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Birding INDIA
Trip report, January 2011 By Ole Zoltan Göller Take off! It all started in Delhi. Here we hired a car with a private driver and toured NW India in a classic tour through the states of Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh, visiting famous sites like Rhantambore, Bharatpur and Corbett. The “we” involved my wife, two children and I, but despite the seeming perspective of bad birding it was an intense birding trip paying off generously. The round trip in short: New Delhi à Jaipur à Rhantambore à Keoladeo Ghana (Bharatpur) à Agra/Taj Mahal à Keetham Jeehl à New Delhi à Corbett à New Delhi à Kullu (Himachal Pradesh) à New Delhi
Delhi (Jan. 7th. – Jan. 8th.) We landed late in the evening in Delhi having just spent a month and a half in Eastern Australia. From the airport we grabbed a taxi to a prebooked hotel in Delhi and had the pleasure of freezing in this dry and cold evening – a feeling long forgotten in the humid aussie climate. Immediately after arriving we ordered a heater to be installed, as the room were not cold but downright freezing.
The following day went by arranging the round trip. Upon the acquaintance of Bill the Sikh, a friendly man with a plan showing us around, we let four different travelling agencies knit together an itinerary based on our whishes. None of which was that of Bill, unfortunately. One was way cheaper than the rest, and it checked out fine. With in a day we were on our way in a hired car with a skilled driver, Mr. Sing, and the Indian adventure had been kicked off I fine style. Jaipur comprised the first stop before the great national parks.
Jaipur (9th-‐10th) As expected Jaipur turned out to be quite an impressive experience, from a cultural point of view, and especially the yellow fort above the city was awesome to visit, giving spectacular views of Jaipur and surroundings. Also the Water Palace, situated in a lake close to city centre, was a fine experience as the pulsating local life thrived on the promenade. Birds were abundant as well, namely waders, swifts, martins and starlings which gathered in this area to forage before night roost. We drove through the red city as well – an impressive urban area with reddish houses and palaces.
Jaipur towards Rhantambore (Jan. 11th.) An interesting drive via smaller roads crossing through dry and sandy landscapes where we made stops for eating and bird watching. This day of travelling gave a total of 75 species of birds, including lots of larks, pipits, shrikes and other dry land birds. In Rhantambore we were accommodated in a hotel (Siddhi Vinayak Resort) in the outskirts of Rhantambore National Park -‐ the world famous Tiger-‐reserve. A morning safari awaited us, but already in the afternoon we took a camel trip into the surrounding buffer zone and did some birding in the fields as well.
Rhantambore (Jan. 12th.) Early out of bed for the first of many jeep safaris. We were picked up by a Jeep and driven to the entrance. Here we were logged by the park officers, and sent to different corners of the reserve. Our trip went to Zone 4, and before we knew it we were faced with a big male Tiger. A dream come true and what a luck. Tiger in the first safari! The safari ended at midday, and upon lunch we boarded yet another safari into the reserve. It was also into Zone 4 (the routes are randomly devided by the rangers) but we were not to be disappointed, as a new animal – also a big male Tiger showed itself in fine style. Photographs prove that it was a deferent individual. A great day of birding and mammaling! Everybody were tired and what better then than a dish of great Indian food.
When the others had hit the bunks I did a night walk into the buffer zone armed with a powerful flashlight. Here the exact same animals can be found as in the reserve. I did however wuss out as I saw lot of game, including a Nilgai, deer and even a Striped Hyena appeared in the light of the touch. The thought of a Tiger or Leopard encounter seemed as an increasingly likely possibility in the dark surrounded by game.
Rhantambore (Jan. 13th.) Another early morning safari in Zone 1 kicked the day off and again the jeep ride through this amazing landscape produced great birding and lots of mammals. We saw no tigers though fresh tiger tracks revealed their presens. As no alarm calls were heard things were impossible. Morning walk alone in Rhantambore Buffer Zone (Jan. 14th.) This great walk into the buffer zone gave a number of fine and new smaller birds such as finches, warblers but also owls and sand grouse. I had a close encounter with a fairly calm Nilgai as well. The most upsetting experience this morning was the fact that I found lots of leopard foot prints – most of them besides og exactly on top of my own tracks from the night before. So my fears from the night before were in fact justified. Rhantambore to Bharatpur Later the same day we drove to Bharatpur, where Keoladeo N. P. was awaiting us. It was a 3-‐4 hour drive crowned by a Skier Malcoha and a Grey Mongoose, which crossed the road slowly in front of the car.
Bharatpur presented us with an average hotel close to the park entrance – not the one usually used by birders – but it was to be one of the best hotel experiences on the trip. It was the Hotel Pratap Palace which proved to be excellent when it came to foods. In fact so amazing that some of the best dishes I have ever tasted came the kitchen of this hotel. A great ambassador for the delicate and variable Indian cuisine. We came nowhere near this standard again. Keoladeo N. P. (Jan. 15th.) We were at the Keoladeo gates at sunset. A rickshaw for the family and a bike for me and the special bird guide (Prakash Chand). Everything looked perfectly promising and it proved to be. 101 species of birds was seen on this perfect day, including various species of nightjars and owls, 14 species of bird of prey, coursers and many Siberian winter visiting passerines.
A wild tiger was roaming Keoladeo at the time, an animal from Rhantambore, limiting our movement pattern as the outer southern and western rim very closed off. The tiger was later sedated and released in the otherwise tiger-‐less tiger reserve of Sariska.
