Field Guides Tour Report NORTHERN

Jan 22, 2011 to Feb 13, 2011 Terry Stevenson

Our 2011 tour was slightly different from our usual route in that we did it in reverse order, and we replaced the now crowded Ranthambore with a visit to the famous (and much less crowded) Kanha National Park. It worked remarkably well, with our earlier than usual arrival in the Himalayan foothills having almost balmy weather, and our visit to Kanha producing not only tiger but also the rare Indian Wild Dog, Gaur--the world's largest bovine--and the very localized Malabar Pied Hornbill.

As usual we began our birding in Delhi along the Yamuna River, where the authorities have now upgraded the status of this little reserve, stopping the noisy traffic, and creating a couple of nice new footpaths. As always, first-day birding in India is spectacular even with common like Bar-headed Goose, Indian Spot-billed Duck, Indian Peafowl, Yellow- footed Pigeon, Rose-ringed Parakeet, Green Bee-eater, Bluethroat, and Purple Sunbird, all putting on a spectacular show.

We then headed north to Kumeria (near Corbett National Park) stopping along the way at the River Ganges where we all had great looks at the uncommon Ganges Dolphin, and then at a small colony of the critically endangered White-rumped Vulture.

The followng three days we spent birding both inside and outside Corbett, with visits to some nearby forested areas and along the boulder-strewn Kosi River. Birding highlights were many but the group particularly enjoyed Red , Pallas's and Lesser -eagles, Cinereous Vulture, Collared Falconet, Red-breasted Parakeet, Tawny Fish-, Blue- throated Barbet, 12 species of woodpeckers (including the gigantic Great Slaty), Scarlet Minivet, Gray-backed Shrike, Black-lored Tit, Wallcreeper (just stunning looks this year), White-capped Redstart, Spotted Forktail, Long-billed Thrush, and White-crested Laughingthrush. A good variety of were also present and varied from Indian Elephant to Spotted, Barking and Hog deer, numerous Rhesus Monkeys and Common Langurs, and on two occasions the uncommon Yellow-throated Marten.

Our next stay was at a higher elevation at Nainital. During three days here we walked the trail to Snow View (with magnificent views of the Himalayan peaks) and also went to more forested areas like Sat Tal and the Mongoli Valley. As always the were spectacular and varied, from ground-dwelling Kalij to soaring Lammergeier and Himalayan Griffons, a colorful Great Barbet, mixed species flocks of Speckled Piculet, Black-crested Tits, and White- tailed Nuthatches, the localized Black-headed Jay, skulking Scaly-breasted Wren-Babbler, and gorgeous Red-flanked Bluetails, Golden Bush Robin, and Pink-browed Rosefinches.

We then returned to Delhi before beginning our southern loop with a visit to the wondeful Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. The following day saw us boating on the Chambal River and watching Red-naped Ibis, Great Thick-knee, and Small Pratincole together with several huge Gharials and the more widespread Marsh Mugger. We thought daytime views of three species of in the lodge garden (Brown Hawk-Owl, Indian Scops-Owl, and Spotted Owlet) were exceptional, but then we found the even more unusual Rock Eagle-Owl and had fabulous scope views of this magnificent .

Moving on we made our way to Bharatpur (and the nearby Bund Baretha) where a good selection of close waterbirds kept the photographers busy. Indian Cormorant, Black and Yellow bitterns, Painted Stork, and Sarus Crane were memorable sightings amongst the more numerous ducks, herons, and egrets. But we also enjoyed a teed-up Imperial Eagle out in the open marshes, Dusky-Eagle-Owl and Orange-headed Thrush in the woodland, a colony of the rare Indian Vulture, and a totally unexpected Stoliczka's (White-browed) Bushchat.

The final leg of our tour took us back to Delhi once more and then on a flight to the famous Kanha National Park. Our main goal here was undoubtedly Tiger, but they are never easy and so we began with more birding as we drove the narrow tracks in our open-topped jeeps; Gray-headed Fish-Eagle, Alexandrine Parakeet, Sirkeer Malkoha, Jungle Owlet, Coppersmith Barbet, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, Asian Paradise-Flycatcher, Ultramarine Flycatcher, and Indian Scimitar-Babbler were just some of the new species we added here. Swamp Deer, large reddish-brown deer with twelve

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 1 horns, were quite common, as were the more widespread Spotted Deer and a few Sambar. Most of us saw Indian Wild Dog and some of the group saw Gaur. However, as we all knew, if luck was with us Tiger would steal the show and it certainly did--first a female lying within the that we saw from elephant back, and then another gorgeous one walking down the track late one afternoon--magnificent!

Sadly our tour was now drawing to an end, but we still had a further morning's birding back near Delhi at Sultanpur Jheel- -a "mini Bharatpur" with large flocks of ducks and geese, cormorants, herons, and storks. We had our best looks at Greater Spotted Eagle and White-tailed Lapwing, while new birds included a large flock of Pied Avocets, Eurasian Wryneck, Bay- backed Shrike, and the uncommon Sind Sparrow. Finally, as we boarded our bus for the last time, a group of Indian Peafowl appeared--sparkling in a yellow mustard field--familiar to all, but surely one of the world's most spectacular birds!

--Terry

KEYS FOR THIS LIST One of the following keys may be shown in brackets for individual species as appropriate: * = heard only, I = introduced, E = endemic, N = nesting, a = austral migrant, b = boreal migrant

