BNHS Nature camps

Vol. 1. Issue 6

BHARATPUR NATIONAL PARK

BI-MONTHLY PROGRAMME for September-October, 2013

BI-MONTHLY PROGRAMME September-October 2013 ONE DAY PROGRAMMES NOVEMBER 10th Nov Nature Trail to Nagla Forest 17th Nov Discovering Dragons and Damsels 24th Nov Birding at Elephanta Island 24th Nov Butterfly Bounty at Ovalekar Wadi, Thane DECEMBER 1st Dec 8th Dec 15th Dec 22nd Dec 28th Dec 29th Dec

JANUARY, 2014 Sunderban Kanha National Park Keoladeo National Park and Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary Chilika Lake F EBRUARY

Birding at Talawe Birding at Bhandup Pumping Station Birding at Karnala Base Forest Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary Wader Watch at Sewri Winter trail at Shilonda

Tal Chhapar Sanctuary Thattekad & Munnar Velavadar, Thol & Nal – Sarovar Sanctuary Kaziranga National Park & Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary Marine camp at Lakshadweep MARCH

NATIONAL CAMPS November Wildlife Sanctuaries of Goa – Wildernest

Dudhwa Tiger Reserve MAY

WILD KARNATAKA Camp 1: Agumbe and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary Camp 2: Bandipur and Nagarhole National Park

Corbett National Park & Nainital (Sattal & Pangot)

DECEMBER Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary & Marine National Park

MARCH, 2014 TANZANIA, AFRICAN SAFARI

DESERTS OF INDIA – THAR & KUTCH Camp 1: Little Rann of Kutch Camp 2: Great Rann of Kutch Camp 3: Desert National Park & The Cranes of Kheechan

APRIL, 2014 SPRING IN THE HIMALAYA, BHUTAN

Desert National Park & The Cranes of Kheechan

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Asif N Khan

Ref. No. 1761/2013

28th October, 2013

Dear Member Exactly a year ago, Ramki Sreenivasan, one of the finest wildlife photographers of India and a very committed conservationist, brought to the attention of the world the terrible large-scale massacre of Amur Falcons in Nagaland.

According to his estimate more than one hundred thousand birds were killed at an almost industrial scale trapping, when these tiny raptors were passing through Nagaland on their long and arduous journey from the Siberian steppes to the grasslands of southern Africa. The pictures were mind boggling and were soon all over the world, shocking the world community. Your Society took prompt action, and I showed these pictures to Mrs. Jayanthi Natarajan, Hon’ble Minister of Environment and Forests, Government of India. She took immediate action and wrote to the Chief Minister of Nagaland. Although much damage was already done, the state authorities also became alert and promised that such a massacre of birds would not be take place again. BNHS and many other organizations came together to support Ramki’s organization Conservation India. BirdLife International and Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) raised funds at their level. Along with other organizations and local people, BNHS worked with Conservation India and Nagaland Wildlife and Biodiversity Conservation Trust to develop a strategy to ensure that when Amur Falcons migrate through Nagaland this year, they are not hunted. The Chief Minister of Nagaland Mr. Neiphiu Rio, on August 26, 2013 wrote an appeal to the people of his state to protect these birds. As I write this letter to you on October 25, I am happy to say that till now not even one Amur Falcon has been killed in the area which till last year was their nemesis. The peak migration was around October 20, when hundreds of thousands birds were present in the area, but even now a few thousands are found. You will hear more about this in the Hornbill and Conservation India newsletter. Full credit should go to Ramki and his team for bringing this to the attention of the world last year. We should also give credit to the Nagaland authorities, Nagaland Wildlife and Biodiversity Conservation Trust and local people for stopping this killing which is anyway banned according to the Indian laws.

Unfortunately, we move from one crisis to another. As I was rejoicing over our collective success in Nagaland, I got the shocking news of the killing of egrets and other birds in Tamil Nadu. Arjunanelayaraja, Secretary of an NGO of Cuddalore called Aalamaran sent an urgent appeal with pictures of trapping operation of egrets for meat. The meat is sold to liquor dens and dhabhas as ‘chicken’. Two weeks ago, alarmed by pictures of fashion models sporting bird feathers in their headgear, we had given a press statement and written to the government to stop this immediately as all wild birds are protected in India. I suspect that the long white feathers of egrets, called aigrettes, were supplied by such poachers to fashion houses.

When I saw the email from Arjunanelayaraja, I immediately alerted our active State Coordinators of the Indian Bird Conservation Network (IBCN) in Tamil Nadu, and also wrote to Mrs. Jayanthi Natarajan and the Chief Wildlife Warden of Tamil Nadu. Local forest officers were also contacted.

