Grey Francolin (Francolinus pondicerrianus)
4, 4, and 3 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 26/11, 27/11 and 30/11 respectively. Four at Bund Baretha on 29/11. Seen on route to Taj Mahal 1/12.
Jungle Bush Quail (Perdicula asiatica)
A group of 6 - 7 birds were seen in the small valley behind the Old Maharaja's Palace at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Barred Button Quail (Turnix suscitator)
Two and one in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the 24/11 & 25/11 respectively. Two on route to Bund Baretha on 29/11. One in Corbett National Park on 4/12.
Kalij Pheasant (Lophura leucomelanos)
A brief sighting of three birds (2 male & 1 fem) crossing a track on the lower portion of the Forktail Stream 6/12.
Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus)
2, 3 & 3 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 23/11, 26/11 & 30/11 respectively. Six on way to "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. Several at Bund Baretha 29/11. Three in Corbett National Park on 4/12.
Greylag Goose (Anser anser)
Birds were seen everyday in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, where up to 800 were estimated.
Bar Headed Goose (Anser indicus)
50 - 60 were estimated in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the Mansarovar.
Lesser Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna javanica)
40 and 12 Were seen at Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 24/11 & 30/11 respectively.
Ruddy Shelduck (Tadorna ferruginea)
Eight were seen at Bund Baretha on 29/11. Around 30 birds were on the River Yamuna behind the Taj Mahal on 1/12. Eight & thirty were seen on the River Ganges at Garh Mukteshwar on 1/12 & 2/12, also 12 on River Kosi at Ramnagar on latter date. Birds were also seen at Oklah on 14/12.
Comb Duck (Sarkidiornis melanotus)
Small numbers were seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, with at least 13 being seen on 25/11. Small numbers were also seen at Bund Baretha on 29/11.
Cotton Pygmy Goose (Nettapus coromandelianus)
Birds were seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, with no more than 10 being seen most days. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Gadwall (Anas strepera)
200 - 300 birds were seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Birds were also seen at Oklah 14/12.
Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)
200 were estimated in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. "Hundreds" were at Oklah on 14/12.
Mallard (Anas platyrynchos)
Three males were seen on 24/12 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park
Spot Billed Duck (Anas poecilorhyncha)
Between 5 & 40 daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Around 20 birds on River Yamuna at Oklah 14/12.
Common Teal (Anas crecca)
Up to 1000 were estimated in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Good numbers were at Bund Baretha 29/11. Also seen at Oklah.
Garganey (Anas querquedula)
3, 5 & 2 Were seen at Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 25/11, 26/11 and 28/11 redspectively. Around 20 were present at Bund Baretha on 29/11.
Northern Pintail (Anas acuta)
200 - 300 Were estimated in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Good numbers also at Bund Baretha, 29/11 and at Oklah on 14/12.
Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata)
100 at Keoladeo Ghana National Park. 200 - 300 on the River Yamuna at Oklah 14/12.
Red Crested Pochard (Rhodonessa rufina)
Between 1 and 20 on most days at Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Twenty five at Bund Baretha on 29/11. Eight (6 male, 2 fem) at Sat Tal lakes on 12/12.
Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)
50+ At Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Numbers were seen at Oklah 14/12. 100 Were estimated at Bund Baretha on 29/11.
Ferruginous Pochard (Aythya nyroca)
One and fifteen were seen on two days at Keoladeo Ghana National Park 24/11 & 25/11. A single bird was seen on the pool along track from dam at Sat Tal on 10/12 & 12/12.
Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)
Around 60 birds were estimated at Bund Baretha on 29/11. Three fem/imm were with a small group of Red Crested Pochard on Sat Tal lake in the late afternoon of 12/12 before the whole flock departed prior to dusk.
Common Merganser (Mergus merganser)
26 Flew down the River Kosi, Ramnagar at dusk on the 2/12. Four birds flew past the Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12.
Eurasian Wryneck (Jynx torquilla)
One bird was seen at Kuraka on route to Bund Baretha on 29/11.
Rufous Woodpecker (Celeus brachyurus)
A single bird was watched at close range towards the top of the Forktail Stream in the early evening of 7/12.
Brown Capped Pygmy Woodpecker (Dendrocopos nanus)
One on our last day at Keoladeo Ghana National Park along the Shantir Cutir trail inspecting a nest hole 30/11.
Grey Capped Pygmy Woodpecker (Dendrocopos canicapillus)
Two by the Dhikala watchtower in Corbett Natinal Park 4/12. One by the Khinnanauli Guest House in Corbett National Park 5/12. One along the Forktail Stream 6/12. One in Nainital town 9/12.
Brown Fronted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos auriceps)
One below Snow View Ridge, Nainital 11/12. Two in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Fulvous Breasted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos macei)
Seven in Corbett National Park 3/12, one on the 4/12. One up the Forktail Stream 7/12. One Sat Tal on 12/12.
Yellow Crowned Woodpecker (Dendrocopos mahrattensis)
Two in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the 25/11.
Rufous Bellied Woodpecker (Dendrocopos hyperythrus)
A single bird was watched at very close range just below Snow View Ridge, Nainital on the 11/12.
Himalayan Woodpecker (Dendrocopos himalayensis)
One seen along Snow View Ridge, Nainital on 10/12.
Lesser Yellownape (Picus chlorolophus)
One seen up the Forktail Stream 7/12. One along Snow View Ridge, Nainital 10/12.
Greater Yellownape (Picus flavinucha)
1 - 2 Seen up the Forktail Stream 7/12.
Streak Throated Woodpecker (Picus xanthopygaeus)
One in Corbett National Park on 4/12 & 5/12.
Scaly Bellied Woodpecker (Picus squamatus)
One along Snow View Ridge, Nainital on 8/12.
Grey Headed Woodpecker (Picus canus)
One in Corbett National Park 5/12. One by the Quality Inn, Kumeria 7/12. One near the entrance to the Magoli Valley 13/12.
Himalayan Flameback (Dinopium shorii)
Three around the Khinnanauli Guest House, Corbett National Park 5/12.
Black Rumped Flameback (Dinopium benghalense)
Between 1 and 5 on all days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Three near Ramnagar 3/12. Two in Corbett National Park 4/12 and 5/12.
Greater Flameback (Chrysocolaptes lucidus)
A pair towards the top of the Forktail Stream 7/12. Two around Sat Tal lakes on 10/12 & 12/12.
Great Barbet (Megalaima virens)
Two birds were seen and were very vocal in the early evening of 11/12 around Nainital town. One bird was seen and 3-4 birds were heard calling in the late afternoon along the track from the Dam at Sat Tal on 12/12. One was seen in flight on route back from The Mangoli Valley to Nainital in the afternoon of 13/12.
Brown Headed Barbet (Megalaima zeylanica)
One in the Nursery area of Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 26/11 & 27/11, with another near Jatoli Canal on latter date. Four near Ramnagar on 3/12.
Lineated Barbet (Megalaima lineata)
Three near Ramnagar on 3/12. One from Dhikala watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12.
Coppersmith Barbet (Megalaima haemacephala)
Ten, six and one in the Nursery area of Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 26/11, 27/11 & 30/11 respectively. Two at Bund Baretha on 29/11. One near Ramnagar on 3/12.
Indian Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros birostris)
1, 4, 2, and 2 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 24/11, 26/11, 27/11 and 28/11 respectively.
Common Hoopoe (Upupa epops)
2, 7, 10 and 3 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 24/11, 25/11, 26/11 and 30/11 respectively. One by the River Kosi at Ramnagar 2/12.
Indian Roller (Coracias benghalensis)
Between 1 & 6 were seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Several were seen on route to Bund Baretha on 29/11. Other birds were noted from the car on route to the north.
Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
Between 1 & 5 were seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. One along River Kosi, Ramnagar 2/12. Four birds in Corbett National Park 4/12. One seen along path from dam at Sat Tal on 10/12 & 12/12. Two at Oklah on 14/12.