BIRDS Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl) LESSER WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna javanica) – About 50 were seen during our boat trip on the Chambal River, and then about 120 at Kanha NP. GRAYLAG GOOSE (Anser anser) – Forty along the Yamuna River in Delhi, 10 at Bharatpur, about 30 at Kanha, and 20 at Sultanpur Jheel. BAR-HEADED GOOSE (Anser indicus) – We first saw these very attractive geese in Delhi, and then at Bharatpur; in all we saw about 250. RUDDY SHELDUCK (Tadorna ferruginea) – Most numerous on the Chambal River where we saw about 80, but small numbers were also seen at a variety of widespread wetlands. GADWALL (Anas strepera) – About 80 at Bharatpur and 200+ at Sultanpur Jheel. INDIAN SPOT-BILLED DUCK (Anas poecilorhyncha) – Twenty along the Yamuna River in Delhi, and then about 35 at Bharatpur. NORTHERN SHOVELER (Anas clypeata) – One thousand five hundred at Sultanpur Jheel were by far the largest concentration, but we also saw about 500 in Delhi and 200 at Bharatpur. NORTHERN PINTAIL (Anas acuta) – One thousand at Sultanpur Jheel, about 500 in Delhi, and 200 at Bharatpur. GREEN-WINGED TEAL (EURASIAN) (Anas crecca crecca) – Sometimes split from the North American form and known as Eurasian or Common Teal, they were widespread on wetlands throughout the tour; with a total of about 450. RED-CRESTED POCHARD (Netta rufina) – We saw about 40 (including some beautiful males) on the Chambal River. COMMON POCHARD (Aythya ferina) – About 20 on the Yamuna River in Delhi. FERRUGINOUS DUCK (Aythya nyroca) – Nice scope looks at 2 at Bund Baretha. TUFTED DUCK (Aythya fuligula) – About 30 on the Yamuna River in Delhi and then a female with white Scaup-like face markings at Sultanpur Jheel. Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies) GRAY FRANCOLIN (Francolinus pondicerianus) – Small numbers around Bharatpur and at Sultanpur Jheel. BLACK FRANCOLIN (Francolinus francolinus) – Fabulous looks at a male on top of a rock near Nainital. RED JUNGLEFOWL (Gallus gallus) – Many great looks this year at Corbett, Sitabani Forest, and in Kanha NP; we saw a total of about 45. KALIJ (Lophura leucomelanos) – Can be difficult be we saw a total of 22 between the Corbett area and Nainital. INDIAN PEAFOWL (Pavo cristatus) – Common and widespread and gorgeous. Podicipedidae (Grebes)

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 2 LITTLE GREBE (Tachybaptus ruficollis) – Fairly common at Bharatpur, Kanha, and Sultanpur Jheel. Ciconiidae (Storks) ASIAN OPENBILL (Anastomus oscitans) – Five at Bund Baretha and 3 at Kanha NP. BLACK STORK (Ciconia nigra) – About a dozen were seen in flight over Corbett NP. WOOLLY-NECKED STORK (Ciconia episcopus) – Pairs at Corbett, along the Chambal River, and at Bharatpur. BLACK-NECKED STORK (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus) – Some of the group saw 1 at Corbett, and then we all had good looks along the Chambal River and at Bharatpur. PAINTED STORK (Mycteria leucocephala) – Several hundred in the colony at Bharatpur, and 150+ at Sultanpur Jheel. Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags) INDIAN CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax fuscicollis) – Five at Bharatpur. GREAT CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax carbo) – Common and widespread throughout the tour; in all we saw about 800. LITTLE CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax niger) – Common and widespread throughout the tour; in all we saw about 200. Anhingidae (Anhingas) ORIENTAL DARTER (Anhinga melanogaster) – Forty at Bharatpur. Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns) YELLOW BITTERN (Ixobrychus sinensis) – One seen in flight before quickly dropping into a reed bed near Bund Baretha. BLACK BITTERN (Ixobrychus flavicollis) – Some of the group saw an adult at Bharatpur and then we all had fabulous views of an adult and a juvenile near Bund Baretha. GRAY HERON (Ardea cinerea) – Widespread at wetlands throughout the tour. PURPLE HERON (Ardea purpurea) – Small numbers at Delhi, the Chambal River, and at Bharatpur. GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba) – Common and widespread at wetlands throughout the tour. INTERMEDIATE EGRET (Mesophoyx intermedia) – About 80 at Bharatpur and half a dozen at Kanha. LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta) – Another very common and widespread egret. CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis) – Very common throughout the tour. INDIAN POND-HERON (Ardeola grayii) – Common and seen daily away from the high country around Corbett and Nainital. BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON (Nycticorax nycticorax) – Five at Bharatpur. Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills) GLOSSY IBIS (Plegadis falcinellus) – Twelve along the Yamuna River in Delhi, and 3 at Bharatpur. BLACK-HEADED IBIS (Threskiornis melanocephalus) – First seen near Agra and then at Bharatpur and Sultanpur Jheel; in all we saw about 55. RED-NAPED IBIS (Pseudibis papillosa) – Rather uncommon in Northern India, so we were lucky to see 8 along the Chambal River and 4 in Kanha NP. EURASIAN SPOONBILL (Platalea leucorodia) – Two behind the Taj Mahal, and then about 100 at Bharatpur. Pandionidae () OSPREY (Pandion haliaetus) – Two in Corbett NP and 4 along the Chambal River. Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites) ORIENTAL HONEY-BUZZARD (Pernis ptilorhynchus) – Singles at Corbett, Kanha, and Sultanpur Jheel. BLACK-SHOULDERED KITE (Elanus caeruleus) – Small numbers were fairly common in open farm country. BLACK KITE (Milvus migrans) – Many hundreds in all the main cities throughout the tour. PALLAS'S FISH-EAGLE (Haliaeetus leucoryphus) – Good looks at 5 in the Corbett area. LESSER FISH-EAGLE (Ichthyophaga humilis) – Two singles at Corbett. GRAY-HEADED FISH-EAGLE (Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus) – Rather uncommon in North India so we were pleasantly surprised to get great looks at 1 in Kanha NP. LAMMERGEIER (Gypaetus barbatus) – One soaring along the mountains near Nainital. EGYPTIAN VULTURE (Neophron percnopterus) – A total of 14 in the Agra to Bharatpur area.

