KATHMANDU, Nepal– Koshi Tappu Wild Life Reserve, a popular destination for bird watchers in Nepal is already witnessing an inflow of migratory birds before the usual time, thanks to the clear weather patterns leading to open sky in southern Nepal.
A large number of migratory birds ranging from small to large bird species like eagles can be spotted along the river bed, according to the reserve office.
The early visit of migratory birds to Koshi Tapu has become as a great surprise for local. As per their annual migration pattern, the birds naturally start arriving at the reserve by the end of November.
The migratory birds come to Nepal after flying extensive distance all the way from Siberia.
“Recently I made trip to the Koshi Tappu where I spotted two species of great eagles and we are expecting many more,” Hem Sagar Baral, a senior ornithologist was quoted by a Nepali National daily.
According to Baral, the reserve is likely to witness more bird species this season. “We are expecting more rare species of birds and in larger numbers this winter,” the daily further quoted him. Great eagle and Garuda species have reportedly entered inside the conservation area a week ago.
According to Baral, larger birds like eagle, great eagle and Garuda species had landed inside the conservation area only two days ago. However, some species of migratory fowls were sighted almost a month ago.
The birds migrating to Koshi Tappu declined drastically after the breach of the eastern embankment of the Sapkoshi River resulting from a massive flooding.
Until 2008 the reserve used to witness more than 50,000 migratory birds during the peak season. However, this impressive flow of birds declined over the years after the breach of the eastern embankment of the Sapkoshi River resulting from a massive flooding.