Bird Conservation Nepal

QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER VOLUME 19 BULLETIN NO. 2/3 JUNE/SEPTEMBER 2010

On the food provisioning by White-tailed Nuthatch Sitta himalayensis before onset of a Himalayan winter

Hem Sagar Baral*, Carol Inskipp** and Shen Xiaoli ***

Five species of nuthatches are found in Nepal (Grimmett et al. On 6 November 2005 in Makalu Barun National Park as part of 2000). Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch Sitta castanea and Velvet- the Conservation International’s Rapid Assessment Programme fronted Nuthatch S. frontalis are found from east to west (RAP) expedition, we observed a White-tailed Nuthatch Nepal and are confined to lowland areas. The other two are collecting seeds and storing on a thick mat of moss-covered mainly found in the northwest and for both species Nepal trunk of a medium sized tree. On a careful observation, we marks the eastern limit of their distribution (Inskipp and found out that the red seeds being stored were from the tree Inskipp 1991). These are Kashmir Nuthatch Sitta cashmirensis Magnolia campbelli. We observed activities for a period of and White-cheeked Nuthatch S. leucopsis. The fifth species, 5 minutes when the trunk was visited at least 2 times by two White-tailed Nuthatch Sitta himalayensis is widely distributed nuthatches, possibly a pair. The locality was above and west along the Himalayas generally between 1800 to 3000m west of Mangankharka on a north-south forested ridge at 2795m. from Himachal Pradesh east to Yunnan and the northern part We saw a total of 15 White-tailed Nuthatches at different of Indochinese countries (Ali and Ripley 1973, Grimmett et al. altitudes the same day. However we noted only these two birds 1998). In Nepal, White-tailed Nuthatch has been described as provisioning food. We did not observe this behaviour with common and widespread resident subject to some altitudinal nuthatches at lower altitudes. Although it is generally believed movements (Inskipp and Inskipp 1991, Grimmett et al. 1998, that all or most nuthatches provision food (Harrap and Quinn 2000). While much is known about many of the world’s other 1995), this behaviour of White-tailed Nuthatch has not been nuthatch species, the behaviour and ecology of Himalayan documented before. It is likely nuthatches living at higher species are very little known. elevation are more dependent on food stored before the onset White-tailed Nuthatch by Craig Robson 2 BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER of a harsh Himalayan winter. At lower elevations, however, food is in good supply throughout the year. Additional Sightings! Phulchoki hill is perhaps the most birdwatched midhill forest of Nepal (Ghimire 2008; Mallalieu 2008). White-tailed Nuthatch A single adult Ibisbill is fairly common on Phulchoki (Inskipp 1989). Personal Ibidorhyncha struthersii was observations of the first two authors and communication with seen on 25 April 2010 feeding several other field ornithologists had not reported such habit of in Langmoche river about 3 km White-tailed Nuthatch. However on 18 October 2010 at about below Dig Tsho Lake in Sagarmatha 1800m, HSB saw one bird carrying a green berry and storing it on National Park (HCR). A new location a bark of a dead Alder Alnus nipalensis. Our presence disturbed recorded for the species! the bird and at least two nuthatches were seen together waiting to come to the tree. One of them was seen with food in its beak. One Rufous Woodpecker Celeus brachyurus was seen and In the light of this information and looking at the different photographed on 24 May 2008 near habitat types these birds were found to be food provisioning. Tapethok above Tamur River (ST, We conclude that White-tailed Nuthatches, like other PRA, AT). An unusual high record nuthatches of the world, also provision food depending on local (2300m) and a new species for climatic conditions. Future research on the limiting factors for Kanchenjunga Conservation Area! distribution of these species and factors that prompt changes in habits should be explored. This may give important insights for One Indian Cormorant Phalacrocorax understanding birds and for their effective conservation. fuscicollis was seen resting with flock of Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger on References tree log at Koshi River on 19 March 2009 Ali, S. and Ripley, S. D. (1973) Handbook of the birds of India and in Koshi Tappu (SB and BC). This is a new Pakistan. Vol. 9. Oxford University Press, Bombay. species for Nepal! Ghimire, D. (2008) A birdwatcher’s guide to the Kathmandu Valley. Kathmandu: Bird Conservation Nepal. A pair of Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus with Grimmett, R., Inskipp, C. and Inskipp, T. (1998) Birds of the Indian three healthy chicks was observed on 14 and 15 July subcontinent. Christopher Helm, London. 2010 at Ghodaghodi Lake Area (HSB, DRC, AB, RKC, DS). Grimmett, R., Inskipp, C. and Inskipp, T. (2000) Birds of Nepal. Probably this is first breeding record of the species in the Christopher Helm, London. country! Harrap, S. and Quinn, D. 1995. Tits, nuthatches and treecreepers of the world. Christopher Helm, London. AB: Ananata Bhandari; AT: Arjun Thapa; BC: Badri Inskipp, C. (1989) Nepal’s forest birds: their status and conservation. Chaudhary; DRC: Daya Ram Chaudhary; DS: Dilli Saud Monograph No 4. International Council for Bird Preservation, HCR: Haris Chandra Rai; HSB: Hem Sagar Baral; Cambridge, UK. PRA: Pushpa Raj Acharya; RKC: Ram Kumar Chaudhary; Inskipp, C. and Inskipp, T. (1991). A guide to the birds of Nepal. SB: Suchit Basnet; ST: Sanjan Thapa Second edition. Christopher Helm, London. Mallalieu, M. (2008) Kathmandu Bird Report 2004-2006. Compiled by Tika Giri and Hathan Choudhary Kathmandu: Bird Conservation Nepal

*Himalayan Nature, PO Box 10918, Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal, **1 Herneside, March Road, Welney, Wisbech, Cambs PE14 9SB, UK ***Conservation International – China Program, Biodiversity Conservation Building, College of Life Science, Peking University, Beijing Donation BCN welcomes all kinds of support from individuals and institutions. You can even help us by providing us your camera, binocular, telescope, scientific equipment etc. Further more, we will also be grateful if any one a BCN initiative to save Nepal's endangered birds. provides educational materials for our library. All support will be duly acknowledged. PLEDGE AND DONATE TODAY BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER 3 Midwinter Waterbird Count in Chitwan National Park