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 3 WHITE-RUMPED VULTURE (Gyps bengalensis) – We saw 8 of these critically endangered vultures at a small breeding colony near Ramnagar. INDIAN VULTURE (Gyps indicus) – Another critically endangered vulture, we saw 7 of these along the cliffs near Bund Baretha. HIMALAYAN GRIFFON (Gyps himalayensis) – About 55 were seen around Corbett and Nainital. CINEREOUS VULTURE (Aegypius monachus) – Fabulous close looks at 4 feeding on the ground at Corbett, and then 1 in flight at Nainital. RED-HEADED VULTURE (Sarcogyps calvus) – A total of 12 were seen in Corbett NP and 1 at Bharatpur. SHORT-TOED EAGLE (Circaetus gallicus) – One in Corbett NP. CRESTED SERPENT-EAGLE (Spilornis cheela) – Widespread in small numbers; in all we saw a total of 9. EURASIAN MARSH-HARRIER (Circus aeruginosus) – Three in Delhi, 1 at Bharatpur, and 3 at Bund Baretha. NORTHERN HARRIER (Circus cyaneus) – We saw a single male near Dhikala Lodge in Corbett NP. SHIKRA (Accipiter badius) – Five singles were seen at a variety of widely scattered sites. BESRA (Accipiter virgatus) – Two in Agra were rather unexpected. EURASIAN SPARROWHAWK (Accipiter nisus) – One when we first crossed the Ganges, and 1 in Corbett NP. WHITE-EYED BUZZARD (Butastur teesa) – One at Kanha NP. COMMON BUZZARD (Buteo buteo) – Two near Ramnagar and 1 at Fatehpur Sikri. GREATER SPOTTED EAGLE (Aquila clanga) – Two singles at Bharatpur and another 2 at Sultanpur Jheel. TAWNY EAGLE (Aquila rapax) – Two near Ramnagar and 1 at Bharatpur. STEPPE EAGLE (Aquila nipalensis) – Three over the hills at Sat Tal and 1 in the Mongoli Valley. IMPERIAL EAGLE (Aquila heliaca) – Single adults were seen at Bharatpur and Bund Baretha. BONELLI'S EAGLE (Aquila fasciata) – One near Corbett NP. BOOTED EAGLE (Hieraaetus pennatus) – A dark morph adult and an immature bird were seen at Sultanpur Jheel. CHANGEABLE HAWK-EAGLE (Nisaetus cirrhatus limnaeetus) – Singles at Kumeria and in Corbett NP (also see the following form below). CHANGEABLE HAWK-EAGLE (Nisaetus cirrhatus cirrhatus) – Many authorities now split this form from N.C. limnaeetus (see above) and call it Crested Hawk-Eagle; we saw 2 singles in Kanha NP. MOUNTAIN HAWK-EAGLE (Nisaetus nipalensis) – Good views of 1 at Sat Tal. Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras) COLLARED FALCONET (Microhierax caerulescens) – Two in Corbett NP. EURASIAN KESTREL (Falco tinnunculus) – Singles at the Chambal River, Bharatpur, Bund Baretha, and Kanha. PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) – Some of the group saw 1 as we drove through the Sitabani Forest area. Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots) WHITE-BREASTED WATERHEN (Amaurornis phoenicurus) – Common around Bharatpur and at Sultanpur Jheel. PURPLE SWAMPHEN (Porphyrio porphyrio) – About 30 along the Yamuna River in Delhi, 40+ near Agra, and 6 at Sultanpur Jheel. COMMON MOORHEN (Gallinula chloropus) – Widespread (although mostly in small numbers) in all we saw a total of about 200. EURASIAN COOT (Fulica atra) – About 250 were seen at both Bharatpur and Sultanpur Jheel, and about 20 in Delhi. Gruidae (Cranes) SARUS CRANE (Grus antigone) – First seen from a moving train between Ramnagar and Delhi, but then we all had good views at Bharatpur. COMMON CRANE (Grus grus) – Six were flying around the marshes at Bharatpur. Burhinidae (Thick-knees) EURASIAN THICK-KNEE (Burhinus oedicnemus indicus) – Some authorities now split this smal dark form 'indicus' calling it Indian Thick-knee; we saw 5 in Kanha NP. GREAT THICK-KNEE (Esacus recurvirostris) – Super looks along the Chambal River. Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 4 RIVER LAPWING (Vanellus duvaucelii) – Fairly common along rocky rivers like those around Ramnagar, but also along the more sandy Chambal River. YELLOW-WATTLED LAPWING (Vanellus malabaricus) – Fairly uncommon in north India, but we were lucky and saw 3 at Bharapur. RED-WATTLED LAPWING (Vanellus indicus) – Common and widespread. WHITE-TAILED LAPWING (Vanellus leucurus) – Eight along the Yamuna River in Delhi, 2 at Bharatpur, and 2 at Sultanpur Jheel. SNOWY PLOVER (KENTISH) (Charadrius alexandrinus alexandrinus) – This nominate form is sometimes split as Kentish Plover; we saw 6 along the Chambal River and about 20 at Sultanpur Jheel. LITTLE RINGED PLOVER (Charadrius dubius) – Three at Ramnagar, 2 at the Chambal River, and 1 near Sultanpur Jheel. Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets) BLACK-WINGED STILT (Himantopus himantopus) – Widespread in wetlands throughout the tour; we saw about 450. PIED AVOCET (Recurvirostra avosetta) – We saw about 100 in some flooded fields near Sultanpur Jheel. Jacanidae (Jacanas) PHEASANT-TAILED JACANA (Hydrophasianus chirurgus) – One on the Chambal River and 2 at Bharatpur. BRONZE-WINGED JACANA (Metopidius indicus) – An adult and 2 juveniles along the Chambal River, 3 at Bharatpur, and 4 near Bund Baretha. Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies) COMMON SANDPIPER (Actitis hypoleucos) – Three along the Yamuna River at Agra, and 2 along the Chambal River. GREEN SANDPIPER (Tringa ochropus) – Widespread in small numbers. SPOTTED REDSHANK (Tringa erythropus) – About 50 (together with Pied Avocets) in the flooded fields near Sultanpur Jheel. COMMON GREENSHANK (Tringa nebularia) – A total of about 35 were seen between Agra, the Chambal River and Bharatpur. WOOD SANDPIPER (Tringa glareola) – Six in Delhi, and few other singles elsewhere. COMMON REDSHANK (Tringa totanus) – Six in Delhi, 3 at Bharatpur, and about 60 near Sultanpur Jheel. TEMMINCK'S STINT (Calidris temminckii) – One along the shore of the Chambal River. RUFF (Philomachus pugnax) – About 20 along the Yamuna River in Delhi. COMMON SNIPE (Gallinago gallinago) – Singles near Bund Baretha and at Kanha. Glareolidae (Pratincoles and Coursers) SMALL PRATINCOLE (Glareola lactea) – Great looks at these beautiful pratincoles along the Chambal River - 2 standing and then about 30 in flight. Rostratulidae (Painted-Snipes) GREATER PAINTED-SNIPE (Rostratula benghalensis) – Six (all males) in Kanha NP. Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers) BLACK-HEADED GULL (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) – About 100 along the Yamuna River in Delhi, and then 40+ as we crossed the Ganges. BROWN-HEADED GULL (Chroicocephalus brunnicephalus) – One in Delhi. GREAT BLACK-HEADED GULL (Ichthyaetus ichthyaetus) – Two (including an adult in fairly good summer plumage) behind the Taj Mahal. CASPIAN GULL (Larus cachinnans) – Single adults in Delhi and Corbett. WHISKERED TERN (Chlidonias hybrida) – Two at Bund Baretha. BLACK-BELLIED TERN (Sterna acuticauda) – We saw 4 of these beautiful and now endangered terns along the Chambal River. RIVER TERN (Sterna aurantia) – Pairs at Corbett, the Chambal River, and at Bund Baretha. Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves) ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) – Very common and widespread, especially in towns and villages.

