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A Report from birdtours.co.uk

Itinerary and systematic list - Langtang and Gosiankund trek April 2001,

Author

Observers: Ramesh Karki, Shanker Bista and John B O'Connell-Davidson ( john.ocd@which.net )

ITINERARY

07 APRIL Kathmandu Sat
Arrived in Kathmandu in late afternoon I was meet by Ramesh Karki and Shanker Bista, my guides for the trek and was then transferred to the Hotel Himalaya, situated in north Patan, 2 miles south of the centre of the capital.

08 APRIL      Kathmandu Sun
A day excursion to Phulchwoki, the highest peak of the Kathmandu Valley at just over 9,000 feet.  Here we covered the lower slopes in the morning and visited the Botanical gardens, which are close by, in the afternoon and had over 90 species of birds during approximately 7 hrs.  A trek brief over a wonderful Nepalese meal at the Bhojan Griha restaurant was a fine way to end the first full day back in Nepal.

09 APRIL      Camping    Mon
The trek started by driving northwards on a coach towards Trisuli Bazaar, a journey that normally takes two hours but with frequent stops for birding it took five. A military road continues further up the Trisuli River to Dhunche but we started our trek just north of Trisuli Bazaar at Majhagaon.   A few hours walking in the afternoon took us to our campsite at Bagoto (Kalikastan) (5,000 feet).   Light rain followed by a violent thunderstorm was a fine way to start camping for the next 18 days.

10-11 APRIL        Camping   Tue - Wed
For the next two days we continued northwards, along the road on the eastern side of the Trisuli valley. We passed through pretty Tamang villages, steep terraced fields, and watery ravines filled with dense subtropical vegetation and tall alder groves. Moving higher all the time, we entered different zones with plenty of time to discover the birds of each area as we passed through them. Pines replace alders before we reached beautiful forests of oaks, rhododendrons and hemlocks.  We camped early each evening at Thare 10/4 (6050 feet), Thuto Bharkhu 11/4 (6350 feet) where we left the road and camped in the forest overnight.

12  April           Camping Thu
An early morning start and a slow walk through the forest brought us to our campsite at (Thulo) Syabru (7230 feet).  After short break an excursion into the forest above Syabru where in the open areas birding was made easier before returning to the campsite.

13 APRIL       Camping   Fri
At Syabru we left the Trisuli valley behind and turned north towards into the Langtang Valley an outstanding area for wildlife. We soon entered the magnificent mixed forest of oaks and rhododendrons that dominate the lower valley, which are beautifully decorated with mosses and lichens.  A long slow steep descent in the morning towards the Langtang Khola (river) was followed by a very steep climb in the afternoon towards the campsite at Lama Hotel at Changtang.  Unfortunately rain from 4 pm curtailed the birding late in the afternoon.

14 APRIL       Lodge Sat
We continued up through the forest, through the evergreen oak trees until the trail entered open ground at Ghora Tabela (9800feet). There was once a Tibetan resettlement project here, but now the only residents were the soldiers of a Nepalese army post.   The habitat changed now to scrub, boulders and potato fields as the valley broadened and we climbed above the tree line as we approached Langtang village.  We were supposed to camp in Langtang (10850 feet) but heavy rain all afternoon forced us to use a lodge overnight for sleeping accommodation.

15-16 APRIL    Camping   Sun - Mon
Beyond Langtang village, the valley opens out even further and the views became more extensive.   At 12800 feet we reached the village of Kyangjin, which set well above the Langtang River and surrounded by snowy peaks.   Across the valley the other side of the river was a beautiful forest of gnarled birch trees, dwarf rhododendrons and junipers and down by the river ibisbills were breeding.   The high mountain scenery, which envelops the area, gives spectacular views.  A very early start (4.30 am) on the 16th to climb up above the village for sunrise and high altitude birds, we climbed to the col at 15650ft where the views were fantastic.   Back to the campsite for a late breakfast and a rest before birding across the river before lunch.  Unfortunately snow after lunch curtailed birding for the rest of the day.

17 APRIL Camping Tue
After a very cold night (-10oc) we left Kyangjin and moved slowly back down the Langtang valley again and camped on the edge of the forest at Gumnachok.

18 APRIL Camping    Wed
Most of the day was spent walking through the extensive oak and rhododendron forest again, but heavy rain for most of the morning meant an early lunch at Bamboo Lodge.  From the Lodge we took the higher path on the south side of the valley where the damp, north facing slopes held a greater variety of trees, and a lush undergrowth, here many birds were seen feeding on the wet ground litter. A short climb late in the afternoon brought us back to the village of Syabru.

19-21 APRIL Camping / Lodge Thu - Sat
Over the next three days we climbed 7,000 feet to the beautiful holy lake of Gosainkund (14,000 feet), an important place of pilgrimage for Hindus from all over India.  The first day of our climb, from Syabru to Shin Gompa,  / Chandanbari took us through an outstanding mixed forest littered with rhododendron and juniper bushes and some wonderful alpine meadows.  We stayed at Chandanbari for our second day for an early start for the elusive Satyr Tragopan and an exploration of the forests in the area.  On the Saturday we continued with a steady climb through pine forests into open rocky terrain, which gave dramatic views as we made our way to Gosainkund.  Here a lodge was the warmest place to stay as snow was falling quite heavily in the late afternoon.