Bed Bahadur Khadka

Introduction Study Area and Method Wetlands are rich habitats with high ecological significance. Waterbird counting was carried out on 18-23 January 2010 in Rivers, oxbow lakes, marshes and waterholes are the different Narayani and Rapti rivers including major lakes eg. Garudtal, wetlands of Chitwan National Park (CNP). Narayani, Rapti and Tamortal, Lamital and marshy land of Temple tiger Lodge. Reu are major rivers and Devital, Lamital, Tamortal and Garudtal The count started from Sunachuri, the eastern border of park are the major lakes found in the park. Such types of wetlands to Tribeni, the western border of park. Route taken includes are also key habitats for One-horned Rhinoceros Rhinoceros from Sunachuri to Rapti Narayani confluence and upstream unicornis, Tiger Panthera tigris, Leopard Panthera pardus, east channel (Narayani) via Sigraulighat to the west channel of Gaur Bos gaurus, Gharial Gavialis gangeticus, Marsh Mugger Narayani to Tribeni and many feeder streams of the Narayani Crocodylus palustris, Python Python molorus and many rare and about 200 km. long trip for bird observing by boat (see map). endangered species of birds and others mammals and reptile species as well. This survey work, although was initially focused on gharial crocodile we managed to count waterbirds as well. Small dugout A total of 545 species of birds (Baral and Upadhaya 2006, Giri and boat was used for observing the birds during counting period Chaudhary 2008, Giri and Chaudhary 2010) has been reported with help of two boatmen. Due to foggy weather, counting was from the park and its surroundings of which 120 species are done after sunlight or clear visible and time frame was between wetland dependent. Among the wetland species 80 are winter 0930hrs-1645hrs (Table 1). The birds were observed using 7x35 visitors, 6 summer visitors, 28 resident birds and 6 are vagrant Olympus DPSR binoculars and the boatmen also assisted in species. Resident birds can be seen all throughout the year. counting of birds during boating. Resident and probably all summer visitor birds breed at CNP. All vagrant species are rare (Baral and Upadhaya 2008). Chitwan National Park The aim of the waterfowl count is to monitor the distribution and populations of waterbirds and status of wetlands. Information from the count contributes to the identification and monitoring r v e R i Sikharauli Ghat n i of wetlands of international and national importance as well as y a r a a to maintain an overview of the population size, status and trends N Sauraha of waterbirds. It also assists decision-makers in developing Amaltari Rapti Confluence R a p t i R i v e r conservation plans and future management strategies for Kasara Lami Tal Devi Tal Sunachuri protecting wetlands and birds. Tamar Tal Chitwan National Park

Tribeni R e Narayani and Rapti Rivers are sites regularly covered for mid u R i v e winter waterbird count. The present study supported in r counting the birds in those sites for 2010 Asian Waterfowl River Census (AWC). Lake

Table 1: Itinerary for waterbird counting

Date Station Section-wise Location Weather Time

Start End

18 January 2010 A Sunachuri – Sauraha Sunny 11h05 16h45

19 January 2010 B Sauraha- Kasara Partly cloud 11h45 16h30

20 January 2010 C Kasara - Rapti/Naryani. Confluence Sunny 11h45 15h45

21 January 2010 D Rapti/Narayani. confluence-Sigraulighat Sunny 10h30 16h50

22 January 2010 E Sigraulighat - Amaltari Sunny 11h30 16h30

23 January 2010 F Amaltari-Tribeni Sunny 09h30 16h45 4 BIRD CONSERVATION NEPALEPAL - NEWNEWSLETTERS LETTER

Result and Discussion Tune in to A total of 44 water bird species belonging to 11 families have been recorded during the mid winter waterbird count in 2010 (Table 3). Altogether 14 duck species were observed in previous years but only 9 species this year, of which 8 species were winter on IMAGE FM 97.9 visitor. Comparatively Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea was the most abundant species with the total count 4952. The at 7.45 am same species was also recorded highest in 2005 and 2006 with Second and Fourth Saturday total count 2917 and 3177 respectively in Narayani and Rapti of Nepali Month rivers (Khadka 2005 and 2006 unpublished). Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna, Ferruginous Pochard Aythya nyroca, Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope, Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula, Northern Interesting species, a flock (127 individuals) of Common Crane Shoveler Anas clypeata and Ibisbill Ibidorhyncha struthersi were Grus grus was noted flying at Bhalu Tappu (Table 3) in eastern not recorded this year. channel of Nayayani just in front of Dibyanagar VDC, Chitwan. In the same location 49 and 207 were counted on 2005 and A flock of Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus has roosted in an 2006 respectively (Khadka 2005 and 2006 unpublished). island of sand beach in Narayani like every year just in front Dibyanagar VDC area is marshy paddy field used as feeding of Laukhani entrance gate of CNP. In the early morning and ground by Common Crane. In the early morning and afternoon afternoon they fly to the marshy paddy fields around Pithauli they are mostly seen in the paddy field. During the day time Village Development Committee (VDC) in the surrounding of they rest on stony banks of Bhalu Tappu. They call loudly like Nawalparasi for feeding. The left over grains after harvesting is curlinn….. cruling…… cruling during the flight and also at the the favored food of this species. time of roosting in day and night in the sand beach of same site.

During the winter period the male and female of Common The Lesser Adjutant Leptoptilos javanicus, a globally threatened Merganser Mergus merganser have separate groups. But a pair species was also recorded. It is abundantly recorded in winter was observed in eastern channel (Bhangalo) of Narayani river. inside the park area because of less water in the lakes, streams, Male and female groups were separate during flying, feeding waterhole and other marshy area and easier for them to catch and roosting events. They are found in fresh water habitat fish, frog and other aquatic creatures. But in rainy season, hard basically diving under water for fishing since they mainly to see in these wetland areas because of high water volume depend on fish. They enjoy resting under the sun with their which makes them difficult to catch fishes and aquatic fauna so heads inside their wings. Large group of 24 male and 21 female that this time they can be seen in the paddy fields. They breed were observed. The scenario of the group size of male and in Kachuwani, Dumaria, Island Jungle Resort area, Gundri Khola female are stated below (see table 2). and Tigertops/Tented Camp area in CNP and 75 nestlings were counted in the colonies. The number of birds counted in the Table 2: The group size of male and female of Common paddy field around the national park were 228 in rainy season in Merganser in different stations. 2009 (Poudyal and Nepal 2010).

Locating ♂ Group Size ♀ Group Size Remarks Site Individual Group no. Largest Smallest Individual Group Largest Smallest ♂ number no. ♀ number no.

