NORTHERN INDIA - Birding Trip reports by Rob Goldbach

Itinerary
Sunday, 09
November
Monday, 10
November
Monday, 10 till
Saturday, 15
November
Friday, 14
November
Saturday, 15
November
Sunday, 16
November
Monday, 17
November
Tuesday, 18
November
Wednesday, 19
November
Thursday, 20
November
Friday, 21
November
Saturday, 22
November
Sunday, 23
November
Monday, 24
November
NORTHERN INDIA
November 9 - 23, 1997
Rob Goldbach
Laboratory of Virology
Wageningen University
The Netherlands
rob.goldbach@wur.nl
.
KLM flight from Amsterdam to New Delhi (dep. 11.25, arr. 23.40 pm), transfer to
guesthouse of Indian National Science Academy (INSA)
09.30-16.30 hr: Birding in Zoological Garden and neighbouring Purana Qila (the Old
Fort)
Participation in Golden Jubilee Conference of the Indian Phytopathological Society, at
IARI (Indian Agricultural Research Insitute) at New Delhi
Visit to Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary (10.30-16.00 pm)
Drive from New Delhi (dep. 12.30) to Naini Tal (arr. 20.20 pm), a distance of 270 km,
with short stops at the Yamuna and Ganges rivers
Naini Tal: early morning walk (07.00-07.50 am) from hotel, east of Naini Tal, visit to the
Moslem cemetery (09.30-11.30 am), and afternoon walk up and down Snow View Point
(2270 m)
Naini Tal: early morning walk around Hotel Swiss (N. of Naini Tal), birding along the
Kilbury road (09.00-11.00), climb to China (Cheena) Peak (2611 m, 11.00-15.00 pm),
followed by second visit to Moslem cemetery (15.15-17.00 pm)
Drive from Naini Tal (dep. 09.00 am), via Baspur and Ramnagar (check in at Corbett
N.P. office), to Dhikala in Corbett N.P. (arr. 15.00 pm); elephant ride at Dhikala (15.00-
17.20 pm)
Corbett N.P.: second elephant ride (07.00-09.30), bus ride to lake shore 2 km W of
Dhikala (10.00-11.50), birding from the watch tower, 500 m east of Dhikala (12.30-17.10
pm)
Corbett N.P.: birding from the watch tower (06.30-09.00), jeep ride to the gavials along
the Ramganga river, 16 km E of Dhikala (09.30-12.30), birding from the Dhikala watch
tower (12.30- 14.30), second bus tour to the lake shore W of Dhikala (15.00- 16.30),
followed by again birding from the watch tower till dusk (16.30-17.20)
Early morning birding from the Dhikala watch tower (06.40-08.30), drive from Dhikala
(dep. 10.00), along the gavial site again, to Quality Inn Corbett Jungle Resort, at
Kumaria Reserve Forest, Mohan, 12 km N of the Corbett N.P. gate (13.30-15.00 pm:
birding along Kosi river at Quality Inn), birding along the Kosi river N of the bridge at
Ramnagar (16.00-16.45 pm), drive to Moradabad (arr. 19.00 pm) for overnight stay
Drive from Moradabad (08.00) to New Delhi (arr. 13.00 pm), with stop at Ganges river,
afternoon shopping in New Delhi.
Visit to Bindawas Bird Sanctuary, approx. 100 km W of New Delhi (11.00- 14.30 pm),
transfer to airport (arr. 18.15 h)
KLM flight to Amsterdam (dep. 01.30 am, arr. 06.00 am)

General Remarks
Timing and Climate
The visit took place in autumn, the dry season. Temperatures were at Delhi and Corbett N.P. max. 25-
28°C, and minimum 10°C. At Naini Tal it was significantly cooler, with 20 to 22°C during noon, and
moderate frost at night, but no snow on the surrounding mountains which would drive more birds down to
the valleys. We had no rainfall, but all days sunshine. New Delhi suffered from smog, and due to lack of
strong winds this smog concentrated in a large area with a diameter of about 50 km around Delhi.
Transportation and Places to Stay
On November 14 we rented a taxi (Bindra Taxi Services, tel. 5725803/5768699, taxi stand near Sidharth
Hotel, Rajindra Place, New Delhi) for the day, to bring us to Sultanpur. The regular tariff is Rs 450 for the
first 8 hours, followed by 15 Rs per extra hour, furthermore the first 80 km free, and additionally Rs 4.5
per km (1 USD is 35.5 Rs).
From November 15 to November 23 (9 days) we hired a taxi and driver (Noble House Tours, P.O. box
3332, A-25 Jangpura Extn., New Delhi 110014, Tel. (9111)-4311471, e-mail:
noble.tours@gems.vsnl.net.in) for 300 USD all in (including petrol, tax and insurance, free mileage and
self-supporting driver in terms of food and lodging; it is, though not compulsory, common use to give the
driver 100 to 150 rupees a day).
Within New Delhi transport by motor riksha is easy and cheap. To travel from e.g. Connaught Place to the
Zoological Garden is approx. Rs 25 by meter or by bargaining a fixed price on beforehand.
During the congress we stayed in the guesthouse of the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), and
on Saturday November 22 at the Tourist Bungalow Hotel, Multani Dhanda, Pahar Ganj, New Delhi (phone
3553352, fax 3556763) at Rs. 600 for a double room.
At Naini Tal there are numerous lower and higher budget hotels. Reaching the southern border of the
Naini Tal lake there is a barrier where some rupees (50) have to be paid to get permission to drive per
vehicle over the mall. At this point several people will try to convince you to choose their hotel, of which
the prices range between 350 and 600 Rs. for a double room. Our choice has been indicated below. In
July/August and around Christmas/New Year most hotels are fully booked, and consequently prices are
significantly higher.
Areas Visited
New Delhi Zoo
The Zoological Garden and neighbouring Purana Qila ruins are renowned for their richness in birds,
especially in winter time. The zoo is not well maintained and appears to host more wild (bird) species than
caged zoo species. The ponds in the zoo contain a few islands with breeding colonies of Painted Stork,
Little Cormorant, Night Herons and Indian Shags. Stone Curlews and Red-wattled Lapwings are present
in semi-arid areas. Warblers, Hoopoes, Little Green Bee-eaters are everywhere, while hundreds of Black
Kites and White-backed Vultures are in the air. The zoo is easily accessible by auto riksha (15 minutes
drive from e.g. Connaught Place, entry fee 2 Rs.) and is probably the most attractive place for
birdwatching in or near Delhi. We got 57 species during the visit on Monday November 10, including nice
species like Little Cormorant, Indian Shag, Painted Stork, Openbill Stork, Paddy Bird, Intermediate and
Little Egret, various dabbling ducks including Spot-billed Duck, Egyptian and White-back Vulture, Besra,
White-br. Moorhen, Red-wattled Lapwing, Stone Curlew, Collared and Laughing Dove, Rose-ringed
Parakeet, Common and White-breasted Kingfisher, Little Green Bee-eater, Hoopoe, Large Green Barbet,
Coppersmith Barbet, Dusky Crag Martin, Red-rumped and Barn Swallow, Long-tailed Minivet, Red-vented
and Red-whiskered Bulbul, Black Drongo, House and Jungle Crow, Large Grey and Jungle Babbler,
Magpie Robin, Brown Bush Chat, Lesser Whitethroat, Ashy Prinia, Tailorbird, Siberian Chiffchaff, Hume's
Inornate Warbler, Grey Wagtail, Brahminy, Pied, Common and Bank Mynahs, Oriental White-eye, and
Purple Sunbird.