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 5 ORIENTAL TURTLE-DOVE (Streptopelia orientalis) – About 6 along the track to Snow View, Nainital. EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE (Streptopelia decaocto) – Common and widespread in much of the low country. RED COLLARED-DOVE (Streptopelia tranquebarica) – Two singles along the way to Bund Baretha. SPOTTED DOVE (Streptopelia chinensis) – Common around Corbett and Kanha national parks. LAUGHING DOVE (Streptopelia senegalensis) – Most common around Agra and Bharatpur, but also in the Delhi area. YELLOW-FOOTED PIGEON (Treron phoenicopterus) – Six in Delhi, 1 at the Chambal River, and about 15 at Kanha NP. Psittacidae (Parrots) ALEXANDRINE PARAKEET (Psittacula eupatria) – Nice looks at 2 singles in Kanha NP. ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET (Psittacula krameri) – By far the most common and widespread parakeet; in all we saw about 1400. SLATY-HEADED PARAKEET (Psittacula himalayana) – About 40 in the Kumeria area, 200+ at Sat Tal, and 40 in the Mongoli Valley. PLUM-HEADED PARAKEET (Psittacula cyanocephala) – One near Ramnagar and then about 30 in Kanha NP. RED-BREASTED PARAKEET (Psittacula alexandri) – Hard to see well at first but then we all had great looks in Corbett NP and saw a total of about 250. Cuculidae (Cuckoos) COMMON HAWK-CUCKOO (Hierococcyx varius) – Good looks at a very stationary bird at Bharatpur. SIRKEER MALKOHA (Phaenicophaeus leschenaultii) – Some of the group got fairly good looks at 1 in Kanha NP. GREATER COUCAL (Centropus sinensis) – Common and widespread away from the high country. Strigidae (Owls) INDIAN SCOPS-OWL (Otus bakkamoena) – Roosting pairs were seen well at Chambal River, Bharatpur, and Kanha. ROCK EAGLE-OWL (Bubo bengalensis) – After a good deal of effort we finally found a pair in a fig-like tree along the banks of the Chambal River. We called them the 'bengalensis' race of Eurasian Eagle-Owl, but they have now been split again with Clements preferring the name Rock Eagle-Owl. DUSKY EAGLE-OWL (Bubo coromandus) – Good looks at 1 at Bharatpur. TAWNY FISH-OWL (Ketupa flavipes) – Thanks to our local guides we saw a roosting pair in Corbett NP. ASIAN BARRED OWLET (Glaucidium cuculoides) – We saw 2 responsive birds at The Den. JUNGLE OWLET (Glaucidium radiatum) – One near Ramnagar and then about 7 at Kanha NP. SPOTTED OWLET (Athene brama) – A total of 5 were seen at the Chambal River, Bund Baretha and Bharatpur. BROWN HAWK-OWL (Ninox scutulata) – Two in the lodge garden near the Chambal River. Apodidae (Swifts) ALPINE SWIFT (Apus melba) – About 40 at Corbett, 1 at Sat Tal, and 3 in Kanha NP. LITTLE SWIFT (Apus affinis) – About 30 were seen mainly around large old buildings like the Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri. Hemiprocnidae (Treeswifts) CRESTED TREESWIFT (Hemiprocne coronata) – Twenty at Corbett, and about 35 in Kanha NP. Alcedinidae (Kingfishers) COMMON KINGFISHER (Alcedo atthis) – Widespread in small numbers. STORK-BILLED KINGFISHER (Pelargopsis capensis) – Great looks at 1 (twice) in Corbett NP. WHITE-THROATED KINGFISHER (Halcyon smyrnensis) – Very common and widespread. CRESTED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle lugubris) – We saw about 10 of these beautiful kingfishers along the mountain rivers around Kumeria and Corbett. PIED KINGFISHER (Ceryle rudis) – Three along the Chambal River and 4 at Sultanpur Jheel. Meropidae (Bee-eaters) BLUE-BEARDED BEE-EATER (Nyctyornis athertoni) – Some of the group had brief looks at 1 at Sat Tal. GREEN BEE-EATER (Merops orientalis) – Small flocks at Delhi and Bharatpur.

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 6 Coraciidae (Rollers) INDIAN ROLLER (Coracias benghalensis) – Small numbers were widespread in the open country from Delhi to Agra, at Bharatpur, and around Kanha. Upupidae (Hoopoes) EURASIAN HOOPOE (Upupa epops) – Small numbers in open country away from the mountains; in all we saw about a dozen. Bucerotidae (Hornbills) INDIAN GRAY HORNBILL (Ocyceros birostris) – Most common around Bharatpur and at Kanha, but we also saw them at Delhi and Chambal River. MALABAR PIED-HORNBILL (Anthracoceros coronatus) – Some of the group saw about 6 in Kanha NP. Megalaimidae (Asian Barbets) GREAT BARBET (Megalaima virens) – Scope views of 1 from Snow View near Nainital. BROWN-HEADED BARBET (Megalaima zeylanica) – Very common (although mostly heard) at Kanha and about 4 at the lodge near Chambal River. LINEATED BARBET (Megalaima lineata) – About 10 in the Kumeria to Corbett area. BLUE-THROATED BARBET (Megalaima asiatica) – Nice looks at this striking barbet in the Kumeria area. COPPERSMITH BARBET (Megalaima haemacephala) – Heard many times before we finally caught up with this normally common barbet at Kanha and Sultanpur Jheel. Picidae (Woodpeckers) EURASIAN WRYNECK (Jynx torquilla) – Nice looks at 1 at Sultanpur Jheel. SPECKLED PICULET (Picumnus innominatus) – One with a mixed species flock at Sat Tal. GRAY-CAPPED WOODPECKER (Dendrocopos canicapillus) – About 6 in the high country around Corbett and Nainital. BROWN-FRONTED WOODPECKER (Dendrocopos auriceps) – A female was seen on the way up to Nainital, and then a pair at Sat Tal. FULVOUS-BREASTED WOODPECKER (Dendrocopos macei) – Small numbers around Kumeria and Corbett. YELLOW-CROWNED WOODPECKER (Dendrocopos mahrattensis) – One at Sultanpur Jheel. RUFOUS WOODPECKER (Celeus brachyurus) – Often shy (and uncommon) but we saw 3 near The Den and in Corbett NP. LESSER YELLOWNAPE (Picus chlorolophus) – Nine in the Kumeria and Corbett areas. GREATER YELLOWNAPE (Picus flavinucha) – Good looks at a low feeding bird at the beginning of the Mongoli Valley trail. STREAK-THROATED WOODPECKER (Picus xanthopygaeus) – One near Dhikala Lodge and another (extremely tame) on the road in the Sitabani Forest. SCALY-BELLIED WOODPECKER (Picus squamatus) – Generally uncommon but we all had good looks at 1 near Nainital. GRAY-FACED WOODPECKER (Picus canus) – Common in the Kumeria to Corbett area; in all we saw about 15. HIMALAYAN FLAMEBACK (Dinopium shorii) – One in Corbett NP. BLACK-RUMPED FLAMEBACK (Dinopium benghalense) – Mainly in the lowlands; we saw about 20 of these widespread flamebacks. GREATER FLAMEBACK (Chrysocolaptes lucidus) – Three in the Kumeria to Corbett area. WHITE-NAPED WOODPECKER (Chrysocolaptes festivus) – Some of the group saw this rather uncommon species in Kanha NP. GREAT SLATY WOODPECKER (Mulleripicus pulverulentus) – Just fabulous, seeing 7 of these huge woodpeckers flying from tree to tree while calling and displaying. Prionopidae (Helmetshrikes and Allies) COMMON WOODSHRIKE (Tephrodornis pondicerianus) – Pairs were seen at Kumeria, near Ramnagar, and Bund Baretha. Campephagidae (Cuckoo-shrikes)