A 36 3 16 9 0 0 0 0

B 36 7 14 1 2 0 1 1

C 34 4 24 1 16 0 7 1

D 1 # 1 1 1 9 2 8 1

E 21 5 5 2 14 5 7 1

F 18 4 12 1 24 3 21 1

Total 147 65

# a pair (♂ and ♀) BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER 5 Flight of Common Crane in Bhallu Tappu, the eastern channel Narayani

Temminck’s Stint Calidris temminckii, were seen mainly feeding Artificially created marshy lakes in 2005 by park locally called in the edge of river and small feeder stream, in only smaller Garud Tal/Patana Tal which lies in the southern part of Sauraha scattered groups some times and normally solitary. In the foggy at old Padampur area has become very suitable habitat for winter days, less sunny days and during sunset these birds the birds compared to others. Several nationally and globally gather in huge flock, undulating and circling rapidly just above threatened and uncommon species were recorded such as the flowing water and sand beach. Lesser Adjutant, Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio, Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis, Darter Anhinga melanogaster as Grey-headed Fish Eagle Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus, the wetland well as many more species of ducks and herons (Khadka 2006 dependent raptor and a very rare species in Nepal was also unpublished). Purple Swamphen, a rare winter visitor has been noted. This species has been nesting continuously since past 10 recorded continuously since 2005 to 2010 at Garud Tal and years in a tree at Tamor Tal using old nest, Devital and marshy marshy land of Temple Tiger Lodge areas. Priority should be areas of temple tiger hotel in the park. given in creating such artificial habitats for birds in other areas of the park as well. One Greater Flamingo Phonicopterus ruber was noted by Gharial monitoring team on 29 January 2010, Jayamangala Ghat at Most of the lakes and waterholes have shrunk due to invasion Rapti just south of Sauraha Sector Office of CNP which was seen of invasive species like Water Hyacinth Eichnornia crassipes for about 20 days. The previous records of the species are by and Pond weed Potamogeton nodosus. Some of the lakes have Brain Hodgson as a transient visitor to the Kathmandu Valley, been heavily degraded by these invasive species reducing the a small group seen on mud flats above Koshi Barrage in winter feeding grounds of birds like in the Devi Tal where the water by John W. Propst in 1973 ( Inskipp and Inskipp 1991) and an birds previously recorded were not seen this year. immature reported from Koshi Barrage area on 10/11 May 1992 by Malcolm Ausden and Siobhan Mellon (Anon 1992). Threats Pesticides, plastics, other industrial and agricultural pollutants Southern part of Sauraha, the Jaya Mangala Ghat (just in front from various sources disintegrate rapidly in the rivers. Intensive of Icharni grassland pocket), below Sauraha to Dumaria, Kasara fishing practices with gillnets, electric shock through battery and Bhimle area at Rapti and Laukhani, Ledaghat, Dadreni in and poisoning are becoming more and more common. Narayani areas are most important habitats due to presence These type of activities adversely affects aquatic birds, turtles, of mudflats, shingle banks, smaller stony feeder streams and dolphins, crocodiles and other non target species in Chitwan. sand banks for resting, roosting and feeding sites where several Due to these the threatened dolphin and otter are rarely seen in aquatic birds were noted of which highest numbers of Ruddy Narayani river. It is essential to implement controlling measures Shelducks were sighted. Rapti River provides good feeding by participatory approach through empowerment of local users habitat for Ruddy Shelduck than Narayani River since this committees combined with strong law and order. species mainly feed on algae. The water level is low with less flow in the Rapti River so that more algae are found spreading in the stony banks. 6 BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER

Table 3: Section wise midwinter count waterbird in Chitwan National Park, January 2010

Species Counting Location Total

Common Name Scientific Name A B C D E F Grebe Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus 0 0 0 0 0 15 15 Sub Total 0 0 0 0 0 15 15 Darter and cormorant Darter Anhinga melanogaster 1 3 1 1 1 4 11 Little Cormorant Phalacrocorax niger 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 1 173 9 475 7 424 1089 Sub Total 2 176 10 476 8 430 1102 Egrets and herons 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Little Egret Egretta garzetta 13 20 23 4 5 8 73 Great Egret Casmerodius albus 3 6 8 2 2 1 22 Intermediate Egret Mesophoyx intermedia 1 11 11 3 3 3 32 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis 0 9 2 0 0 0 11 Indian Pond Heron Ardeola grayii 4 19 3 2 5 7 40 Little Heron Butorides striatus 1 2 2 3 2 3 13 Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax 0 0 0 0 0 265 265 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea 1 0 0 0 0 2 3 Purple Heron Ardea purpurea 1 0 0 0 0 4 5 Sub Total 24 67 49 14 17 293 464 Ibis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Black Ibis Pseudibis papillosa 6 3 50 6 0 19 84 Sub Total 6 3 50 6 0 19 84

Storks 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Asian Openbill Anastomus oscitans 2 2 18 2 4 0 28 Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus 6 2 0 0 0 0 8 Black Stork Ciconia nigra 8 0 3 6 13 4 34 Lesser Adjutant Leptoptilos javanicus 5 0 0 0 0 2 7 Sub Total 21 4 21 8 17 6 77 Crane 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Common Crane Grus grus 0 0 0 0 0 127 127 Sub Total 0 0 0 0 0 127 127 Geese and ducks 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Lesser Whistling-duck Dendrocygna javanica 83 53 0 0 0 93 229 Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea 564 1253 900 713 427 1095 4952 Common Pochard Aythya ferina 0 0 0 0 0 27 27 Gadwall Anas strepera 8 42 155 0 72 96 373 BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER 7

Bar-headed Goose Anser indicus 0 0 6 0 175 0 181 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos 0 0 11 0 11 0 22 Common Teal Anas crecca 0 0 0 64 7 0 71 Northern Pintail Anas acuta 0 0 0 5 0 0 5 Common Merganser Mergus merganser 36 37 50 12 35 42 212 Sub Total 691 1385 1122 794 727 1353 6072 Waterhen and moorhen 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 White-breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus 3 2 0 0 0 5 10 Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus 103 15 0 0 0 23 141 Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio 5 0 0 0 0 3 8 Brown Crake Amaurornis akool 2 0 0 0 0 3 5 Sub Total 113 17 0 0 0 34 164 Jacanas (Jacanidae) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Bronze-winged Jacana Metopidius indicus 5 13 0 0 0 3 21 Sub Total 5 13 0 0 0 3 21 Thick-knee 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Great Thick-knee Esacus recurvirostris 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 Sub Total 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 Shorebirds and waders 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Common Redshank Tringa totanus 23 5 12 0 0 6 46 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia 29 9 25 10 7 5 85 Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus 33 7 6 3 9 8 66 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 18 13 20 8 9 5 73 Temmnick’s Stint Calidris temminckii 415 31 30 23 36 41 576 Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius 13 43 19 26 36 52 189 Small Pratincole Glareola lactea 21 6 0 0 0 33 60 River Lapwing Vanellus duvaucelii 1 3 2 0 0 12 18 Red –wattled Lapwing Vanellus indicus 4 6 3 0 0 0 13 Sub Total 557 123 117 70 97 162 1126

Grand Total 1419 1788 1369 1369 866 2442 9253 Wetland dependent raptors Osprey Pandion haliaetus 1 1 1 1 1 3 8 Grey-headed Fish Eagle Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus 1 1 0 0 0 2 4 Total 2 2 1 1 1 5 12