22-23 APRIL Camping Sun - Mon
An early start from Gosainkund took us through a snow covered wild and rugged terrain, passing four smaller frozen lakes before reaching the summit of the Lauribinayak pass at 15,100 feet. Here the view just after sunrise was worth the trip alone but the climb down was one I shall not want to repeat in a hurry.   We camped near Gopte cave (11,700 feet) then on the Monday we moved a short distance to Tharepati, which allowed a day and a half for searching for the specialities of this superb area.

24-25 APRIL Camping   Tue - Wed
Beyond Tharepati we followed a high ridge southwards and as the weather was sunny and hot it was the perfect day for seeing raptors with a good numbers taking advantage of the thermals.  We passed through oak forests where many orchids were growing, all the time descending gently before we camped at an excellent campsite just south of Kutumsang.  The Wednesday started with a long steep path down through mostly open cleared forest before a steady climb to a campsite at Chisapani for the last night of the trek.

26 APRIL Kathmandu Thu
The last day of the trek (day 19) started with a steady two-hour early morning climb upto Burlang Bhanjyang (8,000 feet), a ridge top village amongst oak and rhododendron forest in the Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve.   For the rest of the day, a hot and very steep descent through oak, then subtropical forest, before reaching Sundarijal on the edge of the Kathmandu Valley where transport returned me to the Hotel Kantipur Temple Hose.

27 APRIL Kathmandu Fri
A sightseeing day to Nepal's largest Hindu temple at Pashupatinath and the Buddhist "stupa" at Boudhinath one of the most calming, peaceful places I have ever visited.

28 APRIL Kathmandu Sat   
The last half a day for shopping before being transferred to the airport for the flight back home.

During the trek the day always started with tea no later than 5.30 am, a cooked breakfast and birding by 7 am, which ensured we had the best part of the day for the weather.   Although the weather was unusually changeable for April this in no way spoilt a fantastic birding trek.  This was my third trek and throughout the trip the experience of my guides and companions, Ramesh & Shanker, ensured that this was one I shall always remember.  Not only for the bird watching (with 254 spices observed), good food and dramatic mountain views but also for the marvellous company they were throughout the trek.

Notes.

  1. Ornithological nomenclature follows 'Birds of Nepal' by Richard Grimmett, Carol Inskipp & Tim Inskipp. (Helm Field Guides) 2000
  2. The Spelling of place names will differ from map to map, the ones I have used are from the 'Langtang - Gosankund & Helambu' by Nepa Maps' September 2000.

Systematic Bird List

Snow Partridge (Lerwa lerwa) 9 high above the village of Kyangjin on the early morning on 16/4

Tibetan Snowcock (Tetraogallus tibetanus) 3 high above the village of Kyangjin on the early morning on 16/4

Hill Partridge (Arborophila torqueola) Heard calling in the forest at Phulchwoki, Syabru, Chandanbari, Tharepati & Shivapuri.

Blood Pheasant (Ithaginis cruentus) Pairs seen on the 23/4 and the 24/4 in the forest around Tharepati.

Satyr Tragopan (Tragopan satyra) 2 males & 1F heard calling in the forest at Chandanbari 20/4 & 21/4, 1 female 22/4 then a male seen 23/4 in the forest around Gopte.

Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus) Recorded in small numbers from 14/4 to the 24/4 high in the hillsides of the trek.

Kalij Pheasant (Lophura leucomelanos) 1 in the forest at Phulchwoki,  6 around Syabru 13/4 & 1 on the path to Chandanbari 19/4.

Common Teal (Anas crecca) 1 male in the river at Kyangjin 15/4.

Common Merganser (Mergus merganser) 1 male on the 15/4 in a small lake the other side of the river from Kyangjin.

Yellow-rumped Honeyguide (Indicator xanthonotus) 1 high above the Langtang Khola near bee's nests north of the Hotspring Hotel 13/4.

Speckled Piculet (Picumnus innominatus) 1 in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4

Bay Woodpecker (Blythipicus pyrrhotis) 1 in the forest around Bamboo Lodge 18/4.

Brown-fronted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos auriceps) 1 on the 13/4 & 2 17/4 in the forest around Gumnachok.

Rufous-bellied Woodpecker (Dendrocopos hyperythrus) 6 seen on 3 days in the forest above Bamboo Lodge - Gumnachok 14/4, 17/4 & 18/4.

Scaly-bellied Woodpecker (Picus squamatus) 1 male in the forest at Chandanbari 20/4 & 1 south of Tharepati 24/4.

Grey-headed Woodpecker (Picus canus) 1 in the forest at Phulchwoki, and heard on the 12,13,17 & 24/4

Great Barbet (Megalaima virens) 1 heard in the forest at Phulchwoki, males seen 11/4, 14/4 & 26/4 with males heard calling in all the lower level forests.

Golden-throated Barbet (Megalaima franklinii) 1 in the forest at Phulchwoki and heard on 11-13/4 in the forest towards Syabru.

Blue-throated Barbet (Megalaima asiatica) 1 in the forest at Phulchwoki and 1 heard calling 9/4

Chestnut-headed Bee-eater (Merops leschenaulti) 1 male on a wire across the road to Trisuli Bazaar 9/4.

