Biodiversity Mapping Survey/Study in Kaziranga National Park (KNP)

Birds Chapter

Final Report

Prepared by

Dr. Asad R. Rahmani and Dr. Raju Kasambe

With inputs by Anwaruddin Choudhury, Abidur Rahman, Rehan Ali and Siddhesh Surve

1. Introduction:

Kaziranga National Park is an internationally famed wilderness, mainly known for the Indian One-horned Rhinoceros Rhinoceros unicornis. However, Kaziranga has large populations of many birds. According to Barua and Sharma (1999), Kaziranga harbours about 478 bird species. Choudhury (2003) has listed 490 species. During our surveys and by collating information from senior and experience ornithologists, we have come up with a list of 514 bird species. There are as many as 27 globally Threatened species, among the highest recorded in an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area in India. Kaziranga is one of the outstanding IBAs, especially for birds of tall, wet grasslands of Endemic Bird Area 131 (Assam Plains Endemic Bird Area) and Biome 12 (Indo-Gangetic Plains) (BirdLife International, unpublished).

Out of the 514 bird species, more than 200 are residents; the rest are migrants, including local migrants. Notable resident species with significant populations are: Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis, Lesser Adjutant Leptoptilos javanicus, Swamp Francolin Francolinus gularis, Bengal Florican Houbaropsis bengalensis, Pallas’s Fish-eagle Haliaeetus leucoryphus, Greater Grey-headed Fish-eagle Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus, Black-necked Stork Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus, Bristled Grass-warbler Chaetornis striatus, Marsh Babbler Pellorneum palustre, Black-breasted Parrotbill Paradoxornis flavirostris, and Finn’s Weaver Ploceus megarhynchus.

Some of the uncommon vultures are the White-rumped Gyps bengalensis, Slender-billed G. tenuirostris, and Red-headed Sarcogyps calvus. Six Slender-billed and four White-rumped Vulture were seen in January 2014. A couple of nests of Slender-billed are being observed in Kaziranga NP from 2001 to 2013, but the nests of White-rumped were not seen after 2005. Carcasses from natural death of wild animals ably support flocks of Himalayan Griffon Gyps himalayensis.

Other uncommon birds are Black-bellied Tern Sterna acuticauda, Pied Falconet Microhierax melanoleucos, Greater Adjutant Leptoptilos dubius, Jerdon’s Bushchat Saxicola jerdoni, Rufous- vented Prinia Prinia burnesii, Jerdon’s Babbler Chrysomma altirostre and Slender-billed Babbler Turdoides longirostris. Some of the species, especially of the tall grasslands and thick

shrubs may not be as rare as thought because finding them is rather difficult, especially on brief bird watching surveys. The White-bellied Heron Ardea insignis is an occasional species. Possibly, the Vulnerable Pale-capped Pigeon Columba punicea breeds in the park; it is considered a summer visitor by Barua & Sharma (1999).

After Manas and Orang, Kaziranga has the largest and most secure population (about 30 adult territorial males) of the Critically Endangered Bengal Florican Houbaropsis bengalensis in Assam (Rahmani et al. 2014).

Kaziranga is also famous for its nesting colonies of Spot-billed Pelican, and Greater and Lesser adjutants. Almost all species of tall, wet grasslands of the Brahmaputra floodplains are found here. Thus, Kaziranga is one of the most important bird areas of India. This fabulous IBA also has 23 Near Threatened species, some of them with significant wintering or breeding populations.

According to the classification by BirdLife International (undated), this IBA lies in Biome 12 (Indo-Gangetic Plains). Of the 13 species listed in this biome, 12 are found in the park. Bird species of at least six other biomes are also seen, generally in winter. For instance, Himalayan Griffon Gyps himalayensis, Brown-headed Gull Larus brunnicephalus, and Grey-backed Shrike Lanius tephronotus of Biome 5 (Eurasian High Montane) occur in Kaziranga in winter. Similarly, Slaty-backed Flycatcher Ficedula hodgsonii, Slaty Blue Flycatcher F. tricolor, Ferruginous Flycatcher Muscicapa ferruginea, Himalayan Rubythroat Luscinia pectoralis, Chestnut-headed Tesia Tesia castaneocoronata, Grey-bellied Tesia T. cyaniventer, Grey-sided Bush-warbler Cettia brunnifrons, and Chestnut-crowned Bush-warbler C. major all belonging to Biome 7 (Sino-Himalayan Temperate Forests) winter in this site.

Kaziranga is also famous for its large populations of waterbirds, especially Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus. A Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus tagged in Mongolia was sighted there in 2013. In all, more than 20,000 waterbirds are found in the beels and riverine tracts in the national park area.

Methodology: We conducted many road surveys in the Park and adjoining Reserve Forests and chaporis. Few boat surveys were also conducted in the Brahmaputra River passing through the

Park. Line transect or Point Count methods could not be used in the Park as we were not allowed to get down from the vehicle due to danger of Rhino, Elephant and Wild Buffalo. This prevented us from taking quantified data on selected bird species. However, more than 50 aggregate visits were made for collection of bird information. When any bird was seen, its location, number, gender (if dimorphic) and behaviour were noted in field note books. Help of bird fieldguides were taken for identification of birds in the field, and if possible photographs were taken which were later used for further identification.

Due to rains and floods, we could not collect monsoon data as the Park was closed. As reported earlier, logistic and field work was extremely difficult due to various restrictions on the foot movement inside the Park for security reasons. Despite these difficulties, we were able to sight more than 300 birds ourselves. Data on remaining birds were collated from experienced birdwatchers who have been going to the Park for many years.

2. Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Kaziranga National Park

1. Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Among the four species of grebes found in Assam, Little Grebe is perhaps the most widespread and common. In Kaziranga, it is found in almost all major wetlands, particularly just after the rains when water level is high. It does not occur in flowing rivers and streams, preferring placid deep water beels.

2. Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus It is found in large, deep beels of the Park, and also sometimes in the slow-flowing rivers. It is regularly seen in the Brahmaputra and in Sohola Beel.

3. Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis (NT) In the 1970s and 1980s, Agaratoli Range of Kaziranga was a well-known breeding area of Spot-billed Pelican. Even now few 10-15 nests are found on tall Semul trees opposite Rangamotia beat, but population appears to have declined in the Park (although its overall numbers in India are on the increase: Rahmani 2012). According to Rehan Ali (pers. comm.) till 1997-98, Sohola beel used to be full of these birds, sometimes more than a thousand, but now they are not seen in that number. Even now they are seen in all the ranges, sometimes in flock consisting of more than 100 individuals. We found them in Agaratoli as well as Kohora ranges in good numbers.

4. Dalmatian Pelican Pelecanus crispus (VU) Barua and Sharma (1999) and Choudhury (2000) have mentioned this as uncommon winter visitor in the Park, but we did not see any bird during our surveys. Both Grimmett et al. (2011) and Rasmussen & Anderton (2012) have not shown its distribution in north- east India. We contacted many ornithologists and tour guides – no one has reported this species. We suspect that it is a case of misidentification and the species should be removed from the list.

5. Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus It is an uncommon winter visitor, sometimes seen in large flocks of 40-50 birds in large beels in winter. Rehan has seen it in Mihibeel in Central Range in 2015. About 20 were seen in Agaratoli in 2015.

6. Indian Shag Phalacrocorax fuscicollis It is also called Indian Cormorant or Median Cormorant. It is uncommon on deep beels and also slow flowing rivers, often seen perched, with other cormorants on dry branches near water.

7. Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo

Among cormorants, Great Cormorant is the most conspicuous due to its size and numbers. Flocks consisting of 40-60 birds can be seen sitting on mounds, or swimming together to do cooperative fishing. They prefer deep beels and shift when the beels become shallow. They are often found in the Brahmaputra River and its large tributaries in the Park. Sometimes they are seen fishing with Smooth-coated Otter.

8. Little Cormorant Microcarbo niger It is found all over the Park, even in Water-Hyacinth covered beels with small exposed water surface made by regular movement of Rhino. It is generally solitary but small groups of 5-10 individuals are not uncommon to find perched on dry branches near waterbody.

9. Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster (NT) It is listed as Near Threatened by BirdLife International and IUCN due to decline of its numbers in its vast range in South and South-east Asia. In India, it is still fairly common. Its habitat requirement of deep clear water with plenty of fish is not available everywhere due to pollution and overfishing. In Kaziranga it is found solitary or small scattered party in all large beels and rivers.

10. Little Egret Egretta garzetta It is found all over the Park, on the edges of large deep beels and rivers, and scattered individuals on shallow, drying up beels. It feeds on small fish, frogs and aquatic insects. It probably breeds in the Park in accessible heronries. During monsoon, the Park is closed and most areas are unapproachable except through boat or elephant.

11. Great Egret Egretta alba It is found all over the Park, on the edges of large deep beels and rivers, and scattered individuals on shallow, drying up beels. It feeds on small fish, frogs, snails, snakes and aquatic insects. It breeds with other heronry species in the Park and also bamboo clumps outside the boundary of the Park, near Kohora.

12. Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia Between the earlier two egret species, Intermediate Egret is uncommon or probably misidentified. It is found in shallow beels where it can catch fish, frogs, snails and insects.

13. Eastern Cattle Egret Bubulcus coromandus The Cattle Egret has been divided in to Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis, not found in India, and Eastern Cattle Egret Bubulcus coromandus found from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka to eastward to South-east Asia. In Kaziranga, Eastern Cattle Egret is very common in wet grasslands, accompanying domestic and wild ungulates. Solitary birds or groups follow

grazing Rhino, Wild Buffolo and Swamp Deer to feed on insects disturbed by their movement. It is not uncommon to see a Cattle Egret sitting on a Rhino.

14. Grey Heron Ardea cinerea It is largely solitary so found in small numbers in beels and rivers, but widespread in the Park in suitable habitats. In winter, number increase as migratory population arrives. Rehan has not seen breeding. It is quite commonly seen in Daphlang and Sohola.

15. Purple Heron Ardea purpurea Like the previous species, it is also solitary and seen in shallow beels and besides slow flowing rivers. It breeds, like the earlier species, during monsoon when the Park is closed so we cannot find the breeding areas. Nest is made in thick reeds or on tall foliage trees.

16. White-bellied Heron Ardea insignis (CR) Kaziranga is always listed in its distribution range although there is no confirmed photographic record of this species. Barua and Sharma (1999) have mentioned “Three at Dunga in January 1994, one in the same area on 19 November 1995, one in Bandarkhal Nullah on 31 February 1994 (Baguri) and one in Sohola on 14 December 1995 (Agaratoli).” We did not see any bird during out surveys of the Park. It is found on boulder-strewed slow flowing rivers. This habitat is not available in the Park.

17. Goliath Heron Ardea goliath Barua and Sharma (1999) have mentioned and record by Madge (995) on 13 April 1994 c. 3 km north of Mihimukh, and and an unconfirmed record from Lahorani Chapori (Burapahar). Saikia and Bhattacharjee (1990) have listed it among the wader list of Assam. Choudhury (1990) has listed it as occasional in Assam, without giving much detail. Till good photographic evidence is gathered, we consider this species as unconfirmed from the Park. We did not see any individual during out surveys of the Park.

18. Indian Pond-heron Ardeola grayii Indain Pond Heron is one of the most widespread birds of India, and the same is true of Kaziranga. It is found singly in all types of wetlands, but prefer shallow ditches and drying up beels where it catches fish, frog and other small animals. We found it common in all types of beels of the Park.

19. Chinese Pond-heron Ardeola bacchus In northeast India, Chinese Pond Heron is also reported which is very similar to Indian Pond Heron during the non-breeding season, hence easily confused for its more widespread cousin. Perhaps it is rare winter visitor to Kaziranga as there is no record of breeding bird being seen in the Park. The breeding individuals have deep chestnet head and breast, and dark grey mantle, easy to distinguish from the Indian Pond Heron which

does not have chestnut head and breast. The mantle is maroon, not dark grey. Barua and Sharma (1999) also consider it as occasional in the Park.

20. Malayan Night-heron Gorsachius melanolophus The Malayan Night-heron is resident in southern Western Ghats, Sri Lanka, and Nicobar, and breeding visitor to parts of north-east India. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as uncommon in Kaziranga without giving much detail.

21. Black-crowned Night-heron Nycticorax nycticorax During day time, it is found roosting in thick-foliage trees growing near waterbody or river. We found it in almost all parts of the Park.

22. Striated Heron Butorides striata or Ardeola striatus Also know as Little Green Heron, it is a rare resident of the Park. Due to its skulking habit, it is not easy to see and photograph. While Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as uncommon resident in the Park, we did not see any bird during our survey but according to birdguides, it is a common bird in the Park.

23. Black Bittern Dupetor flavicollis Black Bittern is found in tall reeds and an uncommon resident in the Park.

24. Chestnut Bittern Ixobrychus cinnamomeus Although seldom seen due to its skulking behaviour, it is found all over the Park in reeds near large beels and rivers. It is sometimes called Cinnamon Bittern due to its colouration.

25. Yellow Bittern Ixobrychus sinensis It is mostly found singly besides reeds where it hides when disturbed, hence not easily seen. It is supposed to be common resident in the Park. It breeds during monsoon when it is not possible to inside the Park. It is also found in paddy fields and on edges of large ditches.

26. Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus It is an uncommon resident in the Park (Barua and Sharma 1999). We did not see any bird during our surveys. It may not be uncommon but difficult to see due to its shy nature.

27. Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris This large bittern is an uncommon winter migrant. It is also known as Great Bittern due to its large size. There is no confirmed record of this bird in the Park.

28. Asian Openbill Anastomus oscitans

This large conspicuous stork is very common outside the Park in crop fields, less so inside. It breeds inside the Park on large Silk Cotton trees in the Western Range, on way to Donga tower. Choudhury (2000) has mentioned a large colony of about 800 nests in 1996-98 in Gotonga area.

29. White Stork Ciconia ciconia Barua and Sharma (1999) have mentioned it as stray record. Except for their record, no one has seen this species in northeast. As it is sometimes confused with Asian Openbill, particularly from distance, we suspect it to be a case of mistaken identity.

30. Asian Woollyneck Ciconia episcopus (VU) One or two individuals of this species are always seen in large beels of the Park and also outside the Park. It is an uncommon visitor.

31. Black Stork Ciconia nigra It is winter migrant, seen in small parties consisting of 6-10 individuals, sometimes more near water. Once we saw a flock of 12 birds in Agratoli Range.

32. Black-necked Stork Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus (NT) Kaziranga NP is one of the best areas in India to see this large stork. As it is very territorial, scattered pairs are found in large beels, either foraging or resting on mounds. Juveniles are found with parents from October onwards. More than 20 pairs are found in the Park.

33. Lesser Adjutant Leptoptilos javanicus (VU) It could be seen singly or small parties all over the Park, particularly in drying up beels where it forages on fish, frog, snakes and anything small which it can catch. For instance, on April 28, 2014 a group of fifteen birds was seen feeding in a beel near Varuntika camp, Kohora Range.

It nest on tall trees and 3-5 nests are found in each tree. Although we could not see nests inside the Park, up to ten nests were found on Kaziranga-Nagaon road.

34. Greater Adjutant Leptoptilos dubius (EN) In the 1970s, Kaziranga was a well-known nesting area for this bird. Large colonies of hundreds of nests were found in Agarotoli Range in 1970s but by 1990s, very few were left. For instance, Barua and Sharma (1999) reported only three nests in Gotonga (Baguri) and one in Kerasin in 1993, and up to 45 birds seen together in the non-breeding season (Dunga Beel, Baguri March 1996). During our surveys in 2015-2016, we did not see any bird inside the Park. In 2015, Rehan Ali has seen one bird in Kathphora beel in central range.It is frequently seen in Sohola Beel. For example, 30 were counted in 2007 by Abidur Rahman. Another record is of two birds on March 30, 2014 near Tunikati camp, Burapahar Range.

35. Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus It is a rare bird in the northeast India. Barua and Sharma (1999) have not reported it from the Park, but we have seen few birds in Agaratoli Range in 2015. Abidur Rahman has seen more than 20 in Sohola in 2015.

36. Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus (NT) It is quite uncommon in Assam unlike in other parts of India. We have seen one or two birds in Sohola beel in Agaratoli. Barua and Sharma (1999) have also given records of

four birds in Sohola Beel 1-10 December 1998 and one in the same area on 24 March 1999. They have mentioned another record by Jepson (1998) on 24 January 1998. More birds are seen in December-January. For example, eight were seen in Kathpora beel. By March, they probably move away and only 1-2 birds are left in the Park. Interestingly, its sighting has become more regular during the last 7-8 years.

37. Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia It is also a rare bird in Assam and Kaziranga. One bird was regularly seen in Sohola beel in the winter of 2015.

38. Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus One of the finest places in the world to see this bird is Kaziranga NP. From November till end March, large flocks consisting of up to 300-400 individuals are seen in all large beels of the Park. Scattered small flocks of 10-30 birds are seen even in April. We estimate that between 5- 7 thousand Bar-headed Goose winters in Kaziranga TR. The best areas are in the western and eastern zones of the Park, (e.g. Sohola Beel, Baguri Beel), less seen in the central zone. On 20 November 2015, 1200 geese were estimated at Sohola Beel.

39. Greylag Goose Anser anser It is a winter migrant in the Park: always less in number than the previous species. A few thousands are found in the whole Park, particularly in larger beels such as Sohola, Baguri, and Kathpora. They are seen from December to mid-February.

40. Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus (VU) This is the smallest, daintiest grey goose. This bird is a winter visitor to the Assam. It occasionally occurs in flocks of Greylag Goose. One was seen on 17 January 1968 amongst a flock of Bar-headed Geese Anser indicus in Borbeel area (Baguri) (Mackenzie 1969). This species is listed as Vulnerable because it has suffered a rapid population reduction in its key breeding population in Russia, and equivalent declines are predicted to continue. In January 2016, five individuals were seen in Sohola Beel.

41. Greater White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons This is an addition to the Park, as four seen in February 2016 by Abidur Rahman.

42. Fulvous Whistling-duck Dendrocygna bicolor Earlier known as Large Whistling Teal, this species is mainly found in the north-east India, with scattered records of north, central and even south India. It mainly breeds in north-east, along with the more common Lesser Whistling Duck. Sometimes both occur together, making it difficult to identify them as size, despite their common names, is not the main criteria of identification as size difference is small. It is found in all the large

beels of the Park throughout the year so it must be breeding in the Park although we could not see any ducklings. They are mainly tree-hole nester.

43. Lesser Whistling-duck Dendrocygna javanica It is widespread in India, including Assam. It is abundant to very common in large beels of the Park, their whistling call cannot be missed. Rests on weed-covered tanks during daytime, flighting to flooded rice fields, etc., to feed during the night. Walks well on marshland, often grazing like a goose, and is a good diver.

44. Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna It is generally uncommon in India, but regularly seen in Kaziranga in small number. It is a winter visitor to the Assam valley. It is more likely to be seen on larger lakes and rivers, than in small beels. Usually keeps to mudflats than water.

45. Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea Ruddy Shelduck or Brahminy Duck is much more common than the earlier species as it is found all over India, and also breeds in Ladakh and northern Sikkim (in small numbers). In winter it spreads out all over India, particularly on rivers and large lakes/beels. We have seen it in Sohola, Baguri, and other beels.

46. Cotton Pygmy-goose (Cotton Teal) Nettapus coromandelianus It is a resident bird of Assam valley, breeds in single pairs during monsoon in tree-holes. Found on all inland waters — jheels, rain-filled ditches, inundated paddy fields, irrigation tanks, etc. Is swift on the wing, and can dive creditably on occasion. Not very common in the Park, but regular sightings.

47. Garganey Querquedula querquedula It is one of the first ducks to arrive in north India, including Assam, but most of the individuals move to southern India. It is a gregarious bird often stays near cover. Birds of this species are both diurnal and nocturnal feeders, and when migrating often travel by night and rest on open water during the day. During our surveys in the winter of 2015- 2016, we did not come across this species although Barua and Sharma (1999) have listed it from Kaziranga.

48. Falcated Duck Mareca falcata (NT) It is an occasional winter visitor to the Assam valley. But, one or two individuals are often seen in Sohola Beel. The bird is found singly or in pairs. It is largely vegetarian. Although this species is clearly more abundant than once believed, it has been retained as Near Threatened owing to moderately rapid declines in China.

49. Gadwall Mareca strepera

It is one of the abundant ducks of India in winter, found in lakes, jheels and beels. In Assam is it quite common and the same is true of Kaziranga where it is found with other similar ducks. The species inhabits freshwater marsh or lake habitats in open lowland grassland. It is predominantly herbivorous, most of times found feeding on water weeds.

50. Eurasian Wigeon Mareca Penelope A very common winter visitor to the Assam valley, it is gregarious, forages by dabbling and grazing, and by taking food brought up by the other species. In Kaziranga, it is found in small numbers in all major beels.

51. Northern Shoveller Spatula clypeata Another of the more common migratory ducks visiting India in winter, and amongst the last to leave. The peculiar spatulate bill is adapted to its special method of feeding. Swims with neck and bill stretched rigidly in front. Feeds in shallow waters, dabbling on surface with neck and bill outstretched. This species has an extremely large global range and is a common bird in India. In Kaziranga, it is found in all shallow beels along with other ducks.

52. Northern Pintail Anas acuta This is one of the most conspicuous ducks. It is highly gregarious, but often segregating by sex. It is common on various types of freshwater and sheltered coasts. It is omnivorous and opportunistic feeder. Extremely common in Sohola Beel and other large waterbodies, particularly on return migration when large numbers congregate before return migration.

53. Common Teal Anas crecca It is one of the smallest ducks of India, abundant in shallow jheels and beels where it feeds with other ducks. Flight is fast and erratic. Its diet consists of small aquatic invertebrates such as adult and larval insects, planktonic crustaceans, annelids, amphibian spawn, tadpoles, spiders, fish and the vegetative parts of aquatic plants. It can be seen all over the Park in beels, less so in rivers and streams. 54. Indian Spot-billed Duck Anas poecilorhyncha The Spot-billed Duck Anas poecilorhyncha was earlier divided in to two subspecies: the nominate Anas poecilorhyncha poecilorhyncha and Anas poecilorhyncha zonorhyncha, but now the subspecies have been elevated in to full species: Indian Spot-billed Duck Anas poecilorhyncha and Chinese Spot-billed Duck Anas zonorhyncha. The Indian Spot- billed Duck is resident of bird of the Assam valley, a fairly common in freshwater bodies in Kaziranga NP. One of our most widely distributed resident ducks, but nowhere really abundant. It feeeds mainly on vegetable matter. A surface feeder, obtaining its food chiefly by tipping or ‘up-ending’ in shallow water. When reaching down for food thus,

the tail end of the bird sticks out comically above the surface, the vertical stance being maintained by a kicking of the legs.

55. Chinese Spot-billed Duck Anas zonorhyncha Two individuals were seen by Rehan Ali in February 2016 and found were seen in the same area in March 2016 by Abidur Rahman.

56. Mallard Anas platyrhynchos It is a winter visitor to Kaziranga in small numbers. In Europe, it is one of the most common ducks. It is omnivorous but mainly feeds on plant matter by dabbling in water and by grazing on the land.

57. Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula It is a winter visitor in Kaziranga on larger beels as it is often found in large freshwater lakes, reservoirs and sheltered coastal locations such as brackish lagoons. The species is omnivorous a major part of its diet consisting of molluscs, crustaceans and aquatic insects, as well as grain and the seeds and vegetative parts of aquatic plants. It is mainly found in Kaziranga in early winter when beels are full of water, and not many are seen during spring migration as by that time most beels become shallow.

58. Baer’s Pochard Aythya baeri (CR) Much like Ferruginous Duck but larger, and darker-headed with a bigger bill. It is a winter visitor to the Assam Valley. It is usually found in small numbers, often with Ferruginous Duck; shy and wary. Two were seen on 28 December 1993 at Sohola (Kovacs 1994). This species is classified as Critically Endangered as it is apparently undergoing a extremely rapid population decline. Rehan Ali has seen two individuals in December 2015 in Sohola beel.

59. Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca (NT) Ferrufinous Duck is a common winter visitor, found in almost every large beel, throughout the Park. It rests during the day in the middle of open water safe from human molestation, and flights inland after dusk to feed in inundated paddy fields and on grassy tank margins. Also obtains much of its food by diving. There have been rapid declines in population of this species in Europe, but evidence of declines in the larger Asian populations is sparse, and sometimes contradictory, so it is currently listed as Near Threatened by BirdLife International and IUCN.

60. Common Pochard Aythya ferina (VU) Common Pochard is one of the commonest diving ducks of India, seen in large flocks and rafts of over 300 to several thousands in the open waters of jheels, beels and reservoirs with submerged vegetation. It is omnivorous but largely vegetarian. It is a winter visitor to the plains of the Assam Valley. In Kaziranga it is found in larger deep beels such as Sohola and the Brahmaputra River.

61. Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina It is rare winter migrant to Kaziranga as it prefers deep waters. It is mainly found in early winter when beels have lot of water but as the water recedes and become shallow, this bird moves to find suitable habitat. It is frequently seen in the Brahmaputra River, along with Common Pochard and other diving ducks.

62. Smew Mergellus albellus

We have not seen this bird during our surveys but Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported a record on 30 January 1971 by Inskipp (1971). This species is highly migratory, often resting and feeding on inland waterbodies when on passage.

63. Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus This small raptor is quite frequent in heavily grazed grasslands such as Kohora as it feeds on lizards, large insects and small birds. It is not found in tall grasslands and forested parts of the Park.

64. Jerdon’s Baza Aviceda jerdoni Samant et al. (1995) have reported two individuals during their surveys in 1993-94. We did not see any bird during our surveys. Abidur Rahman has seen it many times in Panbari Range.

65. Black Baza Aviceda leuphotes It frequents open forested areas of the Park, mainly seen on the upper canopy. It is mainly found in summer and sighting are not uncommon in Burapahar area.

66. Brahminy Kite Haliastur Indus It is an uncommon bird in the Park, more often seen around villages. Numbers have declined.

67. Black Kite Milvus migrans migrans/govinda Very common around villages but infrequent inside the Park. We have multiple sightings on every visit before entering the Park.

68. ‘Black-eared’ Kite Milvus [migrans] lineatus It is very often seen on the islands of Brahmaputra.

69. Besra Sparrowhawk Accipiter virgatus Barua and Sharma (1999) have not reported it from the Park. Choudhury (2000) has mentioned it as rare winter migrant. Abidur Rahman has seen it in Kohora Range.

70. Shikra Accipiter badius Very common amongst small raptors, more frequent outside the Park than inside as it prefers open woodland, large avenue trees and orchards. We had multiple sightings of this bird mainly outside the Park. Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it uncommon in the Park.

71. Japanese Sparrowhawk Accipiter gularis We did not see this bird, but Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported as stray and occasional. They saw it in Agaratoli Range on 21 January 1996. More than 100 years ago, Steven (1915) had collected a specimen at Rungagora, Dibrigarh on 7 April 1901.

72. Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Mainly found inside the Park, less frequent outside as it prefer deeper woods where it catches small birds by chasing them. There are two subspecies of this bird in India: 17

Accipiter nisus melanochistos which is resident in Arunachal Pradesh and hills of Assam, and perhaps moves to Assam plains in winter, and Accipiter nisus nisosimilis that is pure migratory. We had multiple sightings of this species but could not identify the subspecies.

73. Crested Goshawk Accipiter trivirgatus It is quite rare in the Park. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it but we did not see any individual during our surveys.

74. ‘Steppe’ Buzzard Buteo buteo vulpinus We say a couple of buzzard species and one of them looked like Steppe Buzzard but due to its height of flying, we could not identify it fully. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as a common migratory bird. Choudhury (2000) reports that Japanese subspecies Buteo beteo japonicas is found in Assam.

75. Long-legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus Samant et al. (1995) have reported two birds in April/May 1991. Abidur Rahman has seen this bird in the Park. We did not come across during our surveys.

76. Oriental Honey-buzzard Pernis ptilorhynchus It is a common raptor of the Park, found in all parts particularly in open forest areas. We had multiple sightings in all ranges.

77. White-eyed Buzzard Butastur teesa It is mainly seen in summer in small numbers in open Simul woodland. Two were seen in April/May in 1991 by Samant et al. (1995). We did not come across this bird but there are reports by experienced bird tourist guides.

78. Crested Serpent-eagle Spilornis cheela It is one of the most common raptors of the Park, particularly common in forested areas. We had multiple sightings in almost all visits to the Park.

79. Short-toed Eagle Circaetus gallicus It is a bird of dry biotopes so not very common in the Park, but we have seen it in Arimora and Debashri grasslands just after grass burning.

80. Rufous-bellied Eagle Lophotriorchis kienerii Earlier it was placed under genus Hieraaetus with other hawk-eagles. It is an uncommon raptor of Kaziranga although thinly widespread in forested areas of north, north-east Indian and Western Ghats. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as uncommon migrant in the Park.

81. Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus 18

It is purely migratory bird although both Barua and Sharma (1999) and Choudhury (2000) consider it resident. It is easily confused with much commoner Bonelli’s Eagle although smaller. We did not see any individual during our surveys but Abidur Rahman has seen it.

82. Bonelli’s Eagle Aquila fasciata It is uncommon in the Park in lightly wooded areas and edges of forests where it hunts large birds such as Red Junglefowl, Kaleej Pheasant, peahen, francolins etc. We had a couple of sightings in Agaratoli Range.

83. Mountain Hawk-eagle Nisaetus nipalensis This large forest raptor of about 72 cm is an uncommon migrant to the Park. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it although we did not see any individual during our surveys. In recent years, Rehan Ali has seen it in the Park.

84. Changeable Hawk-eagle Nisaetus limnaeetus It is resident and fairly common in wooded areas of the Park where it hunts birds, reptiles and small mammls. It has a reputation of killing small fawns of deer and Black-naped Hare. We had many sightings of this bird in almost all parts of the Park.

85. Black Eagle Ictinaetus malayensis We did not see any Black Eagle during our surveys, but Samant et al. (1995) have reported this species from the Park hence it is included in the list. Rehan Ali has seen it during the last five years.

86. Indian Spotted Eagle Clanga hastata (VU) Earlier it was considered as a subspecies/race of Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle. But now it has been separated and considered semi-endemic (India, Bangladesh and Myanmar) (Rasmussen and Anderton 2012). Therefore, Barua and Sharma’s record of Lesser Spotted Eagle is actually of this species. The Lesser Spotted Eagle is not found in India. We did not see an Indian Spotted Eagle in the Park.

87. Greater Spotted Eagle Clanga clanga (VU) This is a Vulnerable species, according to BirdLife International and IUCN as its population has declined. We saw it around all large beels such as Sohola, Baguri, Kauladhar Beel, Borbeel, Kathphora, Daphlang Beel and also outside the Park.

88. Steppe Eagle Aquila nipalensis (EN) It is a common winter migrant, more common around garbage dumps so it was found inside and outside the Park. It is often seen near Mihimukh of Central Range.

89. Eastern Imperial Eagle Aquila heliaca (VU)

BirdLife and IUCN list this as a Vulnerable species as it has declined globally (Rahmani 2012). In India it is a winter migrant, arriving in small numbers by October end or early November, and departing by end March. We once saw it in flight over Debashree grasslands. Barua and Sharma (1999) have also listed it as stray in the Park.

