only positively identified individual. A possible was also seen along the Kosi River at Ramnagar.

Nepal. A single was seen on one occasion at Chitwan.

Mountain Hawk Eagle *

India. Two birds were identified - singles at Kumeria and at Corbett (the latter being seen within minutes of a Changeable Hawk Eagle).

Nepal. At widely separated localities, one was seen at Bardia National Park and another at Nagarjung in the Kathmandu Valley.

Collared Falconet *

India. This amazing little raptor was fairly common at Corbett, with a single seen on the first day and four different individuals on the next.

Nepal. A single bird was seen near Tiger Tops at Chitwan.

Common Kestrel *

India. As well as occasionals seen from train windows while crossing the Ganges plain, one was seen in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur and two in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. In the Terai, one was noted at Bardia and two adjacent to the Rapti River at Chitwan.

Red-necked Falcon *

Nepal. Seen on one occasion, a single gave good views as it sped across the grassland adjacent to the Rapti River at Chitwan.

Oriental Hobby *

India. Seen rather briefly, a single Oriental Hobby was noted in Corbett National Park.

Peregrine Falcon *

India. Perched in a riverside tree, a 'babylonicus' race Peregrine was seen along the Kosi River at Ramnagar.

Nepal. Peregrines were seen on two occasions in Nepal - fist, a single was seen to catch a Pied Starling at Bardia, then later another was noted at Chitwan. Both were of the 'peregrinator' race.

Black Francolin *

India. The only record was of a female flushed from grassland in Corbett National Park.

Grey Francolin *

India. Common at both Bharatpur and Ranthambhore, with up to 15 daily at the first locality and up to seven per day at the latter.

Rock Bush Quail *

India. At Ranthambhore, a single was flushed whilst walking in the semi-desert behind Tiger Moon Resort.

Small Buttonquail *

India. Darting across the track and pausing just long enough to give views, a single Small Buttonquail was seen not far from Dhikala Camp in Corbett National Park.

Hill Partridge *

India. On the outskirts of Naini Tal town (near the checkpoint), a pair were seen scurrying up a well-wooded slope.

Red Junglefowl *

India. Sounding every bit like a standard farmyard chicken, the first Red Junglefowls were heard in vegetation alongside the Kosi River at Ramnagar. Thereafter, this smart-looking bird was seen on both days in Corbett National Park (about six the first day and eight the next).

Nepal. Fairly common in the forests at both Bardia and Chitwan, up to eight were seen daily at both locations.

Painted Spurfowl *

India. The only record was a female drinking at a waterhole just after dawn in Ranthambhore National Park.

Indian Peafowl *

India. With at least 45 recorded on each visit, Indian Peafowl were particularly abundant in Ranthambhore National Park. Elsewhere, up to five were also noted daily at Bharatpur, but just two in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Present in the lowland forests at both Bardia and Chitwan, but in low densities - a single pair was seen at Bardia and a total of five at Chitwan.

Kalij Pheasant *

India. Two pairs were seen in Corbett National Park and, in the Naini Tal area, singles at Sat Tal and in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Relatively common. Records included a party of four at Chitwan and, in the Kathmandu Valley, four on Phulchowki Mountain, a pair and a single at Nagarjung and three at Sheopuri.

Brown Crake *

India. Favouring a small pool just before the gateway arch, two Brown Crakes were seen on a couple of occasions at Ranthambhore National Park

Nepal. In the early morning at Chitwan, a single was seen at the second river crossing on the way to Tiger Tops.

White-breasted Waterhen *

India. Abundant in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, where up to 25 were seen daily. Otherwise, the only records were two singles at Ranthambhore.

Nepal. A total of three were seen - one at Bardia and two at Chitwan.

Purple Swamphen (Purple Gallinule) *

India. Not as abundant in Keoladeo National Park as in some years - the best counts were 18 near the temple and about ten on the Ramband jheel. A single bird was also seen at Corbett.

Common Moorhen *

India. With at least 300 seen daily, Moorhens were one of the commonest birds throughout Keoladeo National Park. Elsewhere, up to 15 were also seen each day at Ranthambhore.

Common Coot *

India. Favouring the Ramband jheel, a total of about 600 Coots were recorded at Bharatpur. In the Ranthambhore area, four were also seen in the reserve and about 50 at Soorwal Lake.

Sarus Crane *

India. A very large and stately bird! A total of three pairs were seen in the confines of Keoladeo National Park.

Common Crane *

India. The only record in India was of calling birds in Keoladeo National Park.

Nepal. Migrating down the Rapti River, a flock of 30 Common Cranes was seen at Chitwan.

Pheasant-tailed Jacana *

India. Despite good water levels in the current year, the preceding two years of drought at Bharatpur had resulted in an exodus of this species and very few had returned - singles were seen on the wetland beyond the temple and about ten on the Ramband jheel.

Bronze-winged Jacana *

India. With up to 15 seen daily in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, this species was a little more common than Pheasant-tailed Jacana.

Ibisbill *

Nepal. A stunning bird - one of the highlights of the trip. At the traditional site on the Rapti River below Hetauda, a flock of 12 were watched at length whilst feeding on a shingle bank and in the shallow river. This was all the more pleasing for the fact that I had failed to find them at Ramnagar in India.

Black-winged Stilt *

India. Abundant across the Ganges plain, including on roadside pools and sewage overflows on the outskirts of towns. At Keoladeo National Park itself, Black-winged Stilts were less common than in the surrounding area and less than ten were seen most days. At Ranthambhore, small numbers were seen inside the reserve and at least 80 at Soorwal Lake.

Avocet *

India. The only record was a flock of about 45 at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Eurasian Thick-knee *

India. In the arid approaches to Soorwal Lake, five Eurasian Thick-knees were found sheltering under a bush.

Small Pratincole *

Nepal. All along the Rapti River, three were seen at Chitwan and a flock of about 70 roosting on a shingle island at Hetauda.

Little Ringed Plover *

India. The only record in India was a single along the Kosi River at Ramnagar.

Nepal. Fairly common on the rivers in the Terai - at least six at Bardia, up to eight at Chitwan and a total of 18 at Hetauda.

Common Ringed Plover *

India. One bird was seen at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Long-billed Plover *

Nepal. Roosting on a bank of shingle and short turf, a flock of eight was seen alongside the Karnali River at Bardia.

River Lapwing *

India. Common in the Ramnagar area, with about eight along the Kosi River, another four further up the river at Kumeria and about six each day at Dhikala in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Seen on all the main rivers in the Terai with daily maximums of six at Bardia, two at Chitwan and eight at Hetauda. In addition, two were seen on the river at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

Grey-headed Lapwing *

Nepal. At a regular wintering site, five birds were seen alongside the river at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

Red-wattled Lapwing *

India. A very common bird. In addition to many in agricultural areas across the Ganges plain, about 40 were seen daily in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, at least 15 at Ranthambhore, ten at Soorwal Lake and, in the Himalayan foothills, six along the Kosi River at Ramnagar and at least 14 at Dhikala in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Up to four were seen daily along the rivers at both Bardia and Chitwan.

White-tailed Lapwing *

India. Without doubt, the best wader seen in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, five birds were seen on the small marsh at Sapanmori (west of the main track).

Little Stint *

India. Recorded only at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore, but extremely common there - in the part of the lake visited, an absolute minimum of about 600 were seen on the muddy fringes.

Temminck's Stint *

India. At least 30 were noted at Soorwal Lake, with more undoubtedly present around the parts of the lake not visited.

Nepal. Three were seen along the Karnali River at Bardia, whilst up to ten were noted each day along the Rapti River at both Chitwan and Hetauda.

Ruff *

India. A minimum of 100 birds were recorded at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Pintail Snipe *

Nepal. Although overall snipe numbers were low and several flushed without giving good enough views to identify, it appeared that Pintail Snipe were in fact more frequent than Common Snipe. Positively identified birds included two on the floodplain of the Rapti at Chitwan and one in marshes alongside the river at Bagmati. In addition, 'probables' included another at Chitwan and a further two at Bagmati.

Common Snipe *

Nepal. The only bird seen clearly enough to identify with certainty was a single on the floodplain of the Rapti River at Chitwan, though another snipe at the same locality was also thought to have been this species.

Black-tailed Godwit *

India. Ten birds at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore were the only ones seen on the whole trip.

Common Redshank *

India. The only birds recorded in India were six at Bharatpur and another six at Soorwal Lake.

Nepal. On the Karnali River at Bardia, three birds were seen on the first day and five on the next.

Marsh Sandpiper *

India. Very few records - one or two were seen most days at Bharatpur (mostly on the Ramband jheel) and then a single along the Kosi River at Ramnagar.

