The Himalayan Kingdom Bhutan, a birdwatchers paradise with some 770 bird species including rare and endemic ones. Bhutan is the home of special birds apart from Black-necked Crane in Phobjikha Valley, which looks so beautiful flying over that valley as other smaller bird species also inhabit alpine meadows at higher elevations. See a poorly known and elusive Ward's Trogon in dense forest or catch up with the very rare Rufous-necked Hornbill on its subtropical range. Bird watching experience is exceptional in Bhutan because of its beautiful setting and rich biodiversity. Join Orrog for a guided journey through Bhutan's untouched splendors and world-class birding destinations to explore the Bhutan bird species that make this country unique.
Bird Watching in Bhutan
Bhutan, the Land of Mountain Dragons and Thunder Storms nestled deep within the Himalayas with its diverse ecological zones has dense forests that offer sanctuary to more than 675 British Standard bird species. Bhutan provides an adept introduction to birding with over 770 species found here and a varied range of ecosystems from the subtropical plains up through alpine meadows, some birds are rare or endemic. Bhutan bird watching really is second to none, attracting bird enthusiasts from all over the planet who want a slice of something that you can only find here. This guide will navigate you through some of the most interesting and endemic bird species that make Bhutan an idle destination for a passionate birdwatcher.
Bhutan’s Birdwatching Hotspots
These specific species aside, it is important to know where they can be found. Bhutan with its diverse climate zones and topography provides corresponding habitat for many bird species. Top bird watching areas;
1. Phobjikha Valley: This valley is renowned for Black-necked Crane, and is a good spot to see high-altitude bird species.
2. Royal Manas National Park- It is situated in the southerly region of Bhutan, this massif with its subtropical setting becomes a mesmerizing sanctuary to an infinite variety of birds.
3. Bumthang Valley- It often pronounced and written as 'Jakar,' this valley is famous for its cool broad leaves, providing good birding opportunities during the spring.
Unique Birds of Bhutan
1. Black-necked Crane
Gracefully settled on icy rocks, the Black-necked Crane represents one of Bhutan's most iconic bird species. Arriving in late October from the Tibetan Plateau, these magnificent birds migrate to Bhutan where they remain till spring early March before returning back north during summer. The Black-necked Crane is revered in Bhutanese culture and plays a huge role in the annual Crane Festival which shows how important these birds are to the local people. Largely Old World species, these birds have been captured metaphorically with their famously elegant courtship dances and haunting calls on film by borders drawn to Bhutan.
2. Ward's Trogon
Ward's Trogon, one of the most stunning and luxurious birds in Bhutan, Ward is a striking species native to dense broadleaf forests that dominate eastern Bhutan. It is easy to spot due to bright red, blue and green feathers. This has made it an exciting challenge for many birdwatchers, who will go to great lengths due to how partially quiet the habitats of this secretive bird are. The Trogon — Besides giving us a visual feast, these forest gems are also symbolic of Bhutan´s healthy forests.
3. Himalayan Monal
Himalayan Monal (National bird of Bhutan) is colourful bird native to the high-altitude forests and alpine meadows throughout Himalayas High in the Himalayan Mountains it is also recognized for its shimmering plumage, with the male Monal showing off metallic green and blue as well as flaming orange. This bird is a symbol of the wealth of nature in Bhutan and seen often also inside protected areas such as Jigme Dorji National Park. When birding in these habitats, one of the highlights is to watch them feed at desert pools during early morning or late afternoon.
4. Rufous-necked Hornbill
The Rufous-necked Hornbill is a rare species and only found in southern parts of Bhutan, this bird lives mostly in the subtropical forests.Both by the sighting of a more rare and beloved bird, its large bill and rufous-colored neck making finding this hornbill one any birder would be happy to have under their belt. In Bhutan, this species and other Rhododendron are protected with its conservation efforts thus it becomes a safehaven for the threatened plant that is besieged by disease in much of its rest range. Birdwatchers can see these birds at play in Royal Manas National Park feeding primarily on fruits and small animals.
5. White-bellied Heron
A fish-eating bird, White-bellied Heron is also one of the world's rarest herons critically endangered with less than 63 individuals still surviving in their natural home. The species is one of the last survivors in Bhutan's remote river valleys and wetlands. White-bellied Heron is an attractive bird, commonly seen in the course of Pho Chu and Mo Chu river. Birds are viewed only by lucky Birders who have spotted the most endangered species in North America, which makes this specific bird vulnerable to simply a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
Birdwatching in Bhutan: Tips and Best Practices
Hey there, traveler! Have you ever wanted to witness some of the most unique avian species on the planet? Bhutan is calling your name. Whether you're a birder by experience or someone who just loves nature, with our knowledgeable guides to lead the way Birding in Bhutan will not leave any feeling wanting. One great option is to connect with Orrog, a travel company specializing in eco-friendly birdwatching tours. They offer tailored experiences that allow you to see the rare birds of Bhutan in their natural habitats.
Here are some tips and best practices for your birdwatching adventure:
1. When to Visit: The best time of year for this Bhutan bird watching itinerary is from March through May and September until early November. This is the time when there are many migratory birds around, and at 16 degrees C it might be just pleasant for morning or evening with cool breeze. Orrog can plan your trip around these months of prime birdwatching to offer you the highest possibility of witnessing some exclusive Bhutanese avian species.
2. Guided Tours: Orrog can arrange for a local birdwatching guide to get the most out of your time in Lorengau. The Bhutanese guides know their birds and there are very few that you will not be able to see. And having a guide means you will be well-informed about the cultural and natural history of each place. Refer to the Bhutan avian guide for a deeper understanding of the unique bird species found in this region.
3. Respect Nature: The natural environment in Bhutan is hugely unspoiled and must be treated kindly by everyone; therefore, please adhere to Leave No Trace principles during your birding experiences. Do not disturb the birds or their habitats. Orrog promotes responsible tourism and makes sure that you do birdwatching based on environmental conservation.
4. Essential Birding Gear: As you prepare for your birdwatching adventure, make sure that you are carrying along binoculars, a field guide of Bhutanese birds and appropriate clothing based on the weather. Orrog is a comprehensive list of must-have gear, so you can hit the trail with everything you need.
From the sought-after Ward's Trogon in eastern forests, to elegant Black-necked Crane in Phobjikha Valley, a birdwatching trip to Bhutan is an experience unto itself. Having Orrog alongside, your journey will be as flawless as it is timeless.
The country boasts magnificent birdlife affording one of the most thrilling and satisfying ways to connect with nature in some isolated, pristine environment on earth. Be mesmerized with some of Bhutan's endemic avian species, either the majestic Black-necked Crane or its vibrantly colored cousin Himalayan Monal. Put your binoculars into a bag, lube up with some adventure and let Orrog take you to that magical trip of never been there before.