Bird Watching in Rajaji
Nestled in the state of Uttarakhand, Rajaji National Park stands as an ideal haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting a diverse population of over 400 endemic, residential, passage, and migratory bird species. The national park's avifauna thrives within its eco-tonal zone, flourishing due to the various habitats it encompasses.
Beyond its rich birdlife, Rajaji National Park's allure lies in its picturesque landscapes and abundant biodiversity, captivating both nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The origin of the national park traced back to 1983 when Rajaji Wildlife Sanctuary was amalgamated with Motichoor and Chilla Wildlife Sanctuaries, giving rise to Rajaji National Park. Named in honour of the eminent freedom fighter and the first Governor-General of India, Late Shri Raja C. Gopalachari, affectionately known as Rajaji, the park spans an expansive 820.42 sq. km. Visitors can revel in its beauty and biodiversity from mid-November to mid-June, making it a destination not to be missed.
About Avifauna Species in Rajaji National Park
A comprehensive avian survey has documented a total of 312 bird species within Rajaji National Park. Among these, 151 species are permanent residents, 87 are migrants, 49 are altitudinal migrants, and 7 are local migrants, while the status of the remaining 18 remains unknown. Notably, Rajaji serves as the western boundary for certain species like the Great Pied Hornbill (Buceros bicornis) and Golden-fronted Leafbird (Chloropsis aurifrons). Additionally, the forest adjoining Rajaji NP is linked to Corbett NP, where the Common Green Magpie (Cissa chinensis) has been reported, emphasizing the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
The park's richness in forest birds is evident, featuring 11 woodpecker species, 5 barbet species, and 3 hornbill species, including the Near Threatened Great Pied Hornbill. It is also part of the Western Himalayas Endemic Bird Area, hosting species like Brooks's Leaf Warbler (Phylloscopus subviridis) and Tytler's Leaf Warbler (Phylloscopus tytleri), both winter migrants to the national park.
The presence of a barrage on the River Ganga near Haridwar enhances the park's allure by providing backwater reservoirs and a stretch of the river within Rajaji NP. These water bodies serve as magnets for both resident and migratory waterbirds during winter. 13 bird species have been identified at the reservoir, including Darter (Anhinga melanogaster), Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala), Black-necked Stork (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus), Ferruginous Pochard (Aythya nyroca), and Black-bellied Tern (Sterna acuticauda), all designated as Near Threatened by BirdLife International (2001). The rich avian diversity underscores Rajaji National Park as a significant habitat for various bird species, contributing to the park's ecological importance.