Common Greenshank *

India. After seeing just a single bird at Bharatpur, Greenshanks became more common in the Ramnagar area - in addition to at least six along the Kosi River, twos and threes were seen around Ramanga Lake in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Fairly common in the Terai - up to six were seen daily at Bardia, Chitwan and Hetauda.

Green Sandpiper *

India. Though typically in small numbers, Green Sandpipers were one of the most widespread of waders in India. As well as a few on pools in agricultural and urban areas, about five were seen at both Bharatpur and Ranthambhore, at least 15 along the Kosi River at Ramnagar, a couple at Kumeria and two on both days in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Recorded at all river sites visited, with daily maximums of four at Bardia, five at Chitwan and eight at Hetauda.

Wood Sandpiper *

India. Recorded only at Keoladeo National Park (up to six daily) and in Ranthambhore National Park (two birds).

Common Sandpiper *

India. The scatter of records included singles at Ranthambhore and the nearby Soorwal Lake, five along the river at Ramnagar and three at Dhikala in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Along the rivers, three were seen each day at Bardia, five at Hetauda and three at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

Yellow-legged Gull *

India. At least five were noted at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Gull-billed Tern *

India. A single in Ranthambhore National Park was the only bird was seen.

River Tern *

India. Two records - a single on a pool in Ranthambhore National Park and another at the nearby Soorwal Lake.

Painted Sandgrouse *

India. One of the highlights of the semi-desert adjacent to Ranthambhore, Painted Sandgrouse are easily seen at their drinking pools just before dusk. The best pool is behind Tiger Moon resort and a minimum of 30 were seen there. A brief visit to a second pool near the road to the national park revealed at least two birds there too.

Rock Dove (Rock Pigeon) *

India. Common to abundant at all sites visited, with daily minimums ranging from about 15 in Corbett National Park to over 60 per day at Ranthambhore.

Nepal. Not recorded in the Terai, but common in the Kathmandu Valley, especially in the city itself where several hundred were attracted by feeding at several of the temples.

Oriental Turtle Dove *

India. Following two in agricultural fields at Kumeria north of Ramnagar, a total of five were seen at Naini Tal.

Laughing Dove *

India. Very much a bird of the lowlands - up to 30 were noted daily in the Bharatpur and Ranthambhore areas, whereas only five were seen at Ramnagar and just two pairs at Corbett.

Nepal. Abundant at Bardia, where at least 40 were seen each day, but unrecorded elsewhere.

Spotted Dove *

India. Widespread in small numbers - as well as up to four on each visit to Ranthambhore National Park, about 14 were seen along the Kosi River at Kumeria and Ramnagar, plus a couple of pairs in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. The most frequently seen dove in the Terai, 20 to 30 were typically seen daily in the Bardia, Chitwan and Hetauda areas, as well as on transit between these sites.

Eurasian Collared Dove *

India. A total of six were noted at Bharatpur, four at Ranthambhore, about 15 at Soorwal Lake and 12 at Ramnagar.

Nepal. The only record was a single pair at Chitwan.

Emerald Dove *

India. Not giving the best of views, a single was flushed in Corbett National Park and then promptly went shooting off into the forest undergrowth.

Pompadour Green Pigeon *

Nepal. Frequently heard calling at Chitwan, but the only close views were of a flock of five feeding in a fruiting tree near the checkpoint en route to Tiger Tops.

Yellow-footed Green Pigeon *

India. The best locality was Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur - here, on two occasions, flocks of over 30 birds were encountered, giving excellent views. In addition, five were also seen in Ranthambhore National Park.

Nepal. Five were seen at Bardia.

Alexandrine Parakeet *

India. Both records were in national parks - five at Ranthambhore and a single at Corbett.

Nepal. Only seen at Chitwan, where pairs were seen on two occasions.

Rose-ringed Parakeet *

India. With numerous flocks and daily minimums of at least 250, Rose-ringed Parakeets were especially common at Bharatpur. Elsewhere, a minimum of 80 per day were seen at Ranthambhore and frequent small flocks in villages and agricultural areas across the Ganges plain. In the foothills, however, they were not very common and the only records were four at Kumeria, four also at Corbett and three at Sat Tal.

Nepal. Records consisted of 17 at Bardia and a nightly roost of about 100 on the outskirts of Meghauli village at Chitwan, as well as up to about 35 daily elsewhere in Chitwan National Park.

Slaty-headed Parakeet *

India. Probably the smartest of the parakeets, a flock of 12 was seen at Kumeria near Ramnagar and, in the Naini Tal area, 14 at Sat Tal and about 35 in the Mongoli Valley.

Plum-headed Parakeet *

India. Attracted by regular feeding at the entrance gate to Ranthambhore National Park, flocks of 22 and 15 were seen amongst the large numbers of Rose-ringed Parakeets on my two visits to the reserve.

Red-breasted Parakeet *

India. Only seen at Sat Tal, where a large flock of at least 60 had congregated into a tree adjacent to the lake. Though very noisy, the birds were in fact very difficult to see and had it not been for the noise would have gone unnoticed.

Common Hawk Cuckoo *

India. Three different individuals were noted at scattered localities around Bharatpur.

Nepal. A single bird was seen at Chitwan.

Greater Coucal *

India. With up to eight a day, Bharatpur was the best locality for Greater Coucals. Elsewhere, singles were also seen at Ranthambhore, Ramnagar and in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Two were seen at Bardia.

Lesser Coucal *

Nepal. Two records, both in marshland adjacent to watercourses - the first being at Bardia and the next at Chitwan.

Collared Scops Owl *

India. Two Collared Scops Owls, cuddling up together and giving good photo opportunities, were seen at their regular roost in an acacia tree above the main track between the jheels in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur.

Dusky Eagle Owl *

India. Local guides know all the nest sites and roosts and so this species is easily seen in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur. In total, three birds were seen sitting on their nests, as well as an off-duty adult at one of the sites and, additionally, a single bird found by chance alongside a jheel.

Brown Fish Owl *

India. Singles were seen on consecutive days not far from Dhikala in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Stunning views were obtained of a single perched in a tree near Tree Tops at Chitwan.

Asian Barred Owlet *

India. Roosting in a roadside tree near the Eureka Forbes factory, this was virtually the first bird of the day at Sat Tal and was found due to the mobbing of small birds. In addition, birds were heard calling each night in Naini Tal town.

Jungle Owlet *

Nepal. Three single birds were seen - one on a wooded island in the Karnali River at Bardia and two in the community forests in the buffer zone at Chitwan.

Spotted Owlet *

India. At a traditional roost alongside the main track towards the temple, a single was seen on two occasions at Bharatpur. In addition, a pair were seen in Ranthambhore National Park.

Nepal. Hunting from roadside wires and hovering on the spot, one bird was seen in farmland at dusk just below Phulchowki in the Kathmandu Valley.

Brown Hawk Owl *

India. Giving very good views, a single was seen at roost in the small forest nursery across the road from the main entrance at Bharatpur (not the forest nursery inside the reserve).

Nepal. Heard calling each night and seen hunting from low perches adjacent to the camp fire, a co-operative Brown Hawk Owl was one of the garden highlights at Chital Lodge at Chitwan.

Large-tailed Nightjar *

India. Excellent views were obtained of a roosting bird in the Nil Tal woodlands in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur. As with the owls, guides can generally show you this species at roost.

Himalayan Swiftlet *

India. At least four were seen high above Ramanga Lake in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Seen both days along the Karnali River at Bardia, a total of eight were recorded.

White-rumped Needletail *

India. As with Himalayan Swiftlets, this species was seen hawking high above Ramanga Lake at Corbett - a single flock of about 12 birds was recorded.

House Swift *

India. The dispersed records, mostly in urban areas, included six in Bharatpur town, at least eight in Ramnagar town and about four in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Four records only - single sightings of five at Bardia and two at Hetauda and, in the Kathmandu Valley, about ten at Phulchowki and four at Sheopuri.

Alpine Swift *

Nepal. A flock of at least 40 were seen over the Karnali River at Bardia.

Crested Treeswift *

Nepal. One of the specialities of Chitwan, flocks were seen on two occasions - groups of six and seven on consecutive days.

Red-headed Trogon *

Nepal. One of the 'must-sees' at Chitwan, a stunning male duly obliged and gave good, but brief views in the forest east of Tiger Tops.

Common Kingfisher *

India. Recorded at almost all localities visited, with the best numbers being along the Kosi River at Ramnagar (at least six birds) and in Bharatpur and Corbett National Parks (up to three daily). Singles were also noted at Ranthambhore and Sat Tal.

