As snowfall begins in the northern polar regions, migratory birds have started arriving in Nepal to escape the harsh winter. These “tourist birds” are seen across the country, including lower Himalayan areas, hills, plains, lakes, ponds, and rivers, bringing with them hundreds of species from distant regions.
Dr. Hem Bahadur Kutuwal, Associate Professor and Ornithologist at a Chinese Science Institute, stated that migratory birds typically begin arriving in the second week of Ashoj (mid-September). “Every year, approximately 150 species of birds travel from Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, China, Mongolia, Europe, and the Tibetan region to Nepal. Some species continue their journey south to India after staying in Nepal,” he explained.
Importance of Safe Habitats for Migratory Birds
Dr. Kutuwal emphasized that, despite Nepal being an attractive and safe destination, the number of visiting birds has declined in recent years. He urged all relevant authorities to ensure the protection and proper management of these bird habitats. Key wintering locations include Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve in Sunsari, Saptari, and Udayapur districts.
Virendra Gautam, Head of Koshi Conservation Center under the National Nature Conservation Fund, noted that although new species are arriving each year, the numbers of large flocks have decreased. “Nepal remains an attractive destination for migratory birds escaping winter and for those seeking to nest their young. However, the population of Bar-headed Geese, a major visitor, has declined recently,” he added.
Key Wintering Sites Across Nepal
According to Gautam, the wintering birds primarily inhabit Nepal’s major wetlands such as Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Chitwan National Park, Bishajari Tal, Jagdishpur Tal, Ghodaghodi Tal, Shuklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, and along the Koshi, Gandaki, and Narayani rivers including their tributaries.
Most of the winter visitors are waterfowl species, including Mallard Ducks, Ruddy Shelducks, Common Pochards, Ferruginous Ducks, Gadwalls, Green-headed Ducks, and various species of Cranes like the Sarus Crane. Other species include predatory and carnivorous birds such as the Black Kite and Himalayan Buzzard, and land birds like the Himalayan Snowcock, Chukar Partridge, and several types of warblers and finches.
Summer Visitors and Breeding Patterns
Apart from winter visitors, Nepal also hosts summer migratory birds that arrive to breed and rear their young. Gautam explained that around 60 species of summer visitors, mainly cuckoo species, lay their eggs in the nests of other birds instead of building their own. “These cuckoos raise the chicks of other birds as their own, ensuring survival for their offspring,” he noted. Other summer visitors include the Yellow-throated Sparrow, Paradise Flycatcher, and various species of Pitta and Orioles. These birds primarily inhabit forests, nearby grasslands, and agricultural areas during their stay in Nepal.
Conservation and Future Outlook
Authorities and conservationists emphasize the importance of protecting Nepal’s habitats to maintain its status as a key wintering and breeding destination for migratory birds. Ensuring safe and well-managed wetlands, lakes, and forest areas will not only support bird populations but also enhance Nepal’s eco-tourism potential. With hundreds of species flocking annually, the arrival of migratory birds is a spectacular natural event that highlights Nepal’s rich biodiversity and the need for sustainable conservation practices to safeguard these feathered visitors.