Keoladeo N. P. (Jan. 16th.) Entire day spend walking around Keoladeo on my own, having seen the specialities yesterday. A day primarily dedicated to studying passerines. And what a day. Besides loads of pipits, thrushes, flycatchers, warblers and more, a Siberian Rubythroat took the prize together with a rare sighting of a Jungle Cat. In the evening we toured Bharatpur town on foot. Bharatpur (Jan. 17th.) Morning birding around the outside of the perimeter wall. After lunch we headed on for Agra, making a stop at yet another beautiful cultural tower in the landscape -‐ ”the abandoned castle” of Father Sigri.
Taj Mahal in Agra (Jan. 18th) When in India you have to see the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort, of cause. The Taj was a crowdy affair even though we arrived early, but quite a bit of fine birds were seen in the river behind the temple. It was my daughter’s birthday, meaning shopping and McDonald’s the rest of the day. In search of ways to do workout, I payed a visit to the local boxing club, situated behind the hotel, and before I knew of it the coach handed the guys at the club over to me, considering me a gift from the heavens leaving him with a day off. I gladly took the challenge and within a short time I was giving the entire team a physical crossfit-‐treat, followed by a guided tour into the mysteries of the knockout jab. They they payed their respect with a sugary ginger-‐tea and a birthday song for my girl. Funny as a day can evolve. Agra towards Delhi (Jan 19th.) Not a long way from Delhi the water bird reserve of Keetham Jeehl appeared. It was easy accessible and held lots of good birds. At the end of the day we ended back in Delhi in the super fine, and still relatively cheap, Hotel Clark Heights. Delhi to Ramnagar (Jan. 21st.) After a day in Delhi we continued the trip towards the town of Ramnagar in Jim Corbett National Park. The road crosses several interesting rivers, including the Ganges. It was however a river to the north og this epic river that held de greatest number variety of birds, including cranes, gulls and lots of shorebirds. We stayed at an amazing location at a dubious hotel called the Rana Hotel. It was new and run by boys who knew absolutely nothing about running a hotel. The facilities were fine though. The Hotel was situated at the edge of a rocky river bed with views over forested hills in the Corbett National Park and it proved amazing for passerines and raptor watching.
Corbett (Jan. 22nd.) First we did a safari in the outskirts of the park on elephant back, which was quite yielding as we saw a fine Hog Dear, but later we went on a jeep safari into the park. The park was truly one of the most beautiful national parks I have ever visited and one of the best ones for animals and birds. Great stuff! Corbett (Jan. 23rd) First an early morning safari through the northern entrance. Then breakfast back at the hotel, followed by birding in the near vicinity. Then an afternoon and evening safari to the park via the southern entrance. Nothing short of amazing birding all day long. Corbett (Jan. 24th.) Upon a little birding we headed back to Delhi with Sing, our tenacious driver, behind the wheels. We ended back at the Clark Heights Hotel. We spend a few days in Delhi and then headed north. Delhi towards Kullu, Himachal Pradesh – first attempt (Jan 26th.) We were screwed by the bus company charging us four late night buss fairs, which were cancelled. We were not able to get refunds.
Delhi towards Kullu, Himachal Pradesh – second attempt (Jan 27th.) Finally on the bus towards the Himalayas. A dreadful bus ride through the night leaving many with transportation sickness and near death experiences, as the driver was one crazy fuck over taking in every sharp turn. We made it though but after arrival in the middle of the night the prebooked hotel was nowhere to be found. No one else had any space, apparently, but then a little very foul hotel opened its arms for us and provided a super-‐mall, unheated room until the next morning. We slept together under the same blanket, but still everyone was freezing. The town of Kullu was to be a positive surprise though, as it is cosy and laid back surrounded by amazing snow capped mountains.
Kullu (Jan. 28th) Birding all day in the mountains around Kullu towards Praskar Lake. A change of scenery to say the least. The warm and dry, scrubby lowlands had now been swapped with an alpine environment with interesting rhododendron-‐forests. A great trip though we never made it all the way to lake Praskar because of snow and lack of four-‐wheel-‐drive. Kullu (Jan. 29th.) Birding around Kullu. Busdrive Kullu to Delhi (Jan. 30th)
Birds: Black Francolin 7 birds seen on the road to Praskar Lake around Kullu on Feb. 29th
Grey Francolin 9 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P. 6 seen inside Rhantambore (zone 4). 8 Rhantambore (zone 1). 6 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. Red Spurfowl 2 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 2 Rhantambore (zone 4). Painted Spurfowl 1 at Kheetam Jeehl ★Himalayan Monal Amazingly, a single shining male was seen in the near of Praskar Lake east of Kullu as it crossed the road. Red Junglefowl 6+1+10 heard in Corbett N. P. (safaris from southern entrance). 3 in Elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. Kalij Pheasant A pair seen twice at the roadside in Corbett (safaris from southern gate). ★Cheer Pheasant A male seen on the road to Praskar Lake, west of Kullu. Indian Peafowl Very common in all national parks visited. 20+150 seen on two safaris in Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). 40 Rhantambore (zone 1). 15 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. 75+50 in Corbett N. P. (Safaris from southern entrance). 10 in Elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. Comb Duck 150 at Keoladeo N. P. 2 at Kheetam Jeehl Lesser Whistling-‐duck Two birds seen at Keoladeo N. P.