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 7 LARGE CUCKOO-SHRIKE (Coracina macei) – One in Corbett NP and about 8 in Kanha NP. SMALL MINIVET (Pericrocotus cinnamomeus) – A single flock of 5 in the Sitabani Forest. LONG-TAILED MINIVET (Pericrocotus ethologus) – Three in the Kumeria area. SCARLET MINIVET (Pericrocotus flammeus) – Three in the Kumeria to Corbett area. BAR-WINGED FLYCATCHER-SHRIKE (Hemipus picatus) – About 20 around Kumeria and 10 in the Sitabani Forest. Laniidae (Shrikes) RUFOUS-TAILED SHRIKE (Lanius isabellinus) – One at Sultanpur Jheel. BROWN SHRIKE (Lanius cristatus) – One in Kanha NP and some of the group saw another near Sultanpur Jheel. BAY-BACKED SHRIKE (Lanius vittatus) – Singles near Bund Baretha and at Sultanpur Jheel. LONG-TAILED SHRIKE (Lanius schach) – The most widespread shrike with a trip total of about 25. GRAY-BACKED SHRIKE (Lanius tephronotus) – We saw this rather uncommon altitudinal migrant in Corbett NP. Oriolidae (Old World Orioles) BLACK-HOODED ORIOLE (Oriolus xanthornus) – Four at Corbett, and then another 10 at Kanha NP. Dicruridae (Drongos) BLACK DRONGO (Dicrurus macrocercus) – Common and widespread in open country away from the northern mountains. ASHY DRONGO (Dicrurus leucophaeus) – One at Corbett, 3 at Bharatpur, and 1 at Kanha. WHITE-BELLIED DRONGO (Dicrurus caerulescens) – A woodland and forest species, we saw 2 at Sitabani, 1 at Bharatpur, and 2 at Kanha. BRONZED DRONGO (Dicrurus aeneus) – Three on the forested slopes below Nainital, and 2 at Sat Tal. HAIR-CRESTED DRONGO (Dicrurus hottentottus) – Two singles in the silk cotton tree at Kumeria. GREATER RACKET-TAILED DRONGO (Dicrurus paradiseus) – Very common at Kanha NP where we saw a total of about 55. Rhipiduridae (Fantails) YELLOW-BELLIED FANTAIL (Rhipidura hypoxantha) – Three around the Den, 1 in Corbett NP, and 1 at Sat Tal. WHITE-THROATED FANTAIL (Rhipidura albicollis) – Quite common in the forest around Kumeria, Corbett and Sat Tal; in all we saw about 30. Monarchidae (Monarch Flycatchers) BLACK-NAPED MONARCH (Hypothymis azurea) – Four (including a couple of adult males) at Kanha NP. ASIAN PARADISE-FLYCATCHER (Terpsiphone paradisi) – We saw a gorgeous male (with exceptionally long white tail streamers) in Kanha NP. Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies) BLACK-HEADED JAY (Garrulus lanceolatus) – We saw a total of about 25 in the Nainital area. BLUE MAGPIE (Urocissa erythrorhyncha) – Small flocks of this gorgeous bird were reasonably common in the forested areas around Kumeria, Sat Tal, and in the Mongoli Valley. RUFOUS TREEPIE (Dendrocitta vagabunda) – Widespread in open woodland and at forest edge in the lowlands. GRAY TREEPIE (Dendrocitta formosae) – One near Ramnagar and 2 in a scrubby valley below Nainital. HOUSE CROW (Corvus splendens) – Common and widespread away from the mountainous areas. LARGE-BILLED CROW (Corvus macrorhynchos japonensis) – Some authorities now split this larger wedge-tailed form and retain the name Large-billed Crow; we saw about 100 in the Nainital area. LARGE-BILLED CROW (Corvus macrorhynchos culminatus) – If split from the previous form this is called Indian Jungle Crow; it was very common throughout the lowlands. Alaudidae (Larks) ASHY-CROWNED SPARROW-LARK (Eremopterix griseus) – Two along the shores of the Chambal River and 3 at Sultanpur Jheel. GREATER SHORT-TOED LARK (Calandrella brachydactyla) – Ten along the Chambal River. CRESTED LARK (Galerida cristata) – Four at the Chambal River, and 3 at Sultanpur Jheel.