90. Osprey Pandion haliaetus This migratory species is very often seen on larger beels such as Sohola, Kauladhar, Kathaphora, Daphlang, and also besides large streams. It is much more common on the Brahmaputra River.

91. Lesser Fish-eagle Ichthyophaga humilis (NT) It is resident in Kaziranga and frequently seen along the streams and on edges of larger beels. Due to confusion with much commoner Grey-headed Fish-eagle, it is under- reported wherever both the species occur together which is quite often the case. We have seen it in Agaratoli and Kohora ranges.

92. Grey-headed Fish-eagle Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus (NT) This is the bird that cannot be missed in the Park due to it call and bold behaviour. Almost on all our visits to the Park, we noticed it. Good photographs are available of it feeding on fish, it main prey.

93. Pallas’s Fish-eagle Haliaeetus leucoryphus (VU) Kaziranga is perhaps the best place in the world to see and study this large raptor which is now rare everywhere, hence listed as Vulnerable by IUCN and BirdLife International. A nest was seen in the near Donga Beel, Bagori range on 17 December 2015 and a pair was seen attending the nest. Courtship and mating was observed on the day. Almost all the large beels have a breeding pair, and we estimate that not less than 25-30 pairs breed in the Park.

94. White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla It is a migratory species in the Park, and almost the size of the Pallas’s Fish-eagle. The major difference is its all-white tail easily visible in flight, contrast to terminally banded tail of Pallas’s. Unlike Pallas’s, it is not common, and we had only one sighting in Sohola beel.

95. White-rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis (CR) This bird has massively declined all over its range thanks to killer-drug diclofenac. Barua and Sharma (1999) based on their work in the early 1990s, have reported it “common” in the Park, but we found it extremely rare, with less than 10 records in two years of survey work.

96. Slender-billed Vulture Gyps tenuirostris (CR) This is another Critically Endangered species with almost 98 percent decline during the last 20 years. Earlier, it was considered as subspecies of Long-billed Vulture Gyps indicus tenuirostris, hence Barua and Sharma (1999) and Choudhury (2000) have listed it as Long-billed Vulture. Rasmussen and Anderton (2005, 2012) have separated the two subspecies as full species, and only Slender-billed Vulture is found in Assam, not Long- 21

billed. The Slender-billed Vulture still breeds in the Park, albeit in very small numbers. We have seen three nests on tall Simul tree in Kohora, Central Range in 2015-16.

97. Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus It is an uncommon migratory species to the Assam Plains. Baru and Sharma (1999) have listed it as uncommon. Most of the experienced birdwatchers have not seen it in the Park during the last 10 years. Sachin Ranade (pers. comm. 2016), a vulture expert of BNHS has not seen this species in Kaziranga. It record appears to be a case of mistaken identity.

98. Himalayan Vulture Gyps himalayensis (NT) Himalayan Griffon is the largest vultures of Gyps group. It is a migratory species, seen mainly in winter in small numbers inside and outside the Park either soaring or on animal carcasses, along with cogeners. Mayur Bawri (pers. comm. 2016) has recorded more than 50 individuals on a carcass. Its large size and creamish underparts, with contrasting black wing feathers make its identification easy in flight. Juveniles are confused with juveniles of Griffon Vulture. In India, we see more juveniles than adults of both species.

99. Red-headed Vulture Aegypius calvus (CR) The Red-headed Vulture has massively declined due to unknown reasons hence it is considered Critically Endangered. This vulture was never abundant as Gyps vultures were at one time. It is found in very small numbers in the Park. For example, a pair was seen soaring on 24 March 2016. Another bird was seen in Agaratoli range on 20 November 2015.

100. Cinereous Vulture Aegypius monachus (NT) This winter migrant is uncommon visitor to the Park. We did not see this bird during our survey but there have been many reports by other ornithologists and tourist guides. According to Mayur Bawri (pers. comm. 2016) a bird was rescued from Podumoni Tea Easte, Golaghat.

101. Montagu’s Harrier Circus pygargus Acommon winter visitor in central and peninsular India but unreported in the Assam Valley except for a sighting of a male by Bishop (1996) from 14-20 March, 1996. We did not see any individual of this species during our surveys.

102. Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus (NT) It is considered as a Near Threatened species due to decline in its number in the breeding areas in the temperate regions. It is a migratory species all over India in suitable dry grasslands. We had few sightings in the dried up Sohola beel, Kohora grassland and few other areas. Strangely, Barua and Sharma (1999) have not reported this bird from Kaziranga.

103. Pied Harrier Circus melanoleucos Frequently see in the Park, possibly breed also as it has been found breeding in Manas TR. Regularly seen in Debashwari grassland and sometimes even outside the Park, flying over fallow fields. It is seen in all ranges of the Park.

104. Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus A migratory species in the whole of Assam Valley, it is found in grassland and dry wetlands, and also in crop fields just outside the Park. We had multiple sightings of this species during our surveys.

105. Western Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus Perhaps the most conspicuous harrier of all, frequently seen skirting over beels in search of sick or old bird which it pounces and kills by drowning. Sometimes, 3-4 are seen on large beels such as Sohola, Kauladhar, Kathaphora and Daphlang. Arrives by October and departs by early April.

106. Pied Falconet Microhierax melanoleucos This small raptor is generally seen flying over the canopy of tall trees on search of dragonflies and large insects. Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it occasional in the Park. They have mentioned that it is occasional seen in Panbari forest. Rehan has seen it in Agaratoli Range. It is quite common in Haldibari area – eight were seen together by Abidur Rahman in November 2015.

107. Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni Earlier, Lesser Kestrel was considered as Vulnerable species but better census shows that it is fairly common in large parts of its range. In India it is purely a migratory species, arriving in small flocks in October-November and departing by end March or early April. In Assam it is mainly a passage migrant.

108. Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus Amongst Falco species, it is probably the most common migrant. It prefers short grazed grasslands so commonly seen in Kohora, Debashri and Arimora (after burning). It is more frequent outside the Park. We have multiple sightings of this species in dried up part of Sohola beel.

109. Oriental Hobby Falco severus We have not seen this species during our survey but Barua and Sharma (1999) mentions a record of Gauntett (1971) of 4 March 1969. It is probably frequent winter visitor to the Park, as Rehan Ali has seen it in Kohora Range, and Abidur Rahman has seen five individuals in 2015-16 in different ranges.

110. Eurasian Hobby Falco subbuteo

Barua and Sharma (1999) have not mentioned this species in their list. We have also not seen it. However, we have some sight records. For example, one bird was sighted by Ben Schweinhart in Bagori Range on April 28 and 30, 2015. The species was also sighted from adjoining areas such as Nameri National Park and Orang National Park by Ramit Singal and Craig Robson respectively (eBird 2016).

111. Amur Falcon Falco amurensis Amur Falcon is a passage migrant mainly over the hills, but occasionally large flocks are seen on the Assam Plains. We did not see any Amur Falcon in Kaziranga but it has been reported by many ornithologists and tourist guides.

112. Red-headed Falcon Falco chicquera (NT) This is a bird of dry biotopes so Kaziranga is perhaps not the best habitat for this species. However, Barua and Sharma (1999) have mentioned two records from Kaziranga. We did not see any bird during our surveys. Rehan Ali has not seen during the last ten years, so it must be extremely uncommon.

113. Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus calidus Peregrine Falcon is one of the most widespread raptors of the world, so is the case in the Assam Valley. It can be found anywhere, appearing for few days and disappearing as during non-breeding season it moves a lot. In Kaziranga it has been reported by many birdwatchers, and we have also seen it in Debashree grasslands. It frequents waterbodies where it hunts ducks but it equally comfortable in hilly and grassland areas. It avoids thick forests.

114. Laggar Falcon Falco jugger This is a bird of desert biotopes so in Assam it is quite uncommon, but nonetheless recorded, particularly in recently burnt up grasslands and fallow fields. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported a sighting of this species in Sohola on 28 December 1993 by Kavocs (1994). We did not come across this species during our surveys. Abidur Rahman and Anwaruddin Choudhury, both experienced ornithologists have not seen it in the Park.

115. Swamp Francolin Francolinus gularis (VU) During the survey it was found commonly throughout the Park. This species is classified as Vulnerable because it has undergone a rapid population decline which is projected to continue, concurrent with the rapid decline in extent and quality of its specialised habitat. Some specific records are: near Arimora camp, Kohora Range on April 19, 2014, and two near Debeshwri Tiniali Tongia, Agoratoli Range on Mary 1, 2014.

116. White-cheeked Hill-partridge Arborophila atrogularis (NT) It is a resident bird of Assam Valley and southern Assam hills. This poorly known species is probably locally common where forest persists and where it is not hunted; however, such places are becoming scarcer and its population is now likely to be moderately small, and continuing to decline. For these reasons it is classified as Near Threatened. Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it occasional and local migratory in the Park, but we think it is not true because such partridges generally do not move long distance. The White-cheeked Hill-partridge is confined to “moist undergrowth and

bamboo jungle in evergreen forest” Rasmussen and Anderton 2012). We did not come across this bird during our surveys. According to Rehan Ali, it is found only in the Panbari RF and foothills of North Karbi Anlong Wildlife Sanctuary.

117. Blue-breasted Quail Excalfactoria chinensis It is a small, dark quail with bright yellow legs. It is partial to wet terrain and occurs in pairs and small family parties. Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it occasional in the Park, and probably breeds also. We did not come across this species during our surveys but Abidur Rahman has seen it in Mihimukh.

118. Red Junglefowl Gallus gallus This species is a common bird of the Kaziranga, often seen along sides of small roads. It is a resident bird of Assam valley and come out in the early mornings and afternoons to feed in stubble fields at the edge of forest, or on forest roads and firelines. We have seen it all over the Park in forested areas, not in pure grasslands. Chicks were also seen in May, proving breeding. Sometimes flocks of 5-8 birds are seen. For instance, in March 27, 2014 we found a group fo seven individuals feeding near Myte Camp in Burapahar Range.

119. Grey Peacock-pheasant Polyplectron bicalcaratum A very shy and elusive bird, confined to forested areas. It is seen mainly in Panbari Range.

120. Kaleej Pheasant Lophura leucomelanos Perhaps as common as the Red Junglefowl in suitable forest patches of the Park. Male, female and young one have been seen during our surveys in Panbari, Agaratoli, Baguri, and Kohora ranges.

121. Barred Buttonquail Turnix suscitator It is also called Common Bustard-quail. This tiny bird is a great skulker and seen only when encountered at the edge of grassland. It probably breeds in the Park in grassland areas. A covey of four birds was seen in Debashree grassland.

122. Yellow-legged Buttonquail Turnix tanki Like the earlier species, it is also very difficult to find as it is a shy bird. It is probably a summer visitor. Probably much more common outside the Park, but status is not fully known. We did not come across this species during our surveys.

123. Bengal Florican Houbaropsis bengalensis (CR) Kaziranga, along with Manas, is perhaps the most important area for this Critically Endangered species. In a survey conducted in summer of 2014, 32 adult males were seen

in grasslands, the maximum were sighted in Debashree area (Rahmani et al. 2014). Three adult males and a female were regularly seen in Debeswari camp from April 28 to May 1, 2014.

124. Slaty-breasted Rail Gallirallus striatus, 125. Eastern Water Rail Rallus indicus, 126. Slaty-legged Crake Rallina eurizonoides, and 127. Ruddy-breasted Crake Porzana fusca As these birds are extremely shy and live in reed-covered shallow wetlands, they are not easy to detect during short field surveys. They have been listed in Kaziranga bird list but we do not have good information about their distribution and status. They are likely to be present all over the Park in suitable beels.

128. Brown Crake Porzana akool It is quite common on reed-covered shallow waterbodies, roadside ditches and paddy fields but due to shy skulking habit, not easy to see. We saw one in Sohola beel. But, it is likely to be present in many Water-hyacinth covered beels.

129. White-breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus It is perhaps the most widespread and commonly seen members of this group, found all over the Park in beels, large and small channels, and Water Hyacinth covered slow meandering rivers. It breeds at the start of monsoon, but display call of male can be heard from end May onward.

130. Watercock Gallicrex cinerea It is much more common than people think of its status. Due to its shy nature in the non- breeding season, it is not easy to detect. However, during the breeding season, which is early monsoon, its loud call can be heard throughout the day, and even in the night.

131. Purple Swamphen Porphyrio [porphyrio] poliocephalus It is also called Purple Swamphen. It is uncommon in the Park. It is one of the waterbirds that benefits from spread of Water Hyacinth as it find nesting and feeding areas.

132. Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Another common waterbird of shallow beels and jheels, found all over the Park in suitable habitat. It is a resident bird and breeds just before the monsoon.

133. Eurasian Coot Fulica atra It is a migratory species, seen mainly from October onwards till end March or early April. The best population is seen in Sohola beel.

134. Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus It is found in shallow drying up wetlands, damp areas, roadside ditches, dirty sewage pools outside villages and towns. We saw a few birds in Sohola beel.

135. Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta It is mainly found in shallow coastal lagoons, salt pans and mudflats but also frequently inland wetlands. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as uncommon winter migrant in the Park. We did not come across this species but Abidur Rahman has seen about 25 birds in Sohola Beel.

136. Pheasant-tailed Jacana Hydrophasianus chirurgus It is often seen on vegetation-covered beels. We saw few in Sohola beel.

137. Bronze-winged Jacana Metopidius indicus It is much more common that the earlier species, and found in many beels such as Sohola, Kathaphora and Daphlang.

138. Small Pratincole Glareola lactea Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as occasional migrant.

139. Oriental Pratincole Glareola maldivarum It is not listed by Barua and Sharma (1999) but Abidur Rahman has seen it on the islands of Brahmaputra between Agaratoli and Kohora.

140. Great Thick-knee Esacus recurvirostris (NT) This is a bird of rivers and large lakes. We have seen it on the banks of Brahmaputra River. It is now considered Near Threatened by BirdLife International and IUCN due to moderate decline of its numbers in many parts of its range.

141. Indian Stone-curlew Burhinus indicus Two individuals recorded on May 3, 2014 near Hatichora camp in Agratoli Range.

142. Red-wattled Lapwing Vanellus indicus Very common on dried up beels and recently-burnt grasslands. It prefers heavily grazed areas so frequently seen in Sohola areas, Kohora grassland and outside the Park. It breeds just before monsoon in summer months.

143. River Lapwing Vanellus duvaucelii (NT) As its name indicates, it is a bird of river banks, shingle beds, and stony river beds where it merges perfectly due to its obliterated plumage. We have seen it on the Brahmaputra River.

144. Grey-headed Lapwing Vanellus cinereus It is a migratory lapwing, common in the Assam Valley from October to March. It is found mainly on fallow fields, dried beels and grazed areas in the Park. Sometimes up to

50-60 birds are present in a single flock. They are mostly silent and very shy. We have also seen it outside the Park in fallow fields.

145. Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus This is another migratory lapwing, found from October to March-end, singly or in small flocks of 4-6 individuals. Before return migration, larger flocks are seen. We found it in many semi-dry beels and wet grasslands in the Park, particularly in Sohola beel which we visited frequently for surveys.

146. Pacific Golden-Plover Pluvialis fulva Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it occasional in the Park. A flock of six birds was seen at Donga Beel in Bagori range on 17 December 2015. It is a migratory species.

147. Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus It is purely a migratory species, much more common on coastal wetlands. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it occasional in the Park. We did not come across any individuals.

148. Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius jerdoni Although found mainly on the coastal wetlands, mudflats and salt pans, during migration and otherwise also, it is seen on the edge of freshwater wetlands and rivers. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it occasional in the Park. We saw some individuals on Sohola beel in March.

149. Kentish Plover Charadrius a. alexandrinus Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it occasional in the Park. We did not come across any individuals. It is a migratory species.