Nepal. Seen throughout the Terai, daily maximums were six at Bardia, three at Chitwan and one at Hetauda.

Stork-billed Kingfisher *

Nepal. Fairly common on the rivers at both Bardia and Chitwan, up to four were seen daily at the first of these sites and two at the latter.

Black-capped Kingfisher *

Nepal. One of the top birds on the whole trip, a single bird was seen on a tributary of the Karnali River at Bardia.

White-throated Kingfisher *

India. The most abundant of the kingfishers. Up to 15 were seen daily at Bharatpur and up to three per day at all other localities visited, except the Naini Tal area where the only record was a single at Sat Tal.

Nepal. In the lowlands, up to five were seen daily at Bardia and Chitwan, plus one at Hetauda. In addition, singles were seen at Phulchowki and Bagmati, both in the Kathmandu Valley.

Crested Kingfisher *

India. This dramatic giant was common in the Ramnagar area, with six along the Kosi River (near the town and at Kumeria) and about five in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. One record - a single on the Karnali River at Bardia.

Pied Kingfisher *

India. Surprisingly few seen - the only records were five on the Kosi River at Ramnagar and a total of about seven around Ramanga Lake in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. All along the Rapti River and adjacent pools, up to five were seen daily at Chitwan and the same number at Hetauda.

Blue-bearded Bee-eater *

Nepal. Another Chitwan speciality, a pair gave good views in the community forest in the buffer zone and a single near Tiger Tops in the heart of the reserve.

Green Bee-eater *

India. Only noted in the Ranthambhore area, where two were noted in the semi-desert behind Tiger Moon resort and a flock of eight at Soorwal Lake.

Nepal. Near the football pitch, eight birds were seen in Meghauli village on the fringes of Chitwan National Park.

Indian Roller *

India. Up to five were seen daily at Bharatpur, mostly in the grasslands beyond Python Point.

Nepal. The only sightings were a pair at Bardia and a single at Chitwan.

Common Hoopoe *

India. Singles or pairs were seen almost daily at Bharatpur, Ranthambhore, Ramnagar and Corbett National Park. None were seen in the Naini Tal area.

Nepal. Two singles only - one at Bardia and another at Chitwan.

Indian Grey Hornbill *

India. Other than three in the Kumeria forests near Ramnagar, all sightings were in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur - favouring the forest nursery, up to five were seen each day, attracted by fruiting figs.

Nepal. Five birds were seen at Bardia.

Oriental Pied Hornbill *

Nepal. Often in the garden of Chital Lodge and along the adjacent stream, eight birds were seen at Chitwan on the first day and up to three on subsequent days.

Great Barbet *

India. All in the Naini Tal area, two were noted at Sat Tal and a single in Naini Tal town itself.

Nepal. Very vocal and associating with Blue-throated Barbets, seven were seen in a single flock at Nagarjung.

Brown-headed Barbet *

India. At Bharatpur, up to three Brown-headed Barbets were seen on each to the forest nursery, the birds being attracted by a fruiting fig.

Lineated Barbet *

India. In the Himalayan foothills, one was seen at Kumeria (near Ramnagar) and two at Sat Tal.

Nepal. As well as singles on both days at Bardia, up to four were seen daily at Chitwan.

Blue-throated Barbet *

India. Following a total of six birds in Corbett National Park, a single was also seen at Naini Tal.

Nepal. In the Kathmandu Valley, Phulchowki notched up one bird, whilst Nagarjung managed both a single and a flock of four mixed in with Great Barbets. In the Terai, there was also a single at Chitwan.

Coppersmith Barbet *

India. The best locality was the forest nursery in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, where up to four could be seen on each visit. Elsewhere, two birds were also noted at Kumeria near Ramnagar.

Nepal. One record only - a single a Chitwan.

Speckled Piculet *

India. Barely the size of a Phylloscopus warbler, one of these tiny woodpeckers was seen in a mixed feeding flock at Kumeria and then a total of three in another flock at Sat Tal.

Nepal. Feeding in loose association with several other species, there were at least four Speckled Piculets together about midway on the climb to the summit of Nagarjung.

White-browed Piculet *

Nepal. In the forest immediately adjacent to Tiger Tops, a White-browed Piculet was one of the first good birds seen on Christmas morning in Chitwan!

Brown-capped Pygmy Woodpecker *

Nepal. In mixed bird flocks, both a single and a pair were seen in riverside forest at Bardia.

Grey-capped Pygmy Woodpecker *

India. Four birds in a single flock were seen at Kumeria north of Ramnagar.

Nepal. At Chitwan, three birds were seen on one day, followed by another the next.

Brown-fronted Woodpecker *

India. Common in the Naini Tal area, with five on the climb between Snow View and Cheena Peak, four at Sat Tal and three in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. A single bird was seen at Phulchowki in the Kathmandu Valley.

Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker *

India. After a single at Kumeria, another two were seen near Dhikala in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. With up to five daily, this was the most abundant woodpecker at Chitwan.

Yellow-crowned Woodpecker *

India. The common woodpecker of the plains, one or two were seen each day at Bharatpur and a single in Ranthambhore National Park.

Nepal. A total of four birds were noted at Bardia National Park.

Rufous-bellied Woodpecker *

India. Seen briefly, a single was noted in a bird flock at Kumeria near Ramnagar.

Darjeeling Woodpecker *

Nepal. Only recorded on Phulchowki, singles were seen on both visits to the mountain.

Himalayan Woodpecker *

India. At Naini Tal, three were seen in the forests between Snow View and Cheena Peak.

Lesser Yellownape *

India. A total of four birds were seen - one pair at Kumeria near Ramnagar and another pair near the lake at Sat Tal.

Nepal. Seen on one occasion, a pair were noted in the forest near Tiger Tops at Chitwan.

Greater Yellownape *

India. Co-existing with Lesser Yellownapes, this species occurred in slightly greater numbers - in addition to a pair at Kumeria, a total of four were seen in the Naini Tal area (one on the climb to Snow View and three at Sat Tal).

Nepal. In the high forest near Tiger Tops, four birds were recorded at Chitwan.

Streak-throated Woodpecker *

India. One record only - a single in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Three single birds were noted at different localities within Chitwan National Park.

Scaly-bellied Woodpecker *

India. A single bird was found in woodland adjacent to the River Kosi just north of Ramnagar.

Grey-headed Woodpecker *

India. As well as three in Corbett National Park, a single was also seen at Sat Tal.

Nepal. Up to two were seen daily at Chitwan and a single on one occasion at Phulchowki in the Kathmandu Valley.

Himalayan Flameback *

India. With four at Kumeria and two in Corbett National Park, this was the most frequently seen woodpecker in the Ramnagar area.

Nepal. One bird was noted at Bardia and two at Chitwan.

Black-rumped Flameback *

India. Records were mostly confined to the plains - up to four daily at Bharatpur and singles on two occasions at Ranthambhore. The only record in the foothills was a single at Kumeria near Ramnagar (where outnumbered by Himalayan Flameback).

Nepal. Two birds were seen at Bardia.

Greater Flameback *

Nepal. Both in the forest near Tiger Tops, singles were seen on subsequent days at Chitwan.

White-naped Woodpecker *

India. A female in the woodlands along the entrance road to Ranthambhore National Park was one of the most stunning birds seen on the entire trip. But beware when walking these woodlands in search of this bird - there was a tiger at exactly the same spot the following day!

Nepal. Part of a mixed flock containing several other woodpeckers, both a male and female were seen in the woodland along the stream between Bardia village and the Karnali River.

Long-tailed Broadbill *

Nepal. Totally unexpected and ultimately the star bird of the whole trip, a flock of these amazing birds was encountered at Nagarjung in the Kathmandu Valley. Having entered through the upper gate into this forest reserve, the 12 Broadbills were watched at length in the late afternoon sun about five kilometres along the track.

Rufous-winged Bushlark *

Nepal. Mostly displaying high in the sky, at least four birds were present in the grasslands adjacent to the Rapti River at Chitwan.

Ashy-crowned Sparrow-Lark *

India. Four birds were noted in the semi-desert behind the Tiger Moon resort at Ranthambhore.

Nepal. Part of a large mixed lark flock, about ten Ashy-crowned Sparrow-Larks were present on a stony meadow alongside the Karnali River at Bardia.

Rufous-tailed Lark *

India. A total of six birds were seen - two pairs in the grasslands beyond Python Point in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur and a pair in the semi-desert at Ranthambhore.

Greater Short-toed Lark *

India. After a single in the semi-desert at Ranthambhore, a flock of a least 60 were seen feeding on the muddy margins of the nearby Soorwal Lake.

