The trip was arranged by Jo Thomas of Wild About Travel (see end of report) and her Indian ground agent Indiantryst. Five of us had travelled with Wild About Travel before and were confident it would be a good trip; we were not disappointed! The main part of the tour, 15 days, was focussed on finding the special birds and mammals in the different habitats of this part of India. Two of us added 13 days to visit Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary (Gujarat), Bharatpur (Rajasthan) and Panna/Ken River area (Madhya Pradesh); a separate report will be written for those areas and this report therefore covers the main tour only.
Although there were some very long journeys it was a great success. We saw 268 bird sp. during the main tour (many "lifers" all round), 22 species of mammal (more "lifers") as well as other interesting wildlife. We had one overnight sleeper train journey from Delhi to Bikaner, which was OK, but don't expect to get much sleep. We then had a very comfortable, spacious Tempo Traveller for the rest of the tour and our accommodation was good to very good almost everywhere (one or two places of a lower standard but still OK). We enjoyed all the food and in some places there was a choice of non-Indian which can be a welcome change. We had two naturalist-guides with us, one familiar with Rajasthan, the other with Gujarat. Mornings and evenings were mostly cold (night frost at Mount Abu) and day temperatures were not high. Delhi was cold and damp in the morning and in Rajasthan and Gujarat we needed two fleeces, hat and gloves for early jeep rides. During the day, even though it was usually sunny, the wind was cool and we often needed a long-sleeved top and sometimes a light fleece. It was very windy around Rann of Kutch and we needed dust-masks whilst on the vehicle. The scenery and habitats were fascinating and we only wish we could have spent more time exploring the region. Distances are huge and ideally Rajasthan and Gujarat should be separate tours, or at least another week added to fully appreciate the area. If time is limited and you really do want to see the whole area, you need to be prepared for many hours of travelling but overall, our sightings and experiences outweighed the disadvantages.
OUTLINE ITINERARY
13 Jan Afternoon birding in Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Delhi. Overnight: Jüsta Residence
14 Jan Morning Sultanpur Jheel. Overnight sleeper train. Delhi to Bikaner
15 Jan Bikaner carcass dump - Gajner Palace grounds - Keechan - Jaisalmer. Overnight: Golden Havelli
16 Jan Morning Lake Gadisar-Ludarwa, Jaisalmer. Afternoon to Sam dunes. Overnight: Desert Safari Camp
17 Jan Full day Desert National Park. Overnight: Desert Safari Camp
18 Jan Whole-day drive Sam Dunes - Kumbhalgarh. Overnight: Aodhi Castle
19 Jan Morning Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary Drive to Mount Abu. Overnight: Udai Garh hotel
20 Jan Early walk Mount Abu. Drive to Dasada, Little Rann of Kutch. Overnight: Rann Riders
21 Jan Little Rann of Kutch. Overnight: Rann Riders
22 Jan Drive to Nakatrana, Great Rann of Kutch. Late afternoon around Nakatrana Overnight: CEDO
23 Jan Chhari Fulay, Chhari Dhand, Banni grasslands. Great Rann Overnight: CEDO
24 Jan Morning Mandvi coast. Afternoon Nakatrana / CEDO. Overnight: CEDO
25 Jan Drive to Gir. Overnight: Gir Birding Lodge
26 Jan Gir National Park. Overnight: Gir Birding Lodge
27 Jan Gir area. End of main tour
SITES mentioned in this Report
Banni Grassland Large area of open "grassland" (mixed, low-growing salt-tolerant plants, more sedges than
grass, completely dry at this time of year. Great Rann. W.Gujarat
Bikaner Desert town; visit the carcass dump for vultures/raptors. NW.Rajasthan
CEDO "Centre for Ocean and Desert", accommodation at Nakatrana/Great Rann of Kutch. W.Gujarat
Chhari Dhand Large lake/wetland in the Banni Grasslands/Great Rann. W.Gujarat
Chhari Fulay Village- farmland/Great Rann, site for Grey Hypocolius. W.Gujarat
Dasada Small town on East side of Little Rann. Central Gujarat
Desert National Park Part of the Thar (or Indian) Desert. W.Rajasthan
Desert Safari Camp Tented camp in Sam (sand) Dunes 40kms west of Jaisalmer; 30min drive to Desert National Park. W.Rajasthan
Fotmahadev Dry rocky/thorn scrub, short drive from CEDO, Nakatrana. W.Gujarat
Gadisar Lake Large reservoir surrounded by temples on edge of Jaisalmer. W.Rajasthan
Gajner Palace Hotel Near the Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary, close to Bikaner. NW.Rajasthan
Gir In this report "Gir" includes areas around Gir Birding Lodge, the town of Sassan and Gir National Park. S.Gujarat
Gir Dam Large water body inside Gir National Park. S.Gujarat
Gir Lake Large area of water 30 minutes drive from Gir National Park. S.Gujarat
Great Rann of Kutch (GRK) Similar to Little Rann but much larger area with more varied habitats. W.Gujarat
Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary In the Aravali hills c.80kms north of Udaipur. Mixed deciduous forest and scrub. SE.Rajasthan
Little Rann of Kutch (LRK) Vast, desert-like salt flats, desiccated, bare and encrusted with salt for most of the year (as it was on our visit) but transformed by tidal water and rain during the monsoon. Fringed with sparse scrub, also a large wetland. Central Gujarat
Ludarwa Rocky, desert area close to Jaisalmer, good for desert birds. W.Rajasthan
Mandvi Coastal site on Gulf of Kutch, south of Nakatrana. Long sandy beach backed by dunes. W.Gujarat
Mehrauli Archaeological Park Large, quiet area with trees, bushes, lawns and old buildings in various stages of repair. Good range of common birds. SW area of Delhi
Mount Abu Hill station, with many temples, in far south of Rajasthan, near Gujarat border. Green Avadavat site. S.Rajasthan
Nakatrana Small town west of Bhuj/south of Great Rann of Kutch. W.Gujarat
Sam Sand Dunes A very popular area for camel rides in the sand dunes. W.Rajasthan
Sultanpur NP/Bird Sanctuary Ideal for few hours birding if staying in south Delhi; 45 min drive from our hotel in Gurgaon/SW Delhi. Haryana, SW of Delhi
DIARY
13th January M&KC flew from Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic arriving in Delhi on 13th at 11.15am and went directly to Jüsta Residence hotel in Gurgaon where two Brown Rockchats were hopping around the walled garden. After lunch, a 20-minute drive to nearby Mehrauli archaeological park produced a good selection of common birds including three Alexandrine Parakeets.
14th January M&KC spent a couple of hours at Sultanpur before meeting up with the rest of the group who had arrived from Heathrow on a Jet Aiways flight at 10.00am. After an excellent lunch at Jüsta Residence we were joined by our two guides, Manisha and Brijendra, and set off through heavy traffic to Delhi railway station for the overnight sleeper (which arrived 2 hrs late) to Bikaner.