150. Long-billed Plover Charadrius placidus Although this species was not seen by us neither by Barua and Sharma (1999), and it is very difficult to identify in the wintering ground, we are including it in our list as we have two records from experienced birdwatchers. One bird sighted in Kohora Range by Pritam Baruah on February 16, 2014, and five seen on adjoining Majuli Islands by Divya Mudappa and Kalyan Verma on February 29, 2016 (eBird 2016). Despite these two records, we are inclined to include it in the tentative list.

151. Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata (NT) It is mainly found on coastal wetlands, mudflats and wet grasslands, during migration, it is seen on the edge of freshwater wetlands and rivers. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as stray in the Park. We did not see it during our surveys.

152. Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa (NT) Although very common in India (Rahmani 2012), BirdLife International and IUCN have included it in Near Threatened category due to its population decline in many parts of its range. It is best seen in brackish coastal wetlands, shallow lagoons, tide-inundated

mudflats and salt pans. However, it is not uncommon in freshwater shallow wetlands, particularly as stopover sites during migration.

153. Terek Sandpiper Xenus cinereus This is a bird of brackish coastal wetlands and occasionally seen in inland wetlands as stop-over site during migration. We did not see any Terek Sandpiper in Kaziranga during our surveys but Barua and Sharma (1999) have included it in their checklist. They saw a single bird on 14 January 1993 on a tributary of Brahmaputra, which is rather strange as January is not the migration time. Abidur Rahman has seen it in April 2013 in Karasin Camp area. It is the time when return migration takes place so a stray bird could have stopped for some days.

154. Spotted Greenshank Tringa guttifer (EN) This is another unusual record by Barua and Sharma (1999) from Kaziranga. They saw a s single bird in Daphlang Beel (Baguri) on 13 April 1994. First of all, it is an extremely rare bird in India, secondly, it is not found in freshwater, and thirdly it can be easily confused with Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia during non-breeding season (winter). Common Greenshank is a very common bird in winter in all types of waterbodies. According to Rasmussen and Anderton (2005, 2012) records from “India, Nepal, Chagos and Sri Lanka all unconfirmed…and listing from inland Assam (Baker) dubious (as is Baker’s report of breeding in Tibet)”. BirdLife International and IUCN have listed Spotted Greenshank as Endangered due to its population decline.

155. Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia Common on all types of shallow wetlands, inundated paddy fields and river banks. We had multiple sightings of this species from various parts of the Park.

156. Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Very common on all types of shallow wetlands, roadside ditches, inundated paddy fields, and river banks. We had multiple sightings of this species from various parts of the Park.

157. Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus Very common on all types of shallow wetlands, roadside ditches, inundated paddy fields, and river banks. We had multiple sightings of this species from various parts of the Park.

158. Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Very common on all types of shallow wetlands, roadside ditches, inundated paddy fields, and river banks. We had multiple sightings of this species from various parts of the Park.

159. Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis

Frequently seen in shallow marshes, along with other small waders. Never in large flocks, mainly seen singly or scattered individuals. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it common in the Park. We also have 2-3 sightings.

160. Common Redshank Tringa tetanus Very common on all types of shallow wetlands, inundated paddy fields, and river banks. We had multiple sightings of this species from various parts of the Park

161. Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus It is an uncommon winter visitor to India. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as common in the Park. It is found in good numbers in all ranges, but Agaratoli. Sometimes, Spotted Redshank is more in numbers than the Common Redshank.

162. Ruff and Reeve Philomachus pugnax It is a large conspicuous wader there the male (Ruff) is about 31 cm, while female (Reeve) is about 25 cm. It is mainly found in north India and eastern coast, with few records from the west coast and the north-east. We saw 3-4 individuals in Sohola beel in February-March 2015.

163. Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris (VU) Barua and Sharma (1999) have listed it as occasional in the Park, but we did not see any during our surveys. Rahan Ali and Abidur Rahman have also not seen it. It is a bird of brackish coast. In the non-breeding season it is easily confused with other similar waders, so we suspect that its presence in Kaziranga is highly unlikely. BirdLife International and IUCN list it as Vulnerable due to its rapid population decline. In India, it is an uncommon bird.

164. Temminck’s Stint Ereunetes temminckii It is widespread in north and north-east India in all types of waters from damp, squelchy drying up ponds, very shallow wetlands, edges of large rivers and lakes, and paddy fields. We had multiple sightings of this species in Sohola beel. It is likely to be present all over the Park in suitable habitats.

165. Little Stint Ereunetes minutes It is often found with Temminck’s Stint. Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as common, but we saw only few individuals during our surveys. Sometimes, it is not easy to distinguish it from Temminck’s Stint.

166. Greater Painted-snipe Rostratula benghalensis It is an uncommon bird in the northeast. It is found in shallow marshes and drying up pools.

167. Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus It may be not as uncommon as reported because it is difficult to see due to its camouflage and shy nature. It is found in shallow marshes and drying up pools.

168. Swinhoe’s Snipe Gallinago megala It is occasional in the Park (Barua and Sharma 1999). We did not see it during our surveys.

169. Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago It is fairly common in suitable habitat which is drying up beels, squelchy damp ground and paddy fields. We saw it in Sohola beel from the road. It is probably more common outside than inside the Park.

170. Pintail Snipe Gallinago stenura It is another common snipe, not always easy to identify. It shares its habitat with the earlier species. 171. Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it from Namdaur and Dhaphlang beels on 1 March 1994, but since then no one has seen them. Rehan Ali (pers. comm. 2016) has not seen it during his many visits to the Park, nor Abidur Rahman have reported it during his several visits to the Park in the last 10 years. We consider it a doubtful record from the Park.

172. Brown-headed Gull Chroicocephalus brunnicephalus It is a common migrant to the Park seen from early October to end March. Sometime seen with Common Black-headed Gull. Generally seen on the Brahmaputra River.

173. Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutes An immature was seen in Sohola Beel (Agaratoli) on 19 March 1994; the first record for Assam (Barua and Sharma 1999). We did not see it during our surveys.

174. Common Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus It is a common migrant to the Park seen from early October to end March.

175. Little Tern Sternula albifrons pusilla/ sinensis Barua and Sharma (1999) consider this as an occasional migrant to the Park, but we did not see any during our surveys. Rahan Ali has seen it in the Park.

176. Common Tern Sterna hirundo Barua and Sharma (1999) consider this as an occasional migrant to the Park, but we did not see any during our surveys. Rasmussen and Anderton (2012) have not listed it from

the north-east. We asked many bird tour guides and none of them has seen this species, so we consider it as unconfirmed till photographic evidence is available.

177. Black-bellied Tern Sterna acuticauda (EN) It is an uncommon visitor to the Park. It is suspected to breed on river islands (chaporis) of Brahmaputra. A detailed survey is required as it is an Endangered species.

178. Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica We did not see this species but Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as stray. We asked many experienced and regular visitors to the Park. No one has seen this bird, so we consider it as tentative till good photographic evidence is available.

179. River Tern Sterna aurantia (NT) It is a common resident in Brahmaputra.

180. Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrid It is an uncommon resident in Brahmaputra. We did not see any, but it is listed by Barua and Sharma (1999). Abidur Rahman has seen in the Brahmaputra chaporis.

181. White-winged Tern Chlidonias leucopterus Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported one individual at Kerasin, Kohora in November 1997. We did not see it, nor do we have any other record.

182. Rock Pigeon Columba livia Very common around human habitations, not so much inside the Park.

183. Green Imperial-pigeon Ducula aenea It is a common resident of the forested areas of the Park, frequently seen in Burapahar area.

184. Mountain Imperial-pigeon Ducula badia Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as uncommon. We did not see it during our surveys. In peak winters, it comes down from hills and occasionally seen in the Park. Abidur Rahman has seen in Agaratoli. 185. Pale-capped Woodpigeon Columba punicea (VU) It is perhaps local migratory in small numbers. We did not see any during our surveys, but reported by many ornithologists, including Rehan Ali. It is not a regular bird in the Park. In 2006, Abidur Rahman has seen few birds.

186. Oriental Turtle-Dove Streptopelia orientalis meena

It is quite common in forested areas of the Park, particularly eastern and western ranges. Frequently seen by us in Burapahar area.

187. Red Collared-dove Streptopelia tranquebarica It is a common resident in and outside the Park, more often seen on open woodland than in thick forest or grassland.

188. Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis It is a common resident in and outside the Park, more often seen on open woodland than in thick forest or grassland.

189. Eurasian Collared-dove Streptopelia decaocto It is an uncommon bird in the Park, more often seen outside the Park in cultivated fields. We have some confirmed records from the Park. For instance, on March 29, 2014 a pair was seen near Bahubeel Camp in Burapahar Range, and on May 1, 2014, another pair was seen in Debaswari Tinali Rongi Camp.

190. Barred Cuckoo-dove Macropygia unchall Not listed by Barua and Sharma (1999). Abid seen it in Burapahas and Panbari.

191. Emerald Dove Chalcophaps indica It is a common bird, frequently seen in dampled forest roads, picking up fallen seeds. We had many sightings of this bird in the Park.

192. Ashy-headed Green-pigeon Treron phayrei It is a common bird in forested areas all over the Park.

193. Thick-billed Green-pigeon Treron curvirostra It is an uncommon resident in the Park, mainly seen in Panbari Range.

194. Orange-breasted Green-pigeon Treron bicinctus It is sometimes seen in the Park, but we did not see it. Many ornithologists have not seen it, so it must be rare in the Park.

195. Wedge-tailed Green-pigeon Treron sphenurus Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it but we did not see it during our visits. It is more often seen in the forest areas of Kohora Range and also in Burapahar area.

196. Yellow-footed Green-pigeon Treron p. phoenicopterus Very common inside the Park. We had multiple sightings.

197. Pin-tailed Green-pigeon Treron apicauda It is an erratic species in the Park, sometimes comes in flock of more than 50 bird, absent for many months. 36

198. Vernal Hanging-parrot Loriculus vernalis This small noisy bird is generally seen on the canopy of tall trees, seldom at mid level. We have seen it in Agaratoli Range.

199. Finsch’s Parakeet or Grey-headed Parakeen Psittacula finschii (NT) It is also known as Grey-headed Parakeet. It is perhaps the least common parakeet of the Park. It was reported by Barua and Sharma (1999), but we could not see any bird during our surveys in 2014-2015. Abidur Rahman has seen it many times.

200. Rosy-headed Parakeet Psittacula roseata (NT) Earlier it was called Eastern Blossom-headed Parakeet and some people considered it as a subspecies. Now it is considered as a full species and named Rosy-headed Parakeet. It is found in from eastern Nepal, West Bengal, Sikkim to Assam and further east. It is a rare visitor to the Park. A pair was seen nesting in a tree in Baghmari camp on April 21, 2014.

201. Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri It is found in open wooded areas of the Park.

202. Alexandrine Parakeet Psittacula eupatria (NT) It is a common resident bird of the Park, breeds from February onwards. Flocks consisting of 10-15 birds are frequently seen flying around in open wooded areas, less so in thick forest.

203. Red-breasted Parakeet Psittacula alexandri (NT) This noisy bird cannot be missed by anyone. It is extremely common both inside and outside the Park, particularly in Burapahar area.

204. Violet Cuckoo Chrysococcyx xanthorhynchus Abidur Rahman has seen it in a tea garden near Wild Grass Resort, outside the Park. It is likely to occur inside the Park, but like all cuckoos, this also has erratic movement.

205. Asian Emerald Cuckoo Chrysococcyx maculates It is a summer visitor to the Assam Valley. Barua and Sharma (1999) have mentioned a record of this species by D. Bishop, but we did not see this bird during our surveys. According to Abidur Rahman, it is often seen in May in the Park.

206. Plaintive Cuckoo Cacomantis merulinus It is a resident bird of the Assam valley and shows local movement. The bird is active and restless within the canopy. Males call from regular perches, often concealed.

207. Banded Bay Cuckoo Cacomantis sonneratii It is a mid-sized cuckoo with fairly long curved bill. It is considered as a local migrant in the Assam Valley. It is uncommon in Kaziranga.

208. ‘Square-tailed’ Drongo-cuckoo Surniculus lugubris A small black cuckoo with a rather short, slightly curved bill and notched tail. The bird is summer visitor to the NE India. It is inconspicuous and as easy to overlook as a drongo. Arboreal, keeping to the canopy foliage of trees and shrubs. Flight is cuckoo-like. Usual hosts are evidently small babblers but other host species have been reported.

209. Jacobin Cuckoo Clamator jacobinus A crested black-and-white cuckoo. It is a summer visitor to the Assam valley and migration largely controlled by the SW. monsoon. Arrival and presence in a locality advertised by the birds chasing one another, flying from tree to tree and calling excitedly. Chiefly arboreal, but occasionally descends to ground and hops about in search of food, grasshoppers, hairy caterpillars, and sometimes berries.

210. Chestnut-winged Cuckoo Clamator coromandus

A slim and rather small cuckoo. A summer visitor to the Assam valley. Is found singly or in loose parties of 3 or 4. Strictly arboreal. Usually furtive and not seen regularly at same sites; usually joins passing mixed flocks.

211. Asian Koel Eudynamys scolopaceus Is a brood-parasitic. Arboreal and frequents gardens, groves and open country abounding in large leafy trees. Silent in winter, thus often overlooked and recorded as absent. Becomes increasingly noisy with the advance of the hot weather, and then one of the earliest bird voices at dawn. The call begins with a low kuoo, rises in scale with each successive kuoo until it reaches fever pitch at the seventh or eighth, and breaks off abruptly.

212. Indian Cuckoo Cuculus micropterus This bird is summer visitor to the Assam valley. Is chiefly arboreal, keeping singly to top canopy. Seen flying hawk-like above the forest canopy. Feeds on caterpillars and other large insects in canopy, sometimes on ground, and takes termite alates in air.

213. Common (Eurasian) Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Although we have not seen this species, it was reported by a very experienced ornithologists, Shashank Dalvi, who saw it in Golaghat on 30 May 2015 and by Josh Engel and Stuart White in Panbari Range on 3 April 2015 (eBird 2016).

214. Large Hawk-cuckoo Hierococcyx sparverioides A very large cuckoo. It is resident bird of Assam valley. It’s a canopy dwelling and shy bird. Sings from treetops by day and into the night. In flight resembles accipiters, passinglow with quick wing-beats interspersed by glides, before rising to perch. This is a nest-parasite bird.

215. Common Hawk-cuckoo Hierococcyx varius Also known as Brainfever bird due to its loud, screaming brain-fever, brain-fever, repeated with monotonous persistency 5 or 6 times, rising in crescendo and ending abruptly. Heard all through the day and frequently during moonlit nights. Nest-parasitic. Inhabits light forest; also partial to gardens, groves and mango topes, etc., near human habitations. Mostly silent during winter, and therefore liable to be overlooked. Becomes increasingly obstreperous with the advance of the hot weather.

216. Whistling Hawk-cuckoo or Hodgson’s Hawk-cuckoo Hierococcyx nisicolor It is often seen in Panbari Range.

217. Green-billed Malkoha Phaenicophaeus tristis A dusky malkoha with an extraordinarily long tail. It is a resident bird. The bird is sluggish, skulker keeping to impenetrable thickets, clambering among the dense cover. It feeds upon insects, lizards and other small animals. It is a non-parasitic cuckoo. It is very common in lightly wooded part of the Park. We had many sightings in areas like Panbari, Kanchenjudi, Agaratoli, Ahatguri etc.

218. Lesser Coucal Centropus bengalensis Kaziranga is one of its strongholds in the country as it prefers tall wet grasslands. We saw it or heard in every part of the Park wherever tall, wet grassland is present.

219. Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis Common in lightly wooded areas of the Park, and also outside in villagers, crop field and private small forested patches. We had many sightings of this species in the Park. There appears to be ecological segregation between Greater and Lesser coucals which will be interesting to study.