Stork Billed Kingfisher (Halcyon capensis)
One was seen in flight by Ramganga Reservoir, Corbett National Park 4/12. One flew up the Forktail Stream 6/12.
White Throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis)
Between 20 & 50 were seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Seen on route to and at Bund Baretha. Many seen on route to the North from car. Several at Oklah 13/12.
Crested Kingfisher (Megaceryle lugubris)
One along River Kosi near Ramnagar 2/12. One in Corbett National Park 4/12. One up the Forktail stream on 6/12 & 7/12.
Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis)
Between 10 & 20 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Seen on route to and at Bund Baretha 29/11. Several Garh Mukteshwar 1/12 & 2/12. Between 4 & 7 daily along the River Kosi, Ramnagar. Several inside Corbett National Park 3/12 & 4/12.
Green Bee Eater (Merops orientalis)
One & two in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the 26/11 & 28/11 respectively, both sightings along the Shntir Cutir trail. Two by the dam on the River Kosi at Ramnagar 6/12.
Common Hawk Cuckoo (Hierococcyx varius)
A single bird was seen in the Nursery area of Keoladeo National Park on 26/11, with 2 in the same area on 27/11.
Grey Bellied Cuckoo (Cacomantis passerinus)
A single bird was seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 24/11.
Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopacea)
A male and fem/imm were seen in between the Barrier and the Nursery in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 27/11.
Sirkeer Malkoha (Phaeniocophaeus leschenaultii)
Good views were had of a single bird along the River Kosi near Ramnagar on the 6/12.
Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis)
Between 3 & 8 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. One at Oklah 14/12.
Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria)
Eleven birds were seen around the Khinnanauli Guest House in Corbett National Park in the morning of 5/12.
Rose Ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri)
Between 30 & 40 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Seen at Bund Baretha 29/11 and Garh Mukteshwar 1/12. Twenty plus at Ramnagar 3/12.
Slaty Headed Parakeet (Psittacula himalayana)
12+ Birds seen from Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12. Twenty plus birds were seen along the Forktail Stream 7/12.
Plum Headed Parakeet (Psittacula cyanocephala)
7+ Seen on route to Bund Baretha 29/11. At least 24 were seen just outside Ramnagar on 3/12.
Himalayan Swiftlet (Collocalia brevirostris)
Six birds seen late afternoon by the River Kosi, Ramnagar 2/12.
White Rumped Needletail (Zoonavena sylvatica)
Around 10 birds were seen very well by the Sarapdouli Rest House, Corbett National Park 5/12.
Asian Palm Swift (Cypsiurus balasiensis)
Three were seen at Bund Baretha on 29/11.
House Swift (Apus affinis)
Between 20 & 100 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Five at Ramnagar 3/12. Up to 20+ near the Quality Inn/ Forktail Stream area 6/12 & 7/12.
Alpine Swift (Tachymarptis melba)
Around 20 birds were seen over the Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal 12/12.
Crested Treeswift (Hemiprocne coronata)
Three just outside Ramnagar 3/12. Between 10 & 15 seen daily in Corbett National Park. Up to 25 birds over the Forktail Stream 6/12.
Collared Scops Owl (Otus bakkamoena)
Two sightings in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a single bird by the main track 23/11, and a pair along the Shantir Cutir trail 27/11.
Dusky Eagle Owl (Bubo coromandus)
Heard calling most evenings in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, with one bird being seen distantly on 23/11.
Asian Barred or Jungle Owlet
Two seperate single birds were seen inside Corbett National Park on route to the camp at Dhikala 3/12.
Asian Barred Owlet (Glaucidium cuculoides)
One seen close to the dam at Sat Tal, 10/12 was seen very well and showed buffy primaries and secondaries concolourous with rest of upperparts. Another bird seen briefly at Nainital 11/12, appeared to be this species.
Jungle Owlet (Glaucidium radiatum)
One bird seen well and photographed in the compound at Dhikala, Corbett National Park showed the rufous wing panel of this species 4/12, as did another seen in the park later the same afternoon.
Spotted Owlet (Athene brama)
Three diferent sightings in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, single birds seen on 24/11 & 25/11 and a group of seven individuals close together with at least three on the same branch 30/11.
Nightjar sp. (Caprimulgus sp.)
Seen regularly but not identified by the main track at dusk in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, with at least two birds seen on 23/11.
Rock Pigeon (Columba livia)
Seen at most sites visited, very numerous, with many birds resembling pure Rock Doves.
Oriental Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur)
One seen in Nainital town on 9/12. Six birds seen along Snow View Ridge, Nainital 10/12.
Laughing Dove (Streptopelia senegalensis)
Small numbers were seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, and around the Bharatpur area. Also seen at Oklah 14/12.
Spotted Dove (Streptopelia chinensis)
Four seen around Ramnagar on 2/12, with 8 there on 6/12.
Red Collared Dove (Streptopelia tranquebarica)
Around 10 were seen on route to Bund Baretha 29/11.
Eurasian Collared Dove (Streptopelia decaocto)
Small numbers were seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park.
Emerald Dove (Chalcophaps indica)
Our only sighting was of a bird feeding beside the River Kosi 1-2 km up river from Ramnagar in the afternoon of 2/12.
Yellow Footed Green Pigeon (Treron phoenicoptera)
26 Birds seen near the Nursery in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 26/11. Two by the Falcon Guest House, Bharatpur 27/11.
Green Pigeon sp. (Treron sp)
A single bird was seen at Sat Tal on 12/12, the bird had reddish legs and a longish wedge shaped tail, no projecting central tail feathers were seen, the views were from below although the head was seen briefly and appeared plain green. After initial views the bird moved into thicker canopy and could not be relocated. The sighting was in an area which was full of Black Bulbuls and the same area of trees were we earlier had seen Black Winged Cuckoo Shrike.
Siberian Crane (Grus leucogeranus)
The regular two wintering individuals were seen at Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the Mansarovar behind Keoladeo Temple on 24/11, 25/11 and 30/11.
Sarus Crane (Grus antigone)
Between 2 and 35 birds were seen on most days in the Keoladeo Ghana National Park. A family party of 2 adults and 2 juveniles (still with down) were seen along the Shantir Cutir trail on 26/11.
Common Crane (Grus grus)
12 and 16 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 24/11 & 25/11 respectively.
Brown Crake (Amaurornis akool)
Single birds were seen at Bund Baretha on 29/11 and Oklah on 14/12.
White Breasted Waterhen (Amaurornis phoenicurus)
Between 20 & 50 birds were seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Also seen at Bund Baretha in small numbers 29/11. One seen in fields by the Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal 12/12. One on Oklah island 14/12.
Purple Swamphen (Porphyrio porphyrio)
Between 100 & 400 birds estimated daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Seen on route to, and at Bund Baretha 29/11. Eight birds at Oklah 14/12.
Common Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus)
Between 30 & 100 birds seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Seen at Bund Baretha on 29/11.
Common Coot (Fulica atra)
Between 300 & 600 were seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Up to 1000 were at Bund Baretha 29/11. Present at Oklah 14/12.
Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago)
Between 1 & 5 were seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Two birds were seen at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Black Tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa)
Around 100 birds were estimated at Bund Baretha on 29/11. A flock of 70 were seen on the Mansarovar in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 30/11.
Spotted Redshank (Tringa erythropus)
1, 8 & 7 Were seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the 24/11, 25/11 & 30/11 respectively. One bird was also seen at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Common Redshank (Tringa totanus)
Between 1 & 5 birds were seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. One bird was seen on route to "High Bank" Bharatpur 28/11. Birds were aslo seen on the River Yamuna by The Taj Mahal 1/12.
Marsh Sandpiper (Tringa stagnatilis)
2, 4 & 1 Were seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the 24/11, 27/11 & 30/11 respectively. Fifteen were at Bund Baretha on 29/11. Twenty plus birds were on the River Yamuna by The Taj Mahal 1/12 and one was at Oklah 14/12.