Greylag Goose Common in Kheetam Jeehl. 4 at Keoladeo N. P. ★Lesser White-‐fronted Goose One seen and photographed at Kheetam Jeehl. Apparently this species is rare in India.
Bar-‐headed Goose 20 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Keoladeo N. P. 125 in Kheetam Jeehl. Ruddy Shelduck 200 overflying Rhantambore. 18 Taj Mahal in river behind temple. 4 in Kheetam Jeehl and several in Keoladeo N. P. Gadwall 250 birds seen at Kheetam Jeehl and several at Keoladeo N. P. Eurasian Wigeon 50 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. Mallard 2 few birds seen at Keoladeo and at Kheetam Jeehl. Spot-‐billed Duck 8 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. Cotton Pygmy-‐Goose 5 birds seen at Keoladeo N. P. Common Teal Common in Kheetam Jeehl and Keoladeo N. P. Northern Pintail 1000 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. Northern Shoveler 1500+ in Keoladeo N. P. Red-‐crested Pochard Common in Kheetam Jeehl and Keoladeo N. P.
Great Slaty Woodpecker 1 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance).
Brown-‐capped Pygmy Woodpecker 1 at Keoladeo N. P. Lesser Yellownape 1 bird at northern part of Corbett. Greater Yellownape 7 seen on day in Corbett. Streak-‐throated Woodpecker 2 Corbett N. P. (from northern entrance). Himalayan Flame-‐back 3 in Elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. Black-‐rumped Flame-‐back 2 Rhantambore (zone 1). 5 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 1+5 at Corbett. Greater Flameback 1 Corbett. White-‐naped Woodpecker One seen in Rhantambore N. P. at an evening safari. Wryneck 1 seen just outside Corbett close to northern entrance – new tick for the guide. Great Barbet 10 birds seen on the road to Praskar Lake, west of Kullu.
Brown-‐headed Barbet 1 seen on the road from Delhi to Corbett. Lineated Barbet 4+1 birds seen in Corbett (safaris from southern gate).
Coppersmith Barbet 1 at Keoladeo. Indian Grey Hornbill One between Rhantambore and Bharatpur. One bird seen in a garden in the city of Bharatpur. 2 in Keoladeo N. P. Oriental Pied Hornbill 4+2 birds seen in two safaris from spouthern gate in Corbett N.P. Great Hornbill 2 + 0 birds seen at Corbett N. P. southern part. Hoopoe 1 seen in afternoon safari, Rhantambore. 1 from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 9+4 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 2+6 Corbett N. P. – both safaris from southern entrance. European Roller C. 10 birds seen from Delhi to Jaipur. One bird seen outside Corbett. Indian Roller 6 birds seen from Delhi to Jaipur. 2 birds from Jaipur to Rhantambore. 1 on camel trip at Rhantambore. 2 birds from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 25 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P.
Dollarbird 5 Delhi to Jaipur. 1 bird seen from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. Common Kingfisher One bird at Keoladeo. Two birds at Corbett. White-‐throated Kingfisher ssp. fusca Frequently seen in lowlands and even in Kullu – often, but not always, near water. Crested Kingfisher Two birds seen at rocky riverbed in Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). Blue-‐bearded Bee-‐eater 1 at Corbett. Green Bee-‐eater 2 on the road from Jaipur to Rhantambore. 2 birds in Rhantambore close to hotel. Sirkeer Malkoha One seen at stop between Rhantambore and Bharatpur. Greater Coucal One between Delhi and Jaipur. Two at Rhantambore. 6 in Rhantambore. 2 Kheetam Jeehl.
Lesser Coucal One in scrub behind hotel outside Corbett
Alexandrine Parakeet 1+4 bird seen in Rhantambore N. P. 1 bird at Corbett and 6 birds seen on the road to Praskar lake in mountains SW of Kullu. 1 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). Rose-‐ringed Parakeet Very common everywhere – also in cities. 2 Delhi. 6 from Delhi to Jaipur. 30 Jaipur. 30 Jaipur to Rhantambore. 2 seen on camel trip near Rhantambore. 25 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. 30 birds on first Tiger safari in Rhantambore. 40 + 50 birds seen in two trips to Keoladeo N. P. 200 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. 15 around Taj Mahal. 30 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 10 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). 1 in area of shrubbery and rocky river bed close to hotel. Slaty-‐headed (or Himalayan) Parakeet 4 birds seen around Lake Praskar west of Kullu. Plum-‐headed Parakeet 1 from Delhi to Jaipur. 2 seen on camel trip near Rhantambore. 11 + 1 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. 20 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 2+5 Corbett N. P. (safaris from northern entrance). Himalayan Swiftlet 4 birds in the mountains on the way to lake Praskar, Kullu. White-‐rumped Needletail (The Himalayan non-‐migrational type, with dark forehead). Probably this species/subspecies. Two birds seen very distant in mountains above Kullu in cloudy weather. Fork-‐tailed Swift 10 around Water Palace in Jaipur
House Swift 200 around Water Palace in Jaipur. App. 250 at Keoladeo. Crested Treeswift 1+2 birds outside Corbett N. P. Asian Palm Swift 2 seen around Water Palace in Jaipur
Collared (or Indian) Scops-‐Owl 2 nesting at Keoladeo. Oriental Scops-‐Owl 1 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. ★Dusky Eagle-‐Owl One in nest at NE Keoladeo N. P. ★Brown Fish-‐Owl One on afternoon walk outside Rhantambore N. P.-‐boundary. One seen in Kheetam Jeehl. Jungle Owlet 1 at Rhantambore (zone 4) in garden of restaurant, where it was perched on a wall. 1 at S. Corbett og 1 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. Spotted Owlet 2 Rhantambore (zone 1). 2 Keoladeo. 1 Corbett N. P. 1 at hotel outside Corbett N. P. Large-‐Tailed Nightjar 1 in daylight at Keoladeo N. P. Grey Nightjar 1 in daylight at Keoladeo N. P. Savannah Nightjar 1 heard in Corbett. N. P.
