Chasing Hornbills in North Bengal: A Birding Adventure

Chasing Hornbills in North Bengal: A Birding Odyssey

October 30, 2023, found me in the verdant hills of Rongtong, Darjeeling, a region in North Bengal renowned for its rich biodiversity. My mission? To witness the majestic hornbills in north bengal. This trip was more than just ticking off species from a list; it was an immersion into the symphony of the Eastern Himalayas. The primary targets were the Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis) and the Oriental Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris), and thankfully, North Bengal delivered on both counts.

Oriental Pied Hornbill in Rongtong, Darjeeling

Encountering the Giants: The Great Hornbill

The call of the Great Hornbill, a deep, resonant ‘tok,’ is unmistakable. As we drove down a winding road, I heard it – a sound that instantly sent my pulse racing. I urged the driver to stop. Scrambling out of the car, I scanned the dense foliage, and there it was: the colossal beak of a Great Hornbill peeking through the leaves. It was a pair, likely a mated couple. They soon took flight, their impressive wings carrying them to a nearby ridge. The pursuit began.

Following them involved a brief but moderately challenging uphill climb. We waited, birds and birder, locked in a silent observation. But alas, these magnificent creatures are masters of their domain, and they eventually vanished into the canopy. Even a fleeting encounter with the Great Hornbill leaves an indelible mark.

Great Hornbill in Rongtong, Darjeeling

A pair of Great Hornbills in the lush forests of Rongtong, Darjeeling. The Great Hornbill, a magnificent species found in the region, is a sight to behold.

A majestic Great Hornbill soars through the forests of Rongtong, Darjeeling.

Great Hornbill in flight, Rongtong, Darjeeling.

Interesting Facts about Great Hornbill:

• Great Hornbill Bird Sound: Its call is a loud ‘tok’ or ‘boom’ that can be heard from quite a distance.
• Great Hornbill Size: It is one of the largest hornbill species, with a wingspan reaching up to 1.5 meters.
• Great Hornbill Range: Found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
• Great Hornbill Nest: The female seals herself inside a tree cavity during nesting, relying on the male to provide food. This is a unique and fascinating adaptation.
• Great Hornbill Facts: They play a critical role in seed dispersal, contributing to forest regeneration.

While great hornbill for sale is never an option, encountering these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience.

A Chance Encounter: The Oriental Pied Hornbill

Birding often involves patience and persistence, but sometimes, luck plays a hand. We were enjoying a roadside tea break when an Oriental Pied Hornbill nonchalantly appeared. The locals, accustomed to its presence, suggested offering it biscuits. Hesitantly, I did, and the bird, seemingly unfazed by human interaction, readily accepted the offering. It was a surreal moment, a testament to the adaptability of wildlife in the face of human encroachment. The bird then perched on a nearby branch, a silent observer, before soaring away.

Oriental Pied Hornbill in Rongtong, Darjeeling

Ethical Considerations

It’s crucial to remember that even habituated birds deserve respect and space. While the Oriental Pied Hornbill seemed comfortable with human presence, it’s vital to avoid encroaching on its personal space or altering its natural behavior. Responsible birding prioritizes the well-being of the birds above all else.

Tips for Birding in North Bengal

• Best Time to Visit: October to April offers pleasant weather and optimal birding opportunities.
• Gear: Binoculars, a spotting scope (if possible), a field guide, and appropriate clothing are essential.
• Respect the Environment: Minimize your impact by staying on trails, avoiding disturbance to vegetation, and properly disposing of waste.
• Hire a Local Guide: Local guides possess invaluable knowledge of the region’s birdlife and can significantly enhance your birding experience.

Comprehensive Bird List

During this trip to North Bengal, I observed a total of 9 species including multiple encounters with Great Hornbill and Oriental Pied Hornbill. The highlights, of course, were the hornbills in north bengal, but the region boasts a diverse avifauna that is sure to captivate any birder.

Conclusion

My birding expedition in North Bengal was a resounding success, primarily due to the encounters with the magnificent hornbills in north bengal. The Great Hornbill, with its imposing presence, and the Oriental Pied Hornbill, with its charming adaptability, left an indelible mark on my memory. Remember to respect wildlife, tread lightly, and embrace the wonder of the natural world.

Have you ever been birding in North Bengal? Share your experiences and favorite bird sightings in the comments below!