Nepal. In a mixed flock with Hume's Short-toed Larks, a minimum of 30 were noted adjacent to the Karnali River at Bardia.

Hume's Short-toed Lark *

Nepal. In a flock of over 100 larks on a meadow by the Karnali River at Bardia, about two-thirds were considered to be this species (though identification was not certain on all birds).

Sand Lark *

Nepal. This distinctive lark was fairly common along the rivers at both Bardia and Chitwan - a pair and a flock of eight were seen at Bardia and at least three pairs at Chitwan.

Bimaculated Lark *

India. About 25 were seen adjacent to Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Oriental Skylark *

Nepal. Not far from Kathmandu, a flock of 14 were found on a dried-out lakebed at Bagmati.

Plain Martin *

India. Though not recorded at Ranthambhore or Naini Tal, this was one of the most abundant hirundines at other sites visited - up to 50 were seen daily at Bharatpur, along the river at Ramnagar and around the lake in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Abundant along the rivers in the Terai, at least 45 were noted at Bardia, a daily minimum of 150 at Chitwan and about 25 at Hetauda.

Eurasian Crag Martin *

India. Fourteen were seen in a single flock at Naini Tal.

Dusky Crag Martin *

India. Dusky Crag Martins were common at Ranthambhore and up to 30 birds were noted daily, including within the reserve and at Soorwal Lake.

Barn Swallow *

India. Although four were seen at Ranthambhore, about 25 at Soorwal Lake and at least 20 along the river at Ramnagar, the largest count was the 150 or so birds that roosted in the grasslands at Dhikala in Corbett National Park

Nepal. Recorded at almost all sites visited, with the best numbers being about 35 at Bardia and up to 15 daily at Chitwan and Hetauda. In the Kathmandu Valley, numbers were a little lower and totals included eight at Phulchowki, two at Nagarjung and 15 at Bagmati.

Wire-tailed Swallow *

India. Records consisted of four birds at Bharatpur and six at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Red-rumped Swallow *

India. Common. The many records included about 30 daily at Bharatpur, up to eight at Ranthambhore, a minimum of 75 along the Kosi River at Ramnagar and 20 each day at Corbett.

Nepal. Not seen at Chitwan, but about 45 were noted at Bardia and 30 at Hetauda.

Streak-throated Swallow *

India. One record only - a single at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Richard's Pipit *

India. About four birds were seen within Corbett National Park.

Nepal. With upward of ten daily at Bardia and Chitwan, Richard's Pipits were moderately common at in the riverside grasslands at both localities.

Tawny Pipit *

India. In addition to a pair at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore, four were seen adjacent to the Kosi River at Ramnagar.

Long-billed Pipit *

India. One bird was seen on a shingle bank alongside the Kosi River at Ramnagar.

Tree Pipit *

India. One record - a single at Ranthambhore.

Olive-backed Pipit *

India. All in the Nil Tal woodlands, a total of six Olive-backed Pipits were seen in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur. In addition, two were also seen in the Himalayan foothills at Sat Tal.

Nepal. The

Rosy Pipit *

Nepal. All on the banks of rivers, two were seen at Hetauda and three at Bagmati.

White Wagtail *

India. Though not seen at Bharatpur, about 30 were noted at Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore, at least 45 along the Kosi River north of Ramnagar and about 15 in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. With several races present, White Wagtails were abundant along the rivers in the Terai and up to 20 were seen daily at Bardia, Chitwan and Hetauda. Fifteen were also seen at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

White-browed Wagtail *

India. Up to four were noted daily in the Ranthambhore area, eight along the Kosi River at both Ramnagar and Kumeria and about eight in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. After a total of ten along the Karnali River at Bardia, a further three pairs were noted at Chitwan, a single pair at Hetauda and another pair at Bagmati.

Citrine Wagtail *

India. At Bharatpur, about 15 Citrine Wagtails were seen on each visit to the Ramband jheel. Elsewhere, 18 were also noted along the river at Ramnagar.

Nepal. A single bird was seen at Bardia and a total of five at Chitwan.

Grey Wagtail *

India. Pairs were seen on a couple of occasions at Bharatpur, a single bird at Ranthambhore, a total of ten along the Kosi River at Ramnagar and Kumeria and, finally, three at Naini Tal.

Nepal. Six were seen in total - two singles at Chitwan and pairs at Hetauda and Phulchowki.

Large Woodshrike *

Nepal. The only record was a single in the high forest at Chitwan.

Common Woodshrike *

India. Flocks of six and four were noted in the Nil Tal woodlands in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur and a flock of five at Kumeria.

Nepal. A flock of five was encountered on a single occasion at Chitwan.

Bar-winged Flycatcher-Shrike *

India. Six were seen in the forest at Kumeria and another five in nearby Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Recorded at two localities - four birds at Chitwan and three at Nagarjung.

Large Cuckooshrike *

Nepal. All in community forest in the buffer zone, six Large Cuckooshrikes were seen at Chitwan.

Black-winged Cuckooshrike *

Nepal. Four birds were seen in Nepal - a pair at Bardia and singles at Chitwan and Nagarjung.

Rosy Minivet *

India. Not usually present in December, the single Rosy Minivet that was noted en route into Corbett National Park was an unexpected addition to my list.

Small Minivet *

India. Noted at both Bharatpur and Ranthambhore, total records consisted of flocks of four and three at the first of these localities and a flock of five and a single at the latter.

Nepal. Four were found in the forest near Tiger Tops at Chitwan.

Long-tailed Minivet *

India. Visually one of the most impressive birds on the whole trip, Long-tailed Minivets were also one of the very first birds to be seen on the trip - a flock of five were encountered within minutes of arriving in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, with another two a couple of days later. In addition, a pair were also noted at Sat Tal in the Himalayan foothills.

Nepal. In a single flock, mixed in with greater numbers of Scarlet Minivets, a least six of this species were noted in riverside forest at Bardia.

Scarlet Minivet *

India. The common minivet in Corbett National Park, at least ten were noted in a mixed flock not far from Dhikala Camp.

Nepal. Common at most of the forest sites visited, daily totals included up to 15 at Bardia, 12 at Chitwan, five at Nagarjung and four at Sheopuri.

Black-crested Bulbul *

India. The only record in India was of a pair in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. In addition to four at Bardia, a single was also noted at Chitwan.

Red-whiskered Bulbul *

India. Three pairs were seen along the River Kosi at Ramnagar and Kumeria, but Corbett National Park was even better - here up to 20 or more Red-whiskered Bulbuls were seen daily.

Nepal. Common in the Terai, at least 20 were noted at Bardia and up to 35 each day at Chitwan. Additionally, four were also seen at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

White-eared Bulbul *

India. Though only recorded in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, up to 20 were seen there every day.

Himalayan Bulbul *

India. The most abundant bulbul in the foothills. After an initial half dozen at Ramnagar, numbers increased and about 15 were noted at Kumeria, up to 35 each day at Corbett and up to 30 per day at all the sites in the Naini Tal area.

Red-vented Bulbul *

India. Recorded in good numbers at all sites visited, including up to ten daily at Bharatpur, a minimum of 20 a day at Ranthambhore and Soorwal Lake and 25 to 30 per day in the Ramnagar and Corbett areas. Only at Naini Tal were Red-vented Bulbuls less common and records there totalled just eight at Sat Tal and four in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Abundant in the Terai - as well as about ten each day at Bardia, totals in excess of 50 were logged daily at both Chitwan and Hetauda. In the Kathmandu Valley, however, the only record was of two at Phulchowki.

Ashy Bulbul *

India. Recorded twice - a flock of eight in the forests at Kumeria and five in a large mixed bulbul flock in Corbett National Park.

Mountain Bulbul *

Nepal. All records in the Kathmandu Valley, five were noted at Phulchowki, two at Nagarjung and another two at Sheopuri.

Black Bulbul *

India. In the Mongoli Valley near Naini Tal, a fruiting tree attracted a flock of 18 Black Bulbuls.

Nepal. Recorded on both visits to Phulchowki, eight were noted mid-way up the mountain and a flock of at least 20 along the valley trail. In addition, six were noted at Sheopuri.

Common Iora *

India. The only sighting in India was of a single at Kumeria, north of Ramnagar.

Nepal. Favouring dense forest edge, up to six were seen each day at Bardia and four on one occasion at Chitwan.

Golden-fronted Leafbird *

India. Two singles were seen, one at Kumeria and one in Corbett National Park.

Orange-bellied Leafbird *

India. Sharing a flock with a Golden-fronted Leafbird, two Orange-bellied Leafbirds were also seen at Kumeria.