Note: Counting areas coverage 80-90 %

Acknowledgements winter water bird count and all my assistants who helped me I would like to thank Dr. Narendra Man Babu Pradhan Chief during bird counting. Warden of Chitwan National Park who encouraged me for mid 8 BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER

References Inskipp, C. and Inskipp, T. (1991) A guide to the birds of Nepal. Anon. 1992. Recently seen! Nepal Bird Watching Club Newsletter Second edition. London, UK: Christopher Helm. 1-2: 2-3 Khadka, B. B. 2005. Mid winter count of water birds in Royal Baral, H.S. and Upadhaya, G.P. 2006. Birds of Chitwan. Second Chitwan National Park. Danphe 14 (3/4): 3-5 edition. Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Khadka, B. B. 2006. Birds counted along Rapti and Narayani Participatory Conservation Programme and Bird Conservation rivers, unpublished. Nepal. Kathmandu Khadka, B. B. 2006. Nesting colony of Asian Openbill Anastomus Bhusan, B., Sonobe, K., and Usui, S. 1993. A Field Guide to the oscitans in Royal Chitwan National Park, Danphe 15 (1):1-3 Water Birds of Asia. Kodansha International and Wild Bird Society Poudyal, L. P. and Nepal, S. 2010. Population Status of Lesser of Japan, Tokyo Adjutant in Chitwan Fleming, R. L. Sr, Fleming, R. L. Jr and Bangdel, L. S. (1984) Birds of National Park, Nepal. Danphe 19 (1): 1-4 Nepal. Third edition. Kathmandu: Avalok. Giri, T. and Choudhary, H. 2008. Additional Sightings. Danphe Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation/Chitwan 17(2): 6 National Park Giri, T. and Choudhary, H. 2010. Additional Sightings. Danphe PO Box No 860, Babar Mahal, 19(1): 3 Kathmandu, Nepal. Grimmett, R., Inskipp, C. and Inskipp, T. (2000) Birds of Nepal. London, UK: Christopher Helm. In Memory Of Jack Cox Jr

Tragically Jack Cox Jr. died suddenly and from unknown causes on For the length of his treks Jack kept detailed daily notes of all the June 22 2010 at a hospital in Laos. At the time of his death, Jack was birds and bird habitats he recorded. His notes are an invaluable working on a community-based Siamese Crocodile recovery project source of bird distribution, breeding information, as well as habitat in Laos for the Wildlife Conservation Society. In his professional extent and quality. career Jack worked for many years on crocodiles in South-East Asia. The Wildlife Conservation Society considered that, ‘Jack’s passing His many publications included an assessment of habitats and is an enormous loss for biodiversity conservation as he was a long- human interaction in the Hinkhu, Hongu, Kasuwa and Barun Kholas serving and dedicated advocate for wildlife management and of Makalu Barun National Park and several articles for Danphe over protection.’ the years. He discovered the first Long-billed Wren Babbler Rimator malacoptilus for Nepal. Amongst his observations on breeding Jack will be equally remembered for his work on Nepal birds and birds, the first documented nest of Rufous-breasted Bush Robin their conservation. His interest in birds was stimulated during his Tarsiger hyperythrus and breeding behaviour and ecology of first visit to Nepal in 1978/79 when he worked as American Peace White-browed Shortwing Brachypteryx montana, both published in Corps volunteer mainly based at Taulihawa, Kapilvastu District. He Forktail are particularly notable. first wrote to Tim and me in 1981 and ever since he has written to us regularly, expressing his boundless enthusiasm for Nepal birds and In 2002, on one of his terai treks he discovered Khadara Phanta in Nepal, and the deep care and affection he had for Nepalis. Kapilvastu district,an unprotected lowland grassland, the most threatened of all Nepal bird habitats. Together with Dinesh Giri, Jack was a staunch supporter of Bird Conservation Nepal and the Jack documented the ornithological importance of this grassland Nepal Bird Watching Club that preceded it, ever since the Club in the 25th anniversary edition of Danphe. He worked passionately started in 1982. for the protection of Khadara Phanta enlisting the support of BCN to secure its future. He made an enormous contribution to ornithology in Nepal. Jack was certainly the most widely travelled of birdwatchers and bird As well as all his ornithological achievements in Nepal, Jack will conservationists within the country. Since 1978 he visited Nepal be remembered for his pioneering, indomitable spirit, sense of almost annually and undertook numerous treks. Most of his treks adventure, independent mind, his generosity and great sense of were lengthy and took him far from the usual trekking routes fairness. covered by visitors. In his latest trek from 30 April to 10 June 2009 he visited the Arun, Pikhua, Apsuwa and Sankhuwa Kholas in the There was so much Jack still wanted to do in Nepal. At the time of east. Other epic treks included walking from Tansen, Palpa District his passing, he was still working towards his dream of the protection to Maldhunga , Baglung District via Dhaulagiri Base Camp from 12 of Khadara phanta and planned to return to Kapilvastu in November May to 27 June 1999, a trans-Khumbu trek from 7 October to 12 2010. It is hard to believe that he has really gone. Jack will be greatly November 1996, and widely throughout the terai. On all of his treks missed by the conservation community around the world and Jack kept the same team of assistants, from a Rai family and he often especially by those working for Nepal bird conservation. wrote to us with affection of their loyalty to him and his endeavours. - Carol Inskipp BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER 9 News

Membership Scott Mason joined BCN as a Life Member. Scott is the pioneer of Pratikchha Srivastava became Life Member of BCN. She has been Parahawking and runs the Himalayan Raptor Rescue project in working as Finance Officer of BCN since last four years. She keeps Nepal where he cares for sick, injured and orphaned birds. interest on birds and birdwatching.

Roop Bahadur Gurung is principal of Suryodaya English Boarding Menuka Basnyat is working as a Membership and Education School, Pokhara. He joined BCN as a Life Member. Officer for BCN. She has been working for promotion of BCN and aware people about birds and need of bird conservation by Ravi Shanker Pandit is working as Project Education Officer, Koshi organising various events. She also joined BCN as a Life Member. Project of BCN. He also joined BCN as a Life Member. Marianne Heredge became Life Member of BCN. She has Mr. Bhupal Nepali joined BCN as Life Member. He is working as keen interest on birds and loves to do birdwatching. She has field officer of BCN’s Vulture Conservation Programme. participated in various birdwatching programme and every other events organised by BCN. Dr. Surya Paudel, veterinarian by profession joined BCN as a Life Member. He is working as veterinarian doctor of BCN’s Vulture Sunil Bantawa joined BCN as a Life Member. He is very much Conservation Programme. dedicated in the field of conservation at Panchthar and Ilam. He also shows great interest in bird conservation. Ishwori Prasad Chaudhary, Vulture Field Technician of BCN’s Vulture Conservation Programme became Life Member of BCN. Shree Ram Subedi joined BCN as a Life Member. He has great He is one of the dedicated staff working at Vulture Safe Zone at interest in conservation of bird and serving BCN as a president Nawalparasi. since last 4 years.