220. Common Barn-owl Tyto alba It is a bird of human habited zone and often seen outside the Park.

221. Brown Hawk-owl Ninox scutulata It is resident in Kaziranga and found mainly in forested patches.

222. Tawny Fish-owl Ketupa flavipes We did not see this bird during our surveys but it is reported from Kaziranga. To see owls, we need to survey during night which is not allowed in the Park, hence we must have missed many species.

223. Brown Fish-owl Ketupa zeylonensis It is regularly seen in Agaratoli range in a well-known spot close to Brahmaputra River.

224. Dusky Eagle-owl Bubo coromandus It is reported by Barua and Sharma (1999) but we did not see any individual. Rehan Ali also considers it as doubtful in the Park.

225. Eurasian Eagle-owl Bubo bubo Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as uncommon in the Park. We did not see any during our surveys. Although our nocturnal survey was limited, we doubt the presence of this species in the Park. Rasmussen and Anderton (2012) and Grimmett et al. (2011) do not show its distribution in Assam. The taxonomy of Bubo species is under flex due to genetic studies and till it is settled, we will not know which Bubo species are found in Assam and Kaziranga.

226. Brown Wood-owl Strix leptogrammica Barua and Sharma (1999) have not reported it from the Park. We have not seen this species in the Park, but one bird was seen by Josh Engel in Kohora Range on March 31, 2010 (eBird 2016).

227. Collared Scops-owl Outs lettia

Barua and Sharma (1999) have not reported it from the Park. According to Abidur Rahman, it is very common. He saw 15 together in a day roost.

228. Oriental Scops-owl Otus sunia It is a common resident in the Park.

229. Spotted Owlet Athene brama Frequently found outside the Park in human dominated landscape. We found it in Bokakhat town as well as in tea estates. It is also common on the edges of the Park, may be inside also.

230. Asian Barred Owlet Glaucidium cuculoides It is a common resident in the Park. Frequently heard outside the Park in well-wooded countryside.

231. Collared Owlet Glaucidium brodiei According to Barua and Sharma (1999), it is very are in the Park. We did not come across it during our surveys, but Rehan Ali has seen it frequently.

232. Grey Nightjar Caprimulgus jotaka Nightjars are extremely difficult to identify unless they call. Barua and Sharma (1999) have listed Grey Nightjar as occasional. We have few sightings, mainly outside the Park or just outside the Park.

233. Large-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus macrurus We have seen and heard this species in Agaratoli Range where we did maximum field work. It was also heard outside the Park in reserve forest such as Panbari.

234. Savanna Nightjar Caprimulgus affinis Although Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it occasional, we found it quite common in the grasslands. Its call can be heard, and bird seen flying over on almost in all grasslands during summer months.

235. Asian Palm-swift Cypsiurus balasiensis Very common all over Park and common outside the Park.

236. Himalayan Swiftlet Aerodramus brevirostris Uncommon migrant in winter in the Park.

237. Indian White-rumped Spinetail Zoonavena sylvatica It is a species that is perhaps not noticed properly due to similarity with congers. We have not seen it Rehan Ali has seen it. There are two more records: seen by Kadambari

Devarajan in Bagori Range on December 06, 2015 abd by Sue Milks in Tezpur on March 25 and 27, 2016 (eBird 2016).

238. Little or House Swift Apus affinis Very common in and around houses, less so in the Park.

239. Blyth’s Swift Apus leuconyx Barua and Sharma (1999) have not listed it but Rehan Ali has seen it many times.

240. White-throated Needletail Hirundapus caudacutus Barua and Sharma (1999) have not listed it, and we have also not seen it, but Abidur Rahman has seen it in Haldibari area.

241. Silver-backed Needletail Hirundapus cochinchinensis Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it an occasional migrant. We did not see it during our surveys, but Abidur Rahman has seen it many times.

242. Brown-throated Needletail Hirundapus giganteus We did not come across this species, but Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported sighting by D. Bishop. Later, Abidur Rahman has seen it many times.

243. ‘Black-billed’ Roller Coracias benghalensis affinis Resident in Assam Valley and is commonly found in and around Kaziranga. Abundant in open cultivation, light deciduous forest, groves, often near human habitation.

244. Dollarbird Eurystomus orientalis It is found in forested parts of the Park. We had multiple sightings in Agaratoli Range. It breeds in the Park.

245. Common Hoopoe Upupa e. epops This species has an extremely large range and is a local migrant. Is a solitary bird seen foraging in short grass, probing and digging with long bill. Takes dust-baths, and fans crest in excitement or alarm; crest is held flat by relaxed birds. In flight has a distinctive shallow undulating pattern, with wing-beats in short irregular bursts. Very often seen on the road or over-grazed grasslands.

246. Red-headed Trogon Harpactes erythrocephalus It is a resident bird of the Southern Assam hills and is considered as a local migrant to Kaziranga National Park. Feeds on insects such as caterpillars, moths, beetles, grasshoppers, cicadas; also eats berries. The foot of this bird is so poorly developed that it is incapable of walking also if the bird has to turn while perched on branch then it cannot do so without flying. Mainly found on canopy of tall trees.

247. Stork-billed Kingfisher Halcyon capensis Very common all over the Park.

248. Ruddy Kingfisher Halcyon coromanda One at Baguri in February 1996 and a pair at Panbari on 22 April 1999 (Barua and Sharma 1999). This is an entirely rufous kingfisher, with brilliant lilac-purple sheen above whitish throat, and bright coral-red bill and legs. A very secretive species, more often heard than seen; calls from inside tree canopy. Feeds on large vertebrates as well as fish, and can be found in dense forest far from any river.

249. Black-capped Kingfisher Halcyon pileata This is the only regional kingfisher with black cap. It is a winter visitor to Kaziranga. It is largely dependent on the presence of water, chiefly salt or brackish, for its food — fish, crabs, etc. — its habits are quite similar to those of the more familiar white-throated species.

250. White-throated or White-breasted Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis Very common in Kaziranga and seen in all ranges. It is least dependent upon water and can be seen in grazed grasslands, preying on large insects, snakes, frogs and even birds.

251. Lesser Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis This is one of the most conspicuous and widely distributed kingfishers of Kaziranga, seen in all ranges.

252. Blyth’s Kingfisher Alcedo hercules (NT) Based on Jepson (1998) record of one bird seen on 26 January 1998, Barua and Sharma (1999) have included it in the list, but we did not see any nor know of any record by ornithologists and bird guides. It is mostly recorded from foothills to 1200 m. It prefers clear streams deep inside forests. There is no such habitat in Kaziranga.

253. Blue-eared Kingfisher Alcedo meninting It is very similar to Common Kingfisher, but lacks rufous cheek-patch. This is a summer visitor to the Assam valley. Often shy, usually near cover. It is confined to forests preferably evergreen or bamboo. It keeps singly to stretches of forest streams. Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it stray in the Park, which is probably true as we have not seen it. Only Abidur Rahman has seen in the Park in recent years.

254. Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis This species has an extremely large range and is resident throughout the North-east India. Ubiquitous small blue kingfisher found in open wetlands.

255. Chestnut-headed Bee-eater Merops leschenaulti Is a summer visitor to Assam valley and few present in winter. Occurs patchily and locally in fairly well-wooded country intermediate between the moist-evergreen and the dry-deciduous types. Large gatherings collect at nightly roosts in favourite leafy trees. Food and general habits similar to Small Bee-eater.

256. Blue-tailed Bee-eater Merops philippinus This bird is known as Jeea khate in Assamese. Is a breeding visitor to Assam valley. Mainly feeds on dragonflies, bees and wasps. Nests in colonies in sandy and muddy

banks along rivers or cliffs, with egg-laying in mid-May. Both sexes share in excavating nest-tunnel and feeding young

257. Little Green Bee-eater Merops orientalis A small, delicate and rather monochromatic green bee-eater with a blue-green throat. Inhabits open country — the neighbourhood of cultivation, forest clearings, fallow land, gardens, golf links, etc. Also partial to the zone above sandy beach along the seacoast. Launches aerial sallies after bees, etc., snapping them up in its bill and circling back gracefully on outstretched motionless wings to the perch, where the quarry is battered to death and swallowed.

258. Blue-bearded Bee-eater Nyctyornis athertoni This bird is found in Western Ghats as well as North East India. Is a resident bird of Assam. It is a shy bird, usually pearching quietly in mid-storey in pairs (but not clumping together like other bee-eaters). Does not soar, and flight is rapid, undulating and relatively graceless. Courtship display involves food offerings, bowing and tail-fanning. Breeds during Feb–Aug in holes in banks.

259. Oriental Pied Hornbill Anthracoceros albirostris This species has an extremely large range, and is resident bird of Assam. Locally common in moist deciduous forest, secondary and fragmented forests, sometimes around cultivation. The most widespread and common large forest hornbill, more tolerant of habitat disturbance than others. It is quite common in the Park, and its environs. It is even seen in Bokakhat town. A pair was seen in Bokakhat in November 2015.

260. Great Pied Hornbill Buceros bicornis (NT) An immense pied hornbill with a very large yellow bill. It is often found in evergreen and moist-deciduous forest from plains to 1500 m in the W. Ghats; 2000 m in the Himalayas. Arboreal, occasionally descends to the ground. In pairs or small parties, large gatherings at abundantly fruiting trees. Often roost communally in congregations. Covers a large feeding circuit. Flight laboured and noisy, heard at considerable distances. The bird may have a moderately small population and is likely to be declining moderately rapidly throughout its range; it is therefore listed as Near Threatened.

261. Wreathed Hornbill Aceros undulatus Wreathed Hornbill is found from the Himalayan foothills to about 700 m elevation. In Kaziranga is it reported occasionally from Burapahar. We did not see any individual in the main Park.

262. Coppersmith Barbet Xantholaema haemacephala It is one of the commonest barbets of India with all India distribution, except in the arid areas of western Rajasthan. It is seen in the Park, but more often outside in human- dominated landscape.

263. Blue-throated Barbet Megalaima asiatica This is a resident bird of the Assam Valley and common in open deciduous and evergreen forests, parkland and wooded gardens. Like the earlier species, it is also found in villages and towns with tall trees. Its call can heard everywhere. We had multiple sightings. A nest was being excavated in a dried tree branch in Kanchanjudi area on 19 November 2015.

264. Blue-eared Barbet Megalaima australis Its characteristic call can be heard from February onward in the Park, although it is not easy to see it due to its comafluage and shy nature.

265. Lineated Barbet Megalaima lineata No one can miss the call of this species in and outside the Park, actually in the whole of northeast. It appears to be everywhere 266. Great Barbet Megalaima virens This large barget of 33 cm prefers forests, usually from 1000 to 3000 m, but may occurs as low as 150 m. It was recorded from Panbari and Burapahar areas.

267. Eurasian Wryneck Jynx torquilla We have not seen this species but Barua and Sharma (1999) have mentioned two records: one seen at Kathpora (Kohora) on 25 March 1998 (Bishop 1998), and another by by Sonowal (1978). It is a very characteristic bird so could not be missed wherever it occurs in good numbers. It appears to be a stray in the Park. 268. Speckled Piculet Vivia innominata It is a common resident in Assam, and found in the Park. It is usually found in understory of lower strata of forest, singly or in dispersed pairs. 269. White-browed Piculet Sasia ochracea It may be a resident bird in the Park although we do not have any record of nest. Actually detailed study on birds of Kaziranga has not bee conducted till now. 270. Grey-capped Pygmy Woodpecker Dendrocopos canicapillus; 271. Fulvous-breasted Pied Woodpecker Dendrocopos macei; 272. Streak-throated Woodpecker Picus xanthopygaeus; 273. Greater Yellownape Chrysophlegma flavinucha; 274. Lesser Yellownape Picus c. chlorolophus; 275. Grey-faced Woodpecker Picus canus; 276. Rufous Woodpecker Micropternus brachyurus

Kaziranga is a paradise of woodpeckers thanks to well-protected forest with large old trees which provide them food and opportunity to prepare nest holes. All the above- mentioned woodpeckers are quite common in the Park.

277. Bay Woodpecker Blythipicus pyrrhotis Local Migrant. Usually keeps to lower parts of forest, foraging regularly on dead stumps and logs, and occasionally on ground. Occasionally in mixed flocks; constantly agitated, keeps calling a while but hard to see.

278. Pale-headed Woodpecker Gecinulus grantia A bird was regularly seen in a tea garden behind the resort known as Wild Grass. Although it is recorded from the boundary of the Park, it is likely to occur there.

279. Common Flameback Dinopium javanense According to Rasmuseen and Anderton (2012) it is found in the southern Western Ghats, and Manipur-Mizoram states bordering Myanmar. Its status is considered as uncommon by Barua and Sharma (1999). Resident status of this bird in the Park is unclear.

280. Himalayan Flameback Dinopium shorii Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it as uncommon resident. We did not see it during our surveys. Two leading birdwatchers, Rehan Ali and Abidur Rahman have also not seen it despite their regular visit to the Park as bird guides.

281. Black-rumped Flameback Dinopium benghalense It is a common resident in Assam, often found in pairs and or mixed flocks, feeding at all levels in trees and on ground, often at arboreal and terrestrial ant nests. It breeds between February and July. We had multiple sightings in the Park. It is also common in cities, villages and orchard, wherever there are tall old trees.

282. Greater Flameback Chrysocolaptes guttacristatus We have not seen this species in the Park. However, Barua and Sharma (1999) have mentioned two sightings: one seen 30 January 1971 (Inskipp 1971), and one on 18 December 1998 (Holt 1998). Choudhury (2003) has listed this species from the Park as resident and common but under Chrysocolaptes lucidus. As it is quite similar to other flamebacks, it is perhaps easily mistaken. It is mainly found in the foothills, up to 1000 m in broadleaved forests. Its habitat is present in the Park.

283. Silver-breasted Broadbill Serilophus lunatus It is an uncommon bird but there are regular records from the Park. It was sighted in Panbari area. Barua and Sharma (1999) have mentioned it as occasional and local migrant.

284. Long-tailed Broadbill Psarisomus dalhousiae Abidur Rahman has seen it in Agraratoli Range. It is not mentioned by Barua and Sharma (1999) and Choudhury (2003).

285. Hooded Pitta Pitta sordida Hooded Pitta was first time sighted on 2 July 2008 in the central range (Kohora) by Udayan and Das (2010).

286. Blue Pitta Hydrornis cyanea Barua and Sharma (1999) have listed it as stray. We have not seen it during our visits. Rehan Ali, an experienced birdwatcher has also not seen it during his numerous visits.

287. Blue-naped Pitta Hydrornis nipalensis It is uncommon in the Park. Rehan Ali and Abidur Rahman have seen it during their birding tours in the Park. Choudhury (2003) has mentioned that it is local migrant and occasional in the Park. We did not see it during our suveys.

288. Indian Pitta Pitta brachyura Barau and Sharma (1999) have mentioned a record by M. Watson in March 1999. No one has seen it after that. It could be a stray record or a case of mistaken identity.

289. Bengal Bushlark Mirafra assamica It is very common resident on heavily grazed grasslands, road, fallow fields and chaporis. It is also known as Rufous-winged Buchlark.

290. Oriental Skylark Alauda gulgula Like the earlier species, very common on heavily grazed grasslands, roads and chaporis.

291. Sand Lark Calandrella raytal It is an uncommon bird of chaporis, heavily-grazed grasslands and fallow fields.

292. Common Sand-martin Riparia riparia These were seen in good numbers at Nikorighat area on the Dhansiri River on 25 November 2015.

293. Grey-throated Sand-martin Riparia chinensis These were seen in good numbers at Nikorighat area on the Dhansiri River on 25 November 2015.

294. Nepal House-martin Delichon nipalense It is not included by Barua and Sharma (1999) and Choudhury (2003). It could be a winter migrant to the Park in small numbers. Fabio Olmas reported this species from Bagori Range on November 17, 2015 (eBird 2016).