There are several groups of people belonging to different castes along the coast in Tamil Nadu and other states who are traditionally involved in bird trapping using ingenious traps (e.g., clap trap, mesh nets and nooses).

In the early 1970s and 1980s, over 150 families of different castes from Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, and Thiruvarur districts were involved in trapping migratory shorebirds and ducks which used to frequent coastal wetlands in several lakhs during the migratory season (October to April). Now many bird trappers have shifted to fishing as they were looked down upon for their illegal profession. But occasionally fishermen, when they happen to see a large congregation of birds, set night traps when they go fishing in the swamp. These people also go into the paddy fields and set small clap traps on the bunds to catch egrets and pond herons. These birds frequent paddy fields when ploughing and/or planting paddy seedlings is in full swing.

(contd....)

The Narikuravas, mostly based at Ramanathapuram district, are efficient in catching migratory ducks mostly from unprotected inland wetlands using clap traps. These birds are secretly sold door-to-door. They also catch egrets and pond herons for sale. Rehabilitation of Narikuravas is essential for the protection of migratory waterbirds wintering in Tamil Nadu. Narikuravas are generally very poor. Well planned awareness programmes and alternative sources of livelihood are essential to wean them away from their traditional but destructive profession.

We are grateful to people like Arjunanelayaraja who work at the grassroots level. I request members of BNHS to bring to our attention any trapping and killing of wildlife they see – I consider members to be the eyes and ears of the Society. We may not be able to send BNHS teams to all the places, but certainly we can use our influence to ask the authorities to take action. We also have to use local support to prevent poaching: local support comes from people like Arjunanelayaraja and his NGO. On the next page, I am showing you some shocking pictures sent by Arjunanelayaraja of egret trapping. If you want such things not to happen in your area/state, come together to raise awareness among the general public, and prod or help the concerned forest and police authorities to take action. We must work with the government because we cannot expect the understaffed forest department and overworked policemen to be everywhere. We have to play our role in protecting the natural wealth of our country.

Best wishes Asad Rahmani

Egret to attract other egrets photo by NGO Aalamaran

Trapped egrets kept in sacks photo by NGO Aalamaran

Two men taking out trapped birds photo by NGO Aalamaran

Trapped egrets ready for skinning. Photo by NGO Aalamaran

Removing feathers of killed egrets photo by NGO Aalamaran

Nature Trail to Nagla Forest

Sun

Explore the lesser known forest of Nagla Block, Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Situated to the north of Bassein Creek, Nagla Block is considered to be one of the highly rewarding walks near the city, covering a good range of woodland species and a few wetland species of birds at the creek side. Being close to the creek, the fringes of Nagla Block are rich wetlands consisting of freshwater streams and brackish waters. It is here that biodiversity is at its best, for the deciduous forests mix with mangrove wetlands, rich in soil and plant matter. This is a good time to see birds like Common Sandpiper, Indian Grey Hornbill, Blue-headed Rock-thrush, Purple-rumped Sunbird, and butterflies like Psyche, Blue Tiger, Striped Tiger, and many more.

Grade: Easy Group leaders: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri & Mr. Vinod Patil Charges: Rs. 700/- for members and Rs. 750/- for others (Charges include transportation, entry, and BNHS expertise). Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar T.T. (near Chandu Halwai) at 6.30 a.m., Chembur (near Diamond Garden) at 6:50 a.m., Thane (Cadbury Jn.) at 7.10 a.m. and Patlipada bus stand (Hiranandani Junction on Ghodbunder Rd.) at 7.20 a.m.

Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202/ 22821811 or e-mail: bnhs.programmes@gmail.com Note: Kindly carry adequate water and breakfast.

24th Nov Bats and Birds walk at Elephanta Island Sun Situated off the south-east shore of the city, Elephanta Island is a good birding location. During this season

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INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

one can see Brown-headed Gull and Black-headed Gull flying along the boat to the island. Other birds like the Gull-billed Tern, Lesser and Greater Sand Plover, Indian Grey Hornbill, Common Iora, Spot-billed Duck, Little Grebe, Osprey and White-bellied Sea Eagle. BNHS gives you a chance to learn about the only flying mammals, explore the caves with an expert in search of bat roosts. One can see Greater Asiatic Yellow House Bat and Leaf-nose Bat. Grade: Moderate (Initial 100 steps climb to reach the top, this could be a bit strenuous) Group leaders: Mrs. Bandana Arora & Mr. Vithoba Hegde Charges: Rs. 450/- for Members and Rs. 550/- for others (Charges include boat ticket, entry ticket to Elephanta Island and BNHS expertise).