15th January Arrived in Bikaner c.5.45am (later than scheduled), met our driver, Ramsingh, and quickly loaded our bags onto the Tempo Traveller. We had the use of one room at Lallgarh Palace Hotel for a wash & brush-up followed by breakfast. Then it was off to Bikaner's carcass dump for an amazing number and variety of raptors. An hour later we found it hard to drag ourselves away but we were already running late and had to move on towards Jaisalmer, birding along the way. First stop was Gajner Palace, where a short walk failed to turn up Yellow-eyed Pigeon. Heading towards Kheechan we had a couple of brief stops, one of which was for two Cinereous Vultures and our first Tawny Eagle. On arrival at Kheechan we were greeted with flocks of circling Demoiselle Cranes - an amazing spectacle of 3,000+ birds; the sound of so many birds calling was quite deafening! Here we also saw our only Long-billed Pipit of the trip. Shortly after this great event we stopped for a late lunch, then continued our journey towards Jaisalmer. About 75 kms before Jaisalmer we were all stunned when a Great Indian Bustard flew across the road in front of the vehicle and landed beside us! It was 6.45pm by the time we reached the comfortable Golden Haveli hotel and there was just enough time to shower before an excellent dinner at the nearby Royal Treat restaurant.
16th January Early breakfast on a chilly rooftop, then birding at Lake Gadisar where highlights were Eastern Imperial Eagle and Desert Whitethroat. A short drive took us to Ludarwa for desert birds, including the only Trumpeter Finches of the trip. Back to the hotel to check out; lunch at nearby Trio restaurant (highly recommended). We set off for Desert Safari Camp at Sam Dunes which was to be our base for the next two nights. In the afternoon we went birding in the dunes (by camel!) getting some decent views of desert species. Evening light entertainment was provided at camp with Rajasthani music and dance by the camp fire and some tasty refreshments. After dinner we had a jeep ride in the surrounding area but apart from 20 Cream-coloured Courser it was fairly unproductive.
17th January Following breakfast and a beautiful sunrise, a 35 minute drive took us to Desert National Park; on the way we encountered the only Desert Cat of the trip. The whole day was spent in the park travelling by camel cart (which was an experience in itself!) Highlights were 3 Great Indian Bustards, nesting Tawny Eagles, Black-crowned Sparrow-Larks and a Laggar Falcon, which flew by as we had lunch (which, incidentally, was brought to us by another camel cart - and it was hot, too!) On the mammal side, in addition to flatulent camels, we saw many Chinkara and Nilgai, a colony of Desert Jirds and 2 Indian Foxes. Our day in the desert ended with a glorious sunset followed by a feast of a meal.
18th January Up early to pack and then the whole day was spent travelling to Kumbhalgarh, with only very short stops for birding: Indian and Cinereous Vultures, Red-necked Falcon, Long-legged Buzzard, the only Indian Grey Hornbill of the trip, Yellow-wattled Lapwing and many Black-shouldered Kites. The day was rounded off with a luxury stay at the Aodhi Castle Hotel.
19th January The day began at 6.30 with a pre-breakfast jeep trip in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Best sightings were 7 Grey Jungle Fowl, White bellied Drongo, Yellow-eyed and Tawny-bellied Babblers. Heading back to the hotel we saw 3 Jungle Bush Quail and a Crested Bunting. After breakfast we set off for Mount Abu (thankfully, not so many hours travelling today). On the first part of the journey we saw the only White-capped Bunting and our first Sarus Cranes of the trip. We stopped at a small lake, finding Ferruginous Duck, Citrine Wagtail and a Siberian Chiffchaff. A little further and we stopped for lunch opposite a large lake with Black-headed Ibis and Dalmatian Pelican amongst many other water birds. After leaving the main highway the road climbed towards Mount Abu where we encountered many troops of Black-faced Langurs along the roadside, and KB & JB had great views of an immature Peregrine. On our arrival at Mount Abu we went straight to the Green Avadavat site but had to make do with Indian Black-lored Tit, Crested Bunting and more Yellow-eyed Babblers before light faded. It was a very cold night at Udaigarh Palace hotel, noisy too, as there were two spectacular weddings in town with plenty of fireworks! We enjoyed a beer with our dinner - next stop is in the dry State of Gujarat, so no more drink!!!
20th January After a very cold, frosty night we delayed our search for Green Avadavat until 8.00am when the air was a little warmer. Success! Two flocks totalling c.22 birds. We also saw 6 Crested Bunting and a White spotted Fantail; an Indian Grey Mongoose stood on the road watching us for a while. Leaving Rajasthan we headed for Dasada in the Little Rann of Kutch. Along the way we had White-eyed Buzzard, Booted Eagle, Black Ibis, 3 Alexandrine Parakeets and the only Clamorous Reed Warblers of the trip. A Pied Kingfisher digging out a nest hole was fascinating to watch. On arrival at Dasada, before making our way to our accommodation, we did some roadside birding: a bare, dry patch produced 7 Rufous-tailed Larks, a Tawny Pipit, Ashy-crowned Sparrow-Larks, 2 Singing Bushlarks and a Bluethroat. In flooded depressions beside the road there were many waterbirds including 2 Asian Openbill Storks and at least 4 Glossy Ibis. Wire-tailed swallows were common. We checked in to our luxurious rondaval-style chalets (Spotted Owlet on the roof) at Rann Riders and enjoyed a much warmer night.
21st January After the usual early breakfast we set off in jeeps for Little Rann of Kutch, seeing our first Painted Storks on the way It was a cold ride, and very windy. Soon after reaching the vast expanse of saline "desert" we encountered 2 Macqueen's Bustards. Joy!!! Following long views of them we came across our first herd of Wild Ass then at least 3 more Macqueen's Bustards. After much searching we tracked down a Greater Hoopoe-Lark. Other species were Common Crane, Indian Courser and vast flocks of Short-toed Lark (which became a feature of the trip). Also of note was the number of Common Kestrel here. On the return journey to Rann Riders we saw the first Spot-billed Ducks and the only Pheasant-tailed Jacanas of the trip. After lunch, as we passed through a small village, 2 Small Indian Mongooses were sunning themselves by the roadside. At a large expanse of water on the edge of the Rann were good numbers of birds including Greater Flamingo, Purple Swamphen and Ruddy Shelduck and a Red-necked Falcon flew overhead. We then returned to the dry areas to see numerous Pallid and Montagu's Harriers, a Short-eared Owl, and many of the common desert species. Mammal-enthusiasts amongst us were pleased with closer views of Wild Ass, a few Nilgai and a Desert Fox suckling 3 cubs; soon after another adult Desert Fox came trotting along (perhaps the male?) Returning towards camp we had good views of 2 Jungle Cats, then we had a short night-drive near Rann Riders and saw 1 Sykes's Nightjar, 2 Indian Stone Curlews, an Indian Hare and an Olive Keelback Snake. Another successful day!
22nd January Today we are off to CEDO Camp at Nakatrana. On the journey we saw 4 Woolly-necked Storks and, in a creek along the Gulf of Kutch, 2 Western Reef Herons, our first of the trip. We passed a large flooded cultivated area with a mass of birds including four species of Egret, Grey and Indian Pond Herons, Spoonbills, Black-headed Ibis and sandpipers. We stopped at a cafe so our driver could have a tea-break and watched a Common Garden Lizard sunning itself by the steps. Passing through the busy city of Bhuj we saw a Shikra perched on a billboard. We arrived at CEDO camp about 3.00pm and were greeted with much-needed refreshments. After checking into our rooms we were soon off to Fotmahadev, where we had two hours of brilliant birding - "ticks" for everyone - highlights being Sykes’s Lark, Rufous-fronted Prinia, Grey-necked Bunting, White-naped Tit, Marshall’s Iora and Painted Sandgrouse. Yellow-wattled Lapwing, Yellow-crowned Woodpecker and Eastern Orphean Warbler were also good sightings. We returned for a fantastic evening vegetarian meal but, as it is a "dry State" we were unable to celebrate our successful day in customary style!