295. Pale Sand-martin Riparia d. diluta

We have not seen this bird but Barua and Sharma (1999) mention K. Kazmierczak record of 27 March 1996. Kaziranga is too far from its normal distribution. Unless there is photographic evidence, it is difficult to accept this record.

296. Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica Very common resident in Assam Valley

297. Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica Winter migrant to the Park

298. Striated Swallow Cecropis striolata It is an occasional bird in the Assam Valley. Barua and Sharma (1999) have mentioned record by D. Bishop in 1998.

299. Western Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava beema Winter migrant to many parts of the Park. Four subspecies are reported in India, and beema is found in Kaziranga.

300. Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea This wagtail is a widespread winter visitor throughout India. It has a white supercilium, grey upperparts and yellow vent in all plumages. It is found almost near every wetland, in marshy areas (like beels) in Kaziranga. Possibly the commonest wagtail.

301. Citrine Wagtail Motacilla c. citreola This wagtail is a widespread winter visitor throughout India. It breeds in the Himalayas. It is occasionally seen in wetlands in Kaziranga.

302. Forest Wagtail Dendronanthus indicus This forest-dwelling wagtail is a winter visitor to north-east and south-west India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. It has olive-brown upperparts, white supercilium and wings bars and two black bands on breast. It is seen along the paths and clearings in tropical evergreen forest, also shady areas in tea plantations and deciduous forests. It was occasionally recorded from Kaziranga.

303. White Wagtail Motacilla alba leucopsis This wagtail is widespread winter visitor across India. It has white underparts with grey or black above and white forehead. It has largely white wing, and black hindcrown and breast. It has many races and is highly variable. It is seen in open areas near water, mostly near beels.

304. White-browed Wagtail Motacilla maderaspatensis

This wagtail is a widespread resident species across India. It is a large wagtail with black mantle, black head and white supercilium. It occurs in wetland habitats, including river banks, beels, lakes etc.

305. Olive-backed Pipit Anthus h. yunnanensis This is a winter visitor pipit and is widespread throughout India, except north-west and south-east parts. It inhabits open forests. It is less streaked on upperparts compared to the similar looking race Anthus h. hodgsonii. The upperpart is greenish and has a strong eyebrow.

306. Rosy Pipit Anthus roseatus This pipit is a winter visitor to the plains and foothills in northern parts of India including north-east India. It breeds in high Himalayas on slopes above the tree line. The breeding habitat includes marshes, damp grassland and cultivation.

307. Richard’s Pipit Anthus richardi This pipit is a widespread but sporadic winter visitor to India. It prefers moist grassland and cultivation for wintering.

308. Paddyfield Pipit Anthus rufulus This pipit species is a widespread resident in India, exscpt in some parts of north-east and north-west. It prefers short grassland habitats

309. Blyth’s Pipit Anthus godlewskii This pipit is a widespread winter visitor. In Kaziranga it is a passage migrant and seen mainly during autumn. It prefers grassland areas and cultivation.

310. Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris It has been found in Burapahar range. It is normally not found in the north-east so this must be the first record.

311. Ashy Woodswallow Artamus fuscus This species is a resident of eatern, southern and south-eastern parts of India. It has a harsh “check- check- check” call. A flock of 5-7 birds was seen roosting in Bokakhat town on 26 November 2015 and every evening in December 2015 during the survey. It is found in open wooded country.

312. Large Woodshrike Tephrodornis gularis It is also referred to as Tephrodornis virgatus. This woodshrike is a resident of the Himalayan foothills, eastern, north-east and south-eastern parts of India. The calls are musical notes “kew-kew-kew”. It inhabits broadleaved forest and well-wooded areas. Some ornithologists and bird tour guides claim to have seen this species in the Park.

313. Common Woodshrike Tephrodornis pondicerianus This woodshrike species is widespread resident throughout India. It prefers open broadleaved forest, secondary growth and well-wooded areas. It is often seen in the Park. It was seen in Panbari area and in Karbi-Anglong area on

314. Black-winged Cuckooshrike Lalage melaschistos This cuckooshrike breeds in the Himalayas and hills of north-east India. It winters mainly in the Himalayan foothills, eastern and north-east India and Bangladesh. The call is a monotonous but sweet descending ‘pity-to-be’. It inhabits open forest so found on the edges and in open-wooded parts of the Park. It probably breeds in the Park. It was seen in the Panbari area on 18 November 2015 and in Karbi-Anglong area on 23 November 2015.

315. Large Cuckooshrike Coracina macei This cuckooshrike is a widespread resident of India, except the drier parts of north-west. Open woodland and trees in cultivation. It was seen in Agaratoli Range, and also in tea plantation areas around Kaziranga.

316. Long-tailed Minivet Pericrocotus ethologus This is a resident species of the Himalayas and north-east India. It winters in south and central India. It prefers forest and well-wooded areas for wintering. We had multiple sightings in the Park.

317. Short-billed Minivet Pericrocotus brevirostris This is a resident species of the Himalayas and north-east India. It prefers broadleaved forest and forest edges. It is very similar to Scarlet Minivet, but smaller so easily confused.

318. Scarlet Minivet Pericrocotus speciosus This is a resident minivet species of the Himalayas, hills of central and eastern India, Eastern Ghats, andamans and Bangladesh. It is found in forested areas in Kaziranga in mixed flocks with Grey-chinned Minivet Pericrocotus solaris.

319. Grey-chinned Minivet Pericrocotus solaris This is a resident minivet species of the Himalayas and north-east India. It is found in forested areas in Kaziranga in mixed flocks with Scarlet Minivet Pericrocotus speciosus. It prefers moist broadleaved forest. There are many records of this species from Kaziranga (eBird 2016).

320. Small Minivet Pericrocotus cinnamomeus It is widespread resident minivet species in India. It prefers open wooded areas. There are many records of this species from Kaziranga (eBird 2016).

321. Rosy Minivet Pericrocotus roseus This is a resident species. It breeds in the Himalayas and north-east India. It winters mainly in north-east India and in eastern parts of India and Bangladesh. It prefers forested areas. In Kaziranga it appears to be local migratory.

322. Red-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer bengalensis This is a widespread resident bulbul species in India. In and around Kaziranga, only the P. c. bengalensis subspecies is found. It is common in forested areas, tea plantations as well as human dominated habitation. It was seen on all survey days.

323. Red-whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus This is a widespread resident species of bulbul. It is unrecorded in parts of north and north-west India. This noisy bulbul prefers open forests, scrub jungle, tea estates and human habitation. Very often seen in and outside Kaziranga.

324. Himalayan Black Bulbul Hypsipetes leucocephalus It is a resident of the Himalayas and north-east India. A flock of 12 birds was seen on 22 November 2015 near Morphuloni camp in Bagori range of Kaziranga. It prefers broadleaved evergreen forest.

325. Ashy Bulbul Hemixos flavala This bulbul is a resident of the Himlayas, north-east India and Bangladesh. This is a distinctive crested mostly grey bulbul. It prefers broadleaved forest.

326. White-throated Bulbul Alophoixus flaveolus This is a resident bulbul of the Himalayas, north-east India and Bangladesh. It prefers undergrowth in evergreen forest and secondary growth.

327. Black-crested Bulbul Pycnonotus flaviventris This is a resident bulbul of the Himalayas, north-east India and Bangladesh. This is a black headed bulbul with a black erect crest and yellow iris.

328. Black-headed Bulbul Pycnonotus atriceps This is a resident bulbul of north-east India and Bangladesh. This is a crestless olive- green and yellow bulbul with black head. This is found in open forest. One bird seen by Anoop King in Kohora range on December 03, 2014 and there is an old record by Praveen J. from 2001 from the same range. We have not seen this bird during our surveys.

329. Flavescent Bulbul Pycnonotus flavescens This is resident bulbul species of the north-east Indian hills. It is a gregarious species and keeps in flocks. A flock was seen on 22 November 2015 in Bagori range in Kaziranga in dense forest undergrowth. It prefers forests with plenty of undergrowth, thick bushes and secondary growth. Possibly this is the first record of the species in Kaziranga.

330. Common Iora Aegithina tiphia This is a widespread resident bird species of India, except the north-western part. It is found in open forest and well-wooded areas. Its song is a long drawn out whistle which can be heard in and outside the Park. It was seen on 25 November 2015 in Kaziranga, and also many times in Bokakhat town.

331. Orange-bellied Leafbird Chloropsis hardwickii This is a resident species of the Himalayas, north-east India and Bangladesh. It prefers broadleaved forest. The calls include varied whistles, chuckles, and rattles with much mimicry. Sighting from Bagori range by Kadambari Devarajan on December 06, 2015, by Howard Laidlaw from Kohora range on March 31, 2006 and one more record from Kohora range by Fabio Olmos on November 19, 2015 (eBird 2016).

332. Gold-fronted Leafbird Chloropsis aurifrons This is a resident species of the Himalayas, north-east, east, south and south-west India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. It prefers broadleaved forest and secondary growth. It is very common in the Park.

333. Blue-winged Leafbird Chloropsis cochinchinensis It is a resident species of the hills of north-east Indian and Bangladesh. It prefers open forest and well-wooded areas. The calls include varied whistles, chuckles, and rattles with much mimicry. We have seen it in the Park.

334. Asian Fairy-bluebird Irena puella It is a resident species of the Himalayan foothills, hills of north-east, east and south India. The male is glistening violet-blue on upperside and black on the underside, so unmistakable. It is found in evergreen and moist deciduous forest.

335. ‘Black-headed’ Long-tailed Shrike Lanius schach tricolor group

This race tricolor of the Long-tailed Shrike is found in east and north-east India. It has a black hood and long black tail. It prefers open dry scrub and also is seen regularly in cultivation (tea plantation) in and around Kaziranga. It is a common shrike in Kaziranga. We had multiple sighting during most of our visits. It was seen on almost all days in November 2015 during the bird survey.

336. Grey-backed Shrike Lanius tephronotus This species breeds in the Himalayas and winters in adjacent plains in north and north- east India and Bangladesh. It prefers bushes in cultivation, scrub and secondary growth. It is a common shrike in Kaziranga. It was seen on almost all days in November 2015 during the bird survey.

337. Brown Shrike Lanius c. cristatus This is a widespread winter visitor to most parts of India, less common in north-west and north India. It is seen if scrub forest and forest edges. It was seen on three occasions, on 20 and 25 November 2015 and 18 December 2015 during the bird survey.

338. Black-naped Monarch Hypothymis azurea This species is a widespread resident across India. It inhabits broadleaved forest. It has a habit of making multiple sallies from a perch to catch insects.

339. Asian Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone paradisi This species is a widespread resident across India. It is found in forests and well-wooded areas. The male of this species has either white or rufous upperparts and long tail streamers. Feeds on flying insects. In Kaziranga, it appears to be breeding resident.

340. Yellow-bellied Fantail Chelidorhynx hypoxantha This species is resident of the Himalayas, north-east India and Bangladesh. It has a habit of erecting and fanning the tail feathers other fantails. It feeds on flying insects. It prefers and is regularly seen in forested areas like Panbari and Burapahar.

341. White-throated Fantail Rhipidura albicollis It is resident of the Himalayas, north-east and eastern India. It inhabits forested areas, secondary growth and wooded areas. It is resident as well as migrant to the Park.

342. Green Cochoa Cochoa viridis This species is a resident of the Himalayas and north-east India. This is a mostly green bird with blue crown and nape. It inhabits moist broadleaved evergreen forest so it is seen occasionally only in the forest parts of the Park.

343. Orange-headed Thrush Geokichla citrina It is a resident of the North-east, Central and Western India and a summer visitor to the Himalayas. It is a rich sweet and melodious song and prefers damp and shady places in forests.

344. Blue Whistling-thrush Myiophonus caeruleus This thrush is a resident of north-east Indian and the Himalayas. It is usually seen in forests and well wooded area. It prefers areas near to the streams. It has melodious whistling song.

345. Grey-winged Blackbird Turdus boulboul This blackbird species is resident in the Himalayas and winters south to the north-east India. It prefered habitat in summer is moist broadleaved and mixed broadleaved coniferous forest. The witering habitat is open forest and forest edges.

346. Small-billed Scaly Thrush Zoothera dauma This thrush is breeds in the Himalayas and winters in southern parts upto Odisha and north-east India. It is found in forests and well-wooded areas in winter.

347. Lesser Shortwing Brachypteryx leucophris Barua and Sharma (1999) have given three records of this species from the Park. Choudhury (2003) has also listed it possibly based on these records. We have not seen it in Kaziranga.

348. White-rumped Shama Copsychus malabaricus Common in bamboo thickets and crane brakes in the Park. We have multiple sightings.

349. Oriental Magpie-robin Copsychus saularis Very common in human-dominated landscape and lightly wood country, not so much in the forest where it is replaced by White-rumped Shama.

350. White-crowned Forktail Enicurus leschenaulti It is sometimes seen in the streams at Panbari. It was reported by Barua and Sharma (1999) quoting D. Bishops sighting.

351. Black-backed Forktail Enicurus immaculatus It is an uncommon vistor to the Park, mainly seen in the buffer zone in Panbari area. It was reported as uncommon local migrant (Barua and Sharma 1999). There are many records of this species from various ranges of Kaziranga (eBird 2016).

352. Bluethroat Luscinia s. svecica Fairly common winter visitor to damp areas in the Park. We have multiple sightings of this species in the Park.

353. Himalayan Rubythroat Calliope pectoralis Uncommon winter visitor to that Park.

354. Siberian Rubythroat Calliope calliope Uncommon winter visitor to that Park.

355. Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros rufiventris Common winter visitor to that Park

356. Daurian Redstart Phoenicurus auroreus Common winter visitor to that Park. Found in damp areas, mainly in undershrub.

357. Plumbeous Water-redstart Rhyacornis fuliginosus Uncommon winter visitor to that Park.

358. White-capped River-chat Phoenicurus leucocephalus Uncommon winter visitor to that Park, mainly seen in Panbari area. This species is also called as White-capped Water Redstart (Chaimarrornis leucocephalus). It is a resident of the hills in north-east India and the Himalayas. It prefers the riverine habitat. 63

359. Pied Bushchat Saxicola caprata Barua and Sharma (1999) have not listed it, and Abidur Rahman has not seen it in the Park. We have not seen it, but there is a record by Samyak Kaninde, Tim Wood and Shameeka Rao from Kohora and Bagori range (eBird 2016).

360. White-throated Bushchat Saxicola insignis (VU) Extremely uncommon winter visitor, perhaps overlooked also. One was seen in 2014 in non tourist zone in Baguri Range. Rehan Ali has also seen it in the same area earlier.

361. Siberian Stonechat Saxicola m. maurus/indicus Common winter migrant in the Park. It is frequently seen outside in crop field, fallow fields and grazing areas. It was seen almost everyday during the bird surveys in November and December 2015.

362. White-tailed Stonechat Saxicola leucurus Not uncommon but overlooked. It is always found in damp grasslands and drying beels with few cm of water. We have seen it in all the ranges of the Park, particularly in Sohola Beel.

363. Jerdon’s Bushchat Rhodophila jerdoni (NT) It is an uncommon resident bird of the Park, possibly overlooked. It prefers tall wet grassland, so a sizable number of this Near Threatened species should be present in the Park.

364. Grey Bushchat Rhodophila ferrea Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it as stray in the Park but now there are multiple records of the species by Snehasis Sinha, Kadambari Devarajan, Mark Robbins, Toby Austin, Pritam Baruah and Simon Tonge (eBird 2016).

365. Dark-sided Flycatcher Muscicapa sibirica Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it as occasional in the Park. We did not come across this species during our survey. Seen by Frani Lowe and Frank Murphy in 2008 and by Tao Zhang in 2016 in Kohora range (eBird 2016).

366. Asian Brown Flycatcher Muscicapa latirostris Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it as uncommon visitor in the Park. It was seen in Baguri range in Kaziranga and Karbi Anglong in November 2015.

