Bird Watching in Jim Corbett
Jim Corbett National Park is a sprawling 520-square-kilometer wildlife reserve located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it is one of the oldest and most renowned national parks in India. The park is home to over 600 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at birdwatching in Jim Corbett National Park and what makes it such a unique and rewarding experience.
Birds of Jim Corbett National Park
The varied habitats in Jim Corbett National Park, from riverine forests to grasslands, make it a diverse and rich birding destination. The park is home to over 600 bird species, including both resident and migratory birds. Some of the more common birds found in the park include the crested serpent eagle, Himalayan griffon, Oriental pied hornbill, great hornbill, grey-headed fishing eagle, pallas’s fish eagle, osprey, and various species of owls, parakeets, cuckoos, kingfishers, and woodpeckers. In addition to these, the park is also home to rare and elusive species like the ibisbill, Hodgson’s bushchat, rufous-bellied eagle, and the wallcreeper.
Birdwatching in Jim Corbett National Park
Birdwatching in Jim Corbett National Park is a unique experience. The best time to go birdwatching in the park is between October and June, with the winter months being particularly rewarding. The park is open from November 15 to June 15, and during this time, visitors can go on guided birding tours to explore the park’s birdlife. The park’s naturalists and birding experts will take visitors to the best birding spots and help them identify the birds they see.
Birding in Jim Corbett National Park can be done on foot, in a jeep or on the back of an elephant. The best time to go birdwatching is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when birds are most active. Visitors can explore the park’s different habitats, from the riverine forests to the grasslands and hills, to spot a variety of bird species.
Some of the best birding areas in Jim Corbett National Park include the Dhikala Zone, Bijrani Zone, Jhirna Zone, and the Durgadevi Zone. The Dhikala Zone is particularly famous for birding, with over 500 species of birds recorded in this area alone.
Tips for Birdwatching in Jim Corbett National Park
Here are some tips for birdwatching in Jim Corbett National Park:
1. Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable and light-coloured clothing that blends with the surroundings. Avoid bright colours and flashy jewellery.
2. Carry binoculars: A pair of binoculars is essential for spotting birds from a distance.
3. Be patient: Birdwatching requires patience and a keen eye. Take your time to observe the birds and their behaviour.
4. Listen carefully: Birds often make distinctive calls, which can help identify them.
5. Respect nature: Do not disturb the birds or their habitat. Avoid making noise, littering, or damaging vegetation.
6. Follow the rules: Always follow the park’s rules and regulations. Do not venture off the designated trails or roads.
7. Hire a guide: Hiring a local guide or naturalist can greatly enhance your birdwatching experience. They know the park’s birding hotspots and can help identify the different species.
Birdwatching at The Jungle Book Corbett
The Jungle Book Corbett is undoubtedly the best place to stay for birdwatching tours in Jim Corbett National Park. Here are a few reasons why:
1. Location: The lodge is located in the heart of the forest, surrounded by lush greenery, which is a perfect habitat for a variety of birds. The proximity to the forest ensures that birdwatchers can start their tour early in the morning, when the birds are most active.
2. Experienced Naturalists: The Jungle Book Corbett has a team of experienced naturalists who are experts in identifying and spotting different species of birds. They provide insightful information about the birds’ habitat, behaviour, and migration patterns.
3. Bird Watching Tours: The lodge offers customized birdwatching tours, tailored to meet the requirements of different birdwatchers. The tours are conducted in different zones of the park, which are known for their unique birdlife. The tours are conducted in small groups to ensure that each participant gets personalized attention.
4. Comfortable Stay: The Jungle Book Corbett offers comfortable and luxurious accommodation, which is essential after a long day of birdwatching. The lodge offers spacious rooms, delicious food, and a serene environment that is perfect for relaxing.
5. Bird Watching Hide: The lodge also has a specially designed bird watching hide, which offers a perfect opportunity to observe birds up close, without disturbing them. The hide is equipped with all the necessary amenities, such as chairs, binoculars, and reference books, which make bird watching even more enjoyable.
In conclusion, The Jungle Book Corbett is the perfect place to stay for birdwatching tours in Jim Corbett National Park. The combination of the location, experienced naturalists, customized tours, comfortable stay, and the bird watching hide makes it a unique and unforgettable experience for any birdwatcher.