23rd January Early morning tea + biscuits then a drive through villages and a walk across fields, arriving at Chhari Fulay before daylight. Then followed an anxious wait as we scanned the bushes for movement. A female Grey Hypocolius emerged from her roost and gave good views, followed shortly afterwards by excellent views of a male. Whew! Throughout this time we could hear thousands of Common Cranes still on their roost at Chhari Dhand; flocks began flighting overhead as the sun came up. We then moved to the Banni grasslands (not really grass, it's mostly sedge, of which the tuber is the main food of the wintering Common Cranes). We headed for bird rock for our packed breakfast whilst watching Red-tailed Wheatear and Rufous-tailed Lark. We checked the low scrub area and were rewarded with just one Stoliczka’s Bushchat and several Asian Desert Warblers. Two Greater Spotted Eagles flew over. Moving on to the wetland, Chhari Dhandh, we saw c.100 Lesser Flamingo and at least 100 Kentish Plover. We headed back to CEDO Camp for lunch and a short rest before returning to Banni, seeing a single roosting Painted Sandgrouse on the way. We walked through suaeda-like areas searching unsuccessfully for nightjars, although we did see many Common Quail, several Desert Warblers and Graceful Prinia. Throughout the day we were encountering both large and small flocks of common Cranes digging in the bone-dry, cracked soil to get at the sedge tubers. Towards dusk we found a roosting Indian Nightjar and heard both Sykes’s and Indian Nightjars. An Indian Eagle Owl called close by but we couldn't see it.
24th January Away by 6.20am to see Crab Plover at Mandvi! This was a 2½ hr drive and birds seen en route were 3 Oriental Honey Buzzards, 10 Demoiselle Cranes, 2 Painted Stork, 2 Temminck's Stint, and the first Jackal of the trip. At Mandvi a quick scan through a flock of Heuglin’s Gulls revealed 1 Caspian Gull. After a packed breakfast on the beach we set off in search of Crab Plover; it wasn't long before we located at least five as well as several Greater Thick-knee. Amongst many commoner species were several Lesser and at least 2 Greater Sandplovers, Terek Sandpiper, a Pacific Golden Plover and several Gull Billed Terns. Off shore were Lesser Crested and Common Terns, Great Black-headed and Brown-headed Gulls. The return journey to CEDO was productive, too, with c.100 Black Ibis, 11 Black-crowned Night Heron, 25 Spoonbill, 2 Yellow-Wattled Plover and 1 Pacific Golden Plover. After lunch and a short break 4 of us went to a nearby thorn scrub area where highlights were 4 Indian Bushlark, 1 White-Naped Tit and 1 Dusky Crag Martin. K&MC stayed around CEDO camp area which also produced some decent highlights: 2 Black-shouldered Kites hunting over the adjacent field, good views of an Oriental Honey Buzzard, noisy flocks of Rosy Starlings and scores of egrets and White-shouldered Ibis coming in to roost.
25th January Up early to pack our bags before breakfast at 6.30am. It's a long way to our next location, Gir. We stopped about 9.30am at a café where our driver and guides had their breakfast and we ate our packed meal. A Bluethroat, a Black-Winged Stilt and a Siberian Chiffchaff were notable diversions here. Moving on towards Gondal, the highlight of this part of the journey was a superb pale-phase Booted Eagle soaring close to the highway. We were treated to a superb lunch at the Orchard Palace in Gondal; what a marvellous place! With still a long way to go, we pushed on towards Gir. We stopped at a large lake and saw 3 River Tern, Osprey, Sykes’s and Eastern Orphean Warblers, Ruddy Shelduck, and 2 large Muggers (crocodiles). It then took only 30 minutes to reach Gir Birding Lodge and by this time we were all tired as we'd been on the road for about 11 hrs. Our chalets were very spacious, comfortable and clean and we enjoyed our meal on the dining area's veranda, listening to a roaring Lion in the background. Fabulous!
26th January Waking up to the sound of roaring Lions, we were keen to get into the Park. We split into two groups for both the morning and afternoon safaris, so there was plenty of room in the jeeps. The day's highlights were watching a big male Lion roaring (filmed by one of the group and put on YouTube) and a group of females with cubs, a pair of Leopard on the morning drive and a single Leopard in the afternoon. Plenty of lion food around, too: Chital, Sambar, Nilgai and Wild boar. Birding highlights were a pair of Crested Hawk Eagles at the nest site, Indian Scops Owl, Black Eagle, Paradise Flycatcher, Tickell's Blue Flycatcher, many Red-Breasted Flycatchers, 2 Barred Button-Quail, Small Minivet , Thick-billed and Plain Flowerpeckers. In the lodge grounds during the day we saw a Tickell's Blue Flycatcher, Tawny Bellied Babblers and a roosting Indian Nightjar.
27th January D&JB and M&RP went on an early walk down to the river and back through the edge of the National Park. Notable sightings were a close Crested Serpent Eagle, two Spotted Doves, three Tickell’s Blue Flycatchers and the only Greenish Warbler of the trip. K&MC went into the Park both morning and afternoon. Highlights were an obliging Barred Buttonquail, 3 Crested Tree Swifts and a few Dusky Crag Martins. Later in the morning four of the group visited a local fruit bat colony where, as well as brilliant views of the bats, they were treated to sightings of Bonelli’s Eagle, Short-toed Eagle and pale-phase Booted Eagle.
Contact: Jo Thomas - Wild About Travel Tel: 01480 370593 Mob: 07817 574235
www.wildabouttravel.co.uk Email: jo@wildabouttravel.co.uk
Grey Francolin Francolinus pondicerianus
Small groups regularly encountered during most of trip
Common Quail Coturnix coturnix
At least 11 seen at Banni Grasslands on 23/1
Jungle Bush Quail Perdicula asiatica
Three seen just outside Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary and two seen from bus on drive down from Kumbhalgarh on 19/1
Grey Junglefowl Gallus sonneratii
Seven seen in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1
Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus
Regularly seen throughout trip
Greylag Goose Anser anser
200+ at Sultanpur. A few seen at large wetland at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1
Knob-billed Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos
2 at Sultanpur on 14.1
Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea
3 at Gadisar Lake on 16th. At least four on large wetland at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 and three at lake near Gir on 25/1
Gadwall Anas strepera
Common around Sultanpur. Seen only at Kheechan on 15/1 and on large wetland at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1
Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope
At least four at Chhari Dhandh on 23/1
Indian Spot-billed Duck Anas poecilorhyncha
Small numbers at Sultanpur then only seen in Desada area on 21/1 with at least 30 on a roadside lake during our return from morning safari to Little Rann of Kutch and another 15+ seen in afternoon on a different roadside lake.
Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata
Seen on most wetlands during trip
Northern Pintail Anas acuta
Only sighting was on the large wetland at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1
Garganey Anas querquedula
One female on lake at Kheechan on 15/1 and two at Little Rann wetland on 21st.