Brown Dipper *

India. Building a nest on a rock overhang and feeding in adjacent shoals, a pair of Brown Dippers gave good views on the Kosi River at Kumeria.

Rufous-breasted Accentor *

India. Hopping about on the edge of the small fields adjacent to the Eureka Forbes factory, five birds were seen at this regular wintering site on the approach road to Sat Tal.

Nepal. Feeding on the snow, one bird was found about midway up the mountain at Phulchowki.

Rufous-backed Redstart *

India. One of the best birds to be found at Naini Tal, a male was an unexpected reward on the lower slopes of the mountain leading up to Snow View.

Blue-capped Redstart *

India. With at least six on the slopes up to Snow View and another two in the Mongoli Valley, Blue-capped Redstarts were moderately common at Naini Tal.

Black Redstart *

India. In the lowlands, up to five were noted daily at both Bharatpur and Ranthambhore.

Nepal. As well as a total of five at Bardia, a single male was found at the summit of Phulchowki.

Hodgson's Redstart *

Nepal. An adult male was seen in parkland not far from the botanical gardens at Phulchowki.

Blue-fronted Redstart *

India. All records were in the Naini Tal area - two at Snow View, five at Sat Tal and a single in the Mongoli Valley.

White-capped Water Redstart *

India. Fairly common along the rivers in the Himalayan foothills. Records included six at Ramnagar, eight at Kumeria, a total of five in Corbett National Park and singles at Sat Tal and in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. A single bird was noted along the Rapti River at Hetauda.

Plumbeous Water Redstart *

India. With upward of 30 divided between Ramnagar and Kumeria, these attractive birds were common along the Kosi River. About 15 were also seen at Dhikala and various streams within Corbett National Park.

Nepal. On the Rapti River, a single was noted at Chitwan and three at Hetauda, whilst a single was also seen at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

Bluethroat *

India. Up to 12 were recorded daily at Bharatpur and a single along the river at Ramnagar.

Orange-flanked Bush Robin (Red-flanked Bluetail) *

India. The slopes above Naini Tal town, towards the Snow View and Cheena Peak, supported good numbers of this species. One of the best birds of the trip, at least eight were seen on my first climb into this area, with another five on a return visit.

Nepal. Both along the valley trail. Two birds were noted at Phulchowki.

Oriental Magpie Robin *

India. Particularly abundant at Bharatpur, where upward of 30 were noted daily. Elsewhere, records were more scattered - two at Ranthambhore, one at Soorwal Lake, three along the river at Ramnagar and another two at Kumeria and, finally, a single at Sat Tal

Nepal. Small numbers at most sites visited - one or two each day at Bardia, up to three daily at Chitwan, a single at Hetauda and, around Kathmandu, three at Bagmati and one at Sheopuri.

White-rumped Shama *

India. All records at Chitwan, three singles were noted in the forests near Tiger Tops and another in the community forest in the buffer zone.

Indian Robin *

India. Other than two at Bharatpur and one at Ramnagar, all records were in the Ranthambhore area - up to 15 daily in and around the tiger reserve and about ten at Soorwal Lake.

Common Stonechat *

India. One bird was seen at Bharatpur, but the best numbers were in the Himalayan foothills, including 15 daily in Corbett National Park, four at Sat Tal and three in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Two records - a single at Hetauda and about five at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

White-tailed Stonechat *

Nepal. At Chitwan, up to six were seen each day in the grasslands adjacent to the Rapti River.

Pied Stonechat *

India. Common in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, with up to eight seen daily, mostly in the grasslands beyond Python Point. The only other records were occasionals in areas of rough grassland in the agricultural areas surrounding Bharatpur.

Nepal. Four birds were noted at Bardia and at least ten daily at Chitwan. Seven were also noted along the river at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

Grey Bushchat *

India. In the Himalayan foothills, a total of six were seen along the Kosi River at Ramnagar and Kumeria, up to three daily at Corbett and, in the Naini Tal area, five at Sat Tal and four in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Two birds were found on the slopes at Phulchowki.

Brown Rockchat *

India. A total of eight birds were seen - a single hopping around the entrance to Bharatpur, three in the semi-desert at Ranthambhore, another three along the Kosi River at Ramnagar and, lastly, a single along the same river at Kumeria.

Variable Wheatear *

India. A stunning male was one of the highlights in the semi-desert behind the Tiger Moon resort at Ranthambhore.

Desert Wheatear *

India. Three Desert Wheatears were noted along the banks of Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Blue Rock Thrush *

India. Along the banks of the Kosi River, two were noted at Ramnagar and another at Kumeria.

Blue Whistling Thrush *

India. Both highly visible and very vocal, Blue Whistling Thrushes were one of the most distinctive birds of the foothills. Up to six were seen daily at Ramnagar, Kumeria and Corbett plus, in the Naini Tal area, about 12 on the slopes around Snow View, eight at Sat Tal and six in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. In the Kathmandu Valley, a total of three were seen at Phulchowki and one at Sheopuri.

Orange-headed Thrush *

India. Amongst the top birds of the trip, four Orange-headed Thrushes were seen in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur. Whilst one bird was seen at the beginning of the Ramband trail, the forest nursery was the favoured locality and three birds were noted there.

Plain-backed Thrush *

Nepal. Two seen were seen in the Kathmandu Valley, one along the valley trail at Phulchowki and another at Nagarjung.

Tickell's Thrush *

India. The only record was a single individual in trees at Sapanmori in Bharatpur.

Dark-throated Thrush *

India. With little cold to push thrushes from further north, a single Dark-throated Thrush at Cheena Peak was the most notable member of the family at Naini Tal.

Mistle Thrush *

India. Frequenting the forest near the summit of Snow View, a single was noted at Naini Tal.

Spotted Forktail *

India. A rather stunning bird, a total of four were seen in India - singles along the Kosi River at Kumeria and on a small stream in Corbett National Park and a pair near the lake at Sat Tal.

Nepal. Along the road and up the valley trail, a total of three Spotted Forktails were noted at Phulchowki, plus an additional single at Sheopuri.

Grey-sided Bush Warbler *

India. Favouring dense shrubbery, four birds were seen alongside the Kosi River at Kumeria.

Bright-headed Cisticola *

India. Appeared to be quite common in the grasslands within Corbett National Park, several were seen on both days in the reserve.

Nepal. A minimum of ten were seen on the floodplain of the Rapti River at Chitwan.

Grey-crowned Prinia *

Nepal. Five birds were seen on the forest edge at Chitwan.

Grey-breasted Prinia *

India. Total records consisted of two at Ranthambhore, four along the Kosi River at Ramnagar and at least eight at Sat Tal.

Nepal. At least 15 were seen daily at Chitwan and the species appeared to be common.

Jungle Prinia *

India. Only records were four birds at Ranthambhore.

Yellow-bellied Prinia *

Nepal. A single bird was seen in rank grass adjacent to a tributary of the Karnali River at Bardia.

Graceful Prinia *

India. The only confirmed record was a single in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, though others could have been overlooked as many prinias were not checked.

Plain Prinia *

India. The most abundant of the prinias in India and records included up to daily at Bharatpur, eight each day at Ranthambhore, five at Ramnagar and about ten per day at Corbett.

Ashy Prinia *

India. A single was noted at Bharatpur and three along the Kosi River at Ramnagar.

Oriental White-eye *

India. Common throughout the Himalayan foothills, Oriental White-eyes were particularly abundant at Kumeria, where an absolute minimum of 120 were seen in the mixed bird flocks. Up to 40 were also seen daily in the Naini Tal area and about 15 on each day at Corbett. In the lowlands, numbers were lower and records included up to ten daily in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur and four to six at Ranthambhore.

Nepal. The only records were eight at Bardia and four at Chitwan.

Common Tailorbird *

India. In the lowlands, two or three birds were seen almost daily at both Bharatpur and Ranthambhore, but the only record in the Himalayan foothills was two at Ramnagar.

Nepal. In the Terai, daily totals included up to six at Bardia and three at Chitwan.

Blyth's Reed Warbler *

India. Recorded daily at Bharatpur, though the small total of two to three per day was undoubtedly more a reflection of overlooking birds rather than a genuine scarcity.

Clamorous Reed Warbler *

India. At Bharatpur, one bird gave very views adjacent to the track through the Ramband jheel.

Lesser Whitethroat *

India. All records were in the lowlands - with up to 12 daily, the best numbers were at Bharatpur, though three were also seen at Ranthambhore.

Golden-spectacled Warbler *

India. In the Himalayan foothills, pairs were noted at Kumeria and Corbett, plus about five in the Mongoli Valley near Naini Tal.