Reporting: Hornbill House at 7.30 a.m. Departure from Gateway of India at 8.00 a.m. Please carry adequate water, packed breakfast. Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 22871202/ 22821811 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com. The group should be back at Hornbill House by 12.30 p.m.

NATIONAL CAMPS

of the insect world; let us take you on a guided walk through the rambling beauty of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. On the trail you will visit several different types of habitats in search of these flying marvels. They may not breathe fire but there’s no doubt the dragonfly walk will fuel your imagination and leave you in awe of Nature’s efficient predator. There will be a chance to see some beautiful butterflies, birds, and plants as well as dragonflies, so seize this opportunity to catch sight of the world’s fastest flying insect.

If you want to know more about these fantastic creatures before the trail you can visit: www.ias.ac.in/initiat/sci_ed/lifescape/odonates.html Grade: Easy Reporting: Members to meet at the SGNP beyond the ticket counter under the map at 7.30 a.m.

Group Leaders: Ms Prachi Galange & Mr. Vinod Patil Charges: Rs. 150 and Rs. 200/- for others.

Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202/22821811 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.

Note: Participants have to buy the entry ticket at the main gate. Kindly carry adequate water and packed breakfast. The programme should conclude by 10.30 a.m.

LCOAL CAMPS

17th Nov Discovering Dragons and Damsels Sun For the first time we will be out to discover the little known dragonflies! Get a closer look at these hawks

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

10th Nov

INDEX

One Day Programmes, OCTOBER, 2013

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

and it teems with several species of butterflies. On a good day one can spot Dark Blue Tiger, Brown King Crow, Blue Mormon, Blue Oakleaf, Common Baron, Great Orange Tip, and many more beautiful species.

Group leader: Mr. Isaac Kehimkar Charges: Rs. 350/- for members, Rs. 400/- for non-members (Charges include butterfly garden charges, and BNHS expertise) Reporting: Reach Ovalekar Wadi Butterfly Garden by 08:30 a.m.

How to Reach: (1) From Thane East take Bus no. 700 ac/non ac, (2) From Thane West take any ST bus going to Bhayandar or Borivali, (3) Mulund Check Naka Bus No. 458, 4) From Borivali east Bus no. 700 ac/non ac or any ST bus going to Thane, get down at Owla Village bus stop. Owalekar Wadi is in the lane next to Sangam hotel (8 min walk) opposite Abhyudaya Co-op. Bank.

Google map link for Ovalekar Wadi: http://g.co/maps/m3aj5 or http://g.co/maps/d7s3f Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 22871202/ 22821811 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com. Note: Kindly carry adequate water, breakfast, and snacks.

INDEX

24th Nov Butterfly Bounty at Ovalekar Wadi, Thane Watch hundreds of butterflies flitting around. This is the only open-air butterfly garden near Mumbai, Sun

DECEMBER, 2013

Birding at Bhandup Pumping Station

15th Dec Birding at Karnala Base Forest An enjoyable walk through the moist deciduous base forest of the Sanctuary. It is a perfect time to see Sun both resident and migrant birds. Birds like Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Black-naped Monarch, Sulphurbellied Warbler, Common Chiffchaff, Small Sunbird, Nilgiri Flowerpecker, Rufous and Heart-spotted Woodpecker, White-bellied, Greater Racket-tailed and Bronzed Drongo, Crested Hawk-eagle, Crested Serpenteagle, and Gold-fronted Leafbird can be seen. Grade: Easy Group Leaders: Mr. Asif Khan & Mr. Vinod Patil Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar T.T. (near Chandu Halwai) at 06:30 a.m., Chembur (near Diamond Garden) at 06:50 a.m. and Vashi (Vashi Jn.) at 07:10 a.m. Charges: For members Rs. 700/- per head and for non-members Rs. 750/- per head. Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or email at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com. Please carry adequate water, hat/cap and packed breakfast.

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It is very difficult for people to imagine that beautiful, tall, statuesque birds like Flamingos, cryptically patterned sandpipers, graceful terns, hungry gulls, and handsome harriers can be seen in the middle of our teeming metropolitan populous Mumbai. But yes, like an oasis in the desert, such a place exists on the fringes of the Eastern Express Highway, where the last of the salt pans and mangroves remain. A place of stark beauty, and grassy plains interspersed with marshy pools, filled with bird life. Join BNHS on a trail to explore the few remaining open patches in our city.