367. Little Pied Flycatcher Ficedula westermanni This flycatcher is common winter migrant to the Park and seen in all ranges. A single bird was photographed on 22 December 2015 in Panbari range. There are reports of many sightings from Kaziranga including oneby Pritam Baruah (eBird 2016).

368. Red-throated (Taiga) Flycatcher Ficedula albicilla It is a common winter migrant to the Park and seen in all ranges. We have multiple sightings, all in winter. This species was previously treated as conspecific with Red- breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva.

369. Orange-gorgeted Flycatcher Ficedula strophiata (not seen by Abid) It is not reported by Barua and Sharma (1999), nor by Abidur Rahman and Rehan Ali. We have also not seen it, but in eBirds 2016 there are two records that is why we are including it in our list. One from Western Range by Kadambari Devarajan on December 06, 2015, and another by Christian Artuso from Panabari in 2002 (eBird 2016).

370. Slaty-blue Flycatcher Ficedula tricolor It is a winter migrant to the Park in small numbers. We have seen in all ranges.

371. Slaty-backed Flycatcher Ficedula sordida Barua and Sharma (1999) find it stray in the Park. We have not seen any bird, nor Abidur Rahman has also not seen it despite his many birding visits to the Park. It was seen by Pritam Baruah on February 16, 2014 in Kohora range (eBird 2016).

372. Snowy-browed Flycatcher Ficedula hyperythra It is a common winter migrant to the Park, seen in lightly forest areas.

373. Pygmy Blue Flycatcher Ficedula hodgsoni It is also called Slaty-backed Flycatcher. Barua and Sharma (1999) have listed it as stray in the Park. We did not come across this species.

374. Pale-chinned Flycatcher Cyornis poliogenys It is common in the Park in winter. It was formerly called Brooks’s Blue Flycatcher. It comes in varied plumage and its taxonomy is still debatable.

375. Verditer Flycatcher Eumyias thalassinus It is uncommon winter migrant.

376. Pale Blue Flycatcher Cyornis unicolor It is a winter migrant to the Park. It was not reportd by Barua and Sharma (1999) and Choudhury (2003). Craig Robson reported this bird from Kohora range in 2009, and there are sightings by Fabio Olmos and Ramit Singal in 2015 (eBird 2016).

377. Rufous-bellied Niltava Niltava sundara Barua and Sharma (1999) and Choudhury (2003) have not reported it. We have also not seen it during our surveys. However, we are including it in our list as it was reported by Frani Lowe and Frank Murphy in 2008, and by Karl Overman in 1988 from Mikir Hills (eBird 2016). 66

378. Large Niltava Niltava grandis It is a common bird in winter in dense undershrub hence difficult to see.

379. Small Niltava Niltava macgrigoriae It is much more common that the Large Niltava in winter in Kaziranga as it is found in dense undergrowth, reeds and grass-covered jungle.

380. Rufous-chinned Laughingthrush Ianthocincla rufogularis Five birds were seen by Craig Morley in Hatikhuli Tea Estate on March 18, 2015 (eBird 2016).

381. Rufous-necked Laughingthrush Dryonastes ruficollis Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it as an uncommon resident in the Park. There are records of the species from Kohora range by Pritan Baruah, Josh Engel, Duan Biggs and Christian Artuso (eBird 2016).

382. White-crested Laughingthrush Garrulax leucolophus It is often seen during peak winter (mainly December-January) in Mikir Hills. Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it as resident in the Park.

383. Greater Necklaced Laughingthrush Garrulax pectoralis Like the earlier species, it is also mainly seen in Mikir Hills. Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it as resident in the Park.

384. Lesser Necklaced Laughingthrush Leucodioptron monileger Like the earlier species, it is also mainly seen in Mikir Hills. Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it as resident in the Park.

385. Jerdon’s Babbler Chrysomma altirostre (VU) As it is globally threatened species, we gave special attention to find this bird. It was mainly seen near Daphlang Tower in Western Range. It could be uncommon resident in the Park but more detailed surveys are required. Kaziranga grasslands could be globally important for this Vulnerable species.

386. Yellow-eyed Babbler Chrysomma sinense It is fairly common in open shrubland and grassy forested patches in the Park. We had multiple sightings in almost all ranges, but particularly in Eastern Range.

387. Chestnut-capped Babbler Timalia pileata Not easy to see but heard frequently in grass patches all over the Park.

388. Pin-striped Tit-babbler Mixornis gularis

It was mainly found in Mikir Hills and Burapahar area in grassy jungle, secondary growth and open forest. Its chunk chunk chunk call, much like the Common Tailorbird can be heard everywhere although the bird is not easy to see.

389. Rufous-fronted Babbler Cyanoderma (Stachyris) rufifrons It is not a common bird in Kaziranga but perhaps overlooked as it is found in forest edges, dense grassy glades, secondary jungle and bamboo thickets.

390. Golden Babbler Cyanoderma (Stachyris) chrysaea Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as occasional in the Park. We did not come across this species during our surveys.

391. Grey-throated Babbler Stachyris nigriceps Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as uncommon. We did not come across it

392. Slender-billed Babbler Turdoides longirostris (VU) As this is a Vulnerable species, we gave special attention to search it. We have confirmed records from three grasslands although it is found all over the Park in suitable habitat. Frequently seen after call playback in Baguri grassland, near Daphlang Tower, Kohora Range. Another site in this range is near Arimora Camp where we saw it on 20 April 2014. We also sighted it in the grasslands of Debeswari Camp, Agoratoli Range on April 20, 2014

393. Striated Babbler Turdoides earlei Very common in grasses near Brahmaputra and streams passing through the Park.

394. Jungle Babbler Turdoides striata Common everwhere, particularly in secondary jungle, forest edges and outside the Park

395. White-browed Scimitar-babbler Pomatorhinus schisticeps Barua and Sharma (1999) consider it as an uncommon resident in the Park. There arerecords of the species from Bagori and Kohora range by Kadambari Devarajan and Pritam Baruah respectively (eBird 2016).

396. Large Scimitar-babbler Pomatorhinus hypoleucos Barua and Sharma (1999) reported that the heard calling at Panbari on 26 March 1998 were probably of this species (D. Bishop and MB; Bishop 1998). Pritam Baruah and Duan Biggs reported it from Kohora Range in 2014 and 2015 respectively. Also Kadambari Devarajan reported it from Bagori range in 2015 (eBird 2016).

397. Black-chinned Yuhina Yuhina nigrimenta We have not seen it, nor some other senior ornithologists but Praveen J. in 2001 reported a single bird from Kohora Range (eBird 2016).

398. White-bellied Erpornis Erpornis zantholeuca It has been seen in Panbari, Burapahar and Agaratoli areas many times by Abidur Rahman. 69

399. Brown-cheeked Fulvetta Alcippe poioicephala Barua and Sharma (1999) mention that it is an uncommon local migrant in the Park. A flock was seen only once in Panbari area during the survey in December 2016. Kadambari Devarajan saw it in Bagori Range in 2015. Other records are from 2001 and 2002 (eBird 2016).

400. Indian White-hooded Babbler Gampsorhynchus rufulus It is an uncommon local migrant in the Park.

401. Pygmy Wren-babbler Pnoepyga pusilla It is a rare migrant to the Park. It is sometimes heard in Agaratoli area: could be present in other parts of the Park.

402. Buff-breasted Babbler Pellorneum tickelli It is not reported by Barua and Sharma (1999) but Abidur Rahman has seen it in adjoining tea gardens, although very rare. It is generally found in understorey of broadleaved evergreen forest, secondary growth, bamboo, sometimes mixed deciduous forest (Rasmuseen and Anderton 2012).

403. Marsh Babbler Pellorneum palustre (VU) It is mainly records in the Eastern zone of the Park but could be present in other parts. A detailed survey of this species is required in the Park.

404. Abbott’s Babbler Malacocincla abbotti It is a common resident in the Park. There are many records of the species from the Park (eBird 2016).

405. Puff-throated Babbler Pellorneum ruficeps It is a common resident in the Park.

406. Black-breasted Parrotbill Paradoxornis flavirostris (VU) It is found in Debashree grasslands and Dhanshiri Eco-Camp in the Park, and few areas just outside the Park. A detailed survey of all grasslands of the Park is required to know the status of this Vulnerable species.

407. Bright-capped Cisticola Cisticola exilis This species was also known as Golden-headed Cisticola. It is a graslandland specialist species and prefer tall grassland (terai) alongwith other grassland species. It was seen to be common in tall grassland patches like Nikorighat along the Dhansiri River. It was phtotographed on 26 November 2016. It is a resident species of the terai grasslands in north-east and south Indian hills.

408. Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis 71

Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common resident of the Kaziranga. Typically a grassland species, it is also seen in fallow paddyfields.

409. Indian (Rufous-rumped) Grassbird Graminicola bengalensis Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a occasional resident of the Kaziranga. We did not come across this typical grassland species.

410. Striated Grassbird Megalurus palustris Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common resident of the Kaziranga. We saw it to be very vocal in November in terai grassland patches. It has a habit of calling continuously from bush tops. Good population was seen in Nikorighat area along the Dhansiri river.

411. Bristled Grassbird Chaetornis striata (VU) Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common resident of the Kaziranga.

412. Ashy Prinia Prinia socialis Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an occasional resident of the Kaziranga. It prefers grasslands as well as paddyfields and is found in and around human habitation. Specific records are from the grasslands of Arimora (4 April 2014) in Kohora Range, and Debeswari (April 29, 2014) in Agratoli Range.

413. Rufous-vented Prinia Prinia burnesii (NT) Barua and Sharma (1999) quotes Anwaruddin Chaudhury had seen it once in Kaziranaga. We did not come across it during outr surveys.

414. Grey-breasted Prinia Prinia hodgsonii Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an occasional resident of the Kaziranga. It prefers grasslands and in swamp patches.

415. Plain Prinia Prinia inornata Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common resident of the Kaziranga. It prefers grasslands.

416. Yellow-bellied Prinia Prinia flaviventris Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon resident of the Kaziranga. It prefers grasslands.

417. Striated Prinia Prinia crinigera An inhabitant of the tall grasslands. We did not come across this species during our survey in Kaziranga.

418. Graceful Prinia Prinia gracilis

This prinia was seen in the tall grassland near Nikorighat in the Dhansiri River basin on 27 November 2016.

419. Swamp Prinia Prinia cinerascens This prinia prefers tall grassland habitat (elephant grass). Common in the Brahmaputra river basin and Central Zone

420. Strong-footed (Brown-flanked) Bush-warbler Horornis fortipes This is a rare resident species of Kaziranga seen only once by Abidur Rahman. It prefers open forest and thickets. Abidur Rahman has heard it in Panbari area.

421. Russett Bush-warbler Bradypterus mandelli A rare resident of of the Eastern Himalayas, this species was seen only once in Agaratoli range in Kaziranga in February 2016 by Abidur Rahman (pers. comm.).

422. Large (Chestnut-crowned) Bush-warbler Oligura major There is a published record of a single bird sighting on 17 December 1998 (Holt 1998). We did not come across it during our survey.

423. Grey-sided Bush-warbler Oligura brunnifrons Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a occasional migrant in Kaziranga. One seen in February 1994 (Alström et al. 1994). We did not come across it during our survey.

424. Pale-footed Bush-warbler Urosphena pallidipes Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a occasional migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. Abidur Rahman has not seen it. There are no records on eBird (2016). We consider it an tentative record till confirmed records with photographs are available.

425. Chinese Bush-warbler Locustella tacsanowskia bidur Rahman heard its calls in the Central Range of the Park. There is another published record of its sighting on 16 February 1994 (Alström et al. 1994). There are no records on eBird (2016).

426. Spotted Bush-warbler Locustella thoracica Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an occasional migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

427. Indian Reed-warbler Acrocephalus [stentoreus] brunnnescens Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

428. Thick-billed Warbler Acrocephalus aedon

A pair was seen in Burapahr range on 25 December 2015 in bushes near the forest camp. Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common migrant in Kaziranga.

429. Blyth’s Reed-warbler Acrocephalus dumetorum Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. It prefers grassland habitat.

430. Paddyfield Warbler Acrocephalus agricola There is a published record of a single bird sighting in February 1994 (Alström et al. 1994). Duan Biggs reported this bird from Kohora range (eBird 2016).

431. Blunt-winged Warbler Acrocephalus concinens stevensi Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. It prefers grassland habitat.

432. Common Tailorbird Orthotomus sutorius It was seen in Kohora range, Bagori range and in Karbi Anglong during the survey in November 2015. It was also seen in human dominated areas regularly.

433. Black-necked (Dark-necked) Tailorbird Orthotomus atrogularis Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon resident in Kaziranga. One bird was seen during a survey in the Karbi-Anglong area. It prefers semi-evergreen forest.

434. Mountain Tailorbird Phyllergates cuculatus Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an occasional local migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. It prefers swamps and semi-evergreen patches. Craig Robson has reported it from Eastern Range in 2007 (eBird 2016).

435. Slaty-bellied Tesia Tesia olivea Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an occasional migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. It prefers semi-evergreen forest. Pritam Baruah and Ramit Singal have reported it from Kohora and Panbari Forest Respectively (eBird 2016).

436. Yellow-browed (Grey-bellied) Tesia Tesia cyaniventer Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as a common resident in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. It prefers swamps and semi-evergreen forest. Pritam Baruah and Ramit Singal have reported it from Kohora and Panbari Forest Respectively (eBird 2016).

437. Chestnut-headed Tesia Oligura castaneocoronata There is a published record of a single bird sighting in February 1994 (Alström et al. 1994).

438. Yellow-bellied Warbler Abroscopus superciliaris Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon resident in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. It prefers swamps and semi-evergreen forest. Craig

Robson has reported it in 1999 and recent record is by Ramit Singal in 2015 from Karbi- Anglong area (eBird 2016).

439. Chestnut-crowned Warbler Seicercus castaniceps Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an occasional migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. It prefers swamps and semi-evergreen forest. Pritam Baruah and Duan Biggs have reported it from Kohora range (eBird 2016).

440. Grey-hooded Warbler Phylloscopus xanthoschistos Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an occasional migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. It prefers swamps and semi-evergreen patches.

441. Grey-cheeked Warbler Seicercus poliogenys Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. It prefers swamps and semi-evergreen patches. Seen by Pritam Baruah in 2014 (eBird 2016).

442. White-spectacled Warbler Seicercus affinis Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an occasional migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. It prefers swamps and semi-evergreen patches.

443. Green-crowned (Golden-spectacled) Warbler Seicercus burkii Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common resident in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey. It prefers swamps and semi-evergreen patches.

444. Whistler’s Warbler Seicercus whistleri A bird was photographed in forest understory in Kaziranga during survey in December 2015.

445. Grey-headed Canary-flycatcher Culicicapa ceylonensis It is a common migrant in Kaziranga and was regularly seen during the surveys. Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common migrant in Kaziranga. It prefers semi- evergreen forest.

446. Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus [collybita] tristis Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

447. Dusky Warbler Phylloscopus f. fuscatus A single bird was photographed near Kamargaon in Brahmaputra flood plains on 27 November 2015 in a grassland patch. Another record is from near Phuloguri camp, Burapahar Range on March 26, 2014. It is a migratory leaf-warbler visiting Himalayan foothills of eastern Nepal to North-east India (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur), Bangladesh, Andaman Islands and Northern Myanmar.

448. Smoky Leaf-warbler Phylloscopus fuligiventer Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

449. Tickell’s Leaf-warbler Phylloscopus affinis Barua and Sharma (1999) have reported it as an uncommon migrant in Kaziranga. One bird was seen by us on March 26, 2014 near Phuloguri Camp, Burapahar Range. We have multiple sighting in November 2016.

450. Greenish Leaf-warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides trochiloides Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common migrant in Kaziranga.