Common Greenshank (Tringa nebularia)
1 & 4 Were seen in Keoldeo Ghana National Park on 23/11 & 24/11 respectively. Five were on a small pool along "High Bank", Bharatpur 28/11. An estimated 35 were at Bund Baretha 29/11. Birds were seen or heard daily along the River Kosi 2/12, 3/12 & 5/12. One was seen in Corbett National Park 4/12.
Green Sandpiper (Tringa ochropus)
Between 1 & 5 were seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Three were seen on pools along "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. Birds were seen on many roadside pools between Bharatpur & Agra, and Agra & Delhi on 1/12. Also seen on route from Garh Mukteshwar to Ramnagar on 2/12. Between 2 & 5 daily along the River Kosi, Ramnagar. One seen in Corbett National Park 4/12. One at Oklah 14/12.
Wood Sandpiper (Tringa glareola)
Between 5 and 30 birds were seen on all of our days at Keoladeo Ghana National Park with the highest count being 31 birds together at dusk along the Shantir Cutir trail on 28/11.
Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos)
One at "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. Also seen at Shavla Baretha and Bund Baretha on 29/11. One in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 30/11. Seen at Garh Mukteshwar 1/12. Between 4 & 7 daily along the River Kosi, Ramnagar. Five in Corbett National Park 4/12. Two seen at Oklah 14/12.
Little Stint (Calidris minuta)
Two birds were seen feeding together along the River Yamuna at Oklah on the 14/12.
Temmincks Stint (Calidris temminckii)
Eighteen were seen on 24/11 and eight on 30/11 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. One at "High Bank" near Bharatpur and one on a small pool near the park both on 28/11. Ten at Bund Baretha on 29/11. Seven at Garh Mukteshwar on 2/12. Two at Oklah on 14/12.
Stint Sp.
200 distant small stints on the river behind the Taj Mahal 1/12 were most probably Little.
Ruff (Philomachus pugnax)
Around 100 birds were estimated at Bund Baretha on 29/11. A flock were seen on the Mansarovar in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 30/11. Around 15 birds were seen at Oklah 14/12.
Eurasian Thick Knee (Burhinus oedicnemus)
Around six birds were seen on our last day in the Keokadeo Ghana National Park 30/11.
Great Thick Knee (Burhinus recurvirostris)
Three birds were seen at Bund Baretha from the Dam on the 29/11. A single bird was seen very distantly from the Dhikala watchtower in Corbett National Park on 4/12. A group of four birds were seen very well by the River Kosi (while we were watching Ibisbill!) on 5/12.
Ibisbill (Ibidorhyncha struthersii)
Excellent views were had of the two regular wintering individuals on the River Kosi just up from Ramnagar on the afternoon of 5/12 after missing them previously on the afternoon/evening of 2/12.
Black Winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus)
Between 2 & 12 on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Twenty birds were seen at Bund Baretha 29/11. An estimated 100 were by the River Yamuna behind the Taj Mahal and several were seen at Garh Mukteshwar all on 1/12. Ten birds were at Oklah 14/12.
Pied Avocet (Recurvirostra avosetta)
Six birds were seen on the river Ganges at Ghar Mukteshwar in the late afternoon of 1/12. Four birds were seen at the same site the following morning 2/12
Pheasant Tailed Jacana (Hydrophasianus chirugus)
Several birds were seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. At least five birds at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Bronze Winged Jacana (Metopidius indicus)
Seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, with up to 35 being seen on 24/11.
Little Ringed Plover (Charadrius dubius)
2 & 1 Were seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 27/11 & 30/11 respectively. A single bird was seen at Garh Mukteshwar on 2/12. Between 2 & 3 were seen daily along the River Kosi, Ramnagar. Three were at Oklah on 14/12.
Kentish Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus)
Around ten birds were seen at Bund Baretha on 29/11.
Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)
One flew over Oklah Isalnd 14/12.
River Lapwing (Vanellus duvaucelii)
5 On River Yamuna behind Taj Mahal 1/12. Two & three by River Ganges at Garh Mukteshwar 1/12 & 2/12 respectively. Six, two & three along the River Kosi 2/12, 5/12 & 6/12. At least 10 birds seen from Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12. Ten plus at Oklah 14/12.
Red Wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus)
20 - 30 Birds seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Seen in and around Bharatpur daily. Several on way to and at "High Bank" Bharatpur 28/11. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Several daily along River Kosi, Ramnagar. Two at Sat Tal 12/12. Present at Oklah 14/12.
White Tailed Lapwing (Vanellus leucurus)
Between 1 & 3 seen most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Three at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Yellow Legged Gull (Larus cachinnans)
A large immature gull probably this species was seen distantly at Bund Baretha on 29/11. 6 - 7 Birds were seen at Oklah on 14/12.
Brown Headed Gull (Larus brunnicephalus)
Around 30 birds were estimated by the River Ganges at Garh Mukteshwar on 1/12, with around 20 the next morning.
Black Headed Gull (Larus ridibundus)
An adult winter was seen along the Shantir Cutir trail in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 26/11. Around 30 birds were estimated by the River Ganges at Garh Mukteshwar on the 1/12, with around 40 the next morning. Around 15 birds were seen at Oklah on 14/12.
River Tern (Sterna aurantia)
Two breeding plumage adults were seen along the Shantir Cutir trail in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 26/11. Around 30 birds were estimated at Bund Baretha on 29/11. Two adults were seen at Oklah on 14/12.
Black Bellied Tern (Sterna acuticauda)
Two adults in breeding plumage were seen by the River Ganges at Garh Mukteshwar on 2/12.
Whiskered Tern (Chlidonias hybridus)
Twenty plus at Bund Baretha 29/11. Ten plus at Oklah on 14/12.
Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)
One sat on an island at Bund Baretha 29/11. Three seen from the Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12.
Black Shouldered Kite (Elanus caeruleus)
Between 1 & 5 on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. One at "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. Two in Corbett National Park 3/12. One at Oklah on 14/12.
Black Kite (Milvus migrans)
One seen Keoladeo Ghana National Park 25/11, was our only sighting in the Park. 30+ Bharatpur to Agra 1/12. Ten around the Taj Mahal 1/12. An estimated 1500 in the Delhi area (from car) 1/12. Three at Garh Mukteshwar 2/12. Ten Ramnagar/R. Kosi 2/12, 3/12, 5/12 & 6/12. Birds seen in Corbett N. P. on the 3/12. One Nainital on 8/12 & 11/12. One near Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal 12/12. An estimated 100 birds were at Oklah 14/12.
Pallas's Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus leucoryphus)
2 - 3 In Corbett National Park on 4/12. One seen by the Saraparuli Guest House, Corbett National Park 5/12.
Lesser Fish Eagle (Ichthyophaga humilis)
One seen from High Bank, Corbett National Park 3/12. One to two birds seen in Corbett National Park 4/12.
Lammergeier (Gypaetus barbatus)
Two seen from vehicle Ramnagar to Nainital 8/12. Two seen along Snow View Ridge from Nainital 8/12. Two seen briefly near the Mangoli Valley 9/12.
Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus)
3 In Keoladeo Ghana National Park 25/11. Three "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. Five between Bharatpur & Agra 1/12. An estimated 200 were along the River Yamuna behind the Taj Mahal 1/12. Seen between Agra & Delhi 1/12, and between Delhi & Ramnagar 2/12.
White Rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis)
3 Birds seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 25/11. One at Bund Baretha 29/11. One over Ramnagar 2/12.
Long Billed Vulture (Gyps indicus)
One along Sapan Mari trail in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 27/11.
Himalayan Griffon (Gyps himalayensis)
One between Eureka Forbes Factory & Sat Tal 12/12.
Eurasian Griffon (Gyps fulvus)
5+ Nainital 8/12. Six near Mangoli Valley 9/12. Seven from Snow View Ridge, Nainital 11/12. Five between Eureka Forbes Factory & Sat Tal 12/12. Three Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Cinereous Vulture (Aegypius monachus)
One seen near the Dhikala compound, Corbett National Park 4/12.