Rock Pigeon Very common in big cities. Oriental Turtle Dove 1 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 5 seen at Corbett Laughing Dove Very common in lowlands, not counted. Spotted Dove Very common in lowlands, not counted. Red Collared Dove 4 from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 1+2 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P.
Eurasian Collared Dove Very common in lowlands Emerald Dove 2 seen in Corbett (safari from northern gate). 1 seen Corbett (safari from southern gate). Yellow-‐footed Green Pigeon 4+5 Rhantambore, 8 from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 8 seen on the road from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 2 + 16 birds seen in two trips to Keoladeo N. P. Sarus Crane 2 birds at Keoladeo, 2 birds between Agra and Delhi, 2 birds a mile from Ganges crossing towards Corbett from Delhi. 2+1 birds just south of Corbett. White-‐breasted Waterhen 10 in Keoladeo, 7+2 at Rhantambore, single birds seen here and there in wet areas. Watercock 1 at Kheetam Jeehl.
Purple Swamphen 3 in Keoladeo. 3 in marshy area from Agra to Delhi. Common Moorhen Seen commonly in semi-‐urban wet areas. Also 50 in Rhantambore (zone 4) etc. Common Coot 2000 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. Painted Sandgrouse 2 at Rhantambore on morning walk in buffer zone. 1 seen in Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). Eurasian Woodcock 1 seen in Corbett. Common Snipe Keoladeo 1. Greater Painted-‐snipe 1 Seen in sewage canal in the city of Bharatpur. 1 in Keoladeo. 1 in Corbett N. P. Spotted Redshank App. 700 birds at a river with surrounding mudflats and lagoons north from The Ganges towards Corbett. Common Redshank 1 bird at Keoladeo Marsh Sandpiper App. 300 birds rested at a river with surrounding mudflats and lagoons north from The Ganges towards Corbett. Common Greenshank 5 + 15 at Keoladeo. 1 at hotel in Corbett. Green Sandpiper 2 Corbett N. P. from southern gate. 1 at hotel in Corbett Wood Sandpiper 1 at Bharatpur city. Common Sandpiper 1 bird by the river in Kullu. Ibisbill None seen despite long search in apparently perfect habitat – the shingle streams near Kullu. Bronze-‐winged Jacana 1 at Keoladeo. Black-‐winged Stilt 250 Jaipur close to Water Temple. 800 from Jaupur to Rhantambore. 8 Rhantambore (zone 4). 15 Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 300 Bharatpur. 80 seen along river behind the Taj Mahal. 275 at Kheetam Jeehl. 2-‐300 birds rested at a river with surrounding mudflats and lagoons north from The Ganges towards Corbett. Common along rivers, in marshes and lagoons.
Little Ringed Plover 1 at Keoladeo. Pacific Golden Plover 35 riverbed close to Ramnagar. Great Thick-‐knee 1 seen between Delhi and Jaipur. 1 during an evening walk along the promenade in Jaipur. Ruff App. 1000 birds a river with surrounding mudflats and lagoons north from The Ganges towards Corbett. River Lapwing 1 seen between Delhi and Jaipur. 1 at Rhantambore (zone 1). Yellow-‐wattled Lapwing 2 along river behind Taj Mahal, Agra. Grey-‐headed Lapwing 1 seen between Delhi and Jaipur. Red-‐wattled Lapwing 3 seen from Delhi to Jaipur. 60 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 4 Rhantambore, 30 Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 4 Corbett. 4 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). ★Indian Courser 2 birds in a field between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 5 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P.
Small Pratincole c. 25 at river north from The Ganges towards Corbett. Indian Skimmer 2 at river behind Taj Mahal Pallas’s Gull One bird seen in the river behind Taj Mahal, Agra. 6 birds at River north of The Ganges towards Corbett.
River Tern 1 at Rhantambore (zone 4) Black-‐bellied Tern 2 at Rhantambore (zone 4) Osprey One seen at Rhantambore. Black-‐shouldered Kite Relatively common throughout lowlands. 3 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P. 1 Rhantambore (zone 1). 9 seen on the road from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 1 from Delhi to Corbett. Black Kite By far the most abundant bird of prey and present everywhere alongside people. An impressive flock of 5000 birds were seen above one of Delhi´s largest rubbish dumps. 100 town of Kullu. 30 seen on the road to Praskar Lake in mountains SW of Kullu.
