Dehradun: The Uttarakhand Bird Festival is an annual event that attracts bird enthusiasts from all over. This year, it will be held from October 18 to 20 in the Mussoorie Forest Division, providing a great opportunity to explore the region’s avian diversity. Moreover, preparations are underway for the eighth Uttarakhand Bird Festival, which will be held from October 18 to 20 in the Mussoorie Forest Division. Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal has announced the festival dates and launched a dedicated website for the event.
50 percent of the total bird species in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand is a paradise for bird watchers, offering a diverse range of habitats that attract a wide variety of bird species. More than 50 percent of the total bird species are found in Uttarakhand and many areas of the state are full of different bird species. Many areas of Uttarakhand are considered suitable as bird watching destinations. A large number of people from country and abroad have keen interest in bird watching so that many areas in Uttarakhand can be developed as bird watching destinations.
Places will be identified for bird watching
Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal held talks with officials in this regard. In which he clarified that better places will be identified for bird watching in the state and these will also be established as destinations. Also, like nature guides, local people will also be trained as guides for bird watching. He also said that through this people will get new employment opportunities and they will be able to earn a better income.
Key bird-watching spots in Uttarakhand
Jim Corbett National Park: Known for its rich avian diversity, including species like the Great Hornbill, Pallas’s Fish Eagle, and various types of kingfishers.
Nainital: The surrounding forests and lakes are home to birds like the Himalayan Rubythroat, Cheer Pheasant, and the Himalayan Griffon.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Offers sightings of over 200 bird species, including the Forktail, Blackbirds, and Laughing Thrushes.
Pangot and Sattal: These areas are famous for sightings of the Koklass Pheasant, Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, and various species of flycatchers.
Chopta: Known as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” it’s a great spot to see the Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand, and other high-altitude species.