Red Headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus)
Between 2 & 5 in Keoladeo Ghana Natioinal Park on most days. One at Bund Baretha 29/11. Eight in Corbett National Park on 4/12 with 1 on 5/12. One near Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal 12/12.
Short Toed Snake Eagle (Circaetus gallicus)
A very pale bird at "High Bank" near Bharatpur on the 28/11, and a well marked bird later the same morning on route back to Bharatpur. One at Bund Baretha on 29/11.
Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela)
1 - 2 Seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 23-28/11 & 30/11. One between Dhangari entrance to Corbett & Ramnagar 5/12.
Eurasian Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus)
Between 1 & 5 on most days in the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, including a ringed bird with an Orange ring (with 01 or 10 in Black) and a Greyish Brown ring (with C in Whitish) above it, the bird also had a single Silver ring on it's left leg. One at Kuraka on route to Bund Baretha 29/11. One at Bund Baretha on 29/11 was seen to take a River Tern! One Delhi (from car) 1/12. Two - three were on Oklah Island 14/12.
Pallid Harrier (Circus macrourus)
A juvenile/first winter was seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 27/11.
Shikra (Accipiter badius)
1 - 2 Seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. One at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Besra (Accipiter virgatus)
A juvenile was watched plucking a small bird at close range in Corbett National Park on 5/12.
Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus)
A male was seen in the morning at Nainital 9/12.
Oriental Honey Buzzard (Pernis ptilorhyncus)
Two sightings in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, one was seen flying past the Nursery on 26/11, and another was seen in flight at the end of the Ram Band on 30/11. Stunning views were had of a bird perched on the ground in the early am of 29/11 at Shavla Baretha, on route to Bund Baretha. One between Agra & Delhi 1/12.
White Eyed Buzzard (Butastur teesa)
One seen in a dry area of Keoladeo Ghana National Park was our only sighting 25/11.
Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo)
One near the Mangoli Valley 9/12. Two near The Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal 12/12. One in The Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Lesser Spotted Eagle (Aquila pomarina)
A single bird was seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 24/11.
Greater Spotted Eagle (Aquila clanga)
All sightings were in Keoladeo Ghana National Park were between 10 & 15 were seen on most days in the park.
Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis)
One juv in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 25/11. One juv in Corbett National Park 4/12. One juv between Ramnagar & Nainital 8/12. Five (1 juv, 4 ad) in the Eureka Forbes Factory area, Sat Tal 12/12.
Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca)
All sightings were in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, 2-3 were seen on 24/11, and singles on 25/11, 27/11 & 30/11.
Bonelli's Eagle (Hieraaetus fasciatus)
A juvenile was an awesome sight as it was watched chasing Grey Heron, Egrets and Greylags at close range in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the 30/11. Two adults were seen just below Snow View Ridge, Nainital on 11/12. Two more adults were watched thermalling up with other raptors late am at Sat Tal on 12/12.
Booted Eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus)
A single bird was seen at Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 24/11.
Rufous Bellied Eagle (Hieraaetus kienerii)
One bird was seen from the Dhangari entrance gate to Corbett National Park on 3/12.
Changeable Hawk Eagle (Spizaetus cirrhatus)
One seen on route from Ramnagar to Nainital on the 8/12. One was seen near Sat Tal on 12/12. A Hawk eagle sp. was seen very briefly near the Quality Inn on 7/12
Mountain Hawk Eagle (Spizaetus nipalensis)
One was seen over Chaina Peak, Nainital on 11/12.
Collared Falconet (Microhierax caerulescens)
Two sightings of probably the same bird from the Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park on 4/12 was one of the highlights of the trip.
Common Kestrel (Falco tinniculus)
Three were seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 25/11. One at Bund Baretha 29/11. One at Garh Mukteshwar 2/12.
Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
One seen in the Mangoli Valley on the 13/12 appeared to be F. p calidus.
Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis)
Between 1 & 5 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur.
Darter (Anhinga melanogastor)
One flew past Falcon Guest House, Bharatpur 23/11. Between 30 & 40 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. One seen at Oklah 14/12.
Little Cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger)
Between 50 & 200 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Thirty five at Garh Mukteshwar 2/12. Up to 5 at Oklah 14/12.
Indian Cormorant (Phalacrocorax fuscicollis)
One seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 25/11.
Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)
Between 30 & 50 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Ten at Garh Mukteshwar 2/12. Up to 15 by the River Kosi, Ramnagar 2/12. Present in Corbett National Park 4/12.
Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)
Between 10 & 30 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Between 1 & 3 seen daily along River Kosi, Ramnagar. Present in Corbett National Park 4/12.
Great Egret (Casmerodius albus)
Between 50 & 100 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Present in Corbett National Park 4/12. One at Oklah 14/12.
Intermediate Egret (Mesophoyx intermedia)
Up to 80 Seen daily at Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur.
Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)
2 & 7 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur on 25/11 & 27/11 respectively. 15+ on route to "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. Seen on route to Bund Baretha 29/11. Many seen between Agra & Delhi, and Delhi & Garh Mukteshwar 1/12. Present at Oklah 14/12.
Indian Pond Heron (Ardeola grayii)
Between 30 & 80 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. One at Oklah 14/12.
Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)
Up to 20 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Present in Corbett National Park 4/12. One at Oklah 14/12.
Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea)
Between 20 & 50 birds seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Present at Bund Baretha 29/12. Present in Corbett National Park 4/12. One at Oklah 14/12.
Little Heron (Butorides striatus)
Only one sighting, of a single in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 24/11.
Black Crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)
Between 30 & 50 Seen regularly at dusk in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur and 15+ seen roosting along Jatoli canal inside the park 27/12.
Yellow Bittern (Ixobrychus sinensis)
Just one sighting of a single bird in the section of Jatoli Canal, closest to the main track in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 27/11.
Black Bittern (Dupetor flavicollis)
Both sightings were from Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a female was seen near the Keoladeo Temple on 25/11, and excellent views were had of a male from the main track on the 30/11.
Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus)
Between 40 & 60 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park.
Black Headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus)
Between 20 & 100 birds seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park.
Eurasian Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia)
Between 40 & 110 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park.
Great White Pelican (Peeicanus onocrotalus)
Around 110 birds were seen on our last evening in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 30/11. 25 Were seen in flight between Agra & Delhi on 1/12.
Dalmation Pelican (Pelecanus crispus)
One was seen high over Keoladeo Ghana National Park 24/11. Three were seen at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala)
Between 2 & 15 seen in flight on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, there were no birds nesting in the park during our stay. Several at Bund Baretha on some of the islands 29/11. Three at Oklah on 14/12.
Asian Openbill (Anastomus oscitans)
Seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park in low numbers, no more than 5. One seen at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Wooly Necked Stork (Ciconia episcopus)
Between 5 & 10 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Three seen in Corbett National Park 4/12.
Black Stork (Ciconia nigra)
Two were seen in Corbett National Park 3/12 & up to 20 birds 4/12.
Black Necked Stork (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus)
All but one of the records of this stunning bird were from Keoladeo Ghana National Park, with a single on 23/11, five on 24/11, 2 on 25/11 & 6+ on 30/11. A single bird was seen in Corbett National Park 3/12.
Golden Fronted Leafbird (Chloropsis aurifrons)
Four were seen in Ramnagar on the morning of 6/12.
Rufous Tailed Shrike (Lanius isabellinus)
One was seen at Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 24/11, with another in the park on the 27/11.
Brown Shrike (Lanius cristatus)
A 1st winter was seen towards the top end of the Forktail stream on the morning of 7/12.
Bay Backed Shrike (Lanius vittatus)
Three along the Shantir Cutir trail in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 26/11.
Long Tailed Shrike (Lanius schach)
Between 1 & 4 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Three near "High Bank" Bharatpur 28/11. One at Bund Baretha 29/11. One in Corbett National Park 4/12. One near the Forktail Stream 7/12. One near the Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal 10/12. One at Oklah on 14/12.
Grey Backed Shrike (Lanius tephronotus)
A single bird was seen between Ramnagar town and the Dam on 6/12.