Sultanpur B.S.
Due to lack of rain Sultanpur jheel, situated 46 km SW of New Delhi, near Gurgaon, was completely dried
out, and the great diversity of waterbirds as usually encountered here, was absent. From local (Indian!)
birders we heard about Bindawas Bird Sanctuary, not far from Sultanpur, and which still would hold some
water. Therefore we decided to visit Bindawas later during our trip (see below). Dry Sultanpur produced
some good birds yet, during our visit on Friday November 14. Best birds included Sarus Cranes (with
juvenile), White-necked Stork, Bar-headed Geese flying over, Spotted Eagle, Short-toed Eagle, Blackwinged
Kite, Crested Honeybuzzard, Shikra, Andalusian Hemipode, Common Lapwing, various sandpiper
species a.o. Marsh Sandpiper, House Swift, Indian Roller, Plain Sand Martin, Drongo, Large Grey
Babbler, Bluethroat, Indian Robin, Stonechat (some of maura race), Pied Bush Chat, Tawny-flanked
Prinia, Bay-backed, Isabelline, Northern and Long-tailed Shrike, Red-winged Bush Lark, Paddyfield and
Tawny Pipit, White-browed and Citrine Wagtail, Pied, Common and Bank Mynah, Purple Sunbird,
Avadavat, White-throated and Spotted Munia, Baya Weaver and Red-headed Bunting.
Bindawas B.S.
Bindawas Bird Sanctuary is a rather unknown and relatively hard-to-find lake, which however is
comparable with Sultanpur B.S. in terms of expected bird species, and appears to have the advantage of
not drying out in the dry season. Another advantage over Sultanpur is that Bindawas is not visited by
Indian tourists and picnickers. Bindawas BS is about 90 km West of New Delhi (1 hr beyond Sultanpur by
car) and can be reached as follows: drive via Gurgaon to Sultanpur (46 km), and proceed to Farukhnagar
(5 km). Turn right to Jhajjar (25 km) and take at Jhajjar the road to Chuckakwas. After 18 km take a
winding road left to Bindawas (signposted with a board showing Ruddy Shelduck), which should be
followed for approx. 7 to 8 km to reach the jheel. Bindawas lake is surrounded by a low dike and has two
bird towers.
Birds we saw during our visit on November 23 included Little Grebe, Great Cormorant, Little Cormorant,
Darter, Paddybird, Purple and Grey Heron, the three egrets, Greater Flamingo, Sarus and Common
Crane, Spoonbill, Red-naped (Black) Ibis, Black-necked Stork, Mallard, Pintail, Shoveler, Wigeon, Pintail,
Garganey, Teal, Spot-billed Duck, Gadwall, Pochard, Ferruginous Duck, Comb Duck, Lesser Whistling
Duck, Tufted Duck, Grey-lag and Bar-headed Goose, Imperial, Spotted and Steppe Eagle, Black-winged
Kite, Marsh Harrier, Shikra, Grey Partridge, Peafowl, Moorhen, Coot, Purple Gallinule, White-breasted
Waterhen, Common Snipe, Red-wattled Lapwing, various sandpipers, Godwit, Ruff, Avocet, River Tern,
Collared, Laughing and Spotted Dove, Greater Coucal, Pied, Common and White-throated Kingfisher,
Indian Roller, Hoopoe, Plain Sand Martin, Barn Swallow, Common Woodshrike, Red-vented Bulbul,
Drongo, Indian Tree Pie, House and Jungle Crow, Common, Large Grey and Jungle Babbler, Black
Redstart (eastern, red-bellied race), Indian and Magpie Robin, Stonechat (some maura) and Pied Bush
Chat, Lesser Whitethroat, Tawny-flanked Prinia, Hume's Inornate Warbler (some birds singing), Whitebrowed
Fantail, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Bay-backed, Northern and Long-tailed Shrike, White and
Citrine Wagtail, Pied, Common and Bank Mynah.
Naini Tal
Naini Tal is situated at a lake (tal means lake) in the Himalayan foothills, at an elevation of 1988 m, and
surrounded by hills which can be walked up easily (e.g. Cheena Peak, 2610 m) or reached by ropeway
(latter to Snow View Point, 2270 m). From these higher elevation points the Himalayan giants can be
seen, especially in the morning, including the Nanda Devi, Indian highest mountain (7816 m). Naini Tal is
famous for its local breeding birds (Himalayan species) and wintering birds, coming from North of the
Himalayas. Although birds can be expected everywhere, some places are certainly worthwhile for
scrutinous inspection. These are the Moslem cemetery, the area around the old English church (St.
John's), and the footpath up (and down) Snow View Point. From Snow View Point raptors can be seen,
including Himalayan Vultures. The road to Kilbury is worthwhile for roadside birding in the forests which
become more virgin with increasing distance from Naini Tal. The walk up to Cheena Peak was not very
productive in our experience, and the two visits to the Moslem cemetery appeared more bird-productive.
Due to surrounding hills most of the Naini Tal valley will become shaded from 16.00 pm onwards, slowing
down bird activities, but the cemetery is still sunny till about 17.00 pm, thus extending your birding day.
Hardly any streams were running, due to the dry season, and forktails appeared absent.

We stayed one night in a low budget hotel (Rs 400) neighbouring Hotel Gauri (which is also rather cheap)
at the lake shore, and two nights in Hotel Swiss (Rs 650, incl. heating and hot water), situated in a more
forested area near the old English church.
Birds seen included Bar-headed Goose, Lammergeier, Griffon Vulture, Himalayan Vulture, Steppe Eagle,
Black kite, Shikra, Kestrel, Jungle Owlet, Himalayan Swiftlet, 7 woodpecker species, Dusky Crag Martin,
Nepal House Martin, Scarlet Minivet, Himalayan Bulbul, Eurasian and Black-headed Jay, Blue Magpie,
Jungle Crow, Black-throated Tit, Grey Tit, Green-backed Tit, Yellow-cheeked Tit, Yellow-browed Tit,
Goldcrest, Eurasian and White-tailed Nuthatch, Himalayan Treecreeper, Black-chinned Babbler, Whitethroated
and Streaked Laughing Thrush, Rufous Sibia, Orange-flanked Bluetail, Plumbeous and Whitecapped
Water Redstart, Blue Whistling Thrush, White's Thrush, Inornate and Hume's Inornate Warbler,
Pale-rumped Leaf Warbler, Yellow-bellied Fantail, Grey-hooded Warbler, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Greyheaded
Flycatcher, Olive-backed Pipit, Grey Wagtail, Common Mynah, Oriental White-eye, House and
Russet Sparrow, Himalayan Greenfinch, Pink-browed Rosefinch and Rufous-breasted Accentor.
Corbett National Park
This national park of 520 square kilometers is situated at the foothills of the Himalayas. The river Ram
Ganga runs west to east through the park and is dammed, forming a lake west of Dhikala. There are two
gates. Dhikala is the place to go. It has some basic facilities including a restaurant, and booking at
Ramnagar at the national park's office is a prerequisite. The park is open from mid-November until June,
and closed for the remaining period in view of the monsoon rains.
There are approx. 100 tigers in Corbett, of which about 8 in the direct surroundings of Dhikala. Walking at
Dhikala is restricted, and the longest walk allowed is to the bird tower (500 meters) though tiger foot prints
are regularly found on the footpath to this tower... Elephant tours can be made (starting at 07.00 am and
15.00 pm, duration 2.5 hrs, price Rs 100,-) providing a chance to meet a tiger, whereas birds like Black
Partridge and Red Junglefowl can also be encountered. Also jeep rides can be made (3 hrs, Rs 600,-) to
e.g. the gavials in the Ramnaga river, 17 km W of Dhikala.
Most birds we saw were from the bird tower, where bird life was never dull. Due to dryness the lake did
not reach Dhikala, the shore being located 1 km W of the village. We visited the shore line twice by bus.
Birds seen included Great Cormorant, Striated Heron, Intermediate and Little Egret, Black Stork, Blacknecked
Stork, Pochard, Ruddy Shelduck, Egyptian, Griffon, Cinereous and King Vulture, Steppe Eagle,
Pallas's Sea Eagle, Himalayan Grey-headed Fishing Eagle, Rufous-bellied Hawk-Eagle, Changeable
Hawk-Eagle, Osprey, Black-winged Kite, Northern, Pallid and Pied Harrier, Shikra, Kestrel, Red-headed
Merlin, Black Francolin, Red Junglefowl, Peafowl, Andalusian Hemipode, River Lapwing, Green and
Common Sandpiper, River Tern, Brown-headed Gull, Oriental Turtle Dove, Slaty-headed Parakeet,
Lesser Coucal, Himalayan Swiftlet, Crested Tree Swift, Himalayan (= Crested) Pied, Common and Pied
Kingfisher, Grey and Indian Pied Hornbill, Lineated Barbet, Lesser Goldenback, Black-naped Green
Woodpecker, Fulvous-breasted Pied Woodpecker, Black-hooded Oriole, Plain Sand Martin, Dusky Crag
Martin, Barn and Red-rumped Swallow, Scarlet Minivet, Pied Flycatcher-Shrike, Common Woodshrike,
Red-whiskered, Red-vented, Brown-eared and Himalayan Bulbul, Indian Tree Pie, House and Jungle
Crow, Great Tit, Eurasian Nuthatch, Wall Creeper, Black-chinned Babbler, Large Grey and Jungle
Babbler, Bluethroat, Plumbeous and White-capped Water Redstart, Magpie Robin, Stonechat (some
maura), Grey Bush Chat, Ashy, Rufescent, Tawny-flanked and Jungle Prinia, Fan-tailed Warbler,
Chiffchaff, Hume's Inornate Warbler, Pallas's Leaf Warbler, Yellow-bellied Fantail, Grey-hooded Warbler,
Black-browed Flycatcher-Warbler, Rusty-tailed, Orange-gorgeted, Little Pied and Grey-headed
Flycatcher, Long-tailed Shrike, Paddyfield and Olive-backed Pipit, Common Mynah, Oriental White-eye,
Avadavat, and Himalayan Greenfinch.
Twelve kilometer North of the (Dhangadri) gate the horrifically expensive Quality Inn Corbett Jungle
Resort, along the Kosi River, is worthwhile visiting. We took only a lunch (only Rs 200 per person, incl.
beer), to get access to the backyard and the steps down into the Kosi River bed, to watch Brown Dipper
and Wall Creeper, but missed the Brown Fish-Owl, which remained undetectable in the high trees during
daytime. Other birds of interest near this hotel included Chestnut-bellied and Velvet-fronted Nuthatch,
Black-chinned Babbler, both Water Redstart species (abundant), Blue Rock Thrush, White-throated
Fantail, and Red-breasted Flycatcher.
At Ramnagar we walked from the bridge north through the river bed but the Ibisbills seen in previous
winters here were not (yet) present. Two Great Stone Curlews were a welcome compensation.

