It is a well-known fact that the entire Northeast India is like a magnet for bird watchers from around the world. The state of Assam itself with its large concentration of lakes, rivers, and sanctuaries has rich biodiversity in its very lap. For the birding enthusiasts, Assam is another favorite place for bird watching.
The state is already famous for its high concentration of one-horned rhinoceros, deer, elephants and other animals. Besides that, the state has good number of lakes like the Dipor Beel, Chandubi lake, Son beel, Maguri beel which becomes the site for migratory birds year after year. Let us check out some of the other sites that draw birdwatchers with their recorders, and DSLRs to record some of the finest and the most exquisite birds from near and far to the state.
Dibru Saikhowa National Park :
Located in Tinsukhia in Assam, the Dibru Saikhowa National Park is evergreen grassland, which is a great place to begin for a bird watching trip. The national park was actually for protecting the White winged wood duck and then slowly other animals and birds too came under the cover. Today, one shall be able to spot any of the 38 species of mammals and a wide range of avi-fauna. The birds that you shall be able to spot range from Yellow Bittern, Greater Adjutant Stork, March Babbler, and others. Going on a safari through this National Park and staying in eco-resorts near the park or in Tinsukia town is definitely a great way to spend a lot of time observing many more birds in their natural habitat.
Nameri National Park:
The Nameri National Park is idyllic and is on the foothills of the Himalayas. The park is around 35 kms from Tezpur. It is a hub for butterflies and birds. The park draws photographers and ornithologists in large numbers every year. The birds that the park is proud of range from the White winged wood duck, Great Pied Hornbill, Long Billed Ring Plover and more. The park also draws people for its large conservation of tigers and other mammals. The scenic park has over 300 species of birds.
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Manas National Park:
Manas National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and though the park has gained importance for its Project Tiger reserve, it has importance for its large density of several species of birds. Bengal Florican is a bird that is quite popular in these parts, along with housing Red-headed Trogo, and of course the Great Hornbill. The Swamp Francolin and Rufous-necked Hornbill have prominent positions in the birder’s list on their visit to the famous Manas National Park.
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Kaziranga National Park:
The big draw is the “Big Five” of Kaziranga in Assam and then the birds. The national park is located on the alluvial plains and has a large number of tigers. Along with the tigers and one-horned rhino, the national park is popular for a wide range of birds. The park is famous for Swamp Francolin, Large Whistling Teal, Blue-breasted Quail and Japanese Quail.
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Majuli:
The island of Majuli is always a wonder and features definitely on every birder’s wishlist. The island on the Brahmaputra River witnesses birds like Greater Adjutant Stork, and Siberian Crane every year. Lots of migratory bird come to the wetland of Majuli every year. Which are a delight for bird watchers. Please do include Majuli in your list as your next destination.
Maibang – Dima Hasao:
The months of August to November are ideal for a visit to Maibang when one can spot birds aplenty here. Maibang is a capital of Dimasa and is on the river Mahur.
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary:
The Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in Morigaon, Assam, is famous for rhino and elephants along with being a very popular spot for birds. The WLS has over 2000 migratory birds visiting every year.
Panidihing Wildlife Sanctuary:
The wildlife sanctuary in the Sibsagar district of Assam is called a paradise for migratory birds. Over 165 birds along with Bar-headed goose, Common Pochard, Mallard and other such birds draw birdwatchers and photographers every year. Do not miss out this place on your next trip to the Northeast.
With so many spots to visit, now you know why Assam is a heaven and a big draw for the ornithologists and birdwatchers and even the photographers from around the world.
Planning your birding trip in Assam
Your Birding itinerary depends upon your interests, the duration of the planned trip, and your budget. We feel the best way to finalize your itinerary for you.
The best time for birding in the Northeast India is winter season starting from November to March.
Useful Resources
You can read this post for some useful information regarding bird watching Assam
http://www.indibirding.com/2014/birding-activity/birding-at-pobitora-wild-life-sanctuary-in-assam/
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/binoculars-and-beyond-nine-tips-for-beginning-bird-watchers/