Southern Grey Shrike (Lanius meridionalis)
A single bird was seen on route to Bund Baretha on 29/11.
Eurasian Jay (Garrulus glandarius)
6 - 7 Birds were seen along Snow View Ridge, Nainital on 10/12.
Black Headed Jay (Garrulus lanceolatus)
Four birds were seen along Snow View Ridge, Nainital 10/12. One bird was seen in The Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Red Billed Blue Magpie (Urocissa erythrorhyncha)
Six were seen along the path from the dam at Sat Tal 10/12. Nine were feeding in bushes by the Eureka Forbes Factory 12/12. A further five were seen in The Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Common Green Magpie (Cissa chinensis)
One was seen very well towards the top of the Forktail stream late afternoon on 7/12.
Rufous Treepie (Dendrocitta Vagabunda)
2 & 4 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur 23/11 & 25/11 respectively. One at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Grey Treepie (Dendrocitta formosae)
Two towards the top of the Forktail Stream on 7/12.
House Crow (Corvus splendens)
Between 25 & 50 were seen on all days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Other birds were seen at virtually every other site in the lowlands, were it was a very numerous bird.
Large Billed Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos)
Between 1 & 5 were seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. At least one was seen at Bund Baretha 29/11. Between 30 & 40 were seen on all days around Nainital, 8-11/12. Birds were also seen at Sat Tal and The Mangoli Valley.
Black Hooded Oriole (Oriolus xanthornus)
One was seen from the Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12.
Black Winged Cuckooshrike (Coracina melaschistos)
A male was seen from the main track through woodland at Sat Tal on 10/12.
Small Minivet (Pericrocotus cinnamomeus)
Three different sightings in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur: 3 (1male, 2 fem) by the Nursery 26/11, 3 (2 male, 1 fem) in Nil Tal Woods 26/11 and a small group on 30/11. Three plus seen from Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12.
Long Tailed Minivet (Pericrocotus ethologus)
4 & 7 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur on 26/11 & 30/11 respectively. 5+ by the Khinnanauli Rest House in Corbett National Park 5/12. Two by the River Kosi, Ramnagar 6/12. Five along the Forktail Stream 7/12.
Scarlet Minivet (Pericrocotus flammeus)
A male from the Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12. Up to 20 birds by the Khinnanauli Rest House, Corbett National Park 5/12. Unidentified Minivets either etholgus or flammeus were also seen at Sat Tal.
Bar Winged Flycatcher Shrike (Hemipus picatus)
20+ Ramnagar on 3/12. Between 8 & 10 seen daily in Corbett National Park 3/12, 4/12 & 5/12. Eight along the Forktail Stream 6/12.
Yellow Bellied Fantail (Rhipidura hypoxantha)
3 Ramnagar on 3/12. Singles in the Sat Tal area on 10/12 & 12/12.
White Throated Fantail (Rhipidura albicollis)
2 Ramnagar on 3/12. One along the Forktail Stream 6/12. One & three in the Sat Tal area on 10/12 & 12/12 respectively. Two in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
White Browed Fantail (Rhipidura aureola)
Singles seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur on 25/11, 27/11 & 30/11.
Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus)
Up to 40 birds seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Seen regularly at most sights in the plains.
Ashy Drongo (Dicrurus leucophaeus)
Four seen by the Nursery in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur 26/11.
White Bellied Drongo (Dicrurus caerulescens)
One at the Nursery in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur 26/11.
Bronzed Drongo (Dicrurus hottentottus)
Five were seen in forest by the River Kosi just up river from the Quality Inn on 7/12.
Common Iora (Aegithina tiphia)
One seen between Ramnagar and the Amdanda entrance to Corbett National Park, while birding along the road on 3/12. Another was seen very well at the bottom of the Forktail Stream 6/12.
Marshalls Iora (Aegithina nigrolutea)
Two sightings in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, 2 seen in the dry area near Python point 25/11, one seen in Nil Tal woods 26/11. A furhter bird was seen at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Common Woodshrike (Tephrodornis pondicerianus)
Between 1 & 8 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Three plus just outside Ramnagar 3/12.
Brown Dipper (Cinclus pallasii)
A single bird was seen on the River Kosi just up from the Quality Inn on 7/12.
Chestnut Bellied Rock Thrush (Monticola rufiventris)
A fem/imm was seen around Sat Tal in the afternoon of 10/12.
Blue Rock Thrush (Monticola solitarius)
A single male was seen at Bund Baretha on 29/11, and a further bird was seen by the River Kosi at Ramnagar on 5/12.
Blue Whistling Thrush (Myophonus caeruleus)
Two along River Kosi, Ramnagar 2/12 with one just outside Ramnagar the next day. Up to 5 in Corbett National Park 3/12. Two along the Forktail Stream 7/12. Between 5 & 7 seen daily along Snow View Ridge. 5+ near Mangoli Valley 9/12. Five & 10 at Sat Tal on 10/12 & 12/12 respectively. Ten plus in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Orange Headed Thrush (Zoothera wardii)
Single birds were seen at Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the 28/11 (Nursery) and the 30/11 (near Jatoli Canal).
Tickells Thrush (Turdus unicolor)
Five birds were seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the 27/11, two were together by the Nursery (at least one was a first winter), two more (a male & female) were together along Shantir Cutir trail, and a further female was seen by a small pool in a dried up section of Jatoli Canal.
Grey Winged Blackbird (Turdus boulboul)
Two birds were seen briefly just below Snow View Ridge at Nainital on 11/12.
Dark Throated Thrush (Turdus Ruficollis)
A single bird was seen just outside Ramnagar on 3/12. A group of 5-6 birds were seen briefly in flight along Snow View Ridge, Nainital and two were seen perched there, all on 10/12.
Rufous Gorgeted Flycatcher (Ficedula strophiata)
Up to 3 birds along the Forktail Stream 7/12, also one in garden of Quality Inn on this date. Singles at Sat Tal on 10/12 & 12/12. One in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Red Throated Flycatcher (Ficedula parva)
Birds were seen on all days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park: 3 on 23/11, 1 on 24/11, 2+ on 25/11, 3+ on 26/11, 4 on 27/11, 1 on 28/11 & 5+ on 30/11. Two were seen at Bund Baretha on 29/11. One by River Kosi, Ramnagar 6/12. Five - six in the Quality Inn/Forktail Stream area 7/12. One Sat Tal 12/12. One at Oklah 14/12.
Little Pied Flycatcher (Ficedula westermanni)
A male was seen by the Khinnanauli guest House in Corbett National Park on the 5/12.
Slaty Blue Flycatcher (Ficedula tricolor)
A fem was heard around the Nursery in Keoladeo Ghana National Park (it had earlier been seen by Sohan lal one of the guides at the park). A fem/imm was seen up the Forktail Stream near The Quality Inn on 6/12, with 2-3 fem/imm there 7/12. Three birds were heard in a valley near the Mangoli Valley 9/12. Three (2m, 1fem/imm) were seen in the Eureka Forbes - Sat Tal area 12/12.
Verditer Flycatcher (Eumyias thalassina)
Singles were seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the 26/11(Nursery) and 30/11(along main path near entrance).
Small Niltava (Niltava macgrigoriae)
Single males were seen near Sat Tal 12/12 and in the Mangoli Valley 13/13.
Rufous Bellied Niltava (Niltava sundara)
Three (2m, 1f) were seen up the Forktail stream 7/12, and two (m & f) were seen near Sat Tal 12/12.
Grey Headed Canary Flycatcher (Culicicapa ceylonensis)
Singles seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 26/11, 27/11 & 28/11, with 2 on 30/11. Two at Bund Baretha 29/11. One & three along the Forktail Stream 6/12 & 7/12 respectively.
Common Nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos)
One was seen very well on and off for a few minutes towards the top of the Forktail stream on the morning of 7/12. This is possibly only the second record for India!
Siberian Rubythroat (Luscinia calliope)
A stunning male was watched for over 40 min on and off by the Eureka Forbes factory near Sat Tal on the morning of 12/12.
Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica)
At Keoladeo Ghana National Park 4+ on 24/11, 6+ on 25/11, 1 on 26/11, 2 on 30/11. A single was seen at Oklah on the 14/12.
Orange Flanked Bush Robin (Tarsiger cyanurus)
Two (male & fem/imm) were seen in Nainital Town on 9/12. A fem/imm was seen in the Sat Tal area on 12/12 and a further fem/imm was seen in the Mangoli Valley on 13/12.
Oriental Magpie Robin (Copsychus saularis)
Between 15 & 30 seen on all days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur.
Indian Robin (Saxicoloides fulicata)
Birds were seen frequently around Bharatpur town, and on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park were between 5 & 15 were seen. Several at Bund Baretha 29/11. Between 3 & 8 on all days around Ramnagar/R. Kosi. One seen at Oklah 14/12.
Blue Capped Redstart (Phoenicurus coeruleocephalus)
2, 3 & 6+ Along Snow View Ridge 8/12, 10/12 & 11/12 respectively. One near Mangoli Valley 9/12.
Black Redstart (Phoenicurus ochruros)
Four sightings in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, including one male. Two at Bund Baretha 29/11. One seen in Ramnagar 6/12.
Blue Fronted Redstart (Phoenicurus frontalis)
One male from the Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12. Between 1 & 2 seen daily around Nainital & Snow View Ridge 8/12 - 11/12. One in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
White Capped Water Redstart (Chaimarrornis leucocephalus)
Up to 8 seen daily along River Kosi, Ramnagar. Five in Corbett National Park 4/12. Two & five along the Forktail Stream 6/12 & 7/12. One in Nainital Town 9/12. One Sat Tal 12/12. Two in Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Plumbeous Water Redstart (Rhyacornis fuliginosus)
Between 8 & 10 along River Kosi, Ramnagar daily. Up to 20 birds in Corbett National Park 4/12. Five & eight along the Forktail Stream 6/12 & 7/12.
Little Forktail (Enicurus scouleri)
Two were seen on the Forktail Stream near the Quality Inn, Kumeria on 6/12, with one bird seen there the next day.
Spotted Forktail (Enicurus maculatus)
One was seen briefly on the stream, from the road between the Eureka Forbes Factory and Sat Tal on 12/12. Two sightings of birds in the Mangoli Valley on 13/12 included one feeding along the edge of a small field!
Common Stonechat (Saxicola torquata)
Between 1 & 3 were seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Two at "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. Between 5 & 15 daily in Corbett National Park. One near The Mangoli Valley 9/12. Three & two around Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal 10/12 & 12/12 respectively. Two in The Magoli Valley 13/12.
Pied Bushchat (Saxicola caprata)
Between 1 & 10 on all days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Six on way to "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. Five on route to Bund Baretha 29/11. One at Oklah 14/12.
Grey Bushchat (Saxicola ferrea)
Three sightings at Keoladeo Ghana National Park, fem/imm Nil Tal Woods 26/11, fem/imm just outside the park 28/11 and a male seen on 30/11. Between 1 & 5 on all days around Ramnagar/ River Kosi. Between 3 & 5 were seen daily in Corbett National Park. Five were seen along the Forktail Stream 7/12. Between 1 & 12 were seen on the visits to Eureka Forbes Factory and Mangoli Valley.
Brown Rock Chat (Cercomela fusca)
Five at Bund Baretha on 29/11. Six by the River Kosi at Ramnagar on 2/12 & 3/12.
Brahminy Starling (Sturnus pagodarum)
First seen from Falcon Guest House Bharatpur 23/11.Seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur no counts made.
Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris)
A single bird flew over Oklah on 14/12.
Asian Pied Starling (Sturnus contra)
Seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, with hundreds at dusk roosting. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Up to 35 at Oklah 14/12.
Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis)
Seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur and present at most other sights visited. In the north less common with 10+ at Nainital 9/12. Two along Snow View Ridge, Nainital 10/12. Present at Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal 12/12. Four in the Mangoli Valley 13/12. Seen at Oklah 14/12.
Bank Myna (Acridotheres ginginianus)
25+ on way to "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. Up to 350+ on route Bharatpur to Agra 1/12. Seen at Oklah 14/12.
Chestnut Bellied Nuthatch (Sitta castanea)
Singles seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 26/11 & 30/11. Five & three in Corbett National Park 3/12 & 5/12 respectively. Two along the Forktail Stream 6/12. One in the Magoli Valley 13/12.
White Tailed Nuthatch (Sitta himalayensis)
Between 2 & 5 seen daily around Nainital & Snow View Ridge. One in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Velvet Fronted Nuthatch (Sitta frontalis)
One by the Khinnanauli Rest House,Corbett National Park 5/12. Three by Sat Tal lakes 12/12.
Wallcreeper (Tichodroma muraria)
The only sighting of the trip was of a bird feeding around boulders on a shingle bank by the River Kosi just up river from Ramnagar on 2/12.
Bar Tailed Treecreeper (Certhia himalayana)
Between 1 & 3 seen daily around Nainital & Snow View Ridge. One in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Spot Winged Tit (Parus melanolophus)
Between 4 & 5 seen daily around Nainital & Snow View Ridge.
Great Tit (Parus major)
One in Corbett National Park 3/12. Four & six along the Forktail Stream 6/12 & 7/12 respectively. Three near the Mangoli Valley 9/12. Present at Sat Tal 12/12.
Green Backed Tit (Parus monticolus)
Between 3 & 6 seen daily around Nainital & Snow View Ridge. Seven near the Mangoli Valley 9/12. Several Sat Tal 12/12. Several in Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Black Lored Tit (Parus xanthogenys)
One near Mangoli Valley 9/12. Two & five at Sat Tal on 10/12 & 12/12 respectively. Six in Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Black Throated Tit (Aegithalos concinnus)
Between 8 & 20 seen on each visit to Snow View Ridge, Nainital. Ten in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Plain Martin (Riparia paludicola)
Up to 60 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Up to 100 birds seen from Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12. Between 15 & 30 seen daily along the River Kosi, Ramnagar.
Dusky Crag Martin (Hirundo concolor)
5 - 7 Birds were seen at Bund Baretha 29/11. Two birds were seen perched on wires by the college at Ramnagar on 6/12.
Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)
Between 40 & 100 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Up to 10 birds seen daily around Ramnagar/ River Kosi. Ten near Mangoli Valley 9/12. Twenty plus at Oklah 14/12.
Wire Tailed Swallow (Hirundo smithii)
Between 1 & 5 seen most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. One by the River Kosi, Ramnagar 5/12.
Red Rumped Swallow (Hirundo daurica)
Up to 20 birds seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Between 20 & 40 daily in the River Kosi / Ramnagar area, apart from a large count of 220 perched with other Hirundines on wires by the college in the morning 6/12. Fifteen plus on route from Ramnagar to Nainital 8/12. Five near the Mangoli Valley 9/12. Ten plus between Eureka Forbes and Sat Tal on both 10/12 & 12/12.
Nepal House Martin (Delchion nipalensis)
A large flock of 100+ birds flew over Cheena peak, Nainital in the late afternoon of 8/12. At least 7+ further birds were seen in the sat Tal area on the 12/12
Black Crested Bulbul (Pycnonotus melanicterus)
Two seen from the Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12.
Red Whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus)
Six just outside Ramnagar on the 3/12. Fifteen birds seen from Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12.
White Eared Bulbul (Pycnonotus leucotis)
Between 1 & 15 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 23/11-28/11 & 30/11. One at Oklah 14/12.
Himalayan Bulbul (Pycnonotus leucogenys)
Between 2 & 5 around Ramnagar on 2/12 & 3/12. An estimated 30 birds were seen from the Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12. Up to 12 were seen along the Forktail Stream on 6/12 & 7/12. Birds were seen on all days in the Nainital, Sat Tal, and Mangoli Valley areas.