Literature Used
• S. Ali and S. Dillon Ripley, A Pictorial Guide of the Birds of the Indian Subcontinent, 1983.
• B. King, M. Woodcock, and E.C. Dickinson, A Field Guide to the Birds of South-East Asia, 1982.
• S. Ali, The Book of Indian Birds, 1996.
• C. Byers, W. Olsson and J. Curson, Buntings and Sparrows, Pice Press, 1995.
• R. Bouwman and N. Bosmans, Noord India, travel report Dec. 1996/Jan. 1997, 30 pages.
• W. Vader, India 1988, travel report, 39 pages.
Systematic List of Observed Species
1. LITTLE GREBE (Tachybaptus ruficollis)
Only 5 seen on 23 November, most at Bindawas jheel. One was caught and eaten by a Blacknecked
Stork.
2. GREAT CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax carbo)
At Dhikala (Corbett N.P.) from 19 to 21 November daily up to 200 ex., 23 November approx. 20 at
Bindawas B.S.
3. INDIAN SHAG (Phalacrocorax fuscicollis)
Approx. 20 breeding birds seen on 10 November on an island in the New Delhi zoological garden.
On November 14 only 2 birds were present at Sultanpur B.S.
4. LITTLE CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax niger)
Approx. 15 birds in Delhi zoo, on 14 November 5 at Sultanpur B.S., and on November 23 approx.
25 at Bindawas B.S.
5. ORIENTAL DARTER (Anhinga melanogaster)
Only a single bird this tour, on 23 November at Bindawas.
6. GREY HERON (Ardea cinerea)
Two birds on 19 November at Dhikala (Corbett) and 3 birds at Bindawas B.S. on 23 November.
7. PURPLE HERON (Ardea purpurea)
On 23 November 3 birds at Bindawas B.S.
8. STRIATED HERON (Butorides striatus)
A single bird at the river in Ramnagar on 18 November, and on 21 November single birds in
Corbett N.P. (along Ramganga river) and close to the Quality Inn Corbett Jungle Resort, along
the Kosi River.
9. INDIAN POND HERON (Ardeola graeyii)
About 10 ex. on November 10 in the Zoological Garden/Purana Qila, New Delhi; 5 ex. at
Sultanpur on November 14, several during the longer distance drives on November 16 and 18,
and 5 ex. at Bindawas B.S. on November 23.
10. CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis)
Common in agricultural areas, with daily total numbers between 50 and 1000.
11. GREAT EGRET (Casmerodius albus)
Only single birds on 21 November (Corbett N.P.) and 23 November (at Bindawas B.S.)
12. INTERMEDIATE EGRET (Mesophoyx intermedia)
3 ex. on 10 November in the Delhi zoological garden, 2 ex. on 15 November between New Delhi
and Naini Tal, 19-21 November 2 to 5 ex. in Corbett N.P., 22 November 5 ex. between

Moradabad and New Delhi, 23 November 2 ex. at Bindawas B.S.
13. LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)
Almost daily 5 up to 50 ex. in all areas visited.
14. NIGHT HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax)
10 ex. in the mixed heronry in the New Delhi zoological garden,
15. GREATER FLAMINGO (Phoenicopterus ruber)
5 ex. in Bindawas B.S. on 23 November,
16. COMMON CRANE (Grus grus)
120 ex. in Bindawas B.S. on 23 November,
17. SARUS CRANE (Grus antigone)
5 ex. (2 pairs, one with juvenile) at Sultanpur jheel (14 November), and 2 ex. on 23 November in
Bindawas,
18. PAINTED STORK (Mycteria leucocephala)
On 10 November approx. 100 ex. in the mixed heronry in the New Delhi zoological garden.
19. ASIAN OPENBILL (Anastomus oscitans)
1 ex. flying over the New Delhi zoological garden on 10 November.
20. WOOLLY-NECKED STORK (Ciconia episcopus)
2 ex. at Sultanpur jheel on 14 November.
21. BLACK STORK (Ciconia nigra)
On 19 and 20 November 3 resp. 2 ex. near Dhikala in Corbett N.P.
22. BLACK-NECKED STORK (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus)
At Dhikala, Corbett N.P., 1 or 2 ex. on 18, 20 and 21 November.
23. BLACK-HEADED IBIS (Threskiornis melanocephalus)
2 ex. on 10 November at Delhi zoological garden, and approx. 100 ex. at Bindawas B.S. on 23
November.
24. RED-NAPED IBIS (Pseudibis papillosa)
6 ex. on 23 November at Bindawas B.S.
25. EURASIAN SPOONBILL (Platalea leucorodia)
150 ex. at Bindawas B.S. on 23 November
26. MALLARD (Anas platyrhynchos)
Only a single male on Bindawas jheel on 23 November.
27. SHOVELER (Anas clypeata)
75 ex. in the ponds in the New Delhi zoological garden, approx. 5000 ex. in the Yamuna river
near New Delhi, on route to Naini Tal, and 250 ex. in Bindawas B.S. on 23 November.
28. GADWALL (Anas strepera)
2 ex. on 18 and 21 November in the Kosi river near Ramnagar, 500 ex. in Bindawas B.S. on 23
November.
29. PINTAIL (Anas acuta)
200 ex. on the ponds in the New Delhi zoological garden on 10 November, 2 ex. near Ramnagar

on 21 November, and 100 ex. on Bindawas jheel on 23 November.
30. COMMON TEAL (Anas crecca)
20 ex. on 10 November in the Delhi zoological garden, 10 ex. in Sultanpur B.S. on 14 November,
and 250 ex. in Bindawas B.S. on 23 November.
31. GARGANEY (Anas querquedula)
4 ex. in Bindawas B.S. on 23 November.
32. SPOTBILLED DUCK (Anas poecilorhyncha)
20 ex. on 23 November in Bindawas B.S.
33. EURASIAN WIGEON (Anas penelope)
10 ex. on 23 November in Bindawas B.S.
34. RUDDY SHELDUCK (Tadorna ferruginea)
1 ex. on both 19 and 20 November seen from the bird tower at Dhikala, Corbett N.P. and 30 ex.
at Bindawas B.S. on 23 November. We were very grateful to the shelduck on 19 November: just
after having this bird, sitting along the stream at Dhikala, in focus through the telescope, a tiger
walked into view, crossing the stream (15.45 pm).
35. LESSER WHISTLING DUCK (Dendrocygna javanica)
4 ex. in Bindawas B.S. on 23 November.
36. RED-CRESTED POCHARD (Netta rufina)
1 male on the Kosi river near the bridge at Ramnagar, on 18 November.
37. COMMON POCHARD (Aythya ferina)
2, resp. 4 ex. at Dhikala, Corbett N.P., on November 19 and 21, and approx. 50 ex. in Bindawas
jheel on 23 November.
38. FERRUGINOUS POCHARD (Aythya nyroca)
1 male on 23 November at Bindawas B.S.
39. TUFTED DUCK (Aythya fuligula)
2 ex. at Bindawas B.S. on 23 November.
40. COMB DUCK (Sarkidiornis melanotos)
7 ex. on 23 November at Bindawas B.S.
41. GREY-LAG GOOSE (Anser anser)
Only seen at Bindawas B.S. on 23 November (40 ex.).
42. BAR-HEADED GOOSE (Anser indicus)
On 15 November 25 ex. flying over Sultanpur lake, on 16 and 17 November small flocks of not
more than 25 ex. flying south over Snow View point and Cheena peak, at Naini Tal. Impressive to
see these birds just passing the Himalayas. On 23 November approx. 250 birds at Bindawas B.S.
This species seemed not to mix up with the Grey-lag Geese.
43. EGYPTIAN VULTURE (Neophron percnopterus)
On 10 November 3 ex. over the Purana Qila (New Delhi), 16 November 2 ex. over the Moslem
cemetery at Naini Tal, 20 and 21 November 2, resp. 1 ex. in Corbett N.P.
44. LAMMERGEIER (Gypaetus barbatus)
Only seen in the Naini Tal area: 16 November 1 adult over Snow View point, and 17 November 1