Nepal. Noted in most of the forests around the Kathmandu Valley - as well as twelve at Nagarjung, two were also seen at both Phulchowki and Sheopuri.

Grey-hooded Warbler *

India. After just five at Kumeria, Grey-hooded Warblers turned out to be common in the Naini Tal area - five or six were noted on both hikes up to Snow View, about 20 at Sat Tal and a minimum of 25 in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. The most abundant warbler in the Kathmandu Valley - daily counts included about 25 at Phulchowki, a minimum of 40 at Nagarjung and in excess of 50 at Sheopuri.

Grey-cheeked Warbler *

Nepal. In a mixed warbler flock, a single was noted at Sheopuri.

Chestnut-crowned Warbler *

Nepal. A total of three were noted - one on the valley trail at Phulchowki and two at Sheopuri.

Common Chiffchaff *

India. Widespread in small numbers. Records included three or four per day at Bharatpur, up to ten at Ramnagar and three at Sat Tal.

Nepal. Only noted at Chitwan, where four or five were seen on a daily basis.

Dusky Warbler *

India. In waterside bushes near the temple, a single Dusky Warbler gave good views in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur.

Nepal. One bird was noted at Bardia.

Smoky Warbler *

India. Sharing habitat with the Dusky Warbler, one Smoky Warbler was also seen at Bharatpur.

Buff-barred Warbler *

India. In the Naini Tal area, at least 12 Buff-barred Warblers were noted on the slopes around Cheena Peak and another ten in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Three birds were seen on the first visit to Phulchowki in the Kathmandu Valley.

Ashy-throated Warbler *

India. Just four birds were seen, all in the Naini Tal area - two below Cheena Peak and a pair in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. In the Kathmandu Valley, at least 20 were noted on the slopes at Sheopuri, but the only other birds were three at Nagarjung and a single at Phulchowki.

Lemon-rumped Warbler *

India. Present throughout the Naini Tal area, but in very variable numbers. At Sat Tal, they were the most abundant member of the bird flocks and an absolute minimum of 120 were seen. Good numbers were also seen in the Mongoli Valley and approximately 40 were noted. In the immediate vicinity of Naini Tal, however, numbers were very low and numbers consisted of about four at Snow View and ten at Cheena Peak.

Nepal. Only recorded at Nagarjung, where at least 15 were noted on the first day and about 30 on the next.

Hume's Warbler *

India. The scatter of records included up to eight daily in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, two at Ranthambhore and, in the Himalayan foothills, singles at Kumeria and Corbett.

Nepal. All in the Terai, total records consisted of two at Bardia, up to six daily at Chitwan and five at Hetauda.

Greenish Warbler *

India. Small numbers dotted about - one or two most days in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, up to four at Ranthambhore and a single at Corbett.

Nepal. After a single at Bardia, several were noted in the Kathmandu Valley, including about six at Phulchowki and at least 15 at both Nagarjung and Sheopuri.

Tickell's Leaf Warbler *

Nepal. A single bird was noted at Chitwan.

Brook's Leaf Warbler *

India. The only record was a single in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur on one occasion.

Small Niltava *

India. Three birds were seen at Sat Tal, one near the Eureka Forbes factory and two in the forests nearer the lake.

Rufous-bellied Niltava *

India. After a single at Kumeria, another two were seen at Sat Tal (including a male).

Nepal. One bird was seen at Sheopuri.

Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher *

India. The only bird seen in India was a single in the Mongoli Valley near Naini Tal.

Nepal. Recorded in all the forest sites visited in the Kathmandu Valley, a total of 11 birds were noted - three at Phulchowki, six at Nagarjung and two at Sheopuri.

Red-throated Flycatcher (Red-breasted Flycatcher) *

India. Other than in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, where two or three were seen daily, the only records were singles at Ranthambhore, Ramnagar and Sat Tal.

Nepal. Common in the Terai, daily totals included up to five at Bardia and ten at Chitwan.

Slaty-blue Flycatcher *

India. Singles were seen at Dhikala Camp in Corbett and at Sat Tal.

Pale-chinned Flycatcher *

Nepal. Recorded at Chitwan, where a single was noted in the garden of Chital Lodge and another two in the reserve itself.

Grey-headed Canary-Flycatcher *

India. Fairly common, particularly in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur. The Bharatpur records included at least 14 in the forest nursery and about five scattered elsewhere across the reserve. Additionally, a total of nine were noted at Ranthambhore, five at Kumeria and six at Corbett.

Nepal. Three birds were seen - singles at Bardia, Nagarjung and Sheopuri.

Yellow-bellied Fantail *

India. Following three in the Kumeria forests, a total of five were seen in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. In the Kathmandu Valley, five were recorded at Phulchowki and two at Sheopuri.

White-throated Fantail *

India. In secondary forest near the Kosi River, one was seen at Ramnagar and four at Kumeria.

Nepal. Up to four were seen each day in the high forests at Chitwan and three at both Phulchowki and Sheopuri.

White-browed Fantail *

India. A total of ten were noted at Ranthambhore, mostly in the forest along the entrance road to the reserve.

Large Scimitar Babbler *

Nepal. A species normally occurring in north-east India, a single bird seen at Chitwan would be the first record for Nepal if accepted. Keeping to dense thickets in undergrowth at the forest edge the large dark-backed scimitar babbler was initially located by call and gave several good views over a period of about 15 minutes. Separate views were obtained by myself and Jib (local bird guide) and the following description was gained - clearly a scimitar babbler, about the size of Necklaced Laughing Thrush or slightly bigger than a Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler. Long dark decurved bill (appearing quite dusky), greyish ear coverts with distinct chestnut(ish) patch behind this. General coloration - dark brown uppers, darkish flanks, pale (off-white) throat to underparts.

Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler *

Nepal. Three birds were seen - an unexpected single at Chitwan (about 15 minutes before the Large Scimitar Babbler), plus a very vocal pair along the valley trail at Phulchowki.

White-browed Scimitar Babbler *

Nepal. Associating with flocks of Greater Necklaced Laughing Thrushes, a total of about 15 were seen in the high forest near Tiger Tops at Chitwan - about 12 on the first day and three on the next.

Streak-breasted Scimitar Babbler *

Nepal. Seen on several occasions at Sheopuri, a minimum of eight were noted during the day.

Puff-throated Babbler *

Nepal. This small babbler was only seen at Chitwan, where four were seen near Tiger Tops on one day and two on the next.

Black-chinned Babbler *

India. In the Himalayan foothills, five were noted in Corbett National Park and, in the Naini Tal area, ten at Sat Tal and four in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. A flock of six was seen at Sheopuri and five at both Chitwan and Nagarjung.

Grey-throated Babbler *

Nepal. One record - a pair at Sheopuri.

Striped Tit-Babbler *

Nepal. Seen on both days in the forests around Tiger Tops, a total of ten were noted at Chitwan.

Chestnut-capped Babbler *

Nepal. A pair were seen in rank vegetation at the edge of Meghauli village at Chitwan.

Yellow-eyed Babbler *

India. Looking somewhat reminiscent of Bearded Tits, a party of six were found in the grasslands adjacent to Dhikala Camp at Corbett.

Nepal. Recorded at Chitwan, two were seen on one day and four on the next.

Common Babbler *

India. The only record was a party of six in riverside vegetation at Ramnagar.

Large Grey Babbler *

India. Scattered flocks were seen across the country - six birds at Bharatpur, ten at Ranthambhore, 12 at Soorwal Lake, eight in agricultural fields at Kumeria and a pair at Sat Tal.

Jungle Babbler *

India. The most abundant babbler, especially common at lower elevations - about 60 were seen daily at Bharatpur, up to 25 per day at Ranthambhore, ten at Ramnagar, 25 at Kumeria and up to 35 each day in Corbett National Park. At the higher altitude Naini Tal, the only record was a flock of ten in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Only recorded at Bardia, where up to 15 were noted daily.

White-throated Laughing Thrush *

India. At Naini Tal, a large noisy flock of about 35 birds fed on the forest floor adjacent to the viewpoint at Snow View.

Nepal. Recorded at two localities in the Kathmandu Valley  - a large flock of about 40 at the top of the valley trail at Phulchowki and about 15 at Sheopuri.

White-crested Laughing Thrush *

Nepal. One of the top birds of the trip, at least 32 of these impressive birds were seen at Nagarjung. Easily located by their very vocal behaviour, the birds tended to occur in small flocks of eight to ten birds and were seen at several spots along the trail towards the summit.