White-throated Kingfisher (Halycon smyrnensis) 1 seen while in the bus to Trisuli Bazaar 9/4.

Large Hawk Cuckoo (Hierococcyx sparverioides) Widespread and frequently heard. 1 in the Shivapuri Reserve 26/4.

Eurasian Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) Ubiquitous and common. A maximum of 20+ seen on the 25/4.

Oriental Cuckoo (Cuculus saturatus) Widespread and frequently heard. Recorded in the Langtang valley up to Langtang village, between Syabru and Chandanbari, and from Gopte until the end of the trek.

Grey-bellied Cuckoo (Cacomantis passerinus) Recorded between Syabru - Changtang 13/4 and at Chandanbari 18/4.

Green-billed Malkoha (Phaenicophaeus tristis) 1 in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4.

Himalayan Swiftlet (Collocalia brevirostis) Ubiquitous and very common at lower levels. Frequently seen in feeding flocks of over 50 birds.

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) 3 recorded on both the 24/4 & 25/4.

House (Little) Swift (Apus affinis) Recorded north of Dhunche 11/4, 10+ on the 24/4, 50+ 25/4.

Fork-tailed (Pacific) Swift (Apus pacificus) Recorded around Syabru on the 12, 13/4 and 30+ above Gopte.

Mountain Scops Owl (Otus spilocephalus) 1 heard around Thuto Bharkhu, 1 in the forest between Syabru - Shin Gompa.

Tawny Owl (Strix aluco) 1 heard after Thuto Bharkhu, and 1 being mobbed by crows above Chandanbari 21/4.

Collared Owlet (Glaucidium brodiei) Frequently heard, 1 from the path Syabru - Changtang 13/4.

Asian Barred Owlet (Glaucidium cuculoides) 1 from the path as soon as we had left the bus to start the trek at Majhagaon.

Grey (Jungle) Nightjar (Caprimulgus indicus) Heard calling form the campsites on the 9/4 & 11/4.

Rock (Dove) Pigeon (Columba livia) 4 recorded between Syabru - Changtang 13/4.

Snow Pigeon (Columba leuconota) Abundant between Langtang - Kyangjin, particularly in the vicinity of Langtang village where up to 200+ were seen.

Speckled Wood Pigeon (Columba hodgsonii) Recorded at Syabru, between Syabru - Changtang and around Gopte.

Ashy Wood Pigeon (Columba pulchricollis) 12 recorded in the Shivapuri Reserve 26/4.

Oriental Turtle Dove (Streptopelia orientalis) Widespread and common (both sub-spices)

Spotted Dove (Streptopelia chinensis) Seen in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4 and around Bagoto 9/4.

Wedge-tailed Green Pigeon (Treron sphenura) Seen between Chandanbari - Gosainkund 21/4.

Eurasian Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola) A single in the forest area near Chandanbari on the 19/4 & 20/4.

Ibisbill (Ibidorhyncha struthersii) 3 in the river at Kyangjin 15/4.

Black Kite (Milvus migrans) Abundant in Kathmandu and recorded as far as Thare.

Lammergeier (Gypaetus barbatus) Seen in small numbers between Syabru - Kyangjin, and Gopte - Tharepati.

Himalayan Griffon (Gyps himalayensis) 1 Kyangjin 15/4 & 17/4, 2 at Chandanbari 20/4, and 1 between Tharepati - Kutumsang 25/4.

Eurasian Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus) One while on the way to Trisuli 9/4.

Short-toed Snake Eagle (Circaetus gallicus) 1 adult + 1 juvenile on the edge of the forest between Tharepati and Kutumsang 24/4.

Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela) Singles recorded in between Kathmandu - Trisuli 9/4, Thuto Bharkhu - Syabru 11/4, at Syabru 12/4, and between Kutumsang - Chisapani 25/4.

Black Eagle (Ictinaetus malayensis) 1 high above Syabru on the 13/4, 1 at Gopte 22/4 and one between Kutumsang - Chisapani 25/4.

Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus) 1 above the village of Kyangjin on the early morning on 16/4 possible on late migration?

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) Single recorded between Tharepati and Kutumsang 24/4.

Crested Goshawk (Accipiter trivirgatus) Single recorded between Tharepati and Kutumsang 24/4.

Shikra (Accipiter badius) 1 between Majhagaon - Bagoto 9/4 and 1 male hunting in fields before the village of Kyangjin 15/4.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus) 1 at Chandanbari 20/4, a Single at Gopte 23/4 & 2 at Kutumsang 24/4.

Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo) 1 near Thuto Bharkhu 10/4.

Upland Buzzard (Buteo hemilasius) 3 high in the Langtang Valley 15/4 and 1 on the 17/4 at Kyangjin, 3 at Gopte 23/4.

Greater Spotted Eagle (Aquila clanga) 2 recorded between Tharepati and Kutumsang 24/4.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) 2 on the 15/4 and 2 on the 17/4 (same pair) at Langtang, 1 at Gopte 23/4

Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis) 10+ viewable from the road to Trisuli Bazaar 9/4.

Bonelli's Eagle (Hieraaetus fasciatus) 2 at Gopte 24/4, 2 recorded at Shivapuri Reserve 26/4.