Pallas’s Fish Eagle One in a tree at Kheetam Jeehl. One just south of Corbett N. P. Egyptian Vulture 6 seen at Fatehpur Sigri (The Abandoned Fort). 1 Keoladeo. 4 Kheetam Jeehl. 3 between Delhi and Corbett. 3+2 at Corbett. 4 birds from hotel outside Corbett. ★Indian Vulture (Long-‐billed Vulture) 1+1 (same bird two days?) at Keoladeo. 1 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary (same bird again?). ★Slender-‐billed Vulture 2 seen from hotel outside Corbett. Himalayan Griffon Vulture 12 seen from Kullu in the mountains above the city. Eurasian Griffon Vulture 5 seen from hotel outside Corbett. Cinereous Vulture 2 seen from hotel outside Corbett. ★Red-‐headed Vulture One seen and photographed in Keoladeo overflying the southern part. Crested Serpent-‐Eagle Seen on three occasions in Courbet N. P. and once in Keoladeo N.P. Eurasian Marsh Harrier 1 at Keoladeo. Pied Harrier 1 male seen at Keoladeo. Shikra 1 at Rhantambore. 1 on the road from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 2 at Keoladeo. Besra 1 on the road from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. Eurasian Sparrowhawk 2 seen between Delhi and Corbett. 1 Corbett (safari from southern gate). Oriental Honey-‐buzzard 1 at Rhantambore (zone 4). 1 seen at Keoladeo. Long-‐legged Buzzard 1 seen between Delhi and Jaipur White-‐eyed Buzzard 3 seen NV of Agra.
Indian Spotted Eagle 2 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 3 from hotel outside Corbett. 1 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. Greater Spotted Eagle Two at Keoladeo Tawny Eagle 1 seen between Delhi and Corbett. Steppe Eagle 1 seen from hotel outside Corbett. Booted Eagle 3 at Keoladeo. Bonelli´s Eagle 1 at Rhantambore Short-‐toed Snake-‐eagle 1 on the way to Jaipur from Delhi. Changeable Hawk Eagle One bird seen in Jaipur. One at Rhantambore. One heard calling at Corbett.
Common Kestrel 2 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P. 1 Corbett (safari from southern gate).
Red-‐necked Falcon 1 Between Delhi and Jaipur. Little Grebe 50 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 15 at Kheetam Jeehl Great Crested Grebe 1 at Kheetam Jeehl Darter 1 seen in Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). 10 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 12 at Kheetam Jeehl Little Cormorant 1 Rhantambore. 60 at Keoladeo. 150 at Kheetam Jeehl. Indian Cormorant 3 seen in Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). Keoladeo 1 and 5 birds at Kheetam Jeehl. Great Cormorant 500+ at Kheetam Jeehl. 20 at Keoladeo. Little Egret Common near most kinds of water. Grey Heron 20 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 1 at Kheetam Jeehl. Purple Heron 1 in Corbett. Great Egret 18 at Keoladeo. Intermediate Egret 1 seen in Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). 1 Jaipur. 10 Keoladeo. Cattle Egret Common near in most landscapes – especially around livestock. Indian Pond Heron 2 in Jaipur at promenade along Water Palace. 2 in Bharatpur city. 3 from Jaipur to Rhantambore. 1 at Rhantambore (zone 1). 8 at Kheetam Jeehl. 1 on the way to Corbett. Little Heron 1 at Kheetam Jeehl Black-‐crowned Night Heron 3 at Keoladeo. Glossy Ibis 9 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. Black-‐headed Ibis 100 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P.
Black Ibis 35 at Kheetam Jeehl. Eurasian Spoonbill 40 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 12 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. Great White Pelican 25 at Kheetam Jeehl Dalmatian Pelican 12 seen at Kheetam Jeehl. ★Spot-‐billed Pelican 2 at river NE of The Ganges. Painted Stork 200 + 12 birds seen in two trips to Keoladeo N. P. 18 at Kheetam Jeehl Asian Openbill 2 birds at Keoladeo. 2 seen at Kheetam Jeehl
Wolly-‐necked Stork 1 + 2 seen in two safaris to Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). 3 at Kheetam Jeehl Lesser Adjutant 1 at Kheetam Jeehl.
Golden-‐fronted Leafbird 2 at Corbett (northern entrance). Brown Shrike 1 seen from Delhi to Jaipur. 1 Corbett N. P. (from northern entrance). Bay-‐backed Shrike 3 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 1 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P. Long-‐tailed Shrike 9 seen from Delhi to Jaipur. 8 from Jaipur to Rhantambore. 1 Rhantambore N. P. 2 Rhantambore (zone 1). 12 seen on the road from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 5 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 2 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. 1 in area of shrubbery and rocky river bed close to hotel. 3 Corbett N. P. (from northern entrance). 1 Corbett (safari from southern gate). Turkestan Shrike 4 birds in open scrubby land between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Grey-‐backed Shrike 1 Between Jaipur and Delhi. Southern Great Grey Shrike 5 seen from Delhi to Jaipur. 1 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Yellow-‐billed Blue Magpie 2 seen on the road to Praskar lake in mountains SW of Kullu. Rufous Treepie 30 + 50 birds seen in to safaris to Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). 20 Rhantambore (zone 1). 18 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 10 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 1 in scrub behind hotel outside Corbett. Carrion Crow 100 seen between Delhi and Jaipur. 30 Between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 100 + 10 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 4 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. House Crow Very common in lowlands and in big cities. Large-‐billed Crow 2 seen between Delhi and Jaipur. 2 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 2 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). 50 seen on the road to Praskar Lake in mountains SW of Kullu. Common Raven 1 bird seen at Keoladeo. 2 seen on the road to Praskar Lake in mountains SW of Kullu. Black-‐hooded Oriole 1 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). Small Minivet 1 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P.