Pooja Gurung joined BCN as a Life Member. She is Business Dinesh Giri joined BCN as a Life member. He is naturalist by Promotion and Marketing Assistant Officer working for BCN’s profession and working as Manager in Lumbini Buddha Garden Jagdishpur Wetland Project. She is very active and dedicated Resort, Lumbini. He shows keen interest in birdwatching and has for the promotion of handicraft product prepared from wetland done couple of bird research in Rupandehi and Kapilvastu area. grasses. Also she has great love towards birds and nature. Everest Bank Ltd. Joined BCN as a corporate member. The bank Khadananda Paudel joined BCN as a Life Member. He worked as a has been conferred with “Bank of the Year 2006, Nepal” by the coordinator of BCN Pokhara Branch for a year and is now working banker, a publication of the financial times, London and bestowed as Field Biologist in BCN’s Vulture Conservation Programme. He is with the “NICCI Excellence award” by Nepal India chamber of very interested in birdwatching. commerce, for its spectacular performance in the finance sector.

Mana Krishna Shrestha is a business man by profession. He shows Malpi International School joined BCN as corporate member. It great interest in birds and loves going birdwatching. He also is a well renowned co-educational boarding school located at joined BCN as a Life Member. Panauti, Kavre.

Suraj Kumar Gurung is teacher by profession. He joined BCN as a Education and Awareness Life Member. Birdwatching is his passion and enjoy working for conservation of birds. Birdwatching on International Biodiversity Day BCN organised birdwatching to meet The International Mitra Pandey joined BCN as a Life Member. He is working at BCN Biodiversity Day 2010 on 22 May 2010 at Suryavinayak and as Climate Change Project Officer. He has studied wildlife and shows great interest in birds and birdwatching.

Jyotendra Jyu Thakuri is working at BCN as Field Education Officer at Bagmati Nature Park. He has been leading various birdwatching events organised by BCN and also one of the good bird photographer. Birdwatching and bird photography is his passion. He also joined BCN as a Life Member.

Raju Tamang is a Managing Director of Hotel View Bhrikuti, Godavari. He became Life Member of BCN. He is nature lover and keen to work for conservation of birds. 10 BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER

Setidevi community forest. There was huge participation of Mrs. Ishana Thapa, Conservation Officer of Bird Conservation around 116 students from four different school of Bhaktapur and Nepal highlighted on the ongoing bird trade issues in Nepal Panauti and members of BCN. mentioning that the cage bird market in Nepal is dominated by parakeets, mynas and munias mostly traded from Patna and All were divided into four different groups. Each group was lead Calcutta via Raxual border. Likewise Mr. Abrar Ahmed, Consultant, by different bird experts: Vimal Thapa, Yubraj Basnet, Sarbendra Traffic/WWF-India shared his findings on Illegal wild bird trade in Pachhai, Rajendra Gurung and Jyotendra Jyu Thakuri. Students India. He revealed that more than 50, 000 families depend on bird were taken to different part of the forest for birdwatching and it trade in India and most of the bird trade business in Nepal is also last for three hours. Students were shared with information about run by the traders from India. More than 300 species including the importance of the day as well as value of biodiversity in our the exotic species are in trade in India. life. Government officials present in the workshop welcomed Bird Trade Awareness Campaign this regional initiative on wild bird trade and showed their BCN organised Bird Trade Awareness Campaign to meet the commitment for future support. They also encouraged the civil 2554th Buddha Jayanti (birth anniversary of Lord Buddha) on societies to provide more information on the ongoing trade on 27 May 2010 at Tribhuvan University/ Natural History Museum, wild birds for effective law enforcement. Swoyambhu Kathmandu. Thousands of Buddhist pilgrims, students and young people participated in the festival. Our World Migratory Bird Day 2010 Celebration target was to aware Buddhist people especially who traditionally Bird Conservation Nepal organized awareness programme release the cage birds and attract bird traders to the Buddhist at Apollo International Boarding School of New Baneshwor, sites like Swoyambhu and Boudha. During the campaign, around Kathmandu to mark the World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD). 4000 leaflets with a message “Let’s discourage illegal wild bird WMBD theme for the year 2010 was “Save all the migratory bird in trade” were distributed to the pilgrims and other people. crisis: Every species counts.” Around eighty students participated in the programme enthusiastically. Gautam Sapkota “Chari Dada” was able to attract lots of people mimicking the bird call and other activities for the children and visitor. We were able to collect some donation for “Charalai Char” campaign also.

Regional Workshop on Illegal Wild Bird Trade BCN organized a Regional Workshop on “Illegal Wild Bird Trade” at Hotel Ambassador on 24 May 2010. The main objective of the workshop was to share the findings of the study carried on wild bird trade in Nepal and India among the relevant government agencies and other conservation partners. The study was supported by World Parrot Trust, US and WWF Nepal. This is for the first time such a workshop has been organized.

Membership and Education Officer, Ms. Menuka Basnyat initiated the programme with the introduction of World Migratory Bird Day and BCN activities for the conservation of birds. Climate Change Project Officer, Mr. Mitra Pandey highlighted on the importance of migratory birds, their global status and student’s responsibility and action for the conservation. Mr. Gautam Sapkota “Chari Dada” entertained students by making calls of various migratory birds and delivered messages for the conservation of migratory birds.

Posters, cards and sticker related with WMBD along with BCN’s quarterly newsletter and brochure were distributed to school Mr. Gopal Prasad Upadhyay, DG, Department of National Park and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) forwarding his speech. students and teachers.

Programme started with the welcome speech by Mr. Shree Ram 28th BCN Day Celebration 2010 Subedi, President, BCN. In his welcome speech he stated that this BCN celebrated its 28th anniversary at Phulchoki Mountain Forest is BCN’s initiation and more study and research will be carried in on 24 April 2010. There was a remarkable participation of BCN future. staffs and members, council members, advisors and journalist. BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER 11

To sensitize and highlight the current environment problems through music, concert programme had been organized by ICC. Prior to the concert, Gautam Sapkota (Charidada) entertained the spectator by bird mimicry. Different participating concert band in the programme delivered awareness messages to the public along with their performance.

9th street exhibition and public awareness campaign BCN celebrated 9th street exhibition and public awareness campaign on the occasion of World Environment Day – 2010 at Shanti Vatika, Ratnapark. The theme for the day was “Many species. One planet. One Future.”