Booted Eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus) 2 at Gopte 23/4 and 1 between Tharepati and Kutumsang 24/4

Mountain Hawk-Eagle (Spizaetus nipalensis) 1 in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4 and 1 at Tharepati 23/4

Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) Widespread and very common throughout the trek.

Peregrine (Falco peregrinus) 1 between Tharepati and Kutumsang 24/4

Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) Common in Kathmandu valley.

Indian Pond Heron (Ardeola grayii) 1 seen from the road to Trisuli Bazaar 9/4.

Orange-bellied Leafbird (Choropsis hardwickii) 1 between Bamboo Lodge - Syabru 18/4 and 1 just before Sundarijal 26/4.

Long-tailed Shrike (Lanius schach) Fairly common throughout the trek.

Grey-backed Shrike (Lanius tephronotus) Recorded between Thuto Bharkhu - Syabru 12/4.

Eurasian Jay (Garrulus glandarius) 1 in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4 and seen at between Thuto Bharkhu - Syabru 12/4.

Yellow-billed Blue Magpie (Urocissa flavirostris) Fairly common throughout the trek.

Red-billed Blue Magpie (Urocissa erythrorhyncha) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4 & heard at Thuto Bharkhu 10/4.

Grey Treepie (Dendrocitta formosae) Seen before Bagoto 9/4 and heard at between Kutumsang and Chisapani 25/4.

Spotted (Eurasian) Nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes) Very common in the trees from Thuto Bharkhu to Gosainkund with 50+ seen on the 12/4 near Syabru (possible interruption?).

Red-billed Chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax) Recorded in small numbers from Ghora Tabela upwards in Langtang and again around Gosainkund.

Yellow-billed (Alpine) Chough (Pyrrhocorax graculus) Recorded in small numbers high in the Langtang valley.

House Crow (Corvus splendens) Abundant in Kathmandu valley.

Large-billed (Jungle) Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) Ubiquitous and common the only bird seen every day during the trek.

Common Raven (Corvus corax) Recorded in small numbers high in the Langtang valley on the 14/4 & 16/4.

Eurasian Golden Oriole (Oriolus oriolus) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4.

Maroon Oriole (Oriolus trailli) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, near Bagoto 9/4 and heard near Syabru 13/4 & again on the 18/4.

Large Cuckooshrike (Coracina macei) 2 between Kutumsang - Chisapani 25/4.

Black-winged Cuckooshrike (Coracina melaschistos) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, between Thare - Thuto Bharkhu 11/4 and near Syabru 13/4.

Long-tailed Minivet (Pericrocotus ethologus) Widespread and common upto altitudes of 9,500ft.

Short-billed Minivet (Pericrocotus brevirostris) 1 between Thuto Bharkhu - Syabru 12/4.

Scarlet Minivet (Pericrocotus flammeus) 1 between Majhagaon and Bagoto 9/4.

Yellow-bellied Fantail (Rhipidura hypoxantha) Abundant from Thuto Bharkhu onwards until high altitudes with 100+ seen on the 18/4 between Gumnachok - Syabru.

White-throated Fantail (Rhipidura albicollis) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4

Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus) Small numbers between Majhagaon - Thuto Bharkhu on the 9/4 & 10/4 and again in the Shivapuri 26/4.

Ashy Drongo (Dicrurus lecucophaeus) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, common between Majhagaon and Changtang 9/4 -13/4, Syabru - Chandanbari 18/4 & 19/4.

Bronzed Drongo (Dicrurus aeneus) 1 in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, and 1 near Bagoto 9/4.

Lesser Racket Tailed Drongo (Dicrurus remifer) 1 between Majhagaon and Bagoto 9/4.

Brown Dipper (Cinclus pallasii) Record in small numbers on each day between Thuto Bharkhu - Kutumsang 11/4 - 18/4, with 4 on the 17/4.

Blue-capped Rock Thrush (Monticola cinclorhynchus) Recorded between Thare and Syabru 10/4 & 11/4.

Chestnut-bellied Rock Thrush (Monticola rufiventris) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, and common from Thuto Bharkhu onwards until high altitudes and again near Chandanbari 18/4.

Blue Whistling Thrush (Myophonus caeruleus) Very common until Gosainkund.

Plain-backed (Mountain) Thrush (Zoothera mollissima) At least 3 between Gosainkund and Gopte 22/4.

Long-tailed (Mountain) Thrush (Zoothera dixoni) 3 between Chandanbari and Gosainkund 21/4.

Scaly (White's) Thrush (Zoothera dauma) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, and near Chandanbari 20/4.

Tickell's Thrush (Turdus unicolor) At least 5 near Syabru 12/4 & 13/4 and 1 in Shivapuri forest 26/4.

White-collared Blackbird (Turdus albocinctus) Common near Chandanbari 19/4 with 20+ seen on the 20/4 and recorded again near Gopte 23/4 & 24/4.

Grey-winged Blackbird (Turdus boulboul) ) Recorded between Thuto Bharkhu - Syabru 10/4 & 11/4 and 2 between Tharepati - Kutumsang 24/4.

Dark-throated Thrush (Turdus ruficollis) 10+ (both sub-spices) recorded between Changtang - Langtang 14/4 and 2 between Kutumsang and Chisapani 25/4.

