A new bird species, known as the Spotted Flycatcher (Muscicapa Striata), has been discovered in Mustang, Nepal. The discovery was made by ornithologists Sanjay Tha Shrestha and Shankar Tiwari in the Samar region of Upper Mustang, as reported by the Nepal Bird Conservation Association.
Dr. Tulsi Subedi, Chairman of the Nepal Bird Records Committee (responsible for bird records and verification), confirmed the identification of this new species in Nepal through a press release. The bird, locally named Taludharshe Arjunak, was photographed by Shrestha and Tiwari at an altitude of 3,650 meters above sea level on July 18, 2024, during a trekking expedition. The photographs were sent to the Nepal Bird Records Committee for verification.
Based on available evidence, detailed study, and consultation with national and international ornithologists, it was confirmed that the bird is indeed the Spotted Flycatcher. This adds a new species to Nepal’s bird records, bringing the total number of bird species in Nepal to 896, with 24 species of the Arjunak family.
The Spotted Flycatcher is known to be found in Mongolia, various parts of northern China, and westwards towards Afghanistan and Pakistan. These birds typically migrate south during the winter. It is believed that the bird discovered in Mustang was likely on its migratory path, possibly straying into the region.
Sanjay Tha Shrestha, who is also a wildlife photographer, expressed his excitement about identifying a new bird species for the country. “It is thrilling to discover a new bird species for Nepal,” Shrestha said. “This will certainly boost bird tourism and encourage more wildlife photography.”
The Nepal Bird Records Committee maintains records of new bird species in Nepal. Previously, in 2020, Shrestha had recorded the White-throated Bushchat (Saxicola insignis) for the first time in Manohara, Nepal.
The discovery of the Spotted Flycatcher in Mustang is a significant milestone in Nepal’s ornithological history. It highlights the rich biodiversity of the region and underscores the importance of continued research and conservation efforts. This new addition to Nepal’s bird species list is expected to attract bird watchers and researchers from around the world, further promoting bird tourism in the country.