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 8 Hirundinidae (Swallows) PLAIN MARTIN (Riparia paludicola) – About 30 at Ramnagar, 10 at Bund Baretha, and 12 at Sultanpur Jheel. DUSKY CRAG-MARTIN (Ptyonoprogne concolor) – Six along the cliffs at Bayana. BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica) – Small numbers at the Ganges, Corbett, Kanha, and Sultanpur Jheel. WIRE-TAILED SWALLOW (Hirundo smithii) – One at Chambal River and 5 at Bund Baretha. RED-RUMPED SWALLOW (Cecropis daurica) – About 40 in the Ramnagar to Corbett area. STREAK-THROATED SWALLOW (Petrochelidon fluvicola) – Thirty at the Ramnagar barrage. Stenostiridae (Fairy Flycatchers) GRAY-HEADED CANARY-FLYCATCHER (Culicicapa ceylonensis) – Small numbers at Kumeria, Sat Tal, and Kanha. Paridae (Chickadees and Tits) BLACK-CRESTED TIT (Periparus melanolophus) – Ten in the high altitude above Nainital. GREAT TIT (Parus major) – Most common around Corbett, but also a few others at Kanha NP. GREEN-BACKED TIT (Parus monticolus) – Common in the highlands around Nainital. BLACK-LORED TIT (Parus xanthogenys) – One at Kumeria, and 6 in a mixed species flock at Sat Tal. YELLOW-BROWED TIT (Sylviparus modestus) – Two along the track to Snow View. Cettiidae (Bush-Warblers and Allies) ABERRANT BUSH-WARBLER (Cettia flavolivacea) – One in the Mongoli Valley. Aegithalidae (Long-tailed Tits) BLACK-THROATED TIT (Aegithalos concinnus) – About 40 in the Nainital area. Sittidae (Nuthatches) CHESTNUT-BELLIED NUTHATCH (Sitta castanea) – Small numbers were seen in the forests around Corbett and at Sat Tal. WHITE-TAILED NUTHATCH (Sitta himalayensis) – About 6 in the mountain above Nainital. VELVET-FRONTED NUTHATCH (Sitta frontalis) – We saw this attractive little nuthatch in Corbett, Sat Tal, and the Sitabani Forest. Tichodromidae (Wallcreeper) WALLCREEPER (Tichodroma muraria) – Great looks at this group favorite at Ramnagar. Certhiidae (Creepers) BAR-TAILED TREECREEPER (Certhia himalayana) – Small numbers at Kumeria and in the hills around Nainital. Cinclidae (Dippers) BROWN DIPPER (Cinclus pallasii) – An adult was seen feeding 2 begging juveniles along the Kosi River at Kumeria. Pycnonotidae (Bulbuls) BLACK-CRESTED BULBUL (Pycnonotus melanicterus flaviventris) – One at Corbett. RED-VENTED BULBUL (Pycnonotus cafer) – Very common and widespread. RED-WHISKERED BULBUL (Pycnonotus jocosus) – About half a dozen between Kumeria and Kaladhungi. WHITE-EARED BULBUL (Pycnonotus leucotis) – About 15 at Bharatpur. WHITE-CHEEKED BULBUL (Pycnonotus leucogenys) – Also known as Hiimalyan Bulbul, this species was extrememly common in the Corbett and Nainital areas. ASHY BULBUL (Hemixos flavala) – Good looks at this attractive bulbul at Corbett and Sat Tal. Phylloscopidae (Leaf-Warblers) COMMON CHIFFCHAFF (SIBERIAN) (Phylloscopus collybita tristis) – Sometimes split as Siberian Chiffchaff these brown-colored chiffchaffs were seen in small numbers around Delhi and Sultanpur Jheel. TICKELL'S LEAF-WARBLER (Phylloscopus affinis) – Nice looks at 1 at Delhi. BUFF-BARRED WARBLER (Phylloscopus pulcher) – About 6 in the high forest patches near Nainital. ASHY-THROATED WARBLER (Phylloscopus maculipennis) – One along the Mongoli Valley trail.

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 9 PALE-RUMPED WARBLER (Phylloscopus chloronotus) – Seven in the Nainital area. HUME'S WARBLER (Phylloscopus humei) – Three near Corbett, and about 8 at Kanha. GREENISH WARBLER (Phylloscopus trochiloides) – Five singles at Bharatpur and Sultanpur Jheel. WHISTLER'S WARBLER (Seicercus whistleri) – Nice looks at 2 at Sat Tal. GRAY-HOODED WARBLER (Seicercus xanthoschistos) – Very common in the highlands around Nainital. Acrocephalidae (Reed-Warblers and Allies) BLYTH'S REED-WARBLER (Acrocephalus dumetorum) – Singles at Bharatpur and Kanha NP. Cisticolidae (Cisticolas and Allies) ZITTING CISTICOLA (Cisticola juncidis) – One in the grasslands near Dhikala Lodge. COMMON TAILORBIRD (Orthotomus sutorius) – Singles in Delhi, Ramnagar, and Kanha NP. GRAY-BREASTED PRINIA (Prinia hodgsonii) – Small flocks at Kumeria, Bharatpur, and Kanha NP. ASHY PRINIA (Prinia socialis) – Widespread in the lowlands throughout the tour. PLAIN PRINIA (Prinia inornata) – Another lowland species that was seen in a variety of scattered sites. Sylviidae (Old World Warblers) EASTERN ORPHEAN WARBLER (Sylvia crassirostris) – One at Sultanpur Jheel. LESSER WHITETHROAT (Sylvia curruca) – Widespread in small numbers. YELLOW-EYED BABBLER (Chrysomma sinense) – Now considered to be a warbler; we saw 4 at Corbett, 2 at Bund Baretha, and 3 in Kanha NP. Muscicapidae (Old World Flycatchers) RUFOUS-GORGETED FLYCATCHER (Ficedula strophiata) – Three males and 1 female were seen in the Sat Tal region. RED-BREASTED FLYCATCHER (Ficedula parva) – Widespread in small numbers. ULTRAMARINE FLYCATCHER (Ficedula superciliaris) – We saw a striking male in the woodlands at Kanha NP. SLATY-BLUE FLYCATCHER (Ficedula tricolor) – Two single males at Sat Tal. VERDITER FLYCATCHER (Eumyias thalassinus) – Singles at Ramnagar and Sultanpur Jheel. RUFOUS-BELLIED NILTAVA (Niltava sundara) – This gorgeous bird was seen at The Den, in Corbett NP, and at Sat Tal. SIBERIAN RUBYTHROAT (Luscinia calliope) – Most of the group had good looks at a male at Bharatpur. BLUETHROAT (Luscinia svecica) – Three in Delhi and then a couple more singles at Bharatpur. RED-FLANKED BLUETAIL (Tarsiger cyanurus) – About 6 (including some beautiful males) at Sat Tal. GOLDEN BUSH-ROBIN (Tarsiger chrysaeus) – Nice looks at a female on the mountain slopes near Nainital. ORIENTAL MAGPIE-ROBIN (Copsychus saularis) – Widespread in small numbers; in all we saw about 20. WHITE-RUMPED SHAMA (Copsychus malabaricus) – Two singles at Kanha NP. INDIAN ROBIN (Saxicoloides fulicatus) – Small numbers particularly in drier areas with some scrub cover; in all we saw about 30. BLUE-CAPPED REDSTART (Phoenicurus caeruleocephala) – About 10 in the Nainital area. BLACK REDSTART (Phoenicurus ochruros) – Four at Bharatpur, 6 at Sultanpur Jheel, and 1 in Delhi. BLUE-FRONTED REDSTART (Phoenicurus frontalis) – We saw a beautiful male on the way up to Nainital. WHITE-CAPPED REDSTART (Chaimarrornis leucocephalus) – A beautiful bird of the fast flowing rivers in the high country. PLUMBEOUS REDSTART (Rhyacornis fuliginosa) – More numerous than the previous species and also along the same rivers. LITTLE FORKTAIL (Enicurus scouleri) – Some of the group saw 1 on the Kosi River at Kumeria. SPOTTED FORKTAIL (Enicurus maculatus) – Great looks at this striking bird at Kumeria, Forktail Creek, Sat Tal, and Sitabani. DESERT WHEATEAR (Oenanthe deserti) – We saw a single male along the shore of the Chambal River. WHITE-BROWED BUSHCHAT (Saxicola macrorhynchus) – Also known as Stoliczka's Bushchat we saw this very uncommon bird in the dry country near Bund Baretha.