Dark-sided (Asian Sooty) Flycatcher (Muscicapa sibirica) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, between Syabru - Changtang 13/4 and between Kutumsang - Chisapani 24/4.

Asian Brown Flycatcher (Muscicapa dauurica) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, between Majhagaon - Thare 9/4 &10/4 and again near Chandanbari 19/4.

Rusty (Rufous)-tailed Flycatcher (Muscicapa ruficauda) 1 male in the forest between Syabru - Shin Gompa 19/4.

Ferruginous Flycatcher (Muscicapa ferruginea) 1 male in the forest Bamboo Hotel - Syabru 18/4.

Slaty-blue Flycatcher (Ficedula tricolor) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, 2 males between Bagoto - Thare 10/4,  2 males between and 1male Tharepati and Kutumsang 24/4.

Rufous (Orange)-gorgeted Flycatcher (Ficedula strophiata) Widespread and common, especially in the Langtang valley. Maximum 100 between Gumnachok - Syabru 18/4.

Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher (Culicicapa ceylonensis) Recorded in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, common in the Langtang valley upto Chandanbari.

Snowy-browed Flycatcher (Ficedula hyperythra) Recorded between Gumnachok - Chandanbari 18/4 & 19/4.

Ultramarine Flycatcher (Ficedula superciliaris) Recorded near Chandanbari 18/4 & 19/4 and from Tharepati to Shivapuri 24-26/4.

Verditer Flycatcher (Eumyias thalassina) Recorded in small numbers throughout the trek with 5 between Kutumsang - Chisapani 25/4.

Small Niltava (Niltava macgrigoriae) Recorded between Thuto Bharku and Lasa Hotel on the 11/4 to 13/4.

Rufous-bellied Niltava (Nillava sundara) Recorded in small numbers throughout the trek.

Indian Blue Robin (Luscinia brunnea) 1 male Singing between Kutumsang and Chisapani 25/4 and 1 male in Shivapuri 26/4.

Golden Bush-robin (Tarsiger chrysaeus) Heard at Phulchwoki 8/4, recorded between Thare - Syabru 10/4 & 11/4 and near Chandanbari 20/4 until Shivapuri 26/4 with 4 recorded on 22/4 & 23/4.

White-browed Bush Robin (Tarsiger indicus) 1 between Syabru - Chandanbari 19/4 and 4 between Tharepati and Kutumsang 24/4.

Rufous-breasted Bush Robin (Tarsiger hyperythrus) 3 near Gopte 22/4 and 2 between Tharepati and Kutumsang 24/4.

Oriental (Asian) Magpie Robin (Copsychus saularis) Recorded between Bagoto - Thuto Bharku 9/4 & 10/4.

Orange (Red)-flanked Bluetail (Tarsiger cyanurus) Recorded in small numbers in the Changtang area 14/4, 15/4 & 17/4, and again from between Syabru - Gosainkund with 10+ seen on the 21/4.

Black Redstart (Phoenicurus ochruros) 1 male between Bagoto - Thare 10/4.

Hodgson's Redstart (Phoenicurus hodgsoni) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4 and between Bagoto - Thare 10/4.

Blue-fronted Redstart (Phoenicurus frontalis) Common between Bagoto and Kyangjin with 20+ seen 15/4, and between Chandanbari and Shivapuri 20-26/4.

White-capped Water Redstart (Chaimarrornis leucocephalus) Widespread and common, especially in the Langtang valley near water.

Plumbeous Water Redstart (Rhyacornis fuliginosus) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4 and very common in the Langtang near water.

White-tailed Robin (Myiomela leucura) A number heard and 1 male in Shivapuri 26/4.

Little Forktail (Enicurus scouleri) Recorded in small numbers throughout the trek on the 11/4, 13/4 (4+), 18/4 23/4.

Spotted Forktail (Enicurus maculatus) 2 between Thare - Thuto Bharkhu 11/4 and heard between Syabru - Changtang 13/4.

Grandala (Grandala coelicolor) Recorded high above the village of  Kyangjin on the early morning on 16/4 and in good numbers the Gosainkund area with 20+ on 22/4.

Common Stonechat (Saxicola torquata) Small numbers between Majhagaon and Syabru, and between Tharepati and Shivapuri.

Pied Bushchat (Saxicola caprata) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4.

Grey Bushchat (Saxicola ferrea) Widespread and common.

Chestnut-tailed Starling (Sturnus malabaricus) Record between Bagoto - Thare 10/4.

Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis) Abundant in Kathmandu Valley and recorded as far as Thare.

Jungle Myna (Acridotheres fuscus) 4 in the village of Sundarijal 26/4.

Chestnut Belied Nuthatch (Sitta castanea) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4.

White-tailed Nuthatch (Sitta himalayensis) Common between Bagoto - Changtang with 20+ 18/4, and common again between Tharepati - Shivapuri 24-26/4.

Wallcreeper (Tichodroma muraria) 1 high above the village of  Kyangjin on the early morning on 16/4.

Eurasian Treecreeper (Certhia familiaris) Recorded in the Chandanbri forest 19/4 - 21/4 with 15+ seen 19/4.