Grade: Easy Group leaders: Ms Prachi Galange & Mr. Siddhesh Surve Charges: Rs. 700/- for members and Rs. 750/- for others (Charges include transportation, entry, and BNHS expertise). Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar T.T. (near Chandu Halwai) at 6.30 a.m., Chembur (near Diamond Garden) at 6:50 a.m. Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202/ 22821811 or e-mail: bnhs.programmes@gmail.com Note: Kindly carry adequate water and breakfast.

NATIONAL CAMPS

8th Dec Sun

Birding at Talawe Known to a few, this patch of wetland located on Palm Beach Road is truly a birders’ delight with scores of migrants flocking during this season. On a good day birds like Painted Stork, Eurasian Spoonbill, Caspian Tern, Marsh, Common and Curlew Sandpiper, Broad-Billed Sandpiper, Glossy Ibis, Redshank, Greenshank, Black-winged Stilt, Pied Avocet, Little Cormorant, Marsh Harrier, White-eared Bulbul, Eurasian Curlew and many more can be spotted. Grade: Easy Group Leaders: Mr. Asif Khan & Ms Parveen Shaikh Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar T.T. (near Chandu Halwai) at 06:30 a.m., Chembur (near Diamond Garden) at 06:50 a.m. and Vashi (Vashi Jn.) at 07:10 a.m. Charges: For members Rs. 700/- per head and for non-members Rs. 750/- per head. Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or email at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com. Please carry adequate water, hat/cap and breakfast.

LCOAL CAMPS

1st Dec Sun

28th Dec Wader Watch at Sewri Sat During this season the mudflats at Sewri are speckled with hundreds of migratory birds. No other place

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INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Baronet, Common Leopard, and Striped Tiger also birds like Loten’s Sunbird, Common Iora, Southern Coucal, Grey Junglefowl and occasionally mammals like Spotted and Sambar Deer. This trail leads through fine mixed forest dominated by bamboo and ends at the first stream. This trail in the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) is not accessible without permission. Grade: Easy (Simple walk 1.5 km each way, however the walk from main gate to the trail is about 15-20 mins.) Reporting: Members to meet at the SGNP beyond the Ticket Counter under the map at 7.30 a.m. Group Leaders: Ms Prachi Galange, Mr. Vinod Patil, & Satish Pawar. Charges: Rs. 150 and Rs. 200/- for others (Includes Forest Department permission fees and BNHS expertise only). Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202/22821811 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com. Note: Participants have to buy the entry ticket at the main gate. Kindly carry adequate water and packed breakfast. The programme should conclude by 11.30 a.m.

NATIONAL CAMPS

29th Dec Winter trail at Shilonda Winter mornings at this trail are always rewarding. The trail offers flora and fauna, butterflies like Sun

LCOAL CAMPS

within the city offers such a spectacle. If you are lucky you can also catch the first glimpses of the elegant flamingos. Threatened birds like Black-headed Ibis and Black-tailed Godwit could be seen here. Western Reef-egret, three types of kingfishers namely Common, White-throated and Black-capped Kingfisher, Striated Pond Heron and Indian Pond Heron and Lesser Flamingo are some of the birds that could be seen. Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan & Mr. Vinod Patil Charges: Rs. 100/- for member and Rs. 150/ for nonmember. Reporting: Outside Sewri railway station (east) at the railway crossing junction at 8.00 a.m. How to Reach: Sewri railway station is on the harbour line accessible from CST, Andheri, and Navi Mumbai. By road, reach Sewri (east) from Parel or Dadar up to Sewri and cross over at the railway level crossing or from the bridge at Wadala or Reay road to the Mumbai Port Trust road to reach Sewri Jetty. The programme will conclude by 10.00 a.m.

Registration: On the Spot.

Click below for the Google map links Drive to Sewri : www.bit.ly/drivetosweri

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

a corridor for animals between SGNP and Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary. This trail is lined with lianas and a dense mixed deciduous forest. During this season one can see good butterfly diversity like Chocolate Pansy and Sailor, also birds including Rufous Treepie, Ashy Drongo, Yellow-eyed Babbler, Crested Serpent Eagle, Brown-headed Barbet, Shikra, Verditer Flycatcher and many more. Grade: Easy Group leaders: Ms Prachi Galange & Mr. Vinod Patil Charges: Rs. 700/- for members and Rs. 750/- for others (Charges include transportation, entry, and BNHS expertise). Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar T.T. (near Chandu Halwai) at 6.30 a.m., Chembur (near Diamond Garden) at 6:50 a.m., Thane (Cadbury Jn.) at 7.10 a.m. and Patlipada bus stand (Hiranandani Junction on Ghodbunder Rd.) at 7.20 a.m. Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202/ 22821811 or e-mail: bnhs.programmes@gmail.com Note: Kindly carry adequate water and breakfast.