adult over Cheena peak.
45. WHITE-BACKED VULTURE (Gyps bengalensis)
The most common vulture. Seen at New Delhi (e.g. at least 50 ex. on 10 November in the Purana
Qila area), at Sultanpur B.S. (14 November: 40 ex.), on route from New Delhi to Naini Tal (15
November, at least 50 ex.), only 1 ex. in Corbett N.P. (19 November at Dhikala), and at least 250
ex. on route between Moradabad and New Delhi on 22 November, mostly at two (very easy to
find) roadside places where carrion is left to be recycled by dogs and vultures. On 23 November 1
ex. over Bindawas B.S.
46. LONG-BILLED VULTURE (Gyps indicus)
Not often seen with certainty. On 18 November 1 ex. in Corbett N.P., on 19 and 20 November 1,
resp. 6 ex. from the bird tower in Dhikala (Corbett N.P.), and on 22 November a few dozens at
the carrion places on route between Moradabad and New Delhi.
47. GRIFFON VULTURE (Gyps fulvus)
Seen in the Naini Tal area only, with 30 ex. on 16 November and 30 ex. on 17 November, seen
from various places incl. Snow View point, the moslem cemetery, and Cheena Peak.
48. HIMALAYA GRIFFON (Gyps himalayensis)
Seen in the Naini Tal area, with 3 ex. on 16 November (from Snow View point, in one view with
the Nanda Devi and the other Himalayan giants), and 4 ex. on 17 November (from Cheena peak).
49. CINEREOUS VULTURE (Aegypius monachus)
Seen in the Dhikala area, Corbett N.P. on 16 November (3 ex. near the lake) and 17 November
(4 ex. from the bird tower).
50. KING VULTURE (Sarcogyps calvus)
Seen in Corbett N.P. only, with 4 ex. on 19 November and 4 ex. on 20 November (at the lake
shore, from the bird tower, and along the Ram Ganga river).
51. SPOTTED EAGLE (Aquila clanga)
Seen at Sultanpur jheel on 14 November (1 adult ex.), and in Bindawas B.S. on 22 November (at
least 5 ex., both adults and immatures).
52. STEPPE EAGLE (Aquila nipalensis)
Seen in the Naini Tal area (1 or 2 ex. daily), in Corbett N.P. at Dhikala (1 or 2 each day), and 1
ex. at Bindawas B.S. (22 Nov.).
53. IMPERIAL EAGLE (Aquila heliaca)
1 adult ex. flying and roosting at Bindawas B.S. on 23 November.
54. PALLAS'S SEA-EAGLE (Haliaeetus leucoryphus)
Seen in Corbett N.P., with 1 ex. flying over Dhikala on 18 November, one pair at the lake shore 2
km W of Dhikala and another 5 immature birds seen flying together from the bird tower, and 2 ex.
on 20 November along the Ram Ganga river, 10 km E of Dhikala.
55. OSPREY (Pandion haliaetus)
Seen only in Corbett N.P., all near Dhikala, with 1 ex on 18 November, and 2 and 3 ex. on 19 and
20 November, resp..
56. LESSER ("HIMALAYAN") FISHING EAGLE (Ichthyophaga nana)
Regularly seen in Corbett N.P. with 1 ex. seen on 18 November from the bird tower at Dhikala,
soaring with vultures, 3 ex. on 19 November, and (another 3) on 20 November.

57. SHORT-TOED EAGLE (Circaetus gallicus)
2 ex. on 14 November at Sultanpur Lake.
58. RUFOUS-BELLIED HAWK-EAGLE (Hieraaetus kienerii)
One bright coloured adult bird seen on 21 November in Corbett N.P. at "High Banks", on our way
back to the main gate.
59. CHANGEABLE HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus cirrhatus)
The same, adult ex. regularly seen from the bird tower at Dhikala on 19 and 20 November. The
bird probably bred 250 meter E of the bird tower, along the river.
60. BLACK KITE (Milvus migrans)
A very common bird in India, seen almost every day in great numbers. Lower counts only in Naini
Tal (10 to 20 a day) and Corbett N.P. (up to 5 a day).
61. BLACK-WINGED KITE (Elanus caeruleus)
3 ex. at Sultanpur on 14 November, 4 ex. on 18 November during the ride from Naini Tal to
Corbett, and 4 up to 8 ex. daily in Corbett N.P. (most around Dhikala). On 23 November in total 8
ex. during the daytrip to Bindawas B.S.
62. WESTERN MARSH HARRIER (Circus aeruginosus)
Seen in Sultanpur B.S. on 14 November (1 ex.) and in Bindawas B.S. on 23 November (5 ex.).
63. NORTHERN HARRIER (Circus cyaneus)
1 female near Dhikala (Corbett N.P.) on 20 November.
64. PALLID HARRIER (Circus macrourus)
1 female near Dhikala (Corbett N.P.) on 19 November.
65. PIED HARRIER (Circus melanoleucos)
1 beautiful male on 19 November near the lake shore, 1.5 km W of Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
66. STEPPE BUZZARD (Buteo buteo vulpinus)
1 ex. on both 19 and 20 November seen from the bird tower at Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
67. SPARROW HAWK (Accipiter nisus)
1 ex. on 19 November at Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
68. BESRA (Accipiter virgatus)
1 ex. seen at Purana Qila, New Delhi, on 10 November.
69. SHIKRA (Accipiter badius)
In total 5 records, i.e. in Sultanpur (1 ex., 14 Nov.), at Naini Tal (1 ex., 19 Nov.), in Corbett N.P. (1
ex. on November 19 and 20 each), and in Bindawas B.S. (1 ex., 23 November)
70. KESTREL (Falco tinnunculus)
1 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S., 2 ex. in Naini Tal area on 16 November, and 1 ex. near
Dhikala, on 19 and 20 November.
71. RED-HEADED MERLIN (Falco chicquera)
1 ex. seen from the bird tower at Dhikala, Corbett N.P., on 20 November.
72. CRESTED HONEY-BUZZARD (Pernis ptilorhynchus)
1 ex. at Sultanpur B.S. on 14 November.

73. GREY FRANCOLIN (Francolinus pondicerianus)
Approx. 20 ex. at Sultanpur B.S. seen (and many more heard) on 14 November (several small
family groups), and at least 25 ex. again at Sultanpur (short stop) and Bindawas B.S. on 23
November.
74. BLACK FRANCOLIN (Francolinus francolinus)
On 18 November at least 20 ex. flushed by our elephant, in the Dhikala area, and 6 ex. seen from
the bus on 20 November, around Dhikala, permitting very close views of walking birds, males and
females.
75. RED JUNGLEFOWL (Gallus gallus)
Only seen at or around Dhikala, Corbett N.P., with 1 female flushed by the bus on 19 November,
and a male seen from the bird tower, on 20 November 20 ex. seen (and heard) from the bird
tower, and on 21 November 1 female walking around the bird tower, and a male heard crowing.
76. INDIAN PEAFOWL (Pavo cristatus)
On 14 November 3 ex. in Sultanpur B.S., on 19 to 21 November daily 3 to 6 ex. in Corbett N.P.,
around Dhikala (a.o. from the bird tower). Killing a peafowl means at least 5 years in jail!
77. ANDALUSIAN HEMIPODE (Turnix sylvatica)
On 14 November 1 bird flushed twice on short distance in Sultanpur B.S., and on 19 November 2
ex. flushed by our elephant near Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
78. MOORHEN (Gallinula chloropus)
Seen only at Sultanpur jheel (14 November, 5 ex.), and at Bindawas B.S. (23 November, 20 ex.).
79. WHITE-BREASTED WATERHEN (Amaurornis phoenicurus)
On 10 November 2 ex. in the New Delhi zoological garden, on 14 November 4 ex. in Sultanpur
B.S., and on 23 November 1 ex. at Bindawas B.S.
80. COOT (Fulica atra)
Only seen in Bindawas B.S. on 23 November, where it was common (at least 500 ex.).
81. PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio porphyrio)
On 23 November approx. 40 ex. in Bindawas B.S.
82. NORTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus vanellus)
On 14 November 2 ex. in Sultanpur, and on 19 November 1 ex. near Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
83. RIVER LAPWING (Vanellus duvaucelii)
Seen only in Corbett N.P. near Dhikala on 19, 20 and 21 November (daily 2 to 6 ex.), and on 21
November 2 ex. along the Kosi river near Quality Inn Corbett Jungle Resort.
84. RED-WATTLED LAPWING (Vanellus indicus)
Rather common with at least 12 ex. on 10 November in the Delhi zoological garden, approx. 25
ex. during the trip to Sultanpur B.S., 10 ex. on 15 November during the drive to Naini Tal, and 25
to 40 ex. on both 22 and 23 November near Ramnagar and on route to Moradabad.
85. LITTLE RINGED PLOVER (Charadrius dubius)
Seen at Sultanpur on 14 November (2 ex.), another 2 ex. on route to Naini Tal on 15 November
(somewhere in the Ganges plains), and 1 ex. on 18 November between Baspur and Ramnagar.
86. STONE CURLEW (Burhinus oedicnemus)
On 10 November 20 ex. in the Delhi zoo, in an open semi-arid area, where normally some animal
is be expected.