White-‐bellied Minivet One seen in scrub at stop between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Long-‐tailed Minuet 4 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 1 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). Scarlet Minivet 6 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). White-‐throated Fantail 1 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. White-‐browed Fantail 1 + 2 seen in Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). 1 Rhantambore (zone 1). Black Drongo Common in lowlands. 62 birds seen from Delhi to Jaipur. 50 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 3 + 3 birds seen in Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). 27 seen on the road from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 20 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 11 Corbett (safari from southern gate). Ashy Drongo 1 seen between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 1 between Delhi and Corbett. White-‐bellied Drongo 1 seen in garden close to hotel. 1 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. Spangled Drongo 1 NE of Jaipur. 4 Corbett N. P. (from northern entrance). Greater Racket-‐tailed Drongo 1 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance).
Common Iora 2 Jaipur to Rhantambore. Common Woodshrike 1 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 5 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. Large Woodshrike 1 forested land NE of Jaipur. 1 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Brown Dipper 4-‐6 birds were seen along the river in Kullu. 2 seen on the road to Praskar Lake in mountains SW of Kullu. Wallcreeper 1 at river in Kullu mid town. 1 bird seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu.
Blue Whistling Thrush 2 in rocky beds at river in Kullu. 4 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. Orange-‐headed Thrush One bird seen in NE Keoladeo. Tickell’s Thrush One bird seen at Keoladeo in NE part. One at forest in mountains NE of Kullu.
Grey-‐winged Blackbird 2 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 3 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). Eurasian Blackbird 2+1 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). Naumann’s Thrush One bird near Lake Praskar, Kullu
Black-‐throated Thrush 2 seen outside Hotel, Corbett. 1 Rhantambore (zone 1). 3 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 2 in forest above Kullu. Red-‐breasted Flycatcher 4 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. 11 + 18 birds in two trips to Keoladeo N. P. 2 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 1 in area of shrubbery and rocky river bed close to hotel in Corbett. Taiga Flycatcher 5-‐6 birds studied in Keoladeo. Like Red-‐throated it was heard quite often from thickets, though a little less common. 1+1 at Keetham Jeehl. 1 in area of shrubbery and rocky river bed close to hotel. Verditer Flycatcher One bird seen in a thicket midway between entrance and temple in Keoladeo. Pale-‐chinned Flycatcher 1 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance).
Little Pied Flycatcher 1 Corbett N. P. (from northern entrance). Grey-‐headed Canary Flycatcher 4 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. ★Siberian Rubythroat One at the temple in Keoladeo. 1 at Corbett. 3 outside Corbett by the hotel. Bluethroat 10 birds registered in Keoladeo. Not seen anywhere else. Orange-‐flanked Bluetail 4 birds seen in the mountains SE of Kullu and one bird in Corbett. Oriental Magpie Robin 1 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 2 Kheetam Jeehl. 14 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 2 Corbett (safari from southern gate). Indian Robin 1 at Jaipur. 1 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 1+1 at Rhantambore (zone 1). 2 Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 2+2 Corbett. 2 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. 11 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 1 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. 2+2 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). Blue-‐capped Redstart 5 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu.
Black Redstart 10+4 birds seen in two trips to Keoladeo – both ssp. phoenicuroides ssp. Rufiventris seen and photographed. 1 between Delhi and Jaipur at restaurant.
White-‐capped Water Redstart Common along the stream in Kullu – 10 birds seen here. 2 birds seen on the road to Praskar Lake in mountains SW of Kullu. Plumbeous Water Redstart Common along the river in Kullu. App. 20 birds seen here. Little Forktail One seen at river in Kullu.
Spotted Fork tail One seen at river in Kullu. Pied Bushchat 2 seen at Keoladeo. Grey Bushchat 2 seen at Corbett (northern entrance). Variable Wheatear 1 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Brown Rock-‐chat Two seen close to hotel just outside Rhantambore buffer zone. 2 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P.
Stonechat ssp. maurus/stejnegeri 1 Keoladeo outside walls. 1 in Keoladeo. 1 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. 4 Corbett N. P. (from northern entrance). 3 Corbett (safari from southern gate).
Brahminy Starling 7 afternoon walk in Rhantambore buffer zone. 42+40 in Keoladeo. Rosy Starling 1500 in a flock resting on electricity cables between Delhi and Jaipur in drier areas. A flock of app. 2000 rested on cables between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Small flocks seen around Keoladeo and Rhantambore as well. 20 seen on the road from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. Common Starling 5 birds seen close to Rhantambore. Asian Pied Starling 200 birds between Delhi and Jaipur. 20 Jaipur to Rhantambore. 50 Keoladeo. 20 on the road to Corbett. Common Mynah Seen commonly everywhere close to people. Also common in N.P´s Bank Mynah App. 2000 seen from Delhi to Jaipur, etc. Very common along roads. Also common in N.P´s. 850 seen on the road from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. Jungle Mynah Quite numerous around Corbett. 4 seen in Corbett N. P.
Bar-‐tailed Treecreeper 2 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. Grey-‐crested Tit One in forest in the mountains above Kullu.