INDEX

22nd Dec Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary Sun Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated north of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), and forms

November, 2013

Vandan Jhaveri

Vandan Jhaveri

CEC

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INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Once again due to popular demand we take you the Chorla Ghat region of the Western Ghats of Goa. This region has been acknowledged as a Mega Biodiversity Hotspot. Using Wildernest Resort as a base we will explore the forests of Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Mollem National Park, and Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. The Wildernest Resort is placed in the lap of the Chorla Ghats. The resort itself is a symbol of wildlife conservation, the forest around the cottages is pristine and home to an array of wildlife. Just a stroll outside the eco-cottages at Wildernest can reward the participants with a variety of life forms. Birds like Malabar Grey Hornbill, four types of bulbul namely Greyheaded, Yellow-browed, White-browed, and Square-tailed Black Bulbul, can be seen during this camp. Other wildlife like Indian Giant Squirrel, Sambar and Spotted Deer, Hump-nosed Pit Viper, Green Vine Snake and Bronzeback Tree Snake are seen here.

Dates: 7th–10th November, 2013 Group leader: Ms Prachi Galange Camp Charges: Rs. 11,900/- for members, and Rs. 12,300/- for non-members (ex Thivim).

Grade: Easy (Short easy climbs and walks during trails) Accommodation: Twin sharing basis in Eco-cottages in Wildernest (www.wildernest-goa.com).

Reporting: Pick-up and drop timing will be according to timings of the Konkan Kanya Exp on the respective dates.

How to reach: Konkan Kanya Express (10111) starts from Mumbai CST Return: Konkan Kanya Express (10112) from Thivim.

Air: Closest airport is Dabolim, Goa which is 50 km from Thivim Railway Station. Participants can take early morning flight (Go Air G8-375) which reaches at 06:25 a.m. on the same day.

Cost includes: Accommodation, all meals (first day Lunch to last day Lunch), Transfers to/from Thivim Railway Station, and visit to Sanctuaries.

Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or email: bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

NATIONAL CAMPS

Asif N Khan

LCOAL CAMPS

Vandan Jhaveri

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES OF GOA - WILDERNEST

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NATIONAL CAMPS

Camp 1:

AGUMBE AND BHADRA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Ashok Tampi

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Arun Raghuraman

NATIONAL CAMPS

Vandan Jhaveri

LCOAL CAMPS

Agumbe: Agumbe is a village located at 560 m above msl in the Western Ghats.

It is aptly called the Cherrapunjee of South India, as it receives an average rainfall of 7000-8000 mm annually. Agumbe is famed for the elusive King Cobra.

The renowned herpetologist Romulus Whitaker called Agumbe the capital of the King Cobra, as it is here that he caught his first King Cobra. Besides reptiles and the Endangered Lion-tailed Macaque, Agumbe harbours a host of endemic bird species like Great Pied Hornbill, Malabar Trogon, and Malabar Whistling Thrush.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: A tiger reserve under Project Tiger, Bhadra is located near Chikmagalur town in Karnataka. Considered a biodiversity hotspot, the Sanctuary is covered by dry and moist deciduous forest and semi-evergreen forest. Large mammals like Tiger, Indian Bison (Gaur), Asian Elephant, Wild Dog, Sloth Bear, four types of deer namely Sambar, Barking, Spotted, and Mouse Deer, Malabar Giant Squirrel and Flying Squirrel can be seen here. Bhadra is also home to around 300 species of birds: endemic birds like Red Spurfowl, Grey Junglefowl, Nilgiri Wood-Pigeon, Malabar Hornbill, White-bellied Treepie, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Flame-throated Bulbul, and other birds like Great Pied Hornbill, Orange-breasted and Yellow-footed Green-Pigeon, Gold-fronted and Jerdon’s Leafbird, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, Greater Flameback.

Grade: Easy (Short walks for nature trails required at Agumbe).

Dates: 16th–19th November 2013 Group leader: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri Grade: Easy (Walking is required during the birding trails) Camp Charges: Rs. 22,500/- for members, and Rs. 23,100/- for non-members (ex Mangalore) Accommodation: Dormitory stay in ARRS (1 night) and Twin sharing in River Tern Lodge (www. junglelodges.com) (2 nights) Reporting: Pick-up on Day One outside Mangalore Central Railway Station at 10:30 a.m. Drop on last day at 12:30 p.m. outside Mangalore Central Railway Station.