87. GREAT STONE CURLEW (Esacus magnirostris)
2 ex. seen on 21 November on the stony beds of the Kosi river, 1 km N of the bridge at
Ramnagar.
88. BLACK-WINGED STILT (Himantopus himantopus)
On 14 November approx. 20 ex at Sultanpur, on 15 November at least 50 ex. on route between
New Delhi and Naini Tal, and another 15 or so between Moradabad and New Delhi on 22
November.
89. AVOCET (Recurvirostra avosetta)
On 23 November 10 ex. at Bindawas B.S.
90. BLACK-TAILED GODWIT (Limosa limosa)
On 23 November 25 ex. in Bindawas B.S.
91. LITTLE STINT (Calidris minuta)
Only seen on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S. (2 ex.).
92. REDSHANK (Tringa totanus)
Seen on 14 November at Sultanpur (5 ex.) and on 23 November in Bindawas (1 ex.).
93. GREENSHANK (Tringa nebularia)
On 14 November 3 ex. in Sultanpur jheel, on 21 November 1 ex. at Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
94. SPOTTED REDSHANK (Tringa erythropus)
Only seen on 14 November at Sultanpur, with 2 ex. present.
95. MARSH SANDPIPER (Tringa stagnatilis)
On 14 November 8 ex. at Sultanpur lake, and on 23 November 1 ex. at Bindawas B.S.
96. GREEN SANDPIPER (Tringa ochropus)
Seen in Sultanpur on 14 November (2 ex.), in Corbett N.P. (2 to 3 daily on 19-21 November), and
in Bindawas on 23 November (5 ex.).
97. WOOD SANDPIPER (Tringa glareola)
On 14 November 5 ex in Sultanpur B.S., and on 23 November 2 ex in Bindawas B.S.
98. COMMON SANDPIPER (Tringa hypoleucus)
On 14 November 2 ex. in Sultanpur B.S., on 15 November 2 ex. on route to Naini Tal, 18 to 21
November daily up to 5 ex in Corbett N.P., and on 23 November 6 ex in Bindawas B.S.
99. COMMON SNIPE (Gallinago gallinago)
On 23 November 2 ex at Bindawas B.S.
100. RUFF (Philomachus pugnax)
Only seen on 23 November at Bindawas B.S. with 25 ex present.
101. RIVER TERN (Sterna aurantia)
2 ex at the lake near Dhikala, Corbett N.P. on 19 November, 1 ex along the Ganges between
Moradabad and New Delhi on 22 November, and at least 6 ex at Bindawas B.S. on 23
November.
102. BLACK-BELLIED TERN (Sterna acuticauda)
1 ex flying along the Ganges, between Moradabad and New Delhi, on 22 November.

103. BROWN-HEADED GULL (Larus brunnicephalus)
Approx. 500 ex along the Yamuna river, at New Delhi, on 15 November, 1 ex on the lake near
Dhikala, Corbett N.P. on 19 November, and 5 ex along the Ganges on 22 November.
104. ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia)
Feral populations everywhere in towns and villages, on 20 November probably a genuine bird on
a cliff along the Ram Ganga river in Corbett N.P. near the gavials.
105. YELLOW-FOOTED GREEN PIGEON (Treron phoenicoptera)
On 10 November 8 ex in a dead tree near the INSA guesthouse in New Delhi.
106. EURASIAN COLLARED DOVE (Streptopelia decaocto)
Common bird, on most days 10 up to more than 100 ex.
107. LAUGHING DOVE (Streptopelia senegalensis)
On 10 November approx. 8 ex in the Delhi zoo, and on 23 November 10 ex around Bindawas
B.S.
108. SPOTTED DOVE (Streptopelia chinensis)
On 18 November 2 ex in Corbett N.P. and on 23 November 1 ex at Bindawas B.S.
109. ORIENTAL TURTLE DOVE (Streptopelia orientalis)
On 20 November 1 ex near the bird tower at Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
110. SLATY-HEADED PARAKEET (Psittacula himalayana)
On 20 and 21 November 4, resp. 5 birds seen in trees near the bird tower, Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
111. ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET (Psittacula krameri)
A (very) common bird. A big roost at the IARI in New Delhi (1000's of birds), also seen in the
Naini Tal area and in Corbett N.P.
112. ALEXANDRINE PARAKEET (Psittacula eupatria)
On 14 November 4 ex in the parakeet roost on the IARI campus in New Delhi.
113. GREATER COUCAL (Centropus sinensis)
On 23 November 1 ex at Bindawas B.S.
114. LESSER COUCAL (Centropus toulou)
On 21 November 1 ex seen from the bird tower at Dhikala, Corbett N.P. and a second bird along
the Kosi river at Ramnagar.
115. JUNGLE OWLET (Glaucidium radiatum)
On 16 November 1 ex on the moslem cemetery of Naini Tal, on 17 November 1 ex near the Hotel
Swiss, in Naini Tal, and on 21 November 1 ex near the bridge at Ramnagar.
116. HIMALAYAN SWIFTLET (Collocalia brevirostris)
On 16 November 5 ex at Snow View Point, Naini Tal, and on 18 and 19 November 10 up to 25 ex
at the bird tower of Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
117. HOUSE SWIFT (Apus nipalensis)
Only seen at Sultanpur B.S. on 14 November (at least 50 ex.)
118. CRESTED TREE SWIFT (Hemiprocne coronata)
On 18 and 19 November 50 and 25 ex at various places in Corbett N.P. , a.o. at the bird tower of
Dhikala.

119. CRESTED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle lugubris)
Present at various locations in Corbett N.P. with 1 ex on both 18 and 19 November, 5 ex on 20
November and 3 ex on 21 November (incl. 1 ex along the Kosi river near Quality Inn Corbett
Jungle Resort).
120. PIED KINGFISHER (Ceryle rudis)
On 18 November in total 8 ex on route between Baspur and Corbett N.P., on 18-21 November
daily 4 to 8 ex in Corbett N.P. and on 23 November 5 ex at Bindawas B.S.
121. COMMON KINGFISHER (Alcedo atthis)
Seen in the zoological garden in New Delhi (10 November, 2 ex), in Corbett N.P. (daily 2 or 3 ex),
and at Bindawas (23 November, 1 ex).
122. WHITE-THROATED KINGFISHER (Halcyon smyrnensis)
A rather common bird, almost seen daily at any place, with day totals up to 12 ex.
123. LITTLE GREEN BEE-EATER (Merops orientalis)
On 10 November 6 ex in the New Delhi zoo, 21 November 1 ex at the bridge over the Kosi river
at Ramnagar, and on 22 November a group of 10 ex on route between Moradabad and New
Delhi.
124. INDIAN ROLLER (Coracias benghalensis)
Seen at Sultanpur B.S. (14 November, 2 ex) and Bindawas B.S. (23 November, 1 ex).
125. HOOPOE (Upupa epops)
On 10 November at least 25 ex at and around the Purana Qila, New Delhi, 19 November 1 ex in
Corbett N.P., and on 23 November 2 ex at Bindawas B.S.
126. INDIAN GREY HORNBILL (Ocyceros birostris)
On 18 and 21 November 1 ex at Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
127. ORIENTAL PIED HORNBILL (Anthracoceros albirostris/malabaricus)
On 20 November 1 ex seen from the bird tower at Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
128. CRESTED LARK (Galerida cristata)
On 14 November 1 ex at Sultanpur B.S., and on 18 November 1 ex on route between Baspur and
Ramnagar.
129. RED-WINGED BUSH LARK (Mirafra erythroptera)
On 14 November 1 ex well watched at Sultanpur B.S.
130. SHORT-TOED LARK (Calandrella cinerea)
1 ex on 19 November in Corbett N.P.
131. LARGE GREEN BARBET (Megalaima zeylanica)
3 ex on 10 November in the New Delhi Zoological garden.
132. LINEATED BARBET (Megalaima lineata)
From 18 to 21 November daily seen (1 up to 4 ex) near the bird tower of Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
133. COPPERSMITH (Megalaima haemacephala)
On 10 November 2 ex in the New Delhi zoological garden.
134. LESSER GOLDENBACK (Dinopium benghalense)
On 20 November 4 ex and on 21 November 1 ex seen from the bird tower, Dhikala, Corbett N.P.