Lesser Necklaced Laughing Thrush *

Nepal. At least five were seen at Chitwan, all occurring in mixed flocks with the next species.

Greater Necklaced Laughing Thrush *

Nepal. These birds were fairly common in the forests near Tiger Tops at Chitwan, a total of about 35 were seen in the two days in that area.

Striated Laughing Thrush *

India. Very large and very noisy, a pair of Striated Laughing Thrushes were seen in the Mongoli Valley near Naini Tal.

Nepal. Associating with a big flock of White-throated Laughing Thrushes, at least six were noted at the top of the valley trail at Phulchowki.

Rufous-chinned Laughing Thrush *

India. The only record was a pair in the deep gully opposite the Eureka Forbes factory at Sat Tal.

Streaked Laughing Thrush *

India. Common in the Naini Tal area, with over 25 noted on the slopes on Snow View and Cheena Peak, ten at Sat Tal and 12 in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Only recorded at Phulchowki, where four were seen about midway up the mountain.

Chestnut-crowned Laughing Thrush *

India. Two flocks were seen in the Naini Tal area - six birds on the lower slopes of Cheena Peak and five in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Six were noted midway up Phulchowki Mountain.

Red-billed Leiothrix *

India. After two in a large mixed flock at Kumeria, an impressive 14 birds were seen at Sat Tal.

Nepal. Five were seen along the valley trail at Phulchowki.

White-browed Shrike Babbler *

Nepal. In a single flock, five birds were seen midway to the summit at Nagarjung.

Black-eared Shrike Babbler *

Nepal. Recorded on both visits to Phulchowki, two were noted on the main track up the mountain and a single along the valley trail.

Blue-winged Minla *

India. After a flock of five by the Kosi River at Kumeria, four birds were also noted at Sat Tal.

White-browed Fulvetta *

Nepal. About two-thirds the way up Phulchowki Mountain, a small mixed flock included three White-browed Fulvettas.

Nepal Fulvetta *

Nepal. In the forests of the Kathmandu Valley, six were seen along the valley trail at Phulchowki and at least 18 at Sheopuri.

Rufous Sibia *

India. In the Naini Tal area, about 16 were noted on the slopes of Snow View and Cheena Peak, plus five in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. With at least 35 on the upper slopes of Phulchowki Mountain, Rufous Sibias were the one of the most abundant birds present. Not seen elsewhere in the Kathmandu Valley.

Whiskered Yuhina *

India. At least three were seen along the valley trail at Phulchowki and another four at Sheopuri.

Nepal. The

Stripe-throated Yuhina*

Nepal. In a mixed flock with the next species, five were noted about midway up Phulchowki.

Rufous-vented Yuhina *

Nepal. Two birds were seen at Phulchowki Mountain, occurring in a mixed flock about half way to the summit.

White-bellied Yuhina *

Nepal. Four birds were seen together near Tiger Tops at Chitwan and a total of six at Nagarjung.

Rufous-vented Tit *

Nepal. Two Rufous-vented Tits were seen at Nagarjung.

Spot-winged Tit *

India. Only seen on the slopes of Snow View and Cheena Peak above Naini Tal, a minimum of eight were recorded in the course of a day's hiking through the forests.

Great Tit *

India. The most widespread member of the family, Great Tits were seen at all sites visited except Bharatpur and the higher slopes at Naini Tal (where replaced by Green-backed Tit). Typical daily totals included up to six at Ranthambhore, ten or so in the Ramnagar and Corbett areas and an impressive minimum of 45 at Sat Tal.

Nepal. Only seen in the lowland Terai, where counts included up to 20 daily at Bardia, six per day at Chitwan and four at Hetauda.

Green-backed Tit *

India. Very much the replacement of Great Tit at higher elevations, Green-backed Tits were common throughout the Naini Tal region - at least 30 were seen daily in the Snow View, Cheena Peak and Mongoli Valley areas, plus about 20 at Sat Tal.

Nepal. In the Kathmandu Valley, about five were noted at Phulchowki and eight at Nagarjung.

Black-lored Tit *

India. After an initial three birds at Kumeria, good numbers were then seen in the Naini Tal area, including four on Cheena Peak, 15 at Sat Tal and ten in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Occurring in the forests in the Kathmandu Valley, records consisted of ten along the valley trail at Phulchowki, a total of 28 over the two visits to Nagarjung and three at Sheopuri.

Yellow-browed Tit *

Nepal. The only record was of two birds along the valley trail at Phulchowki.

Black-throated Tit *

India. One of the most attractive birds of the trip, Black-throated Tits were fairly common in the Naini Tal area and sightings included over 25 on the slopes of Snow View and Cheena Peak, ten at Sat Tal and about 20 in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Common in the forests surrounding Kathmandu, at least 35 were noted along the valley trail at Phulchowki, four at Nagarjung and about 15 at Sheopuri.

Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch *

India. In the Himalayan foothills, six were noted at Kumeria and, in the Naini Tal area, 12 at Sat Tal and four in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. The wide scatter of records included up to six each day at Bardia, seven daily at Chitwan, three at Phulchowki and four at Sheopuri.

White-tailed Nuthatch*

India. Replacing Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch at the higher altitudes at Naini Tal, a total of about ten were seen on the slopes of Snow View and Cheena Peak.

Nepal. Three birds were seen at Phulchowki - as in India, all three were seen on the upper slopes of the mountain, whilst Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch occurred lower down.

Velvet-fronted Nuthatch *

India. Ten birds were seen in all - pairs at Kumeria and Corbett and a total of six at Sat Tal.

Nepal. After six in the forest near Tiger Tops at Chitwan, another four were noted at Nagarjung in the Kathmandu Valley.

Wallcreeper *

India. Feeding on a shingle bank in middle of the Kosi River, a single bird was noted just upstream of Ramnagar. As could be expected of such a charismatic species, this was one of the best birds seen in India.

Eurasian Treecreeper *

India. At Naini Tal, a single was noted in the pine forests near the summit of Snow View (though Bar-tailed Treecreepers were more abundant).

Bar-tailed Treecreeper *

India. In the Himalayan foothills, two were seen at Kumeria and up to five daily in the Naini Tal area, including both Snow View and Cheena Peak, Sat Tal and the Mongoli Valley.

Purple Sunbird *

India. Ranthambhore was the best locality for this sunbird - at least 15 birds were noted on each visit to the open woodland in the buffer zone of the reserve. Four birds were also noted in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur.

Mrs Gould's Sunbird *

Nepal. A full-plumage male was seen on the approach road to Phulchowki Mountain, frequenting shrubs just below the start to the valley trail.

Green-tailed Sunbird *

India. Two birds were seen near the River Kosi at Kumeria.

Nepal. All in the Kathmandu Valley, nine birds were seen - six at Phulchowki (two midway up the mountain and four along the valley trail) and three at Nagarjung.

Black-throated Sunbird *

India. The only record was a single in the Mongoli Valley near Naini Tal.

Crimson Sunbird *

India. In the midst of a huge feeding flock, at least one Crimson Sunbird was seen at Kumeria (associating with two Green-tailed Sunbirds).

Fire-tailed Sunbird *

Nepal. Seen on both visits to Phulchowki, one midway up the mountain and three adjacent to the valley trail.

Fire-breasted Flowerpecker *

Nepal. A single was noted halfway along the valley trail at Phulchowki.

Eurasian Golden Oriole *

India. In trees adjacent to the Ramband jheel, a male Eurasian Golden Oriole was seen in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur.

Black-hooded Oriole *

India. Four birds were noted in Corbett National Park, mostly in the Dhikala area.

Nepal. Following a single at Bardia, up to seven were seen daily at Chitwan both in the buffer zone and high forest near Tiger Tops.

Maroon Oriole *

India. Two birds were seen - a rather brief glimpse of a female at Corbett and then better views of a male at Snow View, above Naini Tal.

Nepal. At Nagarjung, a male Maroon Oriole gave stunning views as it jumped about the branches, catching and eating big long-legged spiders.

Brown Shrike *

India. Singles were noted in the semi-desert at Ranthambhore, on the margins of the nearby Soorwal Lake and along the Kosi River at Ramnagar.

Nepal. A single was noted at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

Bay-backed Shrike *

India. The only records were in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur, where singles were seen on two occasions.

Long-tailed Shrike *

India. The most widespread of the shrikes, with records at most sites visited. Best numbers were at Bharatpur (up to three daily) and in Corbett National Park (two daily). Elsewhere, singles were also seen at Ranthambhore, Kumeria and the Mongoli Valley near Naini Tal.