How to reach: Matsyagandha Exp (12619) starts from LTT (Mumbai) at 03:20 p.m., and reaches Mangalore Central at 10:25 a.m. Return: Matsygandha Exp (12620) starts from Mangalore Central at 12:50 p.m.

Air: Mangalore is well connected by air with several direct flights.

Cost includes: Accommodation, food (first day lunch to last day lunch), Transfers to/from Mangalore, and visit to Sanctuaries and safaris.

Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or e-mail bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

Karnataka has a 20% forest cover which harbours one quarter of the Elephant population in India. The Western Ghats have been acknowledged as a Mega Biodiversity Hotspot and UNESCO World Heritage Site, as the region boasts of over 25 endemic bird species. This November come explore with the BNHS, 5 major wildlife hotspots of this beautiful state. Agumbe, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Bandipur National Park, and Nagarhole National Park will be covered in two separate camps.

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WILD KARNATAKA

CEC Arun Raghuraman

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INDEX

BANDIPUR AND NAGARHOLE NATIONAL PARK Camp 2:

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

LCOAL CAMPS M Ashok Kumar

NATIONAL CAMPS Asif N Khan

CEC Vandan Jhaveri

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INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

During this camp we will explore: Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary: It is the largest bird sanctuary in the Karnataka state, it comprises six islets on the banks of the Kaveri River. It was Dr. Sálim Ali who observed these islets as an important nesting ground for birds and persuaded the Wadeyar kings of Mysore to declare it as a wildlife sanctuary.

One can see four kinds of kingfisher, namely Stork-billed, Common, Pied, and White-throated Kingfisher; River Tern, Great Stone Plover, Painted Stork, Woolly-necked Stork, and Openbilled Stork, Spot-billed Pelican, Oriental Darter, Greater Spotted Eagle, Eurasian Spoonbill, and Brahminy Kite. Marsh Crocodile can be seen basking on the banks.

Bandipur National Park: Once the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Mysore, Bandipur is primarily a dry deciduous forest, together with Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Nagarhole, and Mudumalai National Park it forms the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, making it part of the largest protected area in Southern India.

Nagarhole National Park: The Park has a variety of habitats from grassy swamps to moist and dry deciduous forests with an abundance of wildlife and biodiversity. Large mammals like Tiger, Dhole, Sloth Bear, Asian Elephant, Gaur, Barking Deer, Grey Mongoose, Striped Hyena, Leopard, Wild Boar, Sambar, Indian Giant Flying Squirrel, and Malabar Giant Squirrel can be seen during the camp. Birds like Red Spurfowl, Grey Junglefowl, Pallas’s and Greyheaded Fish-eagle, Emerald Dove, Nilgiri Wood-Pigeon, Grey-headed and Yellow-footed Green Pigeon, Vernal Hanging Parrot, Malabar and Blossomheaded Parakeet, Malabar Trogon, White-cheeked Barbet, Black-rumped Flameback, White-naped Flameback, Common Flameback and Greater Flameback; Purple Sunbird, Loten’s Sunbird, Small Sunbird, and Purplerumped Sunbird can be seen here.

Grade: Easy Dates: 21st–25th November 2013 Group leader: Mr. Asif Khan Grade: Easy (Walking is required during the birding trails) Camp Charges: Rs. 35,500/- for members, and Rs. 36,100/- for non-members (ex Bangalore) Accommodation: Twin sharing basis, in Bandipur Safari Lodge for 2 nights and Kabini River Lodge for 2 nights (or similar).

Reporting: Pick-up on Day One outside Bangalore City Jn. Railway Station, 07:00 a.m. Drop on last day at 05:30 p.m. It is advisable to arrive one day earlier in Bangalore.

How to reach: Coimbatore Exp (11013) and Udyan Exp (16529) running daily to Bangalore. Return: Lokmanya TT Exp (11014) and Udyan Exp (16530).Departure from Bangalore at 04:05 p.m. and 08:10 p.m. respectively.

Air: Bangalore is well connected by air with several direct flights.

Cost includes: Accommodation, food (first day Lunch to last day Lunch), Transfers to/from Bangalore and visit to Sanctuaries, safari charges, and entry to the park.

Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or e-mail bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

KHIJADIYA BIRD SANCTUARY AND MARINE NATIONAL PARK

INDEX

December, 2013

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES Asif N Khan

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CEC

MARINE NATIONAL PARK One of the first of its kind in India, the Marine National Park in the Gulf of Kutch includes 42 islands, Narara being one of them. A visit to the Marine National Park can offer a variety of Marine Flora and fauna like Sponges, Octopus, Starfish, Brittle Star, Sea Urchin, and fishes like Gobi, Target Perch, Puffer Fish, and a variety of sea slugs. This place attracts good numbers of migratory birds too.