135. SCALY-BELLIED WOODPECKER (Picus squamatus)
On 17 November 1 ex well seen at the Moslem cemetery near Naini Tal.
136. BLACK-NAPED GREEN WOODPECKER (Picus canus)
On 18 November 1 ex between Naini Tal and Baspur, and on 20 November 1 ex near the bird
tower, Dhikala, Corbett N.P. This is a very distinctive race of the Grey-headed Woodpecker. A
putative future split.
137. BROWN-FRONTED WOODPECKER (Dendrocopus auriceps)
On 17 November 1 ex along the pathway up to Snow View Point.
138. HIMALAYAN WOODPECKER (Dendrocopus himalayensis)
On both 16 and 17 November 1 bird seen on different locations in the Naini Tal area.
139. FULVOUS-BREASTED PIED WOODPECKER (Picoides macei)
Seen in both the Naini Tal area (both on 16 and 17 November 1 ex) and in Corbett N.P. (on 20
and 21 November 1 resp. 2 birds).
140. GREATER YELLOWNAPE (Picus flavinucha)
On 21 November 1 ex in a mixed bird flock in Corbett N.P. near Gairal.
141. RUFOUS-BELLIED WOODPECKER (Hypopicus hyperythrus)
On 17 November 1 ex in the Naini Tal area.
142. GREY-CROWNED PYGMY WOODPECKER (Picoides canicapillus)
On 18 November 1 ex during the descent from Naini Tal to Baspur.
143. BLACK-HOODED ORIOLE (Oriolus xanthornis)
On 20 November 3 ex seen from the bird tower at Dhikala in Corbett N.P.
144. PLAIN SAND MARTIN (Riparia paludicola)
A common bird. Seen at Sultanpur (14 November, abundant, at least 250 ex), in Corbett N.P.
(200-500 ex on all days), and in Bindawas B.S. (23 November, 500 ex).
145. NEPAL HOUSE MARTIN (Delichon nipalensis)
4 birds seen at Snow View Point, Naini Tal, on 16 November.
146. DUSKY CRAG MARTIN (Ptyonoprogne concolor)
On 10 November approx. 30 ex around the ruins of Purana Qila, New Delhi, on 16 November
approx. 100 ex in the Naini Tal area, single birds on 18 November (Corbett N.P.) and 20
November (Kosi river near Ramnagar), and a single bird on 22 November at the Ganges between
Moradabad and New Delhi.
147. BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica)
A common bird, seen on most days and places, except for the hill region of Naini Tal.
148. RED-RUMPED SWALLOW (Hirundo daurica)
Even more regularly seen than Barn Swallow, with 100+ birds at Sultanpur, and 250+ birds daily
in Corbett N.P.
149. SCARLET MINIVET (Pericrocotus flammeus)
Birds of the Himalayan subspecies (P. flammeus speciosus) seen on 16 November at Naini Tal (1
ex), on 18 November on route between Naini Tal and Baspur (8 ex), and on 20 and 21 Nov (1
resp. 2 ex) at Dhikala, Corbett N.P.

150. LONG-TAILED MINIVET (Pericrocotus ethologus)
Only one bird seen with certainty in the New Delhi zoological garden, on 10 November.
151. COMMON WOODSHRIKE (Tephrodornis pondicerianus)
On 18 November 2 ex along the road from Naini Tal to Baspur, and on 23 November 1 ex at
Bindawas B.S.
152. BAR-WINGED (PIED) FLYCATCHER-SHRIKE (Hemipus picatus)
One group (10 ex) seen on 20 November from the bird tower at Dhikala, Corbett N.P., and two
groups (20 plus 5) on 21 November also in Corbett N.P.
153. RED-WHISKERED BULBUL (Pycnonotus jocosus)
On 10 November approx. 10 ex seen in and near the zoological garden in New Delhi, and on 19
and 20 November up to 20 ex at Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
154. RED-VENTED BULBUL (Pycnonotus cafer)
A common bird, seen in New Delhi, Sultanpur, Corbett N.P. and Bindawas, but absent from the
hills of Naini Tal. The birds seen on 18-21 November in Corbett (10 up to 150 a day) were mostly
of the ssp. bengalensis.
155. HIMALAYAN BULBUL (Pycnonotus leucotis)
Rather common in Naini Tal (8 to 10 ex daily) and in Corbett N.P. (up to 25 ex per day).
156. BLACK-CRESTED (BLACK-HEADED YELLOW) BULBUL (Pycnonotus melanicterus)
3 to 10 ex seen daily on 19-21 November in Corbett N.P., a.o. from the Dhikala bird tower.
157. BROWN-EARED BULBUL (Hypsipetes flavalus)
A group of 6 birds seen from the Dhikala bird tower, in Corbett N.P., on 21 November.
158. BLACK DRONGO (Dicrurus macrocercus)
A common bird in the plains, hence seen more often on route, with a peak number of 25 ex on 18
November between Baspur and Ramnagar. present in New Delhi, Sultanpur, and Bindawas, but
absent from Naini Tal and Corbett N.P.
159. BROWN DIPPER (Cinclus pallasii)
1 bird seen on 21 November along the Kosi river at Quality Inn Corbett Jungle Resort, an
expensive hotel 12 km N of the Corbett N.P. entrance gate. Access to the river by small steps in
the backyard of the hotel ("permission" obtained by taking a lunch). Very worthwhile to spend one
hour or so in the river bed.
160. BLACK-HEADED JAY (Garrulus lanceolatus)
On 16 and 17 November 1, resp. 2 ex seen at the Moslem cemetery in Naini Tal, on 18
November 1 ex elsewhere in the Naini Tal area.
161. EURASIAN JAY (Garrulus glandarius)
At least 5 ex seen on 16 November near Snow View Point at Naini Tal.
162. INDIAN (RUFOUS) TREE PIE (Dendrocitta vagabunda)
1 ex at Sultanpur B.S. on 14 November, and single birds on different places in Corbett N.P. on
19-21 November.
163. BLUE MAGPIE (Urocissa erythrorhyncha)
On 17 November 5 ex on the Moslem cemetery in Naini Tal.

164. HOUSE CROW (Corvus splendens)
A very common bird, present in large numbers everywhere, but less common in Corbett N.P.
165. JUNGLE CROW (Corvus levaillantii)
2 ex in New Delhi on 10 November, approx. 5 ex in Sultanpur on 14 November, very common in
Naini Tal (daily 150 to 200 ex), 5 to 20 ex daily in Corbett N.P., and 2 ex in Bindawas B.S.
166. BLACK-THROATED TIT (Aegithalos concinnus)
Common in Naini Tal with 50+ birds on 16 November and approx. 20 birds on 17 November.
167. BLACK-CRESTED TIT (Parus melanolophus)
Seen in Naini Tal, but in lower numbers than previous species with 8 ex on 16 November, and 6
ex on 17 November.
168. GREEN-BACKED TIT (Parus monticolus)
Rather common bird in Naini Tal with approx. 10 to 15 birds on both 16 and 17 November.
169. GREAT TIT (Parus major)
Not observed in Naini Tal, but seen on route between Naini Tal and Baspur on 18 November (10
ex), and daily (5 to 8 ex) in Corbett N.P. on 19-21 November.
170. YELLOW-CHEEKED (=BLACK-LOARED) TIT (Parus xanthogenys)
Almost missed this species. Only 2 birds on 17 November on the Moslem cemetery near Naini
Tal.
171. YELLOW-BROWED TIT (Sylviparus modestus)
On 16 November 1 ex, and on 17 November 2 ex in the Naini Tal region, a.o. during the walk up
to Snow View Point.
172. WHITE-TAILED NUTHATCH (Sitta himalayensis)
On 17 November approx. 10 ex during the climb up to Cheena Peak.
173. EURASIAN NUTHATCH (Sitta europaea)
3 ex on 16 November in Naini Tal.
174. HIMALAYAN TREECREEPER (Certhia himalayana)
On 16 and 17 November 1 and 2 ex resp. seen in the Naini Tal region.
175. WALLCREEPER (Tichodroma muraria)
On 21 November 1 ex seen at High Banks in Corbett N.P., and another foraging in the Kosi river
bed near Quality Inn Corbett Jungle Resort, 12 km N of the Corbett N.P. gate.
176. BLACK-CHINNED (=RED-BILLED) BABBLER (Stachyris pyrrhops)
On 17 November 3 ex on the Moslem cemetery of Naini Tal, 18 November 1 ex between Nain Tal
and Baspur, on 19 November 5 ex from the bird tower at Dhikala, Corbett N.P. , and on 21
November 5 ex near Quality Inn Corbett Jungle Resort.
177. YELLOW-EYED BABBLER (Chrysomma sinensis)
Seen only in Corbett N.P. with approx. 5 ex on 19 November and 10 ex on 21 November, all near
Dhikala.
178. STREAKED LAUGHINGTHRUSH (Garrulax lineatus)
Common in the Naini Tal area, with at least 40 ex on 16 November, 25 ex on 17 November and
10 ex on 18 November.