Red Vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus cafer)
30 - 40 Birds seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Also seen at Bund Baretha and on all days around Ramnagar. Ten birds seen from Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12. An estimated 20 birds on both days around The Eureka Forbes Factory 10/12 & 12/12. Several were seen in The Mangoli Valley 13/12. Birds were also seen at Oklah 14/12.
Ashy Bulbul (Hemixos flavala)
10 - 12 Birds were seen from the Dhikala Watchtower in Corbett National Park 4/12.
Black Bulbul (Hypsipetes leucocephalus)
An estimated 30 birds at Sat Tal 10/12. Several were below Snow View Ridge, Nainital 11/12. Four by the Eureka Forbes Factory 12/12 and around 15 in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Grey Breasted Prinia (Prinia hodgsonii)
Up to 20 birds daily in Corbett National Park. 10+ Ramnagar 6/12. Twenty five plus birds along the Forktail Stream 7/12.
Yellow Bellied Prinia (Prinia flaviventris)
A single adult was seen on the island at Oklah on the 14/12
Plain Prinia (Prinia inornata)
Between 1 & 10 daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Three at Oklah 14/12.
Ashy Prinia (Prinia socialis)
Between 1 & 4 on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Seen at Bund Baretha 29/11. Two in Corbett National Park 4/12. One at Oklah 14/12.
Zitting Cisticola (Cisticola juncidis)
A single bird was seen by the track to the Dhikala watchtower at Corbett National Park on the 4/12.
Oriental White Eye (Zosterops palpebrosus)
15 & 12 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 26/11 & 27/11 respectively. Between 2 & 15+ daily in the River Kosi / Ramnagar area. Between 6 & 10+ daily in Corbett National Park. 15 - 20 along the Forktail Stream 7/12. One in Nainital Town 9/12. Twenty plus Sat Tal 10/12, with 10+ on 12/12. Present in The Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Chestnut Headed Tesia (Tesia castaneocoronata)
Fantastic views of an adult towards the top of the Forktail Stream on the 7/12. A further adult was seen just as well along the track leading from the dam at Sat Tal on 10/12.
Brownish Flanked Bush Warbler (Cettia fortipes)
Excellent views were obtained of a single bird constantly calling in the Mangoli valley on the 13/12.
Aberrant Bush Warbler (Cettia flavolivacea)
One sighting of a bird calling repeatedly as it fed along cover at the edge of woodland at Sat Tal on the 12/12.
Grey Sided Bush Warbler (Cettia brunnifrons)
Good views of a bird calling by the Dhikala watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12, and another two birds calling repeatedly by the stream in the Mangoli Valley on the 13/12.
Blyth's Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus dumetorum)
Not many sightings, 3-4 birds were seen on the first two full days in the Keoladeo Ghana National Park 24 & 25/11.
Clamorous Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus stentoreus)
Single birds were seen on all full days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, apart from the 30/11 when two birds were seen, most sightings occurred along the Shantir Cutir trail.
Striated Grassbird (Megalurus palustris)
One bird was seen well but briefly on Oklah island on the 14/12.
Lesser Whitethroat (Sylvia curruca)
Between 5 & 15 daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. One by the River Kosi, Ramnagar 2/12. Up to 5 by the Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal 12/12. Two on Oklah Island 14/12.
Orphean Warbler (Sylvia hortensis)
One sighting of a bird in the Python Point area of Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur on the 25/11.
Common Tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius)
One in garden of Falcon Guest House, Bharatpur 24/11. Between 1 & 3 seen on most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Two seen at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Siberian Chifchaff (Phylloscopus collybita tristis)
Our commonest warbler in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, with between 20 & 80 on full days in the park. Small no's were also seen at Bund Baretha, and most sights in the North with 5+ Ramnagar, 3+ Corbett N. P, 1 in a Valley near the Mangoli Valley 9/12. Two in The Mangoli Valley 13/12. Twenty plus birds on Oklah island 14/12.
Dusky Warbler (Phylloscopus fuscatus)
One bird was heard and seen along the Shantir Cutir trail in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur on our last day in the park, 30/11.
Tickells Leaf Warbler (Phylloscopus affinis)
One along the River Kosi, Ramnagar on 2/12. One near the Eureka Forbes Factory 12/12.
Buff Barred Warbler (Phylloscopus pulcher)
All records were from around the Nainital area. 2 & 5 around Nainital Town on 8/12 & 9/12. One near Mangoli Valley 9/12. One along Snow View Ridge, Nainital 10/12 with 5 there next day. Upto 10 in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Ashy Throated Warbler (Phylloscopus maculipennis)
Two sightings of single birds in the Mangoli Valley near Nainital on the 13/12.
Lemon Rumped Warbler (Phylloscopus chloronatus)
One on route to the camp at Corbett National Park 3/12. Two birds by the Dhikala watchtower, Corbett 4/12. Three birds up the Forktail Stream on 7/12. One Nainital town and one near the Mangoli Valley on the 9/12. Two Snow View Ridge, Nainital 11/12. Fifteen - Twenty birds were in the Mangoli Valley on the 13/12.
Brook's Leaf Warbler (Phylloscopus subviridis)
One bird was watched on and off for over 1hr as it fed actively in the top of Accacias in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the 27/11, it was calling regularly. Later the same afternoon we felt confident that we heard two more birds calling in similar habitat near Jatoli Canal.
Hume's Warbler (Phylloscopus humei)
A common bird in the plains with birds heard at most sights visited. At Keoladeo 5 - 15 birds were seen most days with further birds heard around the park. (it was constantly hearing and getting familiar with the call of Humes which enabled us to pick out the Brook's Leaf as being something new). Several birds were heard with a couple seen at Bund Baretha on 29/11. In the North 1 or 2 birds were heard at most sights with up to 5 around Ramnagar and 3 around the Watchtower in Corbett National Park. Four birds were heard around Sat Tal on the 12/12.
Greenish Warbler (Phylloscopus trochiloides)
3, 1 & 4 were seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur on the 26/11, 27/11 & 30/11 respectively. Two birds were seen at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Golden Spectacled Warbler (Seicercus burkii)
2 - 3 Were seen along the Forktail Stream 7/12. One seen at Sat Tal on 12/12.
Grey Hooded Warbler (Seicercus xanthoschistos)
3 just outside Ramnagar 3/12. Two seen from Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park 4/12. Three & 7 along the Forktail Stream 6/12 & 7/12 respectively. Two, 5 & 7 along Snow View Ridge 8/12, 10/12 & 11/12 respectively. Five plus in Nainital Town 9/12. Three near Mangoli Valley 9/12. Three & one at Sat Tal on 10/12 & 12/12 respectively. Present in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
White Throated Laughingthrush (Garrulax albogularis)
Around 25 were seen along Snow View Ridge, Nainital on 10/12. Between 25 - 30 were in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
White Crested Laughingthrush (Garrulax leucolophus)
Six birds were seen in the garden of the Quality Inn, Kumeria early morning of 7/12.
Striated Laughingthrush (Garrulax striatus)
Two and six were seen in The Mangoli Valley on 13/12.
Rufous Chinned Laughingthrush (Garrulax rufogularis)
A group of 4 birds were seen at close range after patiently searching for what was making the leaves rustle under thick undergrowth near Sat Tal 10/12. Two more sightings of 2 and 1 were seen in the same circumstances in the Sat Tal area again on 12/12.
Streaked Laughingthrush (Garrulax lineatus)
Regularly seen each day in the Nainital area with between 2 and 15 seen each day. Also seen at Sat Tal and in the Mangoli Valley.
Chestnut Crowned Laughingthrush (Garrulax erythrocephalus)
Two were seen extremely well in the Mangoli Valley on 13/12.
Scaly Breasted Wren Babbler (Pnoepyga albiventer)
A bird was seen well but briefly by a Stream in the Mangoli Valley on the 13/12.
Black Chinned Babbler (Stachyris pyrrhops)
5+ Were along the Forktail Stream on 7/12. Four in a valley near The Mangoli valley 9/12. Eight around Sat Tal on 12/12.