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 10 STONECHAT (SIBERIAN) (Saxicola torquatus indicus) – Some authorities split the birds we saw as Siberian Stonechat; they were reasonably common (30) in Corbett and in the highlands below Nainital. PIED BUSHCHAT (Saxicola caprata) – Most common around Bharatpur (about 30) and a few others at Sultanpur Jheel. GRAY BUSHCHAT (Saxicola ferreus) – Small numbers at Corbett and Sat Tal. INDIAN CHAT (Cercomela fusca) – One near the Ganges crossing was a surprise, but we then saw them at more usual sites like Fatehpur Sikri and near Bund Baretha. Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies) BLUE WHISTLING-THRUSH (Myophonus caeruleus) – Common in the highlands around Corbett and Nainital where we saw a total of about 35. ORANGE-HEADED THRUSH (Zoothera citrina) – One at Bharatpur. ORANGE-HEADED THRUSH (Zoothera citrina cyanota) – Some authorities split this black and white faced form from the previous 'orange-headed' race; we saw 2 in Kanha NP. LONG-BILLED THRUSH (Zoothera monticola) – Fantastic looks at this normally shy and uncommon thrush at Forktail Creek. TICKELL'S THRUSH (Turdus unicolor) – Briefly for a few of the group at Bharatpur, and then three nicely for everyone near Kanha. GRAY-WINGED BLACKBIRD (Turdus boulboul) – About 10 in the Nainital area - fond of foraging in garbage. CHESTNUT THRUSH (Turdus rubrocanus) – Some of the group saw 1 along the trail to Snow View. RED-THROATED THRUSH (Turdus ruficollis) – We saw 9 of the black-throated form 'atrogularis' in the Corbett and Sat Tal areas. Timaliidae (Babblers) WHITE-THROATED LAUGHINGTHRUSH (Garrulax albogularis) – Usually seen in large flocks, this species was fairly common at Corbett, Nainital, Sat Tal, and in the Mongoli Valley; in all we saw about 120. WHITE-CRESTED LAUGHINGTHRUSH (Garrulax leucolophus) – Very tame this year around the Den, and we also saw them in Corbett NP. STRIATED LAUGHINGTHRUSH (Garrulax striatus) – Two in the Mongoli Valley. STREAKED LAUGHINGTHRUSH (Garrulax lineatus) – Very common around Nainital. CHESTNUT-CROWNED LAUGHINGTHRUSH (Garrulax erythrocephalus) – Fabulous looks at about 15 of these gorgeous birds as they fed in the garbage near Nainital. PUFF-THROATED BABBLER (Pellorneum ruficeps) – Two in Corbett NP, and 2 in Kanha NP. RUSTY-CHEEKED SCIMITAR-BABBLER (Pomatorhinus erythrogenys) – Good looks at 2 at Sat Tal. INDIAN SCIMITAR-BABBLER (Pomatorhinus horsfieldii) – Good looks at a responsive calling bird in Kanha NP. STREAK-BREASTED SCIMITAR-BABBLER (Pomatorhinus ruficollis) – Two at Sat Tal were unexpected. SCALY-BREASTED WREN-BABBLER (Pnoepyga albiventer) – Heard at Sat Tal and then seen nicely near the beginning of the Mongoli Valley trail. BLACK-CHINNED BABBLER (Stachyris pyrrhops) – About a dozen were seen between Kumeria and Corbett NP, and 2 near Sat Tal. COMMON BABBLER (Turdoides caudata) – A flock of 7 were in the scrubby vegetation near Bayana Rocks. STRIATED BABBLER (Turdoides earlei) – Three in the reed beds along the Yamuna River, Delhi. LARGE GRAY BABBLER (Turdoides malcolmi) – About 30 near the Chambal River, 40 around Bund Baretha, and 40 at Sultanpur Jheel. JUNGLE BABBLER (Turdoides striata) – Very common and widespread. RED-BILLED LEIOTHRIX (Leiothrix lutea) – We saw these secretive little birds at Kumeria, Sat Tal, and in the Mongoli Valley. BLUE-WINGED MINLA (Minla cyanouroptera) – We saw 8 of these attractive small babblers in a mixed species flock at Sat Tal. BROWN-CHEEKED FULVETTA (Alcippe poioicephala) – About 20 at Kanha NP. RUFOUS SIBIA (Heterophasia capistrata) – Good looks (eventually) at Snow View. Zosteropidae (White-eyes) WHISKERED YUHINA (Yuhina flavicollis) – Two at Kumeria.