Eurasian Teal Anas crecca
Large numbers around Sultanpur. Seen in Desada area on 21/1, at Chhari Dhandh on 23/1 and during drive from CEDO Camp to Gir on 25/1
Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca
Eight at Sultanpur. Three on small lake beside road during drive down from Kumbhalgarh on 19/1 and small numbers on the large wetland at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1
Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis
Up to three birds seen at Kheechan on 15/1, during drive from Kumbhalgarh to Mount Abu on 19/1 and in the Desada area on 21/1 & 22/1
Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus
Three on the large wetland at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 and at least two with the Lesser Flamingos at Chhari Dhandh on 23/1
Lesser Flamingo Phoeniconaias minor
At least 100 at Chhari Dhandh on 23/1
Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala
Noisy breeding colony at Sultanpur. Eight seen during early morning drive to Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1, nine seen from bus during early part of drive from Desada to CEDO Camp on 22/1, two on drive to Mandvi on 24/1 and eight seen during journey from CEDO Camp to Gir on 25/1
Asian Openbill Anastomas oscitans
Two on roadside pools at Desada on 20/1 with four at the same place on 21/1 and one seen from bus during drive from CEDO Camp to Gir on 25/1
Black Stork Ciconia nigra
Only sighting of trip was one in flight seen during a brief stop on journey from Bikaner to Kheechan on 15/1
Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus
Four seen from bus during drive from Desada to CEDO Camp on 22/1 were the only birds of the trip.
Black-necked Stork Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus
Pair with one well-grown chick on nest at Sultanpur. A single bird seen by some of the group during the drive from Desada to CEDO Camp on 22/1
Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus
Present at most wetland areas in varying numbers
Red-naped Ibis Pseudibis papillosa
Commonest of the three ibises, seen on all but three days during trip. Largest group was at least 100 seen on return drive from Mandvi on 24/1
Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus
Eight in field near Sultanpur on 14/1. Then only seen on the roadside wetlands around Desada on 20/1 & 21/1
Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea luecorodia
Small parties noted regularly at wetlands or in flight
Black Bittern Dupetor flavicollis
One at Sultanpur was the only sighting of the trip
Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax
A juvenile in flight on the early morning drive to Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 and 11 were present on a lake on drive back from Mandvi on 24/1
Indian Pond Heron Ardeola grayii
Common at any patch of water (up to 10 together) and often in drier grassland. Seen on all but two days of trip
Eastern Cattle Egret Bubulcus coromandus
Common. Seen on all but two days of trip
Grey Heron Ardea cinerea
Seen regularly after we had left the drier areas
Purple Heron Ardea purpurea
Three at Sultanpur on 14/1. Three on large wetland area at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 and one on roadside wetland after leaving Rann Riders camp on 22nd
Great Egret Ardea alba
Fairly common in wetland areas (min.15 together in one roadside pool on 22/1)
Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia
Status similar to Great White Egret
Little Egret Egretta garzetta
Common at all wetland areas
Western Reef Heron Egretta gularis
Seen regularly in coastal areas
Dalmatian Pelican Pelicanus crispus
Approx. eight on large body of water close to our lunch-break venue on our journey from Kumbhalgarh to Mount Abu on 19/1, c20 on large wetland area at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 and one seen on journey to Mandvi on 24/1
Little Cormorant Microcarba niger
The commonest of the Cormorant species, present at most wetland areas
Indian Cormorant Phalacrocorax fuscicollis
One on a roadside lake during afternoon jeep safari at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 and one by river at Gir on 27/1
Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo
1 at Sultanpur on 14/1
Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster
1 by Gir dam on 27/1
Western Osprey Pandion haliaetus
One from Mandvi Beach on 24/1 and one at lake close to Gir on 25/1
Crested Honey-buzzard Pernis ptilorhyncus
Three together on ground on drive to Mandvi and one seen over fields behind CEDO Camp both on 24/1 and one at Gondal Orchard Palace on 25/1
Black- winged Kite Elanus caeruleus
The commonest raptor, regularly seen perched on roadside poles and cables throughout trip Highest day count was 36 on 22/1 during the long drive from Desada to CEDO Camp.
Black Kite Milvus migrans
Always present around large towns and cities but only the odd singleton seen away from these areas.
Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus
Two at Sultanpur. 50+ around the carcass dump at Bikenar on 15/1 with smaller numbers encountered quite regularly in Rajasthan, especially where a carcass was present
White-rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis
At least one at the carcass dump at Bikaner on 15/1, five seen on drive to Desert National Park and several seen at the Desert National Park on 17/1
Indian Vulture Gyps indicus
At least two at the carcass dump at Bikaner on 15/1. On journey from Sam to Kumbhalgarh on 18/1 we came across at least 10 present at a carcass.
Himalayan Vulture Gyps himalayensis
At least two at carcass dump at Bikaneer on 15/1 and one over Desert National Park 17/1
Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus
Large numbers were present at the carcass dump at Bikaner on 15/1. During the first four days of the trip birds were seen quite regularly as we travelled between sites and several were seen at Desert National Park on 17/1
Cinereous Vulture Aegypius monachus
One at carcass dump at Bikaner and two during journey between Bikaneer & Kheechan on 15/1. Five during day in Desert National Park on 17/1 and one on drive from Sam to Kumbhalgarh on 18/1
Short-toed Eagle Circaetus gallicus
One in Desert NP on 17/1, one during jeep trip in Kumbhalgarh WL Sanctuary on 19/1, one during journey from Mount Abu to Desada on 20/1, two during the morning jeep safari at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1. At least three in Gir NP on 21/1 on morning jeep safaris and one on afternoon safari. One over the fruit bat colony near Gir on 27/1
Crested Serpent Eagle Spilornis cheela
Two during early morning walk at Gir and one in Park on 27/1
Western Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus
One at Sultanpur. One by large lake on route to Mount Abu in Rajasthan on 19/1. Several seen in Gujarat in the wetter and open areas
Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus
An adult male on drive from Desert Safari Camp at Sam to Desert National Park and two males on return drive on 17/1. At least five noted at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 with at least the same number at Banni Grasslands on 23/1
Montagu’s Harrier Circus pygargus
A male flew past at Ludarwa on 16/1. Apart from this, similar numbers to that of Pallid Harrier were seen at Little Rann of Kutch and Banni Grasslands on the same days
Shikra Accipiter badius
One of the more commonly encountered raptors of the trip
Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus
One in Desert NP on 17/1, one on drive back to Rann Riders on 21/1 and one in thorn scrub near CEDO on 24/1
White-eyed Buzzard Butaster teesa
After the first one on the drive from Sam to Kumbhalgarh on 19/1, single birds were seen quite regularly perched on roadside poles and posts
Common Buzzard Buteo buteo
At least three birds seen early in the trip in Rajasthan between 15/1 and 17/1
Long-legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus
Seen on a regular basis during first half of trip in Rajasthan