Yellow Eyed Babbler (Chrysomma sinense)
Five in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur 24/11. Three on route to "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. One at Bund Baretha 29/11. Two at Oklah 14/12.
Common Babbler (Turdoides caudatus)
3 seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur 24/11. Five on route to "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11.
Striated Babbler (Turdoides earlei)
6+ Birds were seen on Oklah Island on 14/12.
Large Grey Babbler (Turdoides malcolmi)
Three in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur 22/11. Five on route to "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. Five at Oklah 14/12.
Jungle Babbler (Turdoides striatus)
Between 40 & 60 seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. Fifteen in Corbett National Park 4/12. Up to 35 along the Forktail Stream / Quality inn area 7/12.
Rufous Sibia (Heterophasia capistrata)
Ten birds were seen around Nainital on 8/12. Three were seen along Snow View Ridge, Nainital and 5 more were seen around the lower slopes of Tiffin Top on 11/12.
Sand Lark (Calandrella raytal)
About 15 birds were seen very well at Garh Mukteshwar on the 2/12.
Crested Lark (Galerida cristata)
Four birds were seen around the "High Bank" near Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the 28/11 with at least one bird singing.
Purple Sunbird (Nectarinia asiatica)
2 - 3 in garden of Falcon Guest House 23/11. Fifteen plus Keoladeo Ghana National Park 25/11. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11.
Green Tailed Sunbird (Aethopyga nipalensis)
Six fem/imm were seen in the Mangoli Valley near Nainital on 13/12.
Crimson Sunbird (Aethopyga siparaja)
Four birds (2 fem & 2 male partial eclipse) were seen from the Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park on 4/12. A stunning breeding plumaged male was seen by the Sarapdouli Rest House on 5/12. A single bird was seen along the Forktail Stream 7/12.
House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)
Recorded most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. 50+ on route to "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. 30+ on route to Bund Baretha 29/11. Seen daily around Ramnagar. Up to 80+ daily around Nainital. Present at Sat Tal 12/12. Present at Oklah 14/12.
Russet Sparrow (Passer rutilans)
Ten plus birds seen near Mangoli Valley 9/12. Up to 20 birds around Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal on both days 10/12 & 12/12.
Chestnut Shouldered Petronia (Petronia xanthocollis)
4, 3, 10+ & 3 in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 25/11, 26/11, 27/11 & 30/11 respectively.
White Wagtail (Motacilla alba)
One from Falcon Guest House, Bharatpur 23/11. Small numbers seen daily in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Three 'Personata' males at Bharatpur Cricket pitch 28/11. Five on route to Bund Baretha 29/11 & small numbers present at Bund Baretha. Ten plus at Garh Mukteshwar 2/12 included both 'Leucopsis' & 'Personata'. Twenty five plus along River Kosi, Ramnagar included 'Alboides'. One by Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal 12/12. Eight at Oklah 14/12.
White Browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis)
Two at Keoladeo Ghana National Park on 24/11.
Citrine Wagtail (Motacilla citreola)
Between 10 and 60 on all days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Two by the River Kosi at Ramnagar 2/12. Around 15 birds by the River Yamuna at Oklah 14/12.
Yellow Wagtail (Motacilla flava)
Two on route to "High Bank" Bharatpur 28/11, also 2 seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on this date with a further bird on 30/11. Present at Bund Baretha 29/11. One at Garh Mukteshwar 2/12. Eight plus birds at Oklah 14/12.
Grey Wagtail (Motacilla cinerea)
Between 1 & 3 seen or heard most days in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Six plus birds daily along River Kosi, Ramnagar. 3 & 6 Along the Forktail Stream 6/12 & 7/12 respectively. Single birds seen at Eureka Forbes, Sat Tal 10/12 & 12/12.
Paddyfield Pipit (Anthus rufulus)
One Keoladeo Ghana National Park 25/11. Three at "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11. Two at Garh Mukteshwar 2/12. Three along River Kosi, Ramnagar 6/12. One at Oklah 14/12.
Tawny Pipit (Anthus campestris)
Three birds were seen from "High Bank" near Bharatpur on 28/11. A single bird was seen on route to Bund Baretha on 29/11.
Tree Pipit (Anthus trivialis)
One bird seen on route to "High Bank" near Bharatpur 28/11, up to 20 pipits in same area were probably this species.
Olive Backed Pipit (Anthus hodgsoni)
4, 12 & 2 seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 26/11, 27/11 & 28/11 respectively. One Ramnagar 6/12. Several near the Forktail Stream 7/12. Ten by the entrance to The Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Rosy Pipit (Anthus roseatus)
Eight plus pipits seen in flight & heard at Keoladeo Ghana National Park were very probably this species 27/11. A single bird was seen creeping around at the edge of the Yamuna River at Oklah on the 14/12.
Rufous Breasted Accentor (Prunella strophiata)
1 - 2 Birds were seen in a valley close to the Mangoli Valley on the 9/12. A single bird was seen from the road between Eureka Forbes Factory and Sat Tal on 10/12, with two birds in the same area on 12/12.
Black Throated Accentor (Prunella atrogularis)
3 - 4 Birds were seen near the Eureka Forbes Factory, Sat Tal on 12/12.
Black Breasted Weaver (Ploceus benghalensis)
10+ Seen at Shavla Baretha on route to Bund Baretha 29/11. Three seen on Oklah Island 14/12.
Streaked Weaver (Ploecus manyar)
Around 25 birds were seen on Oklah Island on the 14/12.
Baya Weaver (Ploecus philippinus)
A single bird seen on route to Bund Baretha 29/11. Another single bird on Oklah Island 14/12.
Red Avadavat (Amandava amandava)
45+ Birds seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park 25/11. Twenty plus birds seen on the island at Oklah 14/12.
Indian Silverbill (Lonchura malabarica)
A single bird was seen on route to "High Bank" near Bharatpur on 28/11, another single bird was seen along the Shantir Cutir trail in Keoladeo Ghana National Park on the same day.
White Rumped Munia (Lonchura striata)
A flock of 7 - 8 birds was seen on a couple of occasion up the Forktail Stream near the Quality Inn 7/12.
Scaly Breasted Munia (Lonchura punctulata)
An adult on route to Bund Baretha 29/11. Two (Ad & Juv) by the Sarapdouli Rest House, Corbett National Park 3/12.
Yellow Breasted Greenfinch (Carduelis spinoides)
A single male near the Eureka Forbes factory, Sat Tal on 10/12. Ten birds were seen near the Eureka Forbes factory, Sat Tal on 12/12.
Common Rosefinch (Carpodacus erythrinus)
A single bird was seen in Keoladeo Ghana National Park. A fem/imm on route to Bund Baretha 29/11. Two near Ramnagar on 3/12. A male seen between Eureka Forbes Factory & Sat Tal 12/12. Five (2 male, 3 fem/imm) in the Mangoli Valley 13/12.
Pink Browed Rosefinch (Carpodacus rodochrus)
2 - 3 Fem/imm were seen in the Mangoli Valley loosely associating with a small group of Common Rosefinches on 13/12.
Crested Bunting (Melophus lathami)
Three were seen from the Dhikala Watchtower in Corbett National Park on the 4/12.
Rock Bunting (Emberiza cia)
5 - 6 Birds were seen in a valley near the Mangoli Valley on 9/12.
White Capped Bunting (Emberiza stewarti)
Three birds (1 male, 2 fem/imm) were seen in the small valley behind the old Maharaja's Palace at Bund Baretha on 29/11 with a further flock of 2 - 3 on the way back to the dam. A male was seen near the Dhikala Watchtower, Corbett National Park on 4/12. Four birds (1 male, 3 fem/imm) were seen from the road between Eureka Forbes Factory and Sat Tal on 12/12.
Chestnut Eared Bunting (Emberiza fucata)
A single bird was seen feeding in tall grass by the Sarapdouli Rest House in Corbett National Park on 3/12. Another bird was seen briefly from the road between Eureka Forbes and Sat Tal on 10/12.
end of report