The day was marked by organizing bird-watching at Phulchoki forest.

A total of 46 participants joined the event. President of BCN, Mr. Shree Ram Subedi delivered welcome speech and highlighted on the journey of BCN till date since its establishment and importance of celebrating BCN Day. Joint Secretary of BCN, Mr. Vimal Thapa gave short briefing about the birds and habitat of phulchoki forest. Chief executive officer of BCN, Dr. Hum Gurung, focused on the future plans along with the progress activities of BCN.

Finally, president briefed about the status of birds in Nepal and climate change impacts on them to the journalists. Mr. Gautam Sapkota, ‘Chari-dada’ also added flavor to the programme by his bird mimicry skill. The main objective of the campaign was to raise awareness

on birds and environment to the public. The programme also 15th Wild Life Week Celebration supported to raise fund for the conservation of birds and their BCN joined hands with the Department of National Parks and habitat. Bird information leaflets, posters and newsletters were Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) in the celebration of the 15th distributed to the general public along with experts addressing Wildlife Week 2010. The programme included bird watching the queries of the visitors. Fund was generated through “Char tours to school students, bird watchers and environmentalists Lai Char” campaign and sales of BCN merchandize. Games and at Shivapuri National Park on 17 April 2010. BCN took lead for bird quiz were also arranged for the visitors. The programme the bird watching programme. BCN distributed updated Official also included temporary bird tattooing of body parts which was Checklist of the Birds of Nepal along with its brochures and supported by students of Sirjana College of Fine Arts. There was newsletters. About 70 participants were divided into 3 groups an exhibition of drawings made by students of different schools lead by experts from BCN Sarbendra Pachhai, Yubraj Basnet and of the Kathmandu valley. Jyotendra Jyu Thakuri. BCN members Anil Prajapati, Suman Ale and Krishab Shrestha assisted the team. Also, Gautam Sapkota Ten BCN members volunteered the event with the support of the “Chari Dada” made some call of birds found in Shivapuri National organization staffs. More than six thousand people visited BCN Park. stall that day.

Climate Change Awareness Programme Third National Conservation Day BCN actively participated in the Climate Change awareness As a member of the Conservation Consortium of Nepal, BCN programme organized by International Climate Champions jointly organised the third National Conservation Day in (ICC), a network formed by British Council, at Hanuman Dhoka, Kathmandu on the 23 September 2010. Kathmandu on 10 April 2010. BCN had set a stall to deliver the information about “Climate Change Impacts on Birds”. A climate On the occasion, BCN won three of the eight awards offered. change flex poster was displayed along with “Chara lai Char” The Community Managed Vulture Safe Zones of Nawalparasi campaign. Besides these, there were T-shirts, badges, posters and and Rupandehi shared the Abraham Conservation Award books published by BCN, on sale. (organization). Similarly, Mr. Hirulal Dangaura, Vulture Monitoring 12 BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER

The program was marked by the presence of high profile dignitaries representing various veterinary and conservation groups including Chief guest Radha Raman Prasad Chief Drug Adminstator : Department of Drug Administration , Dr. Narayan Prasad Ghimire : Registar Nepal Veterinary Council, Vice President of Nepal Veterinary Association, Senior Veterinary Officer Directorate of Animal Health Dr. Poormina Manandhar Chief of Veterinary Standard and Drug Administration Office, Dr. Narayan Basel Senior Veterinary Officer Department of Livestock Services Dr. Surendra Karki, Central member of Nepal Veterinary Association Dr. Narendra man Babu Pradhan Chief Conservation Officer Chitwan National Park Purna bahadur Budha member secretary of Nepal Paraveterinary and Livestock Association, Dr. Hum Gurung Chief Executive Officer of BCN. The overall program was run by Tila Devi Bhusal.

The program marked well with great enthusiasm from all the and Education Assistant, won the Abraham Conservation people and wide media coverage. Solo vulture photo exhibition Award (individual). Mr. Anand Chaudhary, Vulture Conservation by Krishna Mani Baral was also conducted. Programme Officer won the Mathew Preece and Yeshi Choden Lama Young Conservation Leader Award.

On the same occasion, two young scientists Mr. Manoj Kumar Joshi and Ms. Rebecca Gurung from Tribhuvan University, Master Degree, Zoology, received the ‘Jatayu Scholarship’ for conducting research on vultures.

Bagmati River Festival

BCN participated in rafting competition organised by Nepal River Conservation Trust (NRCT) during Bagamti River Festival on 14 August 2010. On the occassion, BCN won best raft decorator award. Competition was organised at Sundarijal in order to aware people about importance of river conservation.

BCN also exhibited its publications, T-shirts, caps, postcards, pin badges and posters on the last day (21 August 2010). Workshop on vulture conservation and scientific monitoring Project Updates A two days workshop on “vulture conservation and scientific management” was organized at vulture safe zone Ghachok Kaski Vulture Conservation on 12 and 13 April 2010.

Diclofenac Destruction Programme Altogether 41 participants including members of Jatayu Safe Diclofenac destruction programme kicked off at Jatayu Safe Zone Zone Management Committee, conservation representatives, Nawalparasi on 31 March 2010 that was organized by BCN and media personals and other concerned groups participated in the Jatayu safe zone management committee. The main objective programme. Various issues of vulture conservation and facets for of the programme was to promote for safe alternative drug effective management of Jatayu Safe Zone were discussed on the Meloxicam. workshop. Closing ceremony was marked by the presence of Dr. Hum Gurung CEO of BCN. Diclofenac was collected from FY 2005/2006 from different parts of Nepal with support of Royal Society for Protection of Birds Road Transect Survey (RSPB) and Darwin Initiative. 51.7 litre of injectable Diclofenac and Road transect survey was successfully carried out from 11 - 24 May 13 thousand 64 Diclofenac bolus/tablets were mixed together 2010 starting from Narayanghat to Mahendranagar. Also three with soap water for denaturation and absorbed in coal. Finally mountain legs were incorporated reaching Arghakhachi, Baitadi they were destroyed in Traditional chulo following the regulation and Salyan. Anand Chaudhary, Bhupal Nepali, Khadananda of Royal pharmaceutical society of Great Britain. Drug disposed Paudel, Ishwari Chaudhary and Jatayu scholars were on the during this process will have minimal impact on environment. survey team. BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER 13

A new colony of White- rumped Vulture in Argakhachi A new colony of White-rumped Vulture was found in Pokhedanda Pine forest of Argha VDC -9, Arghakhanchi district on 21 May 2010. The colony lies at an average elevation of 1207m and all nests are on the trunks of Pinus roxburghii tree. Altogether 13 nests of this species were recorded among which, 7 nests were occupied with chick.