Rusty-flanked Treecreeper (Certhia nipalensis) 1 on the 15/4 in the forest, the other side of the river from Kyangjin and in the Chandanbri forest with 4 seen 19/4 and 3 on the 20/4.

Rufous-vented Tit (Parus rubidiventris) Recorded in small numbers from Changtang until Tharepati 14/4 - 24/4.

Spot Winged Tit (Parus melanolophus) 3 in the forest from Syabru to Changtang 13/4.

Coal Tit (Parus ater) Recorded in small numbers from Changtang until Gopte 14/4 - 23/4.

Grey-crested Tit (Parus dichrous) Recorded in small numbers from Changtang until Tharepati 14/4 - 24/4 with 10+ 20/4.

Great Tit (Parus major) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4 and in small numbers from Majhagaon to Syabru.

Green-backed Tit (Parus monticolus) Common throughout the trek except at higher altitudes.

 Black-lored Tit (Parus xanthogenys) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4 and between Majhagaon 9/4 & Thuto Bharkhu  11/4 and at Shivapuri 26/4.

Yellow-browed Tit (Sylviparus modestus) Common throughout the trek at lower altitudes.

Black-throated Tit (Aegithalos concinnus) Common throughout the trek except at higher altitudes.

Rufous-fronted (Black-browed) Tit (Aegithalos iouschistos) 5 recorded between Changtang - Langtang 14/4 & 17/4, in the forest near Chandanbri and 20 + between  Tharepati and Kutumsang 24/4.

(Winter) Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes) Recorded at Changtang and between Chandanbri - Gopte with 10+ 21/4.

Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) Abundant in the Kathmandu valley. Also recorded between Kathmandu and Bagoto, and between  Kutumsang and Sundarijal 26/4.

Red-rumped Swallow (Hirundo daurica) Good numbers from the road to Trisuli Bazaar and 10+ each day between Kutumsang and Shivapuri 25/4 & 26/4.

Asian House Martin (Delichon dasypus) Recorded between Thare - Thuto Bharkhu 11/4 and 50+ in the cliffs above Gopte 23/4.

Nepal House-martin (Delichon nipalensis) Widespread and common in the Langtang Valley.

Striated Bulbul (Pycnonotus striatus) Recorded in the area of the entrance to the Langtang National Park 11/4

Himalayan (White-checked) Bulbul (Pycnonotus leucogenys) Common throughout the trek at lower altitudes with 50+ between Kutumsang and Chisapani 25/4.

Red-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer) Common throughout the trek at lower altitudes.

Mountain Bulbul (Hypsipetes mcclellandii) ) Common between Bagoto - Changtang.

Black Bulbul (Hypsipetes leucocephalus) Very common throughout the trek at lower altitudes with 50+ between Kutumsang and Chisapani 25/4.

Striated Prinia (Prinia criniger) Recorded between Bagoto - Thuto Bharkhu 10/4 & 11/4.  A few heard elsewhere during the trek.

Oriental White-eye (Zosterops palpebrosus) Recorded in small numbers during the trek at lower altitudes with 5 at Shivapuri 26/4.

Chestnut-headed Tesia (Tesia castaneocoronata) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4.

Grey-bellied Tesia (Tesia cyaniventer) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4. A few heard 11/4 & 26/4.

Common Tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius) Heard at Phulchwoki 8/4, and seen between Majhagaon & Bagoto 9/4.

Brownish-flanked Bush Warbler (Cettia fortipes) Recorded in the forest near Chandanbari 20/4

Aberrant Bush Warbler (Cettia flavolivacea) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4, near Syabru 13/4 and at Shivapuri 26/4.

Grey-sided Bush Warbler (Cettia brunnifrons) Widespread and fairly common with a maximum of 20+ near Gopte 23/4.

Tickell's Warbler (Phylloscopus affinis) Widespread and fairly common with 20+ between Kutumsang and Chisapani 25/4.

Western Crowned Leaf Warbler (Phylloscopus occipitalis) Widespread and fairly common throughout the trek.

Blyth's Leaf Warbler (Phylloscopus reguloides) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4, and between Majhagaon and  Bagoto 9/4, and Thare - Thuto Bharkhu 11/4. 

Buff (Orange)-barred Warbler (Phylloscopus pulcher) recorded between Changtang - Langtang 14/4 & 17/4, 20+ near Chandanbari 19/4 and small numbers between Chandanbari and Tharepati.

Ashy-throated (Grey-faced) Warbler (Phylloscopus maculipennis) Recorded between Syabru - Kyangjin 13/4 - 18/4 and near Tharepati 23/4.

Lemon-rumped Warbler (Phylloscopus chloronotus) Widespread and common.

Hume's Warbler (Phylloscopus humei) Recorded in small numbers on 8/4, 12/4, and between Tharepati and Shivapuri 24/4 - 26/4.

Yellow-browed Warbler (Phylloscopus inornatus) Recorded between Bagoto 10/4 - Changtang 17/4.

Greenish Warbler (Phylloscopus trochiloides) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4, between Bagoto - Thare 10/4 and between Kutumsang and Shivapuri 25/4 - 26/4.

Large-billed Leaf Warbler (Phylloscopus magnirostris) Heard near Changtang 13/4 and 1 near the Changtang 18/4.