Cinereus Tit 1 bird seen in buffer zone to Rhantambore. 1 bird at Keoladeo. 20 in elephant safari in bufferzone to Corbett N. P. 11 along rocky river in Kullu. Green-‐backed Tit 2 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. 1 in Kullu. White-‐throated Tit 2 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. Black-‐throated Tit 10 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. Spot-‐winged Tit 2 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. Plain Martin 5 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 15 in area of shrubbery and rocky river bed close to hotel. Eurasian Crag Martin 2 seen on the road to Praskar Lake in mountains SW of Kullu. Dusky Crag Martin 2 seen from Delhi to Jaipur. 30 seen in Jaipur near castle and 200 foraging near The Water Temple in the evening. Barn Swallow 30 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 300 at river crossing north of The Ganges. 20 rocky river around Kullu. 2 seen on the road to Praskar lake in mountains SW of Kullu.
Streak-‐throated Swallow 1 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 100 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 100+ at river crossing north of The Ganges. Black-‐crested Bulbul 3 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). White-‐eared Bulbul 10 seen from Delhi to Jaipur. 50 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 10 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 30 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). Himalayan Bulbul 30 seen on the road to Praskar Lake in mountains SW of Kullu.
Red-‐vented Bulbul 5 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 35 Rhantambore (zone 4). 4 Rhantambore (zone 1). 50 seen on the road from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 25 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 150 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 10 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 30 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). 10 Corbett (safari from southern gate). Black Bulbul 75 seen on the road to Praskar Lake in mountains SW of Kullu. Rufous-‐vented Prinia 1 Kheetam Jeehl Jungle Prinia 1 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P. Rufous-‐fronted Prinia 1 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance).
Grey-‐breasted Prinia 8 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. Ashy Prinia 1 at Kheetam Jeehl. 15 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). Plain Prinia 2+6 birds seen in two trips to Keoladeo N. P. 10 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. Graceful Prinia Hotel along river in Corbett. Oriental White-‐eye 6 birds in Keoladeo. 2 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 2 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). Common Tailorbird 1 bird seen in Keoladeo N. P. 1 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 1 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). Greater Whitethroat 1 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P. 1 in Rhantambore (zone 1) Lesser Whitethroat 2 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P. 1 Rhantambore (zone 1). 1 seen and herd on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. Probably halimodendri/minula based on sandy colours, almost lack of dark ear coverts, brown back of neck, and rattling call blended with very sharp tik´s. 12 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. 1 at Kheetam Jeehl. Clamorous Reed Warbler 1+3 birds seen in two trips to Keoladeo N. P. Blyth’s Reed Warbler 4-‐2 Keoladeo. Lanceolated Warbler 1 marsh and scrub outside Hotel near Corbett. Siberian Chiff-‐chaff 1 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 4 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. 6 along rocky river in Kullu. Brook’s Leaf Warbler 1 seen at Keoladeo. 1 at Kheetam Jeehl. 2 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. Hume’s Warbler 1 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P. 4 + 8 seen in two trips to Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). 4 Rhantambore (zone 1). 2 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. 21 + 18 birds seen in two trips to Keoladeo N. P. 1 Taj Mahal. 1 at Keetham Jeehl. 5 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 1+1 in area of shrubbery and rocky river bed close to hotel. 3 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). 10 Corbett (safari from southern gate).
Grey-‐cheeked Warbler 2 seen in Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). Greenish Warbler 2 Corbett. Grey-‐hooded Warbler 3 along rocky river in Kullu, 1 in the mountains towards Praskar. White-‐crested Laughingthrush 2 at Corbett. Streaked Laughingthrush 4 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. Variegated Laughingthrush ssp. variegatus 6 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. Yellow-‐eyed Babbler 2 birds seen in Keoladeo. Large Grey Babbler 12 from Delhi to Jaipur. 5 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P. 1 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. 10 seen on the road from Rhantambore to Bharatpur. 1 at Taj Mahal. Jungle Babbler 15 seen between Delhi and Jaipur. 50 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P. 30+25 seen in to safaris to Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). 50 Rhantambore (zone 1). 30 birds Keoladeo.
50 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 10 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 50 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance).
Indian Bush-‐lark Bushy dry area between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Black-‐crowned Sparrow Lark 3 in fields between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Short-‐toed Lark 50 fields between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Hume’s Short-‐toed Lark 2 fields between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Sand Lark 1 field between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Crested Lark 1 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Purple Sunbird 2 in Delhi, 1 bird seen in Keoladeo N. P. Crimson Sunbird 2 seen in Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). House Sparrow 40 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 30 seen on the road to Praskar Lake in mountains SW of Kullu. Spanish Sparrow 2 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Chestnut-‐shouldered Petronia 2 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P.
White Wagtail Ssp. personata: Quite commonly seen from lowlands around water to streams on mountains. 4 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 1 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 3 outside gate Corbett (southern gate). 4 rocky river around Kullu. Ssp. leucopsis: 1 at Ramnagar. White-‐browed Wagtail 1 from Delhi to Jaipur. 2 between Jaipur and Rhantambore. Citrine Wagtail 14 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. 1 in Bharatpur city. 1 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. Yellow Wagtail ssp. ? 2 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. Grey Wagtail 1 Rhantambore (zone 4). 1 Rhantambore (zone 1). 2 seen on the road to Praskar Lake in mountains SW of Kullu. 4 along Rocky River in Kullu. Richard’s Pipit Around 10 birds seen in Keoladeo N P. 15 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. Paddyfield Pipit 2 birds Keoladeo.