Test on carcass liver samples Altogether 80 cattle carcass liver samples are sent to London to test the level of use of Diclofenac on animals in Nepal. These samples were collected from dang, Rupandehi and Nawalparasi districts of Nepal. More samples are being collected from other parts too.

Team building workshop A two days team building workshop was organized for vulture conservation team on 25 - 26 May 2010 at Dhampus Kaski. This workshop has benefited participants to build a convergent effort and effective cooperation to bring their goal.

Vulture chicks transferred NTNC and other key conservation organizations discussed about Vultures from holding aviary are transferred to highly sophisticate vulture conservation and answered questions from the media. A breeding aviary at Kasara on 17 June 2010. Clinical examination documentary on vulture conservation work of BCN was screened was performed on all birds which reveals that all birds are normal by NEFEJ. Several thousand people were reached through these and healthy. programs.

Mid-term review of Vulture Conservation and Breeding Inception of new UNDP/Global Environment Facility/Small Centre, Kasara Chitwan National Park by DNPWC, NTNC Grants Programme funded project. The inception of new UNDP/ and BCN GEF/SGP funded project, “Participatory conservation of Jatayu A joint team from the three partner organizations visited the site (Vulture) safe zones for integrated landscape level conservation on 10-11 August 2010 and discussed progress, management of critically endangered vulture species” was held at Bhairahwa situation and site planning for future. The visit was followed on 21 September 2010 with participation of key partner by a series of meetings at DNPWC, Babarmahal. Key decisions organizations, government line agencies and press. include an understanding to negotiate a new MOU once it expires in December 2010 and appointment of a full time Veterinary Jagdispur Wetland Conservation Project Officer (BCN funded) at the centre. Fishery Training Upper Mustang Himalayan Griffon Survey Five day fishery training was organized for the local communities A survey of Upper Mustang Himalayan Griffon that takes place of Jagdishpur from 11-15 April 2010 at Niglihawa VDC hall. every two years was carried from 17 August to 3 September 2010. Altogether 22 local farmers participated in the training. The main Initial report suggests continual decline of the species in Upper objective of the training was to enhance the skill of local fish Mustang but detailed data analysis is still in progress. farmers for commercial pond fish farming and minimize fishing pressure in the Jagdishpur Reservior. The trainees will be further International Vulture Awareness Day, 5 September 2010 supported with small seed money to initiate fish farming from The International Vulture Awareness Day was celebrated in 17 the Jagdishpur Agriculture Cooperative established by BCN. districts of Nepal through interaction programs, rally, motorbike Total 8 fishery groups are engaged in fish farming through the rally, school/college awareness events, competitions for school project support. children, bird watching, folk song competitions; exhibitions, street drama, awards/felicitation for reporters, screening of National Workshop on Jagdishpur Reservoir documentary and inauguration of information boards. In Management Plan Kathmandu, an interaction program was organized jointly A national workshop to discuss on draft Jagdishpur Reservior with DNPWC, NTNC and NEFEJ where key representatives from Management Plan was organized at DNPWC meeting hall on 18 DNPWC, Department of Drug Administration, Department of June 2010. This is the first management plan prepared after the Livestock Services, Veterinary Standards and Drug Administration site’s declaration as a Ramsar Site. Altogether 20 participants from Office, Nepal Veterinary Council, Nepal Veterinary Association, various organizations and experts were present in the meeting Nepal Para Veterinary and Livestock Association, UNDP/GEF/SGP, and provided valuable inputs on the draft management plan. 14 BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER

Bird Areas (IBAs) of Nepal (Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and Rara National Park).

Dr Hum Gurung (CEO of BCN) presented the project to other Asian BirdLife Partners during the BirdLife Asia Council meeting held from 10 - 15 May 2010 in Taipei, Taiwan illustrating how BCN plans to share their experiences of this work with BirdLife partners in Asia. He further shared the ES project with experts at the ES workshop which was held in Cambridge, UK, from 17 - 18 May 2010. BirdLife International, Cambridge Conservation Initiative (CCI) and BCN are developing a tool kit for assessment and monitoring of ecosystem services for better biodiversity conservation in Nepal.

BirdLife International has been providing remote IBA monitoring training sessions to BCN staff involved in the project. Wetland Conservation Training Three day wetland conservation training was organized from State of Nepal’s Birds 2010 21-23 June 2010 at Rise building, Taulihawa. T he training was With support from BirdLife International and AAGE V. Jensen mainly targeted to the school teachers, eco club members and Charity Foundation, BCN is updating the “State of Nepal’s Birds Jagdishpur wetland visitor centre management committee 2004”. First draft of the publication is in near final stage which members. Altogether 25 participants received the training. includes summary, detail state of the threatened species, The knowledge and experience gained from the training will pressure, response, case studies and species table. be shared among the school students and the general public through the wetland visitor centre and also incorporating Bird Education and Awareness at Nawalparasi IBA wetland education as a school extracurricular activity. BCN has BCN is conducting bird education and awareness at Nawalparasi supported to establish a wetland visitor center at Jagdishpur IBA through the small grant support from Oriental Bird Club (OBC). Reservior. Contract agreement with Sunwal Development Community Centre (SCDC) has been done who will be responsible to facilitate the conservation awareness activities among local communities (5 VDCs) and schools in close coordination with BCN. Preparation of brochure and hoarding board has been finalized. 19 schools around the IBA have been selected to involve in the awareness programme.

Staff Appointments/Departure Khadananda Poudel joined as Field Biologist from March 2010. He has completed B.Sc. Forestry from Pokhara Forestry campus.

Ravi Pokharel was appointed as Community Service Officer, Vulture Safe Zone, Ghachowk from March 2010. BirdLife /Jenson policy and advocacy project Priti Shirish Thapa joined as Research Associate for 3 months BCN has provided support to the Ministry of Forests and Soil from April 2010. She has done her Masters in Environmental Risk Conservation (CBD Focal Point) to organise a multi-stakeholder Management from University of Wales Institute Cardiff (UWIC). consultative meeting involving major conservation partners in the celebration of the International Year of the Biological Diversity, Mitra Pandey, Climate Change Officer, left BCN to join Masters in 2010 and also implementing CBD. More than 20 stakeholders Forestry in Germany. from various sectors like GOs, NGOs, INGOs, Universities and tourism promotion organisations have been meeting regularly Dr. Surya Poudel, Veterinary Officer, left BCN to study Conservation for this. BCN has also regularly supported the government in Medicine in Austria. national preparation meeting for CBD COP 10 meeting taking place at Nagoya, Japan this November. Five hundred copies of Visits/Trainings: awareness poster on CBD have been produced. Mr. Shree Ram Subedi, President and Dr. Hum Bahadur Gurung, Chief Executive Officer attended 13th BirdLife Asia Council Darwin Ecosystem Services Project Meeting which was held in Taipei, Taiwan from 14 - 15 May 2010. BCN and BildLife International launched the three year Darwin Initiative’s project on Ecosystem Services (ES) in three Important Dr. Hum Bahadur Gurung, CEO attended “Expert Meeting on BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER 15

Ecosystem Services” at UK on 15-29 May 2010.