179. WHITE-THROATED LAUGHING THRUSH (Garrulax albogularis)
A flock of approx. 10 ex on the ground at Snow View Point, Naini Tal, on 16 November.
180. COMMON BABBLER (Turdoides caudatus)
Only 1 ex seen on 23 November in Bindawas B.S.
181. JUNGLE BABBLER (Turdoides striatus)
A common bird with 30+ birds in New Delhi (mainly in the zoological garden) on 10 November, 10
to 50 ex daily in Corbett N.P. and about 40 ex on 23 November at Bindawas B.S.
182. LARGE GREY BABBLER (Turdoides malcolmi)
On 10 November 3 ex in the New Delhi zoological garden, on 14 November 7 ex in Sultanpur
B.S., 18 November 3 ex between Naini Tal and Baspur, and on 23 November at least 30 ex in
and around Bindawas B.S.
183. RUFOUS SIBIA (Heterophasia capistrata)
4 ex seen along the Kilbury road near Naini Tal, on 17 November.
184. BLUETHROAT (Luscinia svecica svecica)
On 14 November 1 ex in Sultanpur B.S. and on 18 November 5 ex flushed by our elephant at
Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
185. ORANGE-FLANKED BLUETAIL (Tarsiger cyanurus)
On 16 November 1 beautiful male on the Moslem cemetery of Naini Tal. Best view of this species
ever.
186. BLACK REDSTART (Phoenicurus ochruros)
A confusing orange-bellied male of the eastern ssp. at Sultanpur B.S.
187. COMMON REDSTART (Phoenicurus phoenicurus)
On 14 November 1 ex in Sultanpur B.S.
188. PLUMBEOUS WATER-REDSTART (Rhyacornis fuliginosus)
Seen in rather good numbers along the streams between Baspur and Ramnagar (10+ ex on 18
November), in Corbett N.P. (up to 25 ex per day), and on 21 November along the Kosi river at the
Quality Inn Corbett Jungle Resort (at least 10) and near the bridge of Ramnagar (another 10+).
189. WHITE-CAPPED WATER-REDSTART (RIVER CHAT) (Chaimarrornis leucocephalus)
On 16 November 2 ex in Naini Tal, and 18-21 November daily 1 up to 8 ex in Corbett N.P., mostly
in the same habitat (running streams) as the previous species.
190. INDIAN ROBIN (Saxicoloides fulicata)
On 14 November 2 ex in Sultanpur B.S., and on 23 November at least 6 ex in Bindawas B.S.,
while apparently lacking in the Naini Tal and Corbett N.P. regions.
191. MAGPIE ROBIN (Copsychus saularis)
On 10 November at least 5 ex in the New Delhi zoo, on 19 and 20 November single birds in
Corbett N.P. (a.o. near the bird tower), and on 23 November 2 ex in Bindawas B.S.
192. BROWN ROCK CHAT (Cercomela fusca)
3 ex on the ruins of Purana Qila in New Delhi, on 10 November.
193. BLUE WHISTLING THRUSH (Myophonus caeruleus)
Rather common in the Naini Tal region (16-18 November 5 to 7 ex daily), and in Corbett N.P. (1
up to 5 daily).

194. BLUE ROCK THRUSH (Monticola solitarius)
On 21 November 1 male bird near Quality Inn Corbett Jungle Resort, along the Kosi river.
195. COMMON STONECHAT (Saxicola torquata)
Common bird in Sultanpur (14 November, 5 ex), in Corbett N.P. (18-21 November, daily 20 to 25
ex), and present in Bindawas B.S. (23 Nov., 1 ex). At least some of the birds were certainly of the
maura race.
196. PIED BUSH CHAT (Saxicola capatra)
Seen both in Sultanpur B.S. (14 November, 4 ex) and in Bindawas B.S. (23 November, 2 ex).
197. (DARK-) GREY BUSH CHAT (Saxicola ferrea)
On 18 November 1 ex 5 km W of Naini Tal, along the road to Baspur, and on 20 November 1 ex
near Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
198. WHITE'S (SCALY) THRUSH (Zoothera dauma)
On 17 November 1 bird near the Swiss Hotel, Naini Tal.
199. LESSER WHITETHROAT (Sylvia curruca)
A common wintering bird with 4 ex on 10 November in the New Delhi zoo, 10 ex on 14 November
in Sultanpur B.S., and 2 ex on 23 November in Bindawas B.S.
200. ASHY PRINIA (Prinia socialis)
2 ex in the New Delhi zoo on 10 November, and 1 ex on 20 November in Corbett N.P.
201. RUFESCENT PRINIA (Prinia rufescens)
Single birds seen on both 20 and 21 November in Corbett N.P.
202. TAWNY-FLANKED PRINIA (Prinia subflava)
Approx. 20 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S., 10 to 20 ex daily from 19-21 November in
Corbett N.P. ,and 4 ex on 23 November in Bindawas B.S.
203. JUNGLE PRINIA (Prinia sylvatica)
Seen in Corbett N.P., around Dhikala, with approx. 20 ex on 18 November and 10 ex on 19
November.
204. FANTAILED WARBLER (Cisticola exilis)
Seen on 19 (1 ex) and 21 (2 ex) November near Dhikala, in Corbett N.P.
205. TAILOR BIRD (Orthotomus sutorius)
1 ex seen in the Delhi zoo on 10 November.
206. COMMON CHIFFCHAFF (Phylloscopus collybita tristis)
Only scarcely seen with 1 ex on 10 November in the New Delhi zoo, and 3 ex in Corbett N.P., all
of the tristis race.
207. YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER (Phylloscopus inornatus)
On 16 November 2 ex in Naini Tal. Probably more.
208. HUME'S YELLOW-BROWED WARBLER (Phylloscopus humei)
A common winter bird, seen in New Delhi (at least 12 ex on 10 November), Sultanpur (14
November, 4 ex), in lower numbers in Naini Tal (1 or 2 each day), in Corbett N.P. (1-3 ex per
day), and in Bindawas B.S. (5 ex on 23 November, also singing).
209. PALE-RUMPED LEAF WARBLER (Phylloscopus chloronotus)
Also common, with 6 to 8 ex daily in Naini Tal, and even 15 to 20 ex on 20 and 21 November in

Corbett N.P.
210. YELLOW-BELLIED FANTAIL (Rhipidura hypoxantha)
1 ex on 16 November on the Moslem cemetery in Naini Tal, on 20 November 1 ex seen from the
Dhikala bird tower in Corbett N.P., and on 21 November 2 ex near Quality Inn Corbett Jungle
Resort.
211. WHITE-THROATED FANTAIL (Rhipidura albicollis)
On 21 November 1 ex near Quality Inn Corbett Jungle Resort.
212. WHITE-BROWED FANTAIL (Rhipidura aureola)
1 ex on 23 November in Bindawas B.S.
213. GREY-HOODED WARBLER (Seicercus xanthoschistos)
Common in the Naini Tal area (10 to 25 ex per day), and in Corbett N.P. (4 resp. 10 ex on 20 and
21 November).
214. LITTLE PIED FLYCATCHER (Ficedula westermanni)
A pair on 20 November seen from the bird tower at Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
215. RED-BREASTED FLYCATCHER (Ficedula parva)
1 ex on 21 November near Quality Inn Corbett Jungle Resort, and 1 ex on 23 November in
Bindawas B.S.
216. RUFOUS-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Muscicapa ruficauda)
On 20 November 1 ex seen from the bird tower of Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
217. ORANGE-GORGETED FLYCATCHER (Ficedula strophiata)
1 female bird on 20 November seen from the bird tower of Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
218. RUFOUS-BELLIED NILTAVA (Niltava sundara)
1 ex seen on 18 November along the road between Naini Tal and Baspur.
219. GREY-HEADED (CANARY-)FLYCATCHER (Culicicapa ceylonensis)
1 ex on 18 November along the road between Naini Tal and Baspur, 2 ex on 21 November at
different places in Corbett N.P.
220. BAY-BACKED SHRIKE (Lanius vittatus)
2 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S. and 1 ex on 23 November in Bindawas B.S.
221. ISABELLINE SHRIKE (Lanius isabellinus)
1 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S.
222. GREAT GREY SHRIKE (Lanius excubitor)
4 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S. and 1 ex on 23 November in Bindawas B.S.
223. LONG-TAILED SHRIKE (Lanius schach)
Most regular shrike, seen on 14 November (4 ex) in Sultanpur B.S., 2 ex on 16 November on
route to Naini Tal in the Ganges plains, 2 to 3 ex daily in Corbett N.P., and 5 ex on 23 November
in and around Bindawas N.P.
224. BROWN SHRIKE (Lanius cristatus)
1 ex seen on 18 November between Baspur and Ramnagar.
225. PADDYFIELD PIPIT (Anthus rufulus)
1 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S., 4 and 10 ex on 19 and 20 November around Dhikala,