Tawny Pipit 8 seen in a field around Hotel in Rhantambore. 1+15 birds seen in two trips to Keoladeo N. P. 40 birds seen in morning walk outside Keoladeo N. P. boundary. Blyth’s Pipit 2 birds at a road stop between Jaipur and Bharatpur. 1 + 3 birds seen in two trips to Keoladeo N. P. Tree Pipit 2 From Delhi to Jaipur. 1 Rhantambore (zone 4). 15 Rhantambore (zone 1). 4 at Keoladeo. Olive-‐backed Pipit 3 birds at Rhantambore near hotel. 3 in Rhantambore (zone 1). 4-‐5 birds seen foraging in the same area in Keoladeo N. P. 1 at Corbett. Finn’s Weaver 1 seen Corbett (safari from southern entrance). Red Avadat 1 seen at Keoladeo. Indian Silverbill 8 Rhantambore. 15+8 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. 2+10 seen at Keoladeo. Scaly-‐breasted Munia 3 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. Black-‐headed Munia 1 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. Pink-‐browed Rosefinch 1 male seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. Black-‐and-‐yellow Grosbeak 1 female seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu. Rock Bunting 7 birds seen on the mountain drive towards Lake Praskar, SW of Kullu.
MAMMALS Rhesus Macaque Most common monkey seen commonly on buildings, trees and in roadside around cities and national Parks. 300 between Delhi and Jaipur. 10 Jaipur city. 10 Between Jaipur and Rhantambore. 4 seen in Keoladeo N. P. 3 at Kheetam Jeehl. 16 between Delhi and Corbett. 15 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 20 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). 100 Corbett (safari from southern gate).
Hanuman Langur Seen in every national park, and surroundings and here and there near people. A little less common than the latter, but still common in more forested areas throughout lowlands. 2 Between Delhi and Jaipur. 4 during evening walk in Jaipur. 14 + 50 seen on two safaris in Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4). 30 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 15 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). 15 Corbett (safari from southern gate). Sambar Deer 17 + 60 seen in Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4) on two consecutive safaris. 50 Rhantambore (Zone 1). 2+2 seen Corbett N. P. (Safaris from southern entrance). 1 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 10 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance).
Indian Muntjac (Barking Deer) 1 seen Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 3 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 3 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). Hog Deer 1 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. Spotted Deer 43 + 200 seen in Rhantambore N. P. (zone 4) on two consecutive safaris. 50 Rhantambore (zone 1). 32+1 individual seen in two trips to Keoladeo N. P. 2 road from Delhi close to Corbett. 40 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). 50 in elephant safari in buffer zone to Corbett N. P. 40 Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). Nilgai (Blue Bull) 1 male + 1 female with 2 juveniles seen in Rhantambore (zone 4). 1 male Rhantambore (zone 1). 1 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. 13 animals seen in Keoladeo N. P. Mainland Serow 3 in mountains above Kullu – very pleased to se this goat! Wild Boar (Wild Pig) 20 Rhantambore (zone 4). 3+ 5 individuals seen in Keoladeo N. P. Cape Hare 1 seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. 1 birds seen in Keoladeo N. P. Three-‐striped Squirrel Very common in most habitats -‐ even among habitation -‐ in lowlands. 8 Between Delhi and Jaipur at to stops. 15 seen on camel trip through buffer zone of Rhantambore N. P. 2 Rhantambore N. P on evening safari. 20 seen in Keoladeo N. P. 8 at the Taj Mahal. Five-‐striped Squirrel Replaced the latter in northern mountainous parts. 1 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). Golden Jackal 8 + 5 (incl. 2 heard) in two trips to Keoladeo N. P. 1 road from Delhi close to Corbett. 1 Corbett N. P. (Safari from southern entrance). Brown Rat 2 seen Jaipur city.
Grey Mongoose 1 between Rhantambore and Bharatpur. Crossed the road just in front of the car. Asian Elephant A female with a calf of wild animals seen in Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). 4 and one heard in Corbett N. P. (evening safari from southern gate). There are app. 640 animals in the Corbett N. P. -‐area. Striped Hyena 1 animal seen on a night walk in the buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. ★Tiger A big male seen at very close range in Rhantambore N. P. (Zone 4). Another monster male was seen later the same day. It was close to the entrance, far from the first sighting, and a it was a different individual based on stripe patern. Fresh tiger tracks were seen in Rhantambore (zone 1). 1 was heard very close by in Corbett N. P. (safari from northern entrance). 2 animals copulating and two more heard in the vicinity judging from deer and peacock alarm calls. This was 5-‐6 km outside the gates, but still in a well forested area. There are app. 164 Tigers in the Corbett. Area.
Leopard Very fresh tracks seen on early sunrise walking trip through buffer zone to Rhantambore N. P. Racks. Actually tracks on top of my own! Jungle Cat 1 fine individual seen and photographed in Keoladeo N. P. western part. REPTILES Monitor Lizard 1 monster animal seen in Rhantambore (zone 4), climbing a rock wall in 7-‐8 meters height. I was clearly aiming its hunger at bird nests. One seen sleeping in cave in Corbett N. P. Indian Crocodile (Mugger Crocodile) 3-‐4 seen in Rhantambore N. P. (Zone 4). 1 3-‐4 m individual also Rhantambore N. P. (Zone 4) later the same day but different location.