Nepal. Two were seen each day at Bardia, two or three daily at Chitwan and another two at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

Grey-backed Shrike *

Nepal. Two birds were seen at Chitwan and a single at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

Southern Grey Shrike *

India. The only record was of three on the margins of Soorwal Lake near Ranthambhore.

Black Drongo *

India. Particularly common at Bharatpur, where about 35 were seen on a daily basis. Elsewhere, six were noted at Soorwal Lake, occasionals in agricultural areas across the Ganges plain and four in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Other than four at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley, all records were in the Terai - three at Bardia, about eight at Chitwan and two at Hetauda.

Ashy Drongo *

India. At Bharatpur, three birds were seen in the forest nursery. Two were also noted by the Kosi River at Kumeria and a single in the Mongoli Valley near Naini Tal.

Nepal. In the Terai, eight were seen at Bardia and six at Chitwan. Two were also found at Sheopuri in the Kathmandu Valley.

White-bellied Drongo *

India. Localised, the only records were three in the Nil Tal woodlands in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur and up to five each day in the forest at Ranthambhore.

Nepal. Congregating with other drongos, four birds were seen on the forest edge at Bardia.

Bronzed Drongo *

India. In the Himalayan foothills, six were noted in Corbett National Park and, in the Naini Tal area, five at Sat Tal and four in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. All in the forest near Tiger Tops, a total of seven were noted at Chitwan. Four were also seen at Nagarjung in the Kathmandu Valley.

Spangled Drongo *

Nepal. A single bird was seen perched high in the forest to the east of Tiger Tops at Chitwan.

Greater Racket-tailed Drongo *

Nepal. This dramatic species was seen at both Bardia and Chitwan - three at the first of these sites and six at the latter. At both sites, birds with full pendants were seen.

Lesser Racket-tailed Drongo *

Nepal. Almost as visually appealing as its bigger cousin, two Lesser Racket-tailed Drongos were seen at Sheopuri.

Eurasian Jay *

India. In the Naini Tal area, a single was seen at Cheena Peak and eight around Snow View.

Nepal. Six were seen along the valley trail at Phulchowki.

Black-headed Jay *

India. The most common of the jays in the Naini Tal area, up to six were seen daily on the high peaks, forests surrounding town and at both Sat Tal and in the Mongoli Valley.

Red-billed Blue Magpie *

India. One of the top birds of the trip, six were noted at Snow View above Naini Tal and about 30 at Sat Tal, mostly in the vicinity of the Eureka Forbes factory.

Nepal. In the Kathmandu Valley, three were seen at Nagarjung and 12 at Sheopuri.

Common Green Magpie *

Nepal. This amazing bird, deservedly in the top five species of the trip, was only seen in the forest near Tiger Tops at Chitwan, where pairs were noted on consecutive days.

Rufous Treepie *

India. Widespread and moderately common, recorded at all sites except the Naini Tal area. Best numbers were in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur (up to 12 daily) and Ranthambhore (about eight daily). Elsewhere, pairs or small flocks were seen at Ramnagar, Kumeria and each day in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Restricted to the Terai, sightings totalled two at Bardia, up to six daily at Chitwan and a final two at Hetauda.

Grey Treepie *

India. Recorded twice, both times in the Himalayan foothills - a flock of eleven in small agricultural fields at Kumeria and a flock of six at Sat Tal.

Nepal. One bird was seen at Phulchowki, another near the upper entrance to Nagarjung and three on the climb to the summit at Nagarjung.

House Crow *

India. A bird of the lowland plains, this crow was common at Bharatpur and also in Delhi and in villages across the Ganges basin. In the drier habitats at Ranthambhore, only a handful of birds were seen - about five in the tiger reserve and two at Soorwal Lake.

Nepal. Best numbers were in Kathmandu and at Chitwan - abundant at the former and flocks of up to 40 at the latter, roosting in Meghauli village. Elsewhere, up to 15 birds were seen at Hetauda, Phulchowki, Bagmati and Sheopuri. Not recorded at Bardia.

Jungle Crow *

India. Recently split from Large-billed Crow,  this species occupies the plains and lowland areas and was common at Bharatpur and Ranthambhore, both places logging up to 15 daily. Smaller numbers were seen in the foothills and records included four at Ramnagar, five at Kumeria and two in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Common in the Terai, with records including up to ten at Bardia, ten daily at Chitwan and four at Hetauda.

Large-billed Crow *

India. The highland counterpart of Jungle Crow, though very Raven-like in appearance, about 35 were seen daily throughout the Naini Tal area, including over the town, over Cheena Peak, at Sat Tal and in the Mongoli Valley.

Nepal. Though a couple were seen at Nagarjung and four at Sheopuri, the best numbers were at Phulchowki, where about 12 were noted over the two visits.

Brahminy Starling *

India. Up to 20 birds were seen daily at Bharatpur, along with about six in Ranthambhore National Park, ten at Soorwal Lake and four at Ramnagar.

Asian Pied Staling *

India. Small flocks were common at Bharatpur and, in total, up to 20 birds were seen each day. In addition, six birds were also seen near the Kosi River at Ramnagar.

Nepal. Common in the Terai, up to 20 were seen each day at Bardia and about 15 daily at both Chitwan and Hetauda. One fell victim to a Peregrine at Bardia.

Common Myna *

India. Common to abundant at all sites visited, including in many towns and villages. Generally, at least ten to fifteen were seen on a daily basis, though over 50 were noted each day in Corbett National Park.

Nepal. Up to 20 were seen daily throughout the Terai, including at Bardia, Chitwan and Hetauda. In the Kathmandu Valley, the only records were about 15 below Phulchowki Mountain and four at Sheopuri.

Bank Myna *

India. The scatter of records included up to eight each day in Bharatpur town, two at Soorwal Lake and up to ten per day in Ramnagar town.

Jungle Myna *

Nepal. Only a handful of records, but widely-dispersed across the country - four birds at Bardia, two at Chitwan and, in the Kathmandu Valley, three at Phulchowki and a flock of 12 at Bagmati.

House Sparrow *

India. Common, mainly in towns and villages. Records included about 20 a day at Bharatpur, at least 40 at Soorwal Lake, 25 in Ramnagar town and up to 30 per day in the Naini Tal area.

Nepal. Numerous in built-up areas in the Kathmandu Valley, with smaller numbers in Meghauli village at Chitwan and in town and along the river at Hetauda.

Spanish Sparrow *

India. At least eight were noted in the semi-arid grassland beyond Python Point at Bharatpur.

Russet Sparrow *

India. In the Naini Tal area, four were seen near the Eureka Forbes factory at Sat Tal and another nine in the Mongoli Valley.

Eurasian Tree Sparrow *

Nepal. The only birds recorded were five on wasteland at Bagmati in the Kathmandu Valley.

Chestnut-shouldered Petronia *

India. Birds were encountered on two occasions in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur - a flock of 12 in grassland at the beginning on the main track and five near Python Point.

Nepal. Six were seen near the Karnali River at Bardia.

Black-breasted Weaver *

Nepal. One record only - five birds in grassland near the Rapti River at Chitwan.

Baya Weaver *

India. A single bird was noted in Ranthambhore National Park

Nepal. Five were seen in grassland at the forest edge near Tiger Tops at Chitwan.

Red Avadavat *

Nepal. At Bardia, a flock of about 30 Red Avadavats, including a couple of males in full breeding plumage, fed on a stony area of grassland by the Karnali River.

Indian Silverbill *

India. Two records - two birds in Keoladeo National Park at Bharatpur and three at Ranthambhore.

White-rumped Munia *

India. Part of one of the large mixed feeding flocks, six White-rumped Munias were found at Kumeria, foraging on the forest floor and sticking to dense undergrowth.

Nepal. Ten birds were noted in the forest near Tiger tops at Chitwan.

Scaly-bellied Munia *

Nepal. A flock of about 15 was seen in the elephant grass near the Rapti River at Chitwan.

Yellow-breasted Greenfinch *

India. Several small flocks, totalling about 30 birds, were seen passing over the grasslands at Corbett. Presumably migrants, all flocks were heading southwards and not stopping, giving only distant views in the process.

Common Rosefinch *

India. A lack of cold weather led to a poor showing of rosefinches and Common Rosefinch was the only member of the family to be seen. Records totalled one at Kumeria and, in the Naini Tal area, one in the fields near the Eureka Forbes factory at Sat Tal and three in the Mongoli Valley.

Crested Bunting *

India. Perching on stunted trees in grassland, four Crested Buntings were seen at Corbett.

White-capped Bunting *

India. Four birds were seen in total - two in Ranthambhore National Park and two just below the Eureka Forbes factory at Sat Tal.

 

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