Dates: 1st-4th December 2013 Camp Charges: Rs. 10,500/- for members and Rs. 11,100/- for non-members (ex Jamnagar).

Group Leader: Ms Prachi Galange Accommodation: Twin sharing basis How to reach: Jamnagar can be accessed by train; the SAU JANATA EXP (19017) leaves Bandra at 05:35 p.m. and reaches Jamnagar the next day at 09:30 a.m.

Reporting: Jamnagar railway station at 10:00 a.m. Drop off on the last day after lunch at 01:00 p.m.

Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or email bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary is situated about 12 km from the city of Jamnagar. With sea water on one side and fresh water on the other it has a unique ecology and is one of the best birding spots in India. Bird watchers can find a wide variety of birds with some notable species like Black Ibis, Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Great Thick-knee, Common Greenshank, Grey Francolin, Imperial Eagle, Indian Pond Heron, Little Tern, Black-tailed Godwit, Comb Duck, Common Crane, Common Teal, Dunlin, Garganey, Marsh Harrier, Northern Pintail, Shoveller, Eurasian Wigeon, Pale Harrier, Demoiselle Crane, Sanderling, and Darters.

NATIONAL CAMPS

Parveen Shaikh

Parveen Shaikh

LCOAL CAMPS

Vandan Jhaveri

INDEX

DESERTS OF INDIA - Thar and Kutch

Camp 1:

LITTLE RANN OF KUTCH

Camp 2

8

CEC

GREAT RANN OF KUTCH Explore the areas bordering the Great Rann of Kutch and other interesting places like Banni grassland, and Chhari-Dhand for birdwatching and finding fossils. Winter is the perfect time to watch a variety of migratory birds that come to these places in thousands.

Dates: 14th–18th December, 2013 (Last seat for male participant) Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or e-mail bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Vandan Jhaveri

NATIONAL CAMPS

Vandan Jhaveri

LCOAL CAMPS

Known for being the last refuge for the Indian Wild Ass, Little Rann of Kutch is a large salt marsh situated in Gujarat.

The Little Rann of Kutch is a birding paradise and a Ramsar Site. Birding at the lakes and marshes is very rewarding.

In winter, Demoiselle and Common Crane are seen in large numbers. Flamingos, pelicans, storks, ibises, spoonbill, a variety of ducks and other waterfowl are also seen. The Rann is also the hunting ground of raptors like the Shorttoed Eagle, buzzards, Aquila eagles, six species of falcon, and three species of harrier. It is one of the few places where hundreds of harriers can be seen roosting on open ground at night. And of course, it is the perfect place to see the Indian Wild Ass. The main carnivores of the Little Rann are the Indian Wolf, Desert Fox, Indian Fox, Jackal, Desert and Jungle Cat, and Striped Hyena. The elegant Blackbuck, Nilgai or Blue Bull, and Chinkara are the other mammals seen.

Grade: Easy (Short walks for birding) Dates: 10th–13th December, 2013 Group leader: Mr. Asif Khan Camp Charges: Rs. 15,500/- for members, and Rs. 16,100/- for non-members. (ex Ahmedabad) Accommodation: Twin sharing at Rann Riders Reporting: Ahmedabad railway station at 08:00 a.m. on Day One. Drop off at Ahmedabad at 06:00 p.m. on the last day How to Reach: Ahmedabad is well connected by air, rail, and road with major cities. Rail: You can take BCT Duronto Exp (12268) which leaves Mumbai late at night and arrives in Ahmedabad early next morning; or ADI Double Deck (12931 / 12932), however please arrive one day prior to Day One if taking this train.

Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or e-mail bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

The deserts of India extend from the River Sutlej to the salt marshes of the Rann. Though termed as inhospitable, the desert is actually home to an array of life forms. The western desert regions of India harbour an exclusive flora and fauna of this country, mammals like Desert Fox, Desert Cat, Asian Wild Ass and Indian Gerbil. Birds like Creamcoloured Courser, Houbara Bustard, Black-crowned Finch-Lark, Greater Hoopoe Lark, Desert Lark, Red-tailed Wheatear, White-browed Bushchat, Desert Warbler, Trumpeter Finch, Punjab Raven, and Grey Hypocolius are unique to this region. In three separate camps, BNHS is set to take you on a journey to explore the deserts of India.

INDEX

Camp 3:

DESERT NATIONAL PARK & The Cranes of Khichan

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

Asif N Khan

Asif N Khan

CEC

9

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Khichan: A small village situated about 150 km from Jodhpur, showcases one of the most amazing spectacles of bird congregation. Every winter the village plays host to over 9,000 Demoiselle Cranes, which make Khichan one of the best places to see and photograph these normally shy birds.