Black Eagle Ictinaetus malayensis
The only bird of trip was one seen on a couple of occasions at Gir National Park on 26/1
Indian Spotted Eagle Aquila hastata
As with the last species just one seen during jeep safari in Gir National Park on 26/1
Greater Spotted Eagle Aquila clanga
One at Sultanpur. Two birds seen over Banni Grasslands on 23/1
Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax
One seen beside road during drive from Bikaner to Kheechan on 15/1 and up to five in Desert National Park on 17/1
Steppe Eagle Aquila nipalensis
The only site where these were seen was the carcass dump at Bikaner with up to 50 present on 15/1
Eastern Imperial Eagle Aquila heliaca
An adult at Lake Gadisar on 16/1 was the only bird during the trip
Bonelli’s Eagle Aquila fasciata
Some of the group saw two at Gir whilst visiting a fruit bat colony on 27/1
Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus
Two pale-phase birds at Sultanpur. A dark-phase bird was seen during the morning of the journey from Mount Abu to Desada on 20/1 and a pale-phase bird was seen at a brief stop during the morning on the drive from CEDO to Gir on 25/1. Another was seen by the fruit bat colony near Gir on 27/1
Crested Hawk-eagle Nisaetus cirrhatus
A nesting pair were present in Gir National Park on 26/1 but were seen by only from one of the jeeps
Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus
The commonest falcon, being seen on most days. Of note were the numbers present at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 where at least 30 were seen
Red-necked Falcon Falco chicquera
One perched on wires beside the road during the morning part of drive from Sam to Kumbhlagarh on 18/1 and one hunting around the large wetland area at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1
Laggar Falcon Falco jugger
One flew over whilst we were having a lunch break in Desert National Park on 17/1
Peregrine Falco peregrinus
One at Sultanpur. One was seen during our camel trek at Sam on 16/1 and a juvenile was seen by two of the group from the bus as we climbed the road up to Mount Abu on 19/1
Great Indian Bustard Ardeotis nigriceps
One of the star birds of the trip! The first had us all sitting aghast as it flew across the road right in front of the bus and landed in full view about 50 metres from the road during our journey between Kheechan and Jaisalmer on 15/1. This was followed by three birds seen in Desert National Park on 17/1
Macqueen’s Bustard Chlamydotis macqueenii
Five were seen during the morning jeep safari at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1
White-breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus
One at Sultanpur. One in roadside wetlands on second part of drive from Mount Abu to Deasada on 20/1, at least one present on roadside pools at Desada on 21/1, up to three in Gir National Park on 26/1 and one by river at Gir on 27/1
Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio
At least 10 on large wetland area at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1
Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus
Seen around all wetland areas
Eurasian Coot Fulica atra
Seen around all wetland areas
Sarus Crane Grus antigone
Seen on only two days. Two adults and a juvenile were by a small roadside wetland on the journey down from Kumbhalgarh on 19/1 and six were seen during the drive from Desada to CEDO Camp on 22/1
Demoiselle Crane Grus virgo
One of the most amazing sights of the trip was c.3,000 of these at the village of Kheechan on 15/1. We did not arrive in time to see the feeding but the sheer numbers present in the area was amazing enough. Apart from this spectacle five were seen in flight during the first part of the drive from Sam to Kumbhalgarh on 18/1 and c10 were seen in a field during the drive to Mandvi on 24/1
Common Crane Grus grus
53 flew over at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 and small groups were seen from the bus as we neared Bhuj on the drive to CEDO Camp on 22/1. Thousands winter in the area of the Banni Grasslands and many flocks were seen throughout the day on 23/1. The sight and sound of flocks leaving their Charri Dhand roost at dawn was memorable.
Barred Buttonquail Turnix suscitator
A pair was seen from one of the jeeps in Gir National Park on 26/1 and another on 27/1
Indian Stone-curlew Burhinus indicus
Two seen during a nocturnal drive in fields near to Rann Riders on 21/1. Heard calling at dusk in Banni grasslands, but not seen.
Great Stone-curlew Esacus recurvirostris
At least five on the beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Eurasian Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus
Small numbers on beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Crab Plover Dromas ardeola
Another of the star birds with at least eight on the beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus
Common wherever any wet area was encountered. Seen on every day bar two
Yellow-wattled Lapwing Vanellus malabaricus
Three in village street near Sultanpur on 14/1. One seen on latter part of journey from Sam to Kumbhalgarh on 18/1. The next was seen at Fotmahadev on 22/1 followed by another at the thorn scrub site near CEDO Camp on 24/1. The final bird of the trip was in Gir National Park on 26/1
Red-wattled Lapwing Vanellus indicus
Common, seen on every day except one
Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva
One on beach at Mandvi and another at a wetland on drive back from Mandvi on 24/1
Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius
Three at Lake Gadisar on 16/1, at least three on wetland at Little Rann on 21/1 and five on return from Mandvi 24/1
Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus
At least 100 at Chhari Dhandh on 23/1. At least two at Mandvi on 24.1
Lesser Sand Plover Charadrius mongolus
30+ on beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Greater Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii
At least two on beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Pheasant-tailed Jacana Hydrophasianus chirurgus
Three on roadside lake on drive back to Rann Riders for lunch on 21/1
Bronze-winged Jacana Metopidius indicus
One on large wetland at Little Rann on 21/1
Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago
Two flew across the Kheechan-Jaisalmer road on 15/1 and one was on a wetland near Mandvi on 24/1
Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa
Small numbers present on large wetlands at Little Rann of Kutch, Chhari Dhandh and near Mandvi
Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica
Min. six on the beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata
Min. 10 on beach at Mandvi on 24/1. Several roadside sightings on route to Gir on 25/1
Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus
Two at Lake Gadisar 16/1, one on large wetland at Little Rann on 21/1, five on roadside flooded area during drive from Desada-CEDO Camp on 22/1 and one on wetland near Mandvi on 24/1
Common Redshank Tringa totanus
Small numbers present at most wetland areas
Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis
One on large wetland area at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1, one at roadside flooded area on 22/1 and one on wetland near Mandvi on 24/1
Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia
One on flooded area beside road during drive from Desada to CEDO Camp and two on beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus
One at Lake Gadisar on 16/1. Thereafter small numbers seen from bus on roadside pools during trip
Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola
One at Lake Gadisar on 16/1, one by river on route to Dasada on 20/1 and one on lake near Gir on 25/1
Terek Sandpiper Xenus cinereus
One on beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos
Small numbers seen on roadside pools throughout trip
Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres
At least eight on beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Sanderling Calidris alba