Golden-spectacled Warbler (Seicercus burkii) Widespread and fairly common throughout the trek.

Whistler's Warbler (Seicercus whistleri) Recorded in small numbers throughout the trek.

Grey-hooded Warbler (Seicercus xanthoschistos) Widespread and very common throughout the trek.

Chestnut-crowned Warbler (Seicercus castaniceps) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4, near Changtang 18/4.

Black-faced Warbler (Abroscopus schisticeps) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4, and between Majhagaon and  Bagoto 9/4, with 20+ 18/4 between Syabru - Chandanbari.

Goldcrest (Regulus regulus) Recorded in the forests around Chandanbari 19/4 and 10+ 20/4 with the males having much brighter crests than those seen in Europe.

White-throated Laughingthrush (Garrulax albogularis) Recorded in small numbers throughout the trek with 10+ at Shivapuri 26/4.

White-crested Laughingthrush (Garrulax leucolophus) Heard in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4.

Striated Laughingthrush (Garrulax striarus) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4, and in small numbers throughout the Langtang Valley.

Rufous-chinned Laughingthrush (Garrulax rufogularis) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4.

Spotted Laughingthrush (Garrulax ocellatus) 1 in the forest above Syabru 12/4, 4+ on both days in the forests around Chandanbari 20/4 -21/4, 10+ around Gopte 23/4 and 25+  between Tharepati - Kutumsang 24/4.

Streaked Laughingthrush (Garrulax lineatus) Recorded in small numbers from Bagoto 10/4 to Shivapuri 26/4, with 6+ on the 26/4.

Scaly Laughingthrush (Garrulax subunicolor) 2 recorded between Syabru - Changtang 13/4

Variegated Laughingthrush (Garrulax variegatus) Common in the Langtang Valley from the Syabru onwards with 40+ 14/4.

Black-faced Laughingthrush (Garrulax affinis) Common during the trek from Thuto Bharkhu to Tharepati with 30+ 14/4.

Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush (Garrulax erythrocephalus) Heard in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, and heard and seen in small numbers throughout the trek.

Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler (Pomatorhinus erythrogenys) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4, often heard during the trek at lower altitudes with 1 in the area of the entrance to the Langtang National Park 11/4.

Streak-breasted Scimitar Babbler (Pomatorhinus ruficollis) Heard in the forest at Phulchwoki 8/4, and heard on the 12/4 & 24/4, 1 between Syabru - Changtang and 2 between Kutumsang - Chisapani 25/4.

Scaly-breasted Wren-babbler (Pnoepyga albiventer) 1 in the forest near Chandanbari 20/4,  1 in the same area near the path 21/4 and 3 (both sub-spices) near Gopte 23/4.

Nepal Wren-babbler (Pnoepyga immaculata) 3 recorded by the river between Syabru - Changtang 13/4 and 1 heard 14/4 just north of Changtang.

Pygmy Wren-babbler (Pnoepyga pusilla) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4.

Black-chinned Babbler (Stachyris pyrrhops) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4, heard twice during the trek 10/4 & 26/4 and 1 between Bagoto - Thare 10/4.

Grey-throated Babbler (Stachyris nigriceps) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4.

Red-billed Leiothrix (Leiothrix lutea) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4 and 4 in the Shivapuri forest 26/4.

White-browed Shrike-babbler (Pteruthius flaviscapis) Heard between Bagoto - Thare 10/4, 10+ between Thuto Bharkhu - Syabru 12/4 and 1 near Gumnachok 18/4.

Green Shrike-babbler (Pteruthius xanthochlorus) Recorded in the Shivapuri forest 26/4.

Hoary-throated Barwing (Actinodura nipalensis) 3 near Gopte 23/4.

Chestnut-tailed Minla (Minla strigula) Recorded in small numbers throughout the trek.

Red-tailed Minla (Minla ignotincta) 4 at Shivapuri Reserve 26/4.

Rufous-winged Fulvetta (Alcippe castaneceps) 2 between Tharepati - Kutumsang 24/4 and at Shivapuri Reserve 26/4.

White-browed Fulvetta (Alcippe vinipectus) 3 near Ghora Tabela 14/4 and 5 in the same area 17/4 then common from Syabru 18/4 until Chisapani 25/4 with 20+ 19/4.

Nepal Fulvetta (Alcippe nipalensis) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4 and 1 between Chisapani - Shivapuri 26/4.

Whiskered Yuhina (Yuhina flavicollis) Widespread and fairly common.

Stripe-throated Yuhina (Yuhina gularis) 10+ between Changtang - Ghora Tabela 14/4 and then in small numbers from Gopte 23/4 until Shivapuri 26/4.

Rufous-vented Yuhina (Yuhina occipitalis) 3 near Syabru 12/4, 10+ between Changtang - Ghora Tabela 14/4 and then small number until Kutumsang 24/4.

White-bellied Yuhina (Yuhina zantholeuca) 2 between Bagoto - Thare 10/4.

Fire-tailed Myzornis (Myzornis pyrrhoura) 1 near Gopte 23/4 and the next day 24/4.

Rufous (Black-capped) Sibia (Heterophasia capistrata) Widespread and common.

Fire-breasted Flowerpecker (Dicaeum ignipectus) Widespread and seen in small numbers throughout the trek.