Mr. Anand Chaudhary participated in an International Training Course at Alberta followed by an International Congress for Conservation Biology at Edmonton from 17 June to 8 July 2010.

Ishana Thapa, Conservation Officer attended International Training of Trainers on Wetland Management at Wageningen BirdLife International is a global conservation federation International, Netherlands from 6-24 September 2010. The with a worldwide network of Partner organizations, training was supported by Netherlands Government’s Fellowship Representatives and committed individuals. Programme. BirdLife International seeks to conserve all bird species on earth and their habitats and, through this, it works Bhupal Nepali, Community Mobilization Officer attended Report for the world’s biological diversity. It recognizes that the Writing Training at British Council. problems affecting birds, their habitats and our global environment are linked inseparably with social, economic As part of knowledge sharing among the staff, training was and cultural factors and that these can only be resolved organized on Project Planning, Behavior Change, Media and if human societies function in an ecologically sustainable Messaging at BCN Office facilitated by Anand Chaudhary, Vulture manner and if the needs, welfare and aspirations of people Conservation Officer who received similar training provided by form a part of all conservation action. Conservation Leadership Programme in Canada. Likewise Ishana Birds provide BirdLife International with a uniquely Thapa, Conservation Officer provided training to other staff valuable focus: they are sensitive indicators of biological members on IBA monitoring. richness and environmental trends and fulfil many key ecological functions; they contribute greatly to our Dr. Hum Gurung, CEO participated in the First Asian Bird Fair held understanding of natural processes; they are an important at Davao City, Philipines from 24-26 September 2010. The bird fair economic resource; and they have inspired and delighted was organized in tandem with the 6th Philippine Bird Festival, the people of many cultures for centuries, which makes them country’s premier avian conservation and eco-tourism event. Dr. excellent ambassadors for the promotion of conservation awareness and international collaboration. Gurung also presented various activities of BCN on the festival. BirdLife International pursues a programme of: BCN Pokhara Branch  Scientific research and analysis to identify and monitor worldwide the most threatened bird species Birdwatching Training programme and the most critical sites for the conservation of The birdwatching training programme was organised by BCN- avian diversity; Pokhara branch from 14 -15 April 2010 with the objective  Advocacy and policy development to promote of creating awareness and enhancing the capacity of bird the conservation of birds and biodiversity through identification among BCN members of the Institute of Forestry sustainability in the use of all natural resources; (IOF). The programme was co-ordinated by Miss Sabina Maiya Prajapati, Programme Head, BCN- Pokhara branch. Altogether  Field action and country conservation programmes, 65 BCN members (from Technical Certificate Level, B.Sc Forestry ranging from community-based land-use and and M.Sc. Level) took part in the programme. The Programme management projects to species recovery was sponsored by Tiger Mountain Lodge, ComForM Project, and programmes benefiting both wildlife and humans; Institute of Forestry (IOF) Pokhara. The training was focused on  Network and capacity building to expand and how to conduct birding activities. strengthen the global partnership of conservation organizations and to promote worldwide interest in the conservation of birds and the wider environment.

Editorial Board Dr Hem Sagar Baral (Chief Editor), Ishana Thapa (Sub Editor), Suchit Basnet, Yub Raj Basnet

Copyright © 2010 Bird Conservation Nepal. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed by the authors do not necessarily express the policies of the Bird Conservation Nepal. 16 BIRD CONSERVATION NEPAL - NEWSLETTER

The newsletter is produced quarterly for members of Bird g]kfn k+5L ;+/If0f ;+3 Conservation Nepal. The aim of the newsletter is to inform BCN members on the recent development of ornithology in Nepal and any other relevant news on birds. It is circulated to all members free Bird of cost. The individual annual membership is NRs. 300 for any SAARC nationals and equivalent Nepali rupees of US$ 15.00 for others. Conservation

Those who would like to donate to or be a member of BCN can do Nepal so by a direct bank transfer, to the bank details below, or via cheque. Cheques should be made payable to Bird Conservation Nepal and Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN) is the largest and oldest civil sent to the address below. society organisation dedicated to the interests of ornithologists, Sunrise Bank Limited, Gairidhara birdwatchers and conservationists in Nepal. It seeks to promote A/C No: 002 00200026CL an interest in birds among the general public, encourages research Account Holder: Bird Conservation Nepal on bird biology and ecology, identifi es the major threats to birds’ SWIFT CODE: SRBLNPKA continued survival, and acts to conserve birds and their habitats. It also provides the most authentic information on birds and their Founder President habitats all over Nepal. Hari Sharan Nepali ‘Kazi’ Patrons BCN is a membership-based organisation. At present, it is supported Mr. Karna Shakya, Nepal by a Founder President, 20 Patrons, 181 life members and several Mr. Rajendra Lal Shrestha, Nepal ordinary members. Members are the major strength of this Miss Michie Kashiwabara, Japan organisation and people from various backgrounds viz. students, Mr. Shyam Khatri, Nepal teachers, professionals, bird enthusiasts, conservationists, and the Field Marshal Sir John Chapple GCB, CBE, DL general public are involved. Mrs. Nicole Nooren, Netherlands Mr. Yozo Koshiyama, Japan BCN is committed to educate the public on the value of birds and Mr. Lalit Jung Lalchan, Nepal the relationship between birds and people. It has also prioritized Mr. Bishwa Tuladhar, Nepal the signifi cance of peoples participation as future stewardship to Mr. Tara P. Lama, USA attain long-term national conservation goal. Mr. Krishna Karki, Nepal Mr. Uttam Raj Kayastha, Nepal Mr. Sarbendra Pachhai, Nepal Our staff form the heart of BCN but the lifeline is provided by Mr. Deepak Chettri, Nepal the invaluable contributions of volunteers and supporters. Dr. Joel T. Heinen, USA Both fi nancial and in-kind support is greatly appreciated and Mr. Lok Nath Wosti, Japan we welcome any kind of help that can be off ered. For further Mr. Rajendra Gurung, Nepal information, please write to: Mr. Syam Krishna Prasai, Nepal Mr. Ganga Jung Thapa, Nepal Bird Conservation Nepal Prof. David Simmons, New Zealand Post Box 12465, Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel 4417805, 4420213, Fax 0097714413884 Email [email protected] www.birdlifenepal.org

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