451. Large-billed Leaf-warbler Phylloscopus magnirostris There is a published record of a single bird sighting in February 1994 (Alström et al. 1994).

452. Blyth’s Leaf-warbler Phylloscopus reguloides A common winter migrant. Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an common migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

453. Yellow-browed Leaf-warbler Phylloscopus inornatus Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

454. Lemon-rumped Leaf-warbler Phylloscopus chloronotus Resident of the Himalayas and local migrant to the north-east Indian hills. There is a pubished record of its sighting in Kaziranga when it was in January 1998 (Jepson 1998).

455. Yellow-vented Leaf-warbler Phylloscopus cantator Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

456. Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca halimodendri Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a stray migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

457. Cinereous Tit Parus cinereus It is a common resident species in and around Kaziranga. It was seen almost on days during the surveys. Seen in human habitation as well as forested areas.

458. Sultan Tit Melanochlora sultanea Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an occasional migrant in Kaziranga. We saw it only once during our survey in December 2015.

459. Wallcreeper Tichodroma muraria Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a stray migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

460. Velvet-fronted Nuthatch Sitta frontalis Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon migrant in Kaziranga. We found it often in forest areas of Agaratoli Range till March.

461. Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch Sitta cinnamoventris It is a common resident species of Kaziranga. Barua and Sharma (1999) has also reported it as a common resident in Kaziranga.

462. Pale-billed Flowerpecker Dicaeum erythrorhynchos Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon local migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

463. Plain Flowerpecker Dicaeum minullum (D. concolour) Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an occasional resident in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

464. Thick-billed Flowerpecker Pachyglossa agile This is a common resident flowerpecker of Kaziranga. Barua and Sharma (1999) has also reported it.

465. Yellow-vented Flowerpecker Pachyglossa chrysorrhea This is a uncommon resident flowerpecker of Kaziranga. Barua and Sharma (1999) has also reported it.

466. Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker Dicaeum cruentatum This is a common resident flowerpecker of Kaziranga. Barua and Sharma (1999) has also reported it.

467. Fire-breasted Flowerpecker Dicaeum ignipectus The species is particle to fruits and nectar, particularly of mistletoes (including Scurrula rhododendricolus), figs (Ficus) and also spiders. It was seen in Karbi-Anglong area on 23 November 2015.

468. Oriental White-eye Zosterops palpebrosus It was seen in Kohora range on 21 Novembr 2015 and in Bagori range on 22 Novembr 2015 in small parties. 484 Ruby-cheeked Sunbird Chalcoparia singalensis Four-five birds were seen chasing each other on 19 November 2015 in Kanchanjudi area of Kaziranga with lot of calling.

469. Purple Sunbird Cinnyris asiaticus It was listed by Sonowal (1978) to occur in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

470. Crimson Sunbird Aethopyga siparaja It was seen in Kohora range on 21 November and in Karbi-Anglong on 23 November 2015.

471. Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird Aethopyga gouldiae Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon local migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

472. Black-breasted Sunbird Aethopyga saturata

Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

473. Green-tailed Sunbird Aethopyga nipalensis One bird was reported in Kohora range by Niels Poul Dreyer on March 31, 2013 (eBird 2016).

474. Streaked Spiderhunter Arachnothera magna Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an occasional migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

475. Little Spiderhunter Arachnothera longirostra Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon resident in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

476. Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

477. Yellow-breasted Bunting Emberiza aureola VU Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

478. Black-faced Bunting Emberiza spodocephala Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as an uncommon migrant in Kaziranga. We did not come across it during our survey.

479. Red Avadavat Amandava amandava Uncommon resident species. It prefers plains, grasslands and scrub habitats.

480. Chestnut Munia Lonchura atricapilla Uncommon resident species and prefers wet grasslands.

481. Tricoloured (Black-headed) Munia Lonchura malacca It is a common resident species of munia seen in and around Kaziranga.

482. White-rumped Munia Lonchura striata This species is seen in good numbers in paddyfields and in human dominated landscape in Kaziranga. It was seen in Panbari as well as Karbi-Anglong areas in November 2015.

483. Scaly-breasted Munia Lonchura punctulata This species is seen in good numbers in paddyfields and in human dominated landscape in Kaziranga.

484. House Sparrow Passer domesticus House Sparrow is common in villages and in cultivation in and around Kaziranga. The House Sparrow stays more in the human dominated landscape. It is not found in forested areas.

485. Eurasian Tree Sparrow Passer montanus This sparrow is seen near Forest Rest Houses in forested areas Kaziranga. It was seen in Panbari, Kanchanjudi, Kohora, Baguri areas in November 2015. It replaces the House Sparrow in these places. The House Sparrow stays more in the human dominated landscape.

486. Cinnamon Sparrow Passer rutilans It is a uncommon resident species. Prefers hill forests and scrub.

487. ‘Eastern’ Baya Weaver Ploceus philippinus burmanicus It is a common resident species. Many used nests were seen in villages around Kaziranga on trees in December 2016.

488. Streaked Weaver Ploceus manyar It is a common resident species.

489. Finn’s Weaver Ploceus megarhynchus (VU) Barua and Sharma (1999) has reported it as a common migrant in Kaziranga. It was seen by Rehan in Burapahar range. We did not come across this bird despite intensive watch. It is very rare in the Park.

490. Black-breasted Weaver Ploceus benghalensis It is a common resident species.

491. Maroon Oriole Oriolus traillii

This maroon coloured oriole prefers broadleaved forest. It is a resident of the Himalayas and the north-east India. It was seen in Kanchanjudi area on 19 November 2015 during the survey.

492. Black-hooded Oriole Oriolus xanthornus This is a resident oriole of most parts of India, excluding the arid north-west. It is the commonest oriole in Kaziranga and was seen on almost all days during the surveys. It is seen in open broadleaved forest and well-wooded areas and in tea estates.

493. Black-naped Oriole Oriolus chinensis diffuses It is a winter visitor to India. It prefers broadleaved forest. It can be located because of it’s cat or jay like squealing calls.

494. Black Drongo Edolius macrocercus It is common open areas, around human habitation and in and around cropfields. The calls are reminiscent of those of the Shikra Accipiter badius. Often seen perched on powerlines along the highway passing through Kaziranga. Common in tea estates.

495. Ashy Drongo Edolius leucophaeus This species is seen well wooded areas, unlike the Black Drongo, which prefers open areas.

496. Bronzed Drongo Chaptia aeneus Resident of the Himalayan foothills besides other parts of India. This drongo prefers moist broadleaf forest. It is seen foraging with other nectarivorous birds on flowering trees.

497. Crow-billed Drongo Dicrurus annectans This drongo is seen in Himalayan foothills and prefers moist broadleaf forest.

498. Lesser Racket-tailed Drongo Dicrurus remifer It is a resident of the Himalayan foothills and prefers moist broadleaf forest. It has a tufted forehead but lacks the crest of the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo. It’s calls are musical whistling and includes much mimicry of the other birds.

499. Greater Racket-tailed Drongo Dicrurus paradiseus This large sized drongo and prefers broadleaved forest and bamboo jungle. It is very vocal, produces varied musical whistling and mimics the calls of many other bird species, confusing us. Very common in all parts of the Park.

500. Hair-crested (Spangled) Drongo Dicrurus hottentottus It has a broad tail with upward twisted corners. It has a hair like crest. It is a resident of the Himalayan foothills and prefers moist broadleaf forest. Fairly common in the forested parts of Kaziranga.

501. Spot-winged Starling Saroglossa spiloptera

It was reported as fairly common migrant species by Barua and Sharma (1999). Some birds arrive in July although there is maximum concentration during February-March when the Silk Cotton Bombax ceiba is in blossom. Alström et al. (1994) have recorded up to 2,000 birds in February 1994.

502. Grey-headed Starling Sturnia malabarica These are seen flying swiftly in varied sized flocks. Mixed flocks along with those of Jungle Myna were seen in the evenings and early mornings. On 22 December around 20 Grey-headed Starlings were seen in a flock of Jungle Mynas.

503. Brahminy Starling Sturnus pagodarum About 15 were seen in Sohola Kathoni (Agaratoli range) on 14 January 1994 (Barua and Sharma 1999). Previously recorded as a straggler to Assam (Choudhury 1990). Not seen during this survey.

504. Asian Pied Starling Gracupica contra This is a common starling seen mostly around human habiatation and near beels. It was seen almost on all days of bird surveys.

505. Bank Myna Acridotheres ginginianus This Myna prefers cultivation, damp grassland and human habitation. It was reported as uncommon resident of Kaziranga by Barua and Sharma (1999). It is mainly found on the Brahmaputra river bank in the Park. For example on April 19, 2014, we found nest on the river bank near Arimora camp, Kohora Range, and later near Debeswari Camp, Agaratoli Range.

506. Common Myna Acridotheres tristis This is a resident species in and around Kaziranga and is seen in abundance. Big flocks can be seen in the evening around tea plantations for roosting. Mostly these are seen feeding on garbage dumps along with crows.

507. Jungle Myna Acridotheres fuscus Big flocks of 100 plus birds were seen in early mornings and evenings with Grey-headed Starlings in fewere numbers. These were often seen foraging on garbage dumps with the Common Mynas and crows. Seen around tea plantations as well as around human habitation.

508. White-vented Myna Acridotheres grandis A resident species of the north-east India (including Assam, Nagaland, Manipur) and south-east Asia. It was reported as common resident by Barua and Sharma (1999) in disturbed areas, grassland and swamp forest. However, we did not find it so common in the Park.

509. Common Hill-myna Gracula religiosa It is an uncommon resident of Kaziranga. It is seen in disturbed areas, semi-evergreen patches and in swamp forest and riparian woodland (Barua and Sharma 1999).

510. House Crow Corvus splendens A common species mostly seen congregating around human habitation and on garbage dumps along the roads in Kaziranga. Few birds were seen in Panbari and Kanchajudi and Gahori beel areas.

511. Large-billed Crow Corvus [macrorhynchos] japonensis A less common species in numbers compared to the House Crow. Few birds are seen in congregations of House Crows around human habitation and on garbage dumps along the roads in Kaziranga. It was seen inside well wooded areas, especially in Panbari, Kanchajudi, Agaratoli and Kohora areas.

512. Common Green Magpie Cissa chinensis It is an uncommon resident of Kaziranga (Barua and Sharma 1999). It prefers semi- evergreen broadleaved forest, riparian woodland and secondary growth.

513. Grey Treepie Dendrocitta formosae It is an uncommon resident of Kaziranga (Barua and Sharma 1999). It prefers broadleaved forest and secondary growth.

514. Rufous Treepie Dendrocitta vagabunda It was seen in one or twos but almost on all days of the surveys in foresteted as well as human dominated areas. It was seen daily in Bokakhat town in November 2015.

3. References Alström, P., Jirle, E., Jäderblad, M., Kjellén, N., Larsson, G.,Paulsrud, A., Saellström, J., Smitterberg, P. and Alind, P. (1994) Birds and mammals observed in Assam in February 1994. Unpublished.

Barua, M. (1996) Birds of Agartoli, Kaziranga. J. Ecol. Soc. 9: 30-38 . Barua, M. (1997) Occurrence of the White Stork in Assam. Newsletter for Birdwatchers 37: 99- 100.

Barua, M. (1998) 200 species in a day in Kaziranga. Newsletter forBirdwatchers 38: 15.

Barua, M. (1998) On a large concentration of Northern LapwingsVanellus vanellus in Kaziranga National Park, Assam. Newsletterfor Birdwatchers 38(3): 57.

Barua, M. and Sharma, P. (1999) Birds of Kaziranga National Park, India. Forktail 15: 47-60.

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Choudhury, A. (1990a) Checklist of the birds of Assam. Guwahati: Sofia Publishers.

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Choudhury, A.U. (2000) The Birds of Assam. Gibbon Books and WWF-India North-East Regional Office, Guwahati. Pp. 240.

Choudhury, A.U. (2003) Birds of Kaziranga National Park: A checklist. Gibbon Pocket Guides & The Rhino Foundaton for Nature in NE India. Guwahati. Pp. 46.

Collar, N. J., Crosby, M. J. and Stattersfield, A. J. (1994) Birds to watch 2, the world list of threatened birds. Cambridge, U.K.: BirdLife International.

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Inskipp, C. and Inskipp, T. (1991) A guide to the birds of Nepal. Second edition. London: Christopher Helm.

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Lahan, P. and Sonowal, R. N. (1973) Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam. J. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. 70: 245-278.

Mackenzie, M. J. S. (1969) A mid-winter wildfowl count in Kaziranga. Cheetal 12(1): 16-20.

Madge, S. (1995) A record of the Goliath Heron in Assam. Bull.Oriental Bird Club 21: 47.

Martins, R. (1994) Ornitholidays, Bhutan and Assam, 18 November - 05 December 1994. Unpublished.

Narayan, G. and Rosalind, L. (1990) An introduction to the Bengal Florican. Pp. 9-16 in Status and ecology of the Lesser and Bengal Floricans, with reports on Jerdon’s Courser and Mountain Quail:Final report. Bombay: Bombay Natural History Society.

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Rahmani, A. (1986) Grassland birds of the Indian subcontinent: a review. Pp. 187-204 in P. D.Goriup (ed.) Ecology and conservation of grassland birds. Cambridge, U.K.: BirdLife International (Techn. Publ. 7).

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Robson, C. (1994) From the field. Bull.Oriental Bird Club 20: 55- 61.

Rose, P. M. and Scott, D. A. (1994) Waterfowl population estimates Slimbridge, UK: International Wetlands and Waterfowl Research Bureau (IWRB Spec. Publ. 29).

Saikia, P. and Bhattacharjee, P. C. (1990) New records of waders in Assam. Newsletter for Birdwatchers 30(11 & 12): 7-8.

Saikia, P. and Bhattacharjee, P. C. (1991) Status of Darter in Assam.Newsletter for Birdwatchers 31(5): 11-12.

Samant, J. S., Prakash, V. and Naoroji, R. (1995) Ecology and behaviour of resident raptors with special reference to endangered species. Final Report 1990-1993. Bombay Natural History Society, Bombay.

Sarma, P., Barua, M. and Menon, V. (1997) Orangebilled Jungle Mynah and Hodgson’s Bush Chat in Kaziranga National Park. J. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. 94: 156-157.

Sonowal, R. N. (1978) Birds recorded in Kaziranga National Park.In K. C. Patar (ed.) Kaziranga National Park and 1978 census report. Unpublished report.

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Talukdar, B. K. (1995a) Pelicans fail to nest as normal at Kaziranga National Park in 1994. Oryx 29: 157.

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Annexure VIII: Photos of Birds of Kaziranga National Park

Black-naped Monarch Blue-throated Barbet

Fulvous-breasted Pied Woodpecker Grey-capped Pygmy Woodpecker

Kasambe

All photos by Dr. Raju photos All Dr. by

Great Pied Hornbill White-rumped Munia

Whistler’s Warbler Brown Shrike

Kasambe

Stork-billed Kingfisher River Lapwing All photos by Dr. Raju photos All Dr. by

Blyth's Leaf-warbler Olive-backed Pipit

Citrine Wagtail Common Kestrel

Kasambe

Common Stonechat Coppersmith Barbet All photos by Dr. Raju photos All Dr. by

Crimson Sunbird Flavescent Bulbul

Kaleej Pheasant Lesser Adjutant

Kasambe

Oriental Magpie Robin Grey-chinned Minivet All photos by Dr. Raju photos All Dr. by

Scarlet Minivet Red-throated Flycatcher

Ruby-cheeked Sunbird

White Wagtail

Kasambe

All photos by Dr. Raju photos All Dr. by

Bright-capped Cisticola Striated Grassbird

Oriental Turtle Dove Spotted Dove

Kasambe Blue-throated Barbet nest

Baya Weaver nests All photos by Dr. Raju photos All Dr. by

Pallas’s Fish Eagle nestg Slender-billed Vulture nest

100