Mrs Gould's Sunbird (Aethopyga gouldiae) 6 males in the forest above Syabru 12/4.

Green-tailed Sunbird (Aethopyga nipalensis) Widespread and common. Maximum of 12 on the 16/4.

Black-throated Sunbird (Aethopyga saturata) Recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4, 2 between Bagoto - Thare 10/4.

Crimson Sunbird (Aethopyga siparaja) 1 male by the road to Trisuli Bazaar 9/4.

Fire-tailed Sunbird (Aethopyga ignicauda) 3 males near Kyangjin 16 /4 and from Chandanbari 19/4 widespread and common and in the Gopte area 100+ (males & females) 23/4.

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) Abundant in the Kathmandu valley.

Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus) Widespread and common except at the higher altitudes.

White Wagtail (Motacilla alba) 3 males between Langtang - Kyangjin 15/4 and 1 male 17/4 in the same area.

White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) 1 male between Majhagaon and Bagoto 9/4.

Grey Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea) Recorded in small numbers in the Langtang Valley.

Upland Pipit (Anthus sylvanus) Heard and seen  in the fields from Majhagaon until Thuto Bharkhu 9/4-11/4 and 3 on the 25/4 & again on the 26/4 in open grassy areas of the trail.

Olive-backed Pipit (Anthus hodgsoni) Widespread and very common and recorded on all days except one.

Rosy Pipit (Anthus roseatus) Very common above the tree line, especially around Langtang village with 50+ 15/4.

Alpine Accentor (Prunella collaris) 2 around Langtang village 15/4 and recorded on the 16/4 & 17/4 between Langtang - Kyangjin.

Altai Accentor (Prunella himalayana) Recorded in area of Gosainkund to Gopte with 6 21/4,  20+ 22/4 and 5 23/4.

Rufous-breasted Accentor (Prunella strophiata) Widespread and common at higher altitudes with 50+ between Langtang - Kyangjin 15/4.

Plain Mountain-finch (Leucosticte nemoricola) Widespread and common at higher altitudes 100+ between Langtang - Kyangjin 15/4, in area of Gosainkund to Gopte with 25+ 21/4,  30+ 22/4, 100+ 23/4 and 20+ 24/4.

Brants Mountain Finch (Leucosticte brandti) 50+ high above the village of  Kyangjin on the early morning on 16/4.

Yellow-breasted Greenfinch (Carduelis spinoides) Recorded between Bagoto and Thuto Bharkhu 10/4 & 11/4, again in the forest at Chandanbri 20/4 and 8 between Kutumsang - Chisapani 25/4.

Dark-breasted Rosefinch (Carpodacus nipalensis) 2 recorded again in the forest area of Chandanbri 19/4 & again on the 21/4.

Common Rosefinch (Carpodacus erythrinus) Recorded in small numbers at lower altitudes 8-10/4 & 24-25/4.

Beautiful Rosefinch (Carpodacus pulcherrimus) Recorded between Syabru and Langtang with  30+ 14/4 and 50+ 15/4 and again in small numbers on the 21/4 & 23/4.

Pink-browed Rosefinch (Carpodacus rhodochrous) Recorded in small numbers in the area of Chandanbri to  Gosainkund 19/4 -23/4.

Dark-rumped Rosefinch (Carpodacus edwardsii) 1 in bushes between Thuto Bharkhu and Syabru 12/4.

Spot-winged Rosefinch (Carpodacus rodopeplus) Small numbers in Langtang Village area 14-15/4 and in the area of Chandanbri 20/4 & 22/4.

White-browed Rosefinch (Carpodacus thura) Recorded in small numbers at the higher altitudes 12/4 24/4.

Red-fronted Rosefinch (Carpodacus puniceus) 4 in the Kyangjin area 16/4 and in the area of Chandanbri 20/4.

Brown Bullfinch (Pyrrhula nipalensis) 3 recorded between Thuto Bharkhu and Syabru 12/4 and 2 between Gumnachok - Syabru.

Red-headed Bullfinch (Pyrrhula erythrocephala) 3 recorded between Syabru and Changtang 13/4 and 4 on the return leg on the 18/4.

Collared Grosbeak (Mycerobas affinis) 2 between Thuto Bharkhu and Syabru 12/4, and 6 in the area of Chandanbri 20/4 and 3 between Tharepati and Kutumsang 24/4.

White-winged Grosbeak (Mycerobas carnipes) 2 recorded high in the Langtang area 17/4, and in the area of Chandanbri with 1 19/4, 10+ on the 20/4, 10+ 22/4 and also recorded on the 21/4, 23/4 & 25/4.

Crested Bunting (Melophus lathami) 1 male by the road to Trisuli Bazaar and 1 male between Bagoto - Thare 10/4 and 1 male between Syabru - Changtang 13/4.

Chestnut Bunting (Emberiza rutila) 10+ recorded at Phulchwoki 8/4.

Produced by J B O'Connell-Davidson

For any further information on this trip or birding in Nepal please do not hesitate to email me.  I have also produced a Systematic Bird List for the Mountains of Nepal and I am happy to email this to those who would wish to use it.  (It is approx. 850k excel file)

jocd@eurobell.co.uk    

 

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