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 11 ORIENTAL WHITE-EYE (Zosterops palpebrosus) – Common and widespread. Sturnidae (Starlings) BANK MYNA (Acridotheres ginginianus) – Very common around Delhi, Agra, and Bharatpur. COMMON MYNA (Acridotheres tristis) – Very common and widespread apart from at Nainital. ASIAN PIED STARLING (Gracupica contra) – Common in the lowlands. BRAHMINY STARLING (Temenuchus pagodarum) – About 25 at Bharatpur. EUROPEAN STARLING (Sturnus vulgaris) – Eighty in Delhi, and about 30 at Sultanpur Jheel. Chloropseidae (Leafbirds) GOLDEN-FRONTED LEAFBIRD (Chloropsis aurifrons) – One on the way up to Nainital and 4 at Kanha NP. ORANGE-BELLIED LEAFBIRD (Chloropsis hardwickii) – About 6 in the Kumeria to Corbett area. Nectariniidae (Sunbirds and Spiderhunters) PURPLE SUNBIRD (Cinnyris asiaticus) – Common around Delhi and Bharatpur, with afew others at Kanha; in all we saw about 75. EASTERN CRIMSON SUNBIRD (Aethopyga siparaja) – Six at Kumeria and 1 at Ramnagar. Prunellidae (Accentors) RUFOUS-BREASTED ACCENTOR (Prunella strophiata) – Nice looks at one on the way to Nainital. Motacillidae (Wagtails and Pipits) WESTERN YELLOW WAGTAIL (Motacilla flava) – Two in the Delhi area. CITRINE WAGTAIL (Motacilla citreola) – Three along the Yamuna River in Delhi, 1 in Agra, and 4 at Bund Baretha. GRAY WAGTAIL (Motacilla cinerea) – Small numbers along streams in the high country. WHITE WAGTAIL (Motacilla alba) – Small numbers (usually near water) at a variety of widespread sites throughout the tour. WHITE WAGTAIL (BLACK-BACKED) (Motacilla alba lugens) – Six at Ramnagar and 2 at Kanha. WHITE-BROWED WAGTAIL (Motacilla madaraspatensis) – Widespread in small numbers; in all we saw about 50. ORIENTAL PIPIT (Anthus rufulus) – Small numbers in open country at Corbett, Bharatput, Kanha, and Sultanpur Jheel. TAWNY PIPIT (Anthus campestris) – Two at Sultanpur Jheel. ROSY PIPIT (Anthus roseatus) – One along the Kosi River at Ramnagar. TREE PIPIT (Anthus trivialis) – One near Bund Baretha. OLIVE-BACKED PIPIT (Anthus hodgsoni) – Small flocks at Kumeria, Sat Tal, and Bharatpur. Emberizidae (Buntings, Sparrows and Allies) CRESTED BUNTING (Melophus lathami) – We saw striking males at Chambal River and Kanha NP. ROCK BUNTING (Emberiza cia) – Five on the mountain slopes near Nainital. HOUSE BUNTING (Emberiza striolata) – Two at Bayana Rocks. Fringillidae (Siskins, Crossbills, and Allies) COMMON ROSEFINCH (Carpodacus erythrinus) – One in Delhi and 6 at Sat Tal. PINK-BROWED ROSEFINCH (Carpodacus rodochroa) – We saw a beautiful male on the way up to Nainital, and then a female at Nainital the following day. YELLOW-BREASTED GREENFINCH (Chloris spinoides) – About 10 feeding in an open field at Sat Tal. Passeridae (Old World Sparrows) HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus) – Common and widespread. SIND SPARROW (Passer pyrrhonotus) – Nice looks at a female at Sultanpur Jheel. RUSSET SPARROW (Passer rutilans) – Six near Nainital included some nice looking males. Ploceidae (Weavers and Allies) BENGAL WEAVER (Ploceus benghalensis) – Also known as Black-breasted Weaver, we saw about 30 in the reeds along the Yamuna River, Delhi. Estrildidae (Waxbills and Allies)

Field Guides Birding Tours • www.fieldguides.com • 800-728-4953 12 RED AVADAVAT (Amandava amandava) – About 20 along the Yamuna River, Delhi. INDIAN SILVERBILL (Euodice malabarica) – Twenty in Delhi, 10 at Bund Baretha, and 2 at Kanha NP.

MAMMALS INDIAN FLYING-FOX (Pteropus giganteus) – About 20 at the Chambal Safari Lodge and 100+ near Bund Baretha. RHESUS MONKEY (Macaca mulatta) – Very common and widespread (especially near people). COMMON LANGUR (Presbytis entellus) – Common and widespread in a wide variety of woodland, forest, and farming areas. PALM SQUIRREL (Funambulus pennanti) – Also known as Five-striped Palm Squirrel they were very common in the northern lowlands. INDIAN PALM SQUIRREL (Funambulus palmarum) – Also known as Three-striped Palm Squirrel we saw about 6 in the Kanha area. GANGES DOLPHIN (Platanista gangetica) – Amazingly we had good looks at 2 swimming around amongst the boats, people, and garbage, in the Ganges. COMMON JACKAL (Canis aureus) – Most common at Bharatpur, and a few others at Corbett and Kanha. DHOLE (Cuon alpinus) – Akso known as Indian Wild Dog most of us had great looks at this rather rare in Kanha NP. YELLOW-THROATED MARTEN (Martes flavigula) – One below our hotel at Kumeria and 1 in Corbett NP. INDIAN GRAY MONGOOSE (Herpestes edwardsi) – Some of the group saw at least 1 (of 2) at either Chambal River or Bharatpur. COMMON MONGOOSE (Herpestes smithi) – Also known as Ruddy Mongoose we saw 1 at Bharatpur. JUNGLE CAT (Felis chaus) – One group on the elephant ride at Corbett had good looks at 1 in the grasslands. TIGER (Panthera tigris) – All of us had quick looks from elephant back one morning in Kanha NP, and then in the afternoon varying views from incredible to rather brief as a second one walked down the track for several minutes. INDIAN ELEPHANT (Elephas maximus) – Three in Corbett NP. WILD BOAR (Sus scrofa) – About 8 in Corbett, 3 at Bharatpur, and 25 in Kanha NP. MUNTJAC (BARKING DEER) (Muntiacus muntjak) – About a dozen at Corbett, and 3 at Kanha NP. SPOTTED DEER (Axis axis) – Very common at Corbett, Bharatpur, and Kanha; in all we saw about 400. HOG DEER (Axis porcinus) – We saw 6 of these rather uncommon deer in the Corbett grasslands. SAMBAR (Cervus unicolor) – About 12 at Corbett, 5 at Bharatpur, and 30 at Kanha NP. BARASINGHA (Cervus duvauceli) – More commonly known as Swamp Deer, we saw a total of about 80 at Kanha NP. NILGAI (Boselaphus tragocamelus) – Seventy-five at Bharatpur and 1 at Sultanpur Jheel. GAUR (Bos gaurus) – Some of the group saw 2 (flushed by a tiger) at Kanha NP.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

The following reptiles were recorded on the tour:

Marsh Mugger; about 12 along the Chambal River.

Gharial; 50+ (including some really huge ones) along the Chambal River.

Indian Soft-shelled Terrapin; common at Bharatpur.

Monitor ; 1 at Bharatpur.

Checkered-backed Water ; 1 in the Kosi River near Ramnagar.

Totals for the tour: 336 bird taxa and 22 mammal taxa

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