Corbett N.P.
226. TAWNY PIPIT (Anthus campestris)
1 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S.
227. OLIVE-BACKED PIPIT (Anthus hodgsoni)
3 ex on 18 November on route between Naini Tal and Baspur, and another 15 ex flushed by our
elephant on the same day, in the tall grass around Dhikala, Corbett N.P.. On 19 and 20
November approx. 5 to 10 ex both days at Dhikala.
228. WHITE WAGTAIL (Motacilla alba)
5 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur, 8 ex on route on 18 November between Baspur and
Ramnagar, 1 ex near Dhikala on 20 November, 30 ex along the Kosi river near Ramnagar on 21
November, and 2 ex on 23 November in Bindawas B.S.
229. YELLOW WAGTAIL (Motacilla flava)
3 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S.
230. CITRINE WAGTAIL (Motacilla citreola)
1 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S., 4 ex on 15 November on route between Delhi and
Moradabad, 3 ex on 21 November along the Kosi river near the Ramnagar bridge, and 2 ex on 23
November in Bindawas B.S.
231. GREY WAGTAIL (Motacilla cinerea)
2 ex on 10 November in the Delhi zoo, 1 ex on 16 November between Delhi and Moradabad, 1 ex
on 18 November between Naini Tal and Baspur, and 21 November 1 ex along the Kosi river near
the Quality Inn Corbett Jungle Resort.
232. WHITE-BROWED WAGTAIL (Motacilla madaraspatensis)
1 ex on 15 November on route between Delhi and Moradabad, 1 ex on 18 November between
Baspur and Ramnagar, 1 ex on 20 November in Corbett N.P. and approx. 20 ex on 21 November
along the Kosi river near the bridge at Ramnagar.
233. BRAHMINY MYNA (Sturnus pagodarum)
Only seen in new Delhi, e.g. approx. 20 ex in and around the zoological garden.
234. PIED MYNA (Sturnus contra)
8 ex on 10 November in the New Delhi zoo, 6 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S., approx. 10
ex on route on both 15 and 22 November between Delhi and Moradabad, 23 November approx.
20 ex in Bindawas B.S.
235. COMMON MYNA (Acridotheres tristis)
Abundant species, seen each day in large numbers.
236. BANK MYNA (Acridotheres ginginianus)
Common in New Delhi (zoo and Purana Qila), in Sultanpur B.S., and in the Ganges plains.
237. ORIENTAL WHITE-EYE (Zosterops palpebrosus)
2 ex on 10 November in the New Delhi zoological garden, 1 or 2 each day in Naini Tal on 16 to
18 November, and 10 to 20 ex daily 19-21 November in Corbett N.P., mostly seen from the bird
tower at Dhikala.
238. PURPLE SUNBIRD (Nectarinia asiatica)
At last 5 ex on 10 November in the New Delhi zoo, and 3 ex seen on 14 November in Sultanpur
B.S. This species was apparently absent further north.

239. COMMON IORA (Aegithina tiphia)
1 ex on 18 November seen in a mixed bird flock between Naini Tal and Baspur, and another one
at Dhikala, Corbett N.P. on the same day.
240. RED AVADAVAT (Amandava amandava)
4 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S., and 1, resp. 3 ex on 20 and 21 November at Dhikala,
Corbett N.P.
241. WHITE-THROATED MUNIA (Lonchura malabarica)
20 ex seen on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S.
242. SPOTTED MUNIA (Lonchura punctulata)
4 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S.
243. HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus)
Seen on most days, near towns and villages, thus rare in Corbett N.P.
244. RUSSET SPARROW (Passer rutilans)
Approx. 10 ex seen on 17 November in the high trees around Hotel Swiss in Naini Tal, and
approx. 20 ex on 18 November along the road, near settlements, descending from Naini Tal to
Baspur.
245. HIMALAYAN GREENFINCH (Carduelis spinoides)
1 ex on 18 November down the road from Naini Tal to Baspur, and 1 ex on 20 November at the
bird tower of Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
246. PINK-BROWED ROSEFINCH (Carpodacus rodochrous)
1 ex on 17 November near the Vikhram Vintage hotel in Naini Tal, and 1 ex on 18 November,
along the road from Naini Tal down to Baspur.
247. BAYA WEAVER (Ploceus philippinus)
About 20 ex on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S.
248. GREY-HEADED (=CHESTNUT-EARED) BUNTING (Emberiza fucata)
3 plus 1 ex seen on 21 November along the main road in Corbett N.P. ,when driving back to the
main gate.
249. RED-HEADED BUNTING (Emberiza bruniceps)
1 male bird seen on 14 November in Sultanpur B.S.
250. RUFOUS-BREASTED ACCENTOR (Prunella strophiata)
2 ex on 16 November on the Moslem cemetery, Naini Tal.
List of Identified Animals
1. COMMON LANGUR (Presbytis entellus)
Rather common in the Naini Tal area (30 to 50 per day), and in Corbett N.P. 10 to 20 daily).
2. RHESUS MACAQUE (Macaca mulatta)
Common in the Naini Tal area and in Corbett, also a few (free living ones) in the New Delhi
zoological garden.
3. COMMON MONGOOSE (Herpestes edwardsi)
A few seen in New Delhi (Purana Qila), and in Corbett N.P.

4. JACKAL (Canis aureus)
Seen only in Corbett N.P.: 1 ex on 19 November and 4 ex on 21 November.
5. FIVE-STRIPED PALM SQUIRREL (Funambulus pennanti)
Common in the Delhi zoological garden and in Sultanpur B.S.
6. INDIAN ELEPHANT (Elephas maximus)
Various family groups in Corbett N.P., i.e. 2 ex on 18 November at Dhikala, 19 November 12 ex
present there, and on 20 November 9 ex at Dhikala and 6 ex elsewhere in the park. On 21
November we saw 3 ex walking along the Kosi river, outside the N.P.
7. NILGAI (BLUE BULL) (Boselaphus tragocamelus)
Seen in Sultanpur B.S. (more than 100) and in Bindawas B.S. (20 ex).
8. SPOTTED DEER (CHITAL) (Axis axis)
500 to 750 ex seen every day in Corbett N.P. in the area around Dhikala.
9. HOG DEER (Axis porcinus)
1 ex seen on 19 November near Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
10. SAMBAR DEER (Cervus unicolor)
Seen in small numbers (less than 20 per day) in Corbett N.P.
11. BARKING DEER (MUNTJAC) (Muntiacus muntjac)
Single individuals on 19 and 20 November in Corbett N.P.
12. INDIAN WILD BOAR (Suserofa cristatus)
1 ex at Dhikala, Corbett N.P.
13. TIGER (Panthera tigris)
On 19 November at 15.45 pm we discovered a tiger from the bird tower in Dhikala, Corbett N.P.,
by spotting a Ruddy Shelduck. The tiger just crossed the stream and was visible for about a
minute. On 20 November we heard, from the bird tower again, a tiger roaring between 13.50 and
14.10 pm.
14. MARSH CROCODILE (Crocodylus palustris)
All seen in Corbett N.P.: on 19 November 3 ex along the lake near Dhikala, on 20 November 1 ex
with the gavials along the Ramganga river ("crocodile point"), and on 21 November 2 ex on two
places along this river.
15. GAVIAL (Gavialis gangeticus)
On 20 November 4 females and on 21 November 1 male and 4 females along the Ramganga
river in Corbett N.P., 15 km W of Dhikala ("crocodile point").
16. MONITOR LIZARD
On 20 November a large (over 125 cm) animal seen and approached as close as 2 meters, near
the lake shore at Dhikala.
17. WATER TORTOISE
An unidentified rather large ex seen swimming in the Ramganga river near the gavials on 20
November.