As winter approaches, migratory birds have begun arriving in Nepal, making their presence felt across Chitwan National Park and surrounding wetlands. These birds, primarily of the goose family, travel from colder regions to seek milder climates during the winter months.
Annual Migration from Across Asia
According to Basu Bidari, President of the Nepal Birdwatchers Association, Bagmati Province, these birds arrive every October and typically return north when summer begins. The migratory visitors come from countries including Siberia, Mongolia, Tibet, Russia, Malaysia, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and China. Many traverse the Kali Gandaki valley to reach Chitwan and nearby lowland areas.
Species and Habitats
Among the species observed this season are kyangkurung, chakhewa, suirupuchhre, malak, khadkhade, bijula, gairis, as well as birds of prey like hawks and eagles. Woodland-dependent species such as chachar, chuiya, and Bhardwaj also make an appearance. These are mostly spotted along riverbanks, wetlands, and open fields.
Bidari noted that between 12 to 15 species of geese from outside Nepal now frequent the Narayani, Rapti, and Riukhola rivers. As winter intensifies, birds from Nepal’s higher Himalayan regions and mid-hills also migrate to the Terai plains.
Nepal’s Rich Avian Diversity
Nepal hosts over 150 migratory bird species annually. After about six months, they return north during the breeding season. Experts explain that shorter daylight hours and long winter nights in the northern hemisphere limit feeding opportunities, prompting this seasonal migration.
Most migratory birds settle in wetlands, grasslands, forests, and agricultural fields. Vijay Giri, President of the Bird Education Society in Chitwan, observed that with the recent rainfall during the Dashain festival, several migratory birds have already been spotted along riverbanks. Chitwan National Park, with its rivers and wetlands, offers an ideal habitat. The Rapti and Riukhola rivers, along with Narayani River and park wetlands, provide excellent feeding and resting areas. Community and central forests nearby also serve as prime bird-watching sites.
Birdwatching Hub
Nepal is home to 902 bird species, with Chitwan alone hosting 652 species, making it a hotspot for both resident and migratory birds. The arrival of these migratory birds marks an important ecological phenomenon and provides opportunities for birdwatchers, researchers, and nature enthusiasts to observe these species in their natural habitats.
