Bhutan Birding Tour, Thimphu (2026)

06/09/2025

The Oriental Bay Owl (Phodilus badius) is a distinctive and relatively rare species of owl belonging to the family Tytonidae, which also includes the better-known barn owl. Here's a breakdown of its characteristics, habitat, and behavior:
Scientific name: Phodilus badius
Common name: Oriental Bay Owl
Conservation status: Least Concern (but rare and elusive in much of its range)
Identification
Size: Small to medium-sized; around 25–30 cm (10–12 in) in length.
Appearance:
Heart-shaped face, but more V- or T-shaped than the typical barn owl.
The facial disc is rimmed and can appear almost mask-like, giving it a ghostly or “alien” appearance.
Plumage varies by subspecies but usually has reddish-brown to chestnut upperparts, with pale underparts marked by spots.
Large, dark eyes.
Distribution & Habitat
Found across parts of South and Southeast Asia, including:
India (Northeast)
Bhutan
Sri Lanka
Myanmar
Thailand
Malaysia
Indonesia
Philippines (some islands)
Prefers dense tropical forests, often in hilly or mountainous areas.
Nocturnal and very secretive, which contributes to how seldom it's seen.
Behavior & Ecology
Diet: Small mammals, insects, reptiles, and possibly birds.
Vocalizations: Known for eerie, high-pitched whistles and screeches—often described as haunting.
Nesting: Nests in tree hollows or dense vegetation. Breeding habits are not well-studied due to its secretive nature.
Activity: Strictly nocturnal and solitary

10/08/2025

The Golden-throated Barbet's main range is mainland south-east Asia, reaching the Indian subcontinent in north-east India and in the Himalayas west to west-central Nepal. It occurs in moist broadleaf forest in the subtropical and temperate zone.

In Bhutan the Golden-throated Barbet is an abundant resident which is found in all major river valleys, and from 1000-2200 metres, with occasional records to 400-2800 metres. Birds vocalize mid-March-September, and occasionally in autumn and late winter. Peak calling activity in the breeding season is mid-April-July. There are few records indicative of breeding, the most significant being a bird excavating a nest hole on April at 1700 metres. Winter flocks are generally small, typically fewer than five.

Source of an article :Birds in Bhutan

09/08/2025

The Tibetan Snowcock occurs on the Tibetan Plateau, extending through the Himalayan main range locally between Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh. It is a bird of rocky slopes and ridges in the alpine zone.
In Bhutan this Tibetan Snowcock has been found in the west and east,just reaching the temperate zone in the western valleys. Generally an uncommon resident, all records are from altitudes of 4000-4600 metres. The species is usually encountered on the slopes of the highest passes over 4500 metres,along high-altitude treks, such as the Snowman Trek. a record from Dagala ridge, south of Thimphu at 4000 metres. Available records are from March,May, August, September and October, an observation of four juveniles at 4250 metres.

Source of an article : Bird in Bhutan

31/07/2025

Away from human settlement,
There dwell a hermit and a bird.
The bird comes daily—not just for food,
But for the bond they've gently stirred.

Their quiet companionship reminds me:
When kindness is offered, no matter to whom,
There is always an echo, a return.
Unlike the hermit and the bird,
Most forget how deeply connection can root
In the simplest acts of care.

Satyr Tragopan(Male) 🇧🇹

Address

Thimphu

Website

http://www.wildwingadventure.com/

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