Desert National Park: This is one of the largest national parks in India and the best place to see the Critically Endangered Great Indian Bustard. The park is situated about 40 km from Jaisalmer, and with 20% of its landscape formed by sand dunes Desert National Park is one of a kind. During winter, the park is alive with an array of migrants like four species of wheatears namely Isabelline, Desert, Variable, and Red-tailed Wheatear, Pallid Harrier, Steppe Eagle, Common Kestrel, Critically Endangered White-rumped and Indian Vulture, Endangered Egyptian Vulture, Vulnerable Houbara Bustard, and White-browed Bushchat, Desert Warbler, Crested, Desert Lark and Bimaculated Lark, Black-crowned Finch-Lark, Short-toed Eagle, Long-legged Buzzard are found here. Mammals like Desert Fox, Chinkara, Desert Cat, Indian Wolf, and Indian Gerbil can be seen here.

Grade: Easy DATES: Batch I: 22nd–25th December 2013 (Last few seats) Batch II: 26th– 29th December 2013 (Registration open) Camp Charges: Rs.15,800/- members, and Rs.16,400/- for non-members (ex Jodhpur) Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.

Group Leaders: Mr. Isaac Kehimkar / Mr. Vandan Jhaveri Reporting: Pick up on Day One near Jodhpur railway station morning 07.30 a.m. Drop on last day at Jodhpur railway station at 06:00 p.m.

How to Reach: Jodhpur is well connected by rail and air; one can take the following trains Vivek Exp (19027) reaches Jodhpur 04:40 a.m., BDTS DEE Spl (09045) reaches at 06:10 a.m., Suryanagri EXP (12480) reaches at 06:30 a.m., BDTS BKN SUP SP (22474) reaches at 07:20 a.m. Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

NATIONAL CAMPS

Asif N Khan

Asif N Khan

LCOAL CAMPS

Asif N Khan

INDEX

January, 2014

SUNDARBANS - Land of the Royal Bengal Tiger

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

Asif N Khan

Asif N Khan

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS CEC

10

NATIONAL CAMPS

The Sundarbans are located in the delta of Brahmaputra and Ganga rivers in the Bay of Bengal. One hundred and two islands are situated in this world’s largest river delta. Approximately 40 per cent of the Sundarbans is in the state of West Bengal, the rest in Bangladesh.

The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world, covering 60 per cent of India’s total mangrove area. Almost 90 per cent of all Indian mangrove species are found here. Of course, the Royal Bengal Tiger is the flagship species of Sundarbans, where it roams in the marshy areas and if you are lucky it can be seen swimming across the channel. Moreover, Sundarbans is the best place to see the Saltwater Crocodile and Water Monitor Lizard. With more than 250 bird species found here in winter, this is the perfect time to see migratory birds. One could spot seven species of Kingfishers, including threatened Brown-winged Kingfisher.

DATES: Batch I- 5th–8th of January 2014 (Last few seats) Batch II- 9th–12th of January 2014 (Registration open) Camp fee: Rs. 11,800/- for members, and Rs. 12,400/- for nonmembers (ex Kolkata) Cost Includes: Accommodation (3/4 sharing), all meals, pick up and drop at Howrah railway station.

Group Leaders: Mr. Isaac Kehimkar Reporting: Pick up near Howrah railway station (Kolkata) in front of Yatri Niwas at 08:00 a.m. Drop-off at Howrah railway station at 07:00 p.m. Participants are advised to reach Howrah one day prior to the first day of camp, and also book the return accordingly to avoid last minute rush.

Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

LCOAL CAMPS

Kunal Borkar

INDEX

KANHA NATIONAL PARK

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

It is believed that the forest of Kanha National Park inspired Rudyard Kipling to write “The Jungle Book”. Explore the famous meadows and tropical moist dry deciduous forests of Kanha with the BNHS. This season offers the sightings of the majestic Tiger, Indian Bison or Gaur–world’s tallest bovid, and Sambar, India’s largest deer. The park is the only place where the threatened Southern Swamp Deer (Rucervus duvaucelii branderi) survives. Other animals like Blue Bull, Four-horned Antelope, Barking, Spotted and Mouse Deer, Striped Hyena, Jungle Cat, Sloth Bear, Honey Badger and Indian Jackal are seen. January is a good time for birds like Crested Hawk-eagle, Spotted Owlet, Red-collared Dove, Eurasian Thick-knee, Bar-headed Goose, Hoopoe, Brown Fish-