At least 12 on beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Temminck’s Stint Calidris temminckii
Two on wetland near Mandvi on 24/1. Five waders at Little Rann on 21/1 were either this or Little Stint C.minuta
Ruff Philomachus pugnax
One at Kheechan in area used for feeding Cranes on 15/1. One at Lake Gadisar on 16th. Small numbers at roadside wetlands on route to Mount Abu on 19/1 and small numbers on wetlands on 21/1 & 24/1
Cream-coloured Courser Cursorius cursor
At least 22 seen on night jeep rive at Sam Desert Safari Camp on 16/1 and three were seen on the following morning on drive to Desert National Park
Indian Courser Cursorius coromandelicus
Two at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 and three near start of drive from Desada to CEDO Camp on 22/1
Brown-headed Gull Chroicocephalus brunnicephalus
Fairly common around beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus
Two or three with Brown-headed Gulls at Mandvi on 24/1
Pallas's Gull / Great Black-headed Ichthyaetus ichthyaetus
At least one offshore at Mandvi on 24/1
Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans
One with the Heuglin’s Gulls at Mandvi on 24/1
Heuglin’s Gull Larus fuscus heuglini
At least 30 on beach at Mandvi on 24/1
Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica
At least two around beach at Mandvi on 24/1 and two singles on first part of the journey from CEDO to Gir on 25/1
Lesser-crested Tern Thalasseus bengalensis
At least two offshore at Mandvi on 24/1
River Tern Sterna aurantia
Three on lake near Gir on 25/1, two on Gir dam 27/1
Common Tern Sterna hirundo
One seen on large wetland opposite lunch stop on journey from Kumbhalgarh to Mount Abu on 19/1 and one offshore at Mandvi on 24/1
Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida
At least three on large wetland opposite lunch stop on journey from Kumbhalgarh to Mount Abu on 19/1 and two over a roadside lake on our drive back to Rann Riders for lunch on 21/1
Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse Pterocles exustus
Flocks of up to 50 seen regularly during first half of trip in Rajasthan with further flocks at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 and at thorn scrub area near CEDO Camp on 24/1
Painted Sandgrouse Pterocles indicus
Two flushed at Fotmahadev on 22/1, a roosting female beside road on drive to Banni Grasslands on 23/1 and two at the thorn scrub area near CEDO Camp on 24/1
Common (Rock/Feral) Pigeon Columa livia
Common (often huge numbers in cities) seen on every day of trip
Eurasian Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto
Very common, seen every day
Red Turtle Dove Streptopelia tranquebarica
Two on drive from Sam to Kumbhalgarh on 18/1, five at Desada on 20/1 and three on afternoon jeep safari at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1
Spotted Dove Spilopelia chinensis
Only birds during trip were three at Gir Birding Lodge and on early morning walk at Gir on 27/1
Yellow-footed Green Pigeon Treron phoenicopterus
c.18 in Gir on 27/1
Laughing Dove Spilopelia senegalensis
Almost as common as Eurasian Collared Dove and seen on most days
Alexandrine Parakeet Psittacula eupatria
Three in Mehrauli, Delhi on 13/1. Three seen from the bus on the morning of 20/1 after leaving Mount Abu
Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri
The commonest parakeet of the trip being seen on all but three days
Plum-headed Parakeet Psittacula cyanocephala
Small groups seen during the early morning jeep safari in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1, a small group at Mount Abu on 20/1 and several groups seen in Gir National Park on 26/1 and during early morning walk on 27/1
Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis
Two at Sultanpur and one on drive down from Kumbhalgarh on 19/1. Thereafter seen on all but two days
Indian Scops Owl Otus bakkamoena
One bird was seen at the same tree hole in Gir National Park on three of the jeep rides
Spotted Owlet Athene brama
One on approach to Kumbhalgarh on 18/1 and two just outside Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary during jeep drive on 19/1, one in evening at Rann Riders on 20/1 and one seen from one of the jeeps in Gir National Park on 26/1
Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus
One on night jeep safari at Sam on 16/1 and one at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1
Sykes’s Nightjar Caprimulgus mahrattensis
One on ground seen in headlights during nocturnal trip in fields near Rann Riders on 21/1
Indian Nightjar Caprimulgus asiaticus
One seen on ground at dusk at Banni Grasslands on 23/1 and two in flight (calls were of this sp.) One flushed from roost in grounds of Gir Birding Lodge on 26/1
Crested Tree-Swift Hemiprocne coronata
Three near Gir dam on 27/1
Little Swift Apus affinis
Several seen on the early mornings at Lallgarh Palace on 15/1 and at Jaisalmer on 16/1 followed by several seen at one location during journey from Desada to CEDO Camp on 22/1
Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis
Seen every day apart from the last two, normally perched on roadside poles or cables
White-throated Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis
Encountered most days, usually on roadside cables
Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis
Total of three seen during trip: from the bus on 20/1 & 24/1 and in Gir National Park on 26/1
Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis
A total of eight seen during trip, all at larger bodies of water
Green Bee-eater Merops orientalis
Common, seen every day
Eurasian Hoopoe Upupa epops
Encountered regularly during trip up to 24/1. Total of 13 seen
Indian Grey Hornbill Ocyceros birostris
Only bird of trip was one seen from bus on second part of journey from Sam-Kumbhalgarh on 18/1
Brown-headed Barbet Megalaima zeylanica
One in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1 was the only bird of trip
Coppersmith Barbet Megalaima haemacephala
Three birds seen; one at Mount Abu on 20/1, one at Orchard Palace, Gondal on 25/1, one in Gir National Park on 26/1 and three on 27/1
Eurasian Wryneck Jynx torquilla
Two seen from one of the jeeps on the afternoon drive in Gir National Park on 26/1
Yellow-crowned Woodpecker Dendrocopos mahrattensis
Just one at Sultanpur and one at Fotmahadev on 22/1 were the only sightings of the trip
Lesser Goldenback Dinopium benghalense
One at Sultanpur and one in Gir National Park on 26/1 were the only other woodpecker sightings of the trip
Common Woodshrike Tephrodornis pondicerianus
Two at Sultanpur. At least four in Gir National Park on 26/1 and three on 27/1
Common Iora Aegithina tiphia
Seen only on the final day with three during early morning walk at Gir on 27/1
Marshall’s Iora Aegithina nigrolutea
Another of the trip's star species with a female at Fotmahadev on 22/1
Small Minivet Pericrocotus cinnamomeus
At least four at Fotmahadev on 22/1, 10+ on jeep trips in Gir National Park on 26/1 and at least seven on early morning walk on 27/1
White-bellied Minivet Pericrocotus erythropygius
One seen briefly by one member of the party at Gir Birding Lodge on 27/1
Long-tailed Minivet Pericrocotus ethologus
10 at Sultanpur on 14/1
Isabelline Shrike Lanius isabellinus
One in Desert National Park on 17/1 and two on first part of drive from Sam to Kumbhalargh on 18/1. Several seen each day from 21/1 to 24/1 but none seen after leaving CEDO Camp on 25/1
Bay-backed Shrike Lanius vittatus
First seen on second part of drive from Sam to Kumbhalgarh on 18/1. Thereafter seen on each day, except 25/1, normally perched on roadside cables
Long-tailed Shrike Lanius schach
Regularly encountered after 18/1 on roadside posts and cables
Southern Grey Shrike Lanius meridionalis
Regularly seen in Rajasthan until 18/1 when the only bird seen was during the first part of our long drive to Kumbhalgarh Only sightings after this were at Banni Grasslands on 23/1. It was suggested by the local guide that birds at this latter site were possibly Steppe Shrikes although plumage features noted did not support this
Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocercus
Commonest drongo on trip, being seen every day
Ashy Drongo Dicrurus leucophaeus
Seen only in Gir National Park on 26/1, where appeared to be fairly common
White-bellied Drongo Dicrurus caerulescens
Seen only in the Kumbhalagarh area and at Mount Abu
White-spotted Fantail Rhipidura albogularis
One seen at Mount Abu on 19/1 & 20/1
White-browed Fantail Rhipidura aureola
One by CEDO camp on 24/1. At least five in Gir National Park on 26/1
Asian Paradise-flycatcher Terpsiphone paradisi
At least three in Gir National Park on 26/1
Rufous Treepie Dendrocitta vagabunda
Up to three birds seen at Kumbhalgarh on 19/1, Mount Abu on 20/1 and in Gir National Park on 26/1
House Crow Corvus splendens
Common everywhere apart from Gir where it was replaced by Indian Jungle Crow C. culminatus
Indian Jungle Crow Corvus culminatus
A single bird flew across road in front of bus as we drove down from Kumbhalagarh on 19/1. Apart from this seen only at Gir where it was common
Northern Raven Corvus corax
Just four birds during trip, one at Ludarwa on 16/1, one at Desert NP on 17/1 and two at Mount Abu on 20/1
Grey Hypocolius Hypocolius ampelinus
Possibly the star of the trip. Male and female seen very well at Chhari Fulay on 23/1
Grey-headed Canary-Flycatcher Culicicapa ceylonensis
Only sighting of trip was two birds in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1
Cinereous Tit Parus cinereus
Seen only at Kumbhalgarh on 19/1 and in Gir area on 25/1 & 26/1
White-naped Tit Parus nuchalis
Another of the trip's target birds. At least two seen at Fotmahadev on 22/1 and one in the thorn scrub site near CEDO Camp on 24/1
Indian Black-lored Tit Parus aplonotus
Only birds seen were two at Mount Abu on 19/1
Singing Bush Lark Mirafra cantillans
Two at Desada on 20/1
Indian Bush Lark Mirafra erythroptera
Four in area of thorn scrub near CEDO Camp on 24/1
Greater Hoopoe-lark Alaemon alaudipes
After much searching, a single bird was located at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1
Rufous-tailed Lark Ammomanes phoenicura
Seven at Desada on 20/1 were followed by three at Little Rann on 21/1. Two were seen during drive from Desada to CEDO Camp on 22/1 and 3 seen at Bird Rock on Banni Grasslands on 23/1
Desert Lark Ammomanes deserti
Up to 11 at Ludarwa and one during camel trek at Sam on 16/1, and five in Desert National Park on 17/1
Greater Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla
Throughout the trip, until Gir, flocks of several hundreds were frequently seen; clearly thousands winter in the area
Crested Lark Galerida cristata
Two at Ludarwa on 16/1, one in Desert National Park on 17/1, two at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 and one at Banni Grasslands on 23/1 were the only birds seen
Sykes’s Lark Galerida deva
Three were seen at Fotmahadev on 22/1
Black-crowned Sparrow-lark Eremopterix nigriceps
Five seen during camel trek on 16/1 and at least six in Desert National Park on 17/1
Ashy-crowned Sparrow-lark Eremopterix griseus
One at Desada on 20/1, three in Banni grasslands on 21/1 and four at Fotmahadev on 22/1
White-eared Bulbul Pycnonotus leucotis
Common throughout trip except in the Gir area, where none were seen
Red-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer
Common throughout trip
Grey-throated Martin Riparia chinensis
Small numbers seen at various wetlands during trip
Sand Martin Riparia riparia
Several hundred over Chhari Dhandh on 23/1
Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica
Fairly common around wetland areas
Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii
Fairly common around wetland areas
Dusky Crag Martin Ptyonoprogne concolor
One over thorn scrub near CEDO Camp on 24/1, five with other hirundines by Gir dam and two from bus on journey to Rajkot Airport 27/1
Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica
Seen only around Rann Riders camp on 20/1 & 21/1
Siberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita tristis
One at Lake Gadisar on 16/1 followed by single birds seen during brief stops on journeys between sites on 19/1, 20/1, 22/1 and 25/1
Hume’s Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus humei
10 at Sultanpur. Single birds seen at Kumbhalgarh on 19/1, Mount Abu on 20/1, Rann Riders camp on 21/1, CEDO Camp on 24/1 and Gir on 27/1
Greenish Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides
One during early morning walk at Gir on 27/1
Clamorous Reed Warbler Acrocephalus stentoreus
Two seen at a wetland during a brief stop in the afternoon on journey from Mt.Abu to Desada on 20/1
Blyth’s Reed Warbler Acrocephalus dumetorum
One seen whilst waiting for the Hypocolius to show at Chhari Fulay on 23/1
Sykes’s Warbler Iduna rama
One in thorn scrub beside lake near Gir on 25/1
Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis
One in Desert National Park on 17/1
Rufous-fronted Prinia Prinia buchanani
At least three at Fotmahadev on 22/1
Grey-breasted Prinia Prinia hodgsonii
One at CEDO Camp on 23/1 & 24/1
Graceful Prinia Prinia gracilis
At least three at Banni Grasslands on 23/1
Ashy Prinia Prinia socialis
Two at Sultanpur. At least 20 in Desert National Park on 17/1, one at Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1, two at Mount Abu on 20/1 and one at Gir Birding Lodge on 26/1
Plain Prinia Prinia inornata
Five at Sultanpur. One in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1 and at least three in Gir National Park on 26/1
Common Tailorbird Orthotomus sutorius
One in Jüsta Hotel garden and two in Mehrauli, Delhi on 13/1. One at Chhari Fulay on 23/1 and several at Gir on 26/1 & 27/1
Tawny-bellied Babbler Dumetia hyperythra
At least three in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1 and five in grounds of Gir Birding Lodge 26/1
Common Babbler Turdoides caudata
In accordance with its name, this was a common species, seen in all the drier areas
Large Grey Babbler Turdoides malcolmi
At the place we stopped for lunch during journey from Sam to Kumbhalgarh on 18/1, at least six were seen. Not recorded again until we reached Gir where several were seen on 26/1 & 27/1
Jungle Babbler Turdoides striata
Noisy groups of this species were conspicuous in any area with trees
Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca
Seen on all but three days during trip. It was not always clear whether it was curuca or halimodendri subspecies that was involved
Desert Whitethroat Sylvia minula
One at Lake Gadisar was the only definite one seen
Eastern Orphean Warbler Sylvia crassirostris
Two at Fotmahadev on 22/1, one at Chhari Fulay on 23/1, one in bushes behind beach at Mandvi on 23/1 and one in thorn scrub by lake near Gir on 25/1
Asian Desert Warbler Sylvia nana
One seen on camel trek on 16/1. Only other site was Banni Grasslands on 23/1 where at least seven were seen
Yellow-eyed Babbler Chrysomma sinense
Three in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1 were followed later on the same day by three at Mount Abu
Oriental White-eye Zosterops palpebrosus
Two in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1, two at Mount Abu on 20/1. Not seen again until arrival at Gir where it was fairly common
Bank Myna Acridotheres ginginianus
Common around most urban areas
Common Myna Acridotheres tristis
As name implies, the commonest myna of the trip
Brahminy Starling Sturnia pagodarum
Small numbers around Delhi and Sultanpur. One on latter part of drive from Sam to Kumbhalgarh on 18/1, one seen during lunch break on drive from Mount Abu to Desada on 20/1, two on morning jeep trip in Gir National Park on 26/1 and one seen on trip to Rajkot Airport on 27/1
Rosy Starling Pastor roseus
Seen regularly during trip with some quite impressive size flocks
Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris
Three at Sultanpur. At least two at carcass dump a Bikaner on 15/1 which was actually a tick for one of the guides
Bluethroat Luscinia svecica
Six at Sultanpur. Two at Desasa on 20/1 and one during a break in the journey between Desada to CEDO Camp on 22/1. What was probably the same bird was seen again during a breakfast stop at the same location on the journey from CEDO Camp to Gir on 25/1
Oriental Magpie-robin Copsychus saularis
Surprisingly few seen. One at Sultanpur, one at Kumbhalgarh on 19/1, one at Mount Abu on 20/1, one in Gir National Park on 26/1 and six during early morning walk at Gir on 27/1
Indian Robin Saxicoloides fulicatus
Common, seen on all but three days of the trip
Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros
Common, seen on all but two days during trip
White-browed / Stoliczka’s Bush Chat Saxicola macrorhynchus
Another main target during trip with one at Banni Grasslands on 23/1
Siberian Stonechat Saxicola maurus
Fairly common, seen on most days
Pied Bush Chat Saxicola caprata
Five at Sultanpur then sightings only from the bus during travels between sites: one on latter part of drive from Sam to Khumbhalgarh on 18/1, one on second part of drive from Mount Abu to Desada on 20/1 and two on drive from Desada to CEDO Camp on 22/1
Isabelline Wheatear Oenanthe isabellina
One on camel trek at Sam on 16/1, two in Desert National Park on 17/1, two during brief stop in morning on Sam-Kumbhalgarh drive on 18/1, two on afternoon jeep safari at Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1, one on journey from Desada to CEDO Camp on 22/1 and one by thorn scrub area on 24/1
Red-tailed Wheatear Oenanthe chrysopygia
A very obliging bird at Bird Rock in Banni Grasslands on 23/1
Desert Wheatear Oenanthe deserti
Fairly common in all the drier areas
Variable Wheatear Oenanthe picata
Common in the drier areas of Rajasthan, seen regularly throughout period 15/1 to 18/1, more often than not perched on overhead cables. Only sighting in Gujarat was on drive to Mandvi on 24/1
Brown Rock Chat Cercomela fusca
Two in garden at Jüsta Hotel Delhi, one at Kheechan on 15/1, two on drive down from Kumbhalgarh and 5 on drive up to Mount Abu both on 19/1, two on drive down from Mount Abu on 20/1 and one at Banni Grasslands on 23/1
Blue Rock Thrush Monticola solitarius
A female was seen from Jüsta Hotel Delhi on 14/1, a male was seen from the bus on route to Mount Abu on 19/1, and another female at Bird Rock in Banni Grasslands on 23/1
Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva
A male in Mehrauli, Delhi on 13/1 and 6+ at Sultanpur. Common in Gir National Park during jeep trips on 26/1
Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher Cyornis tickelliae
One in Gir National Park seen from one of the jeeps in the afternoon on 26/1, a male in Gir Birding Lodge grounds on three days and three seen during early morning walk at Gir on 27/1
Thick-billed Flowerpecker Dicaeum agile
One seen from one jeep in Gir National Park on 26/1 and six during early morning walk at Gir on 27/1
Pale-billed Flowerpecker Dicaeum erythrorhynchos
Two seen from one jeep (not the same jeep as for previous species) in Gir National Park on 26/1
Purple Sunbird Cinnyris asiaticus
The only sunbird species of the trip, being seen regularly in all areas with trees or bushes
House Sparrow Passer domesticus
Common, seen every day
Yellow-throated Sparrow Gymnoris xanthocollis
Seen regularly during trip, sometimes in considerable numbers including a flock of 70+ at Mount Abu
Baya Weaver Ploceus philippinus
A flock of 100+ on the early morning drive to Little Rann of Kutch on 21/1 was the only large group seen. Other than that, 3 at Fotmahadev on 22/1 and 4 at Chhari Fulay on 23/1 were the only sightings
Red Avadavat Amandava amandava
c.25 at Sultanpur on 14/1
Green Avadavat Amandava formosa
Another major target for the trip. After a blank on the evening of 19/1, at least 22 were seen the following morning at Mount Abu
Indian Silverbill Euodice malabarica
Frequently encountered during trip, including at least 20 seen during lunch stop in Desert National Park on 17/1 and at least 70 at Mount Abu on 20/1
Scaly-breasted Munia Lonchura punctulata
Only birds seen on trip were a flock of six in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1
Western (Flava) Wagtail Motacilla flava
Singles at Desada on 20/1, Chhari Fulay on 23/1 and Gir on 26/1 & 27/1 could not be assigned to any race. In addition to these were a Black-headed Wagtail and a Sykes’s Wagtail seen by a roadside lake on drive back for lunch to Rann Riders on 21/1
Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola
Five at Sultanpur. One on small lake beside road on drive down from Kumbhalgarh on 19/1, one on same lake as the Black-headed and Sykes’s Wagtails on 21/1 and one on lake near Gir on 25/1
Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea
One in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1 and one in Gir on 27/1 were the only birds of the trip
White Wagtail Motacilla alba
Commonest Wagtail of the trip and seen frequently
White-browed Wagtail Motacilla maderaspatensis
One near Delhi airport on 13/1. Two at Kheechan on 15/1, one at Lake Gadisar on 16/1 and two on early morning walk at Gir on 27/1
Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris
Common in the drier areas
Long-billed Pipit Anthus similis
One at Kheechan on 15/1
Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis
Six at Sultanpur. One in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1, two by roadside lake on return drive to Rann Riders on 21/1 and three on roadside cables near CEDO Camp on 24/1
Trumpeter Finch Bucanetes githagineus
A flock of 16 at Ludarwa on 16/1
Crested Bunting Emberiza lathami
One seen after leaving Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary on 19/1 and one at Mount Abu, also on 19/1. The following morning six were seen at Mount Abu
White-capped Bunting Emberiza stewarti
The only bird of the trip was seen from the bus as we drove down from Kumbhalgarh on 19/1
Grey-necked Bunting Emberiza buchanani
Nine at Fotmahadev on 22/1 were followed by two at Chhari Dhandh on 23/1 and two at a scrub thorn area near CEDO Camp on 24/1
HEARD ONLY
Indian Eagle-owl Bubo bengalensis
One almost certainly this sp. called a few times at dusk by hill on Banni Grassland; we did not see it.
MAMMALS
Common Langur (Hanuman) Monkey Semnopithecus entellus Common around Mount Abu
Sambar Deer Cervus unicolor Common at Gir
Spotted Deer (Chital) Axis axis Common at Gir
Nilgai (Blue Bull) Boselaphus tragocamelus Common. Seen at Sultanpur, Desert National Park, around LRK, at Gir as well as farmland between sites
Indian Gazelle (Chinkara) Gazella bennettii Fairly common in dry areas. Good numbers at Desert National Park
Wild Pig Sus scrofa Common at Gir (one herd comprised c.40)
Asiatic Wild Ass Equus onager Three herds at LRK totalling c.65
Golden Jackal Canis aureus 1 at Little Rann, 1 near Mandvi
Indian Fox Vulpes bengalensis Pair in Desert NP and 1 probably this sp. seen in headlights near Sam Dunes/DNP
Desert Fox (race of Red Fox) Vulpes vulpes pusilla Female suckling 3 cubs plus a second adult in LRK
Asiatic Lion Panthera leo persica 3 adult males (2+1) plus a group of females with cubs in Gir.
Leopard Panthera pardus 3 seen in Gir (2+1). Fresh footprints in Kumbhalgarh WLS.
Desert Cat Felis sylvestris 1 near Deseert NP
Jungle Cat Felis chaus 1 near Rann Riders Camp, Dasada
(Large) Grey Mongoose Herpestes edwardsii 1 at Mount Abu, 1 in Gir NP
Small Indian Mongoose Herpestes javanicus 3 together on road to Sam Dunes; 4 (female + 2 pups plus a single adult) on route Mount Abu-Dasada; 3 (2+1) near Little Rann
Indian Hare Lepus nigricollis 1 Little Rann and 1 near Nakatrana
5-Striped Palm Squirrel Funambulus pennantii Common
Indian Desert Jird Meriones hurrianae Large colony at DNP
? Pygmy Gerbil Gerbillus nanus Probably this sp. seen occasionally around Nakatrana
Brown Rat Rattus norvegicus Only noticed on rail tracks in stations
Indian Flying Fox (Fruit Bat) Pteropus giganteus Two large colonies: along Kumbhalgarh-Mount Abu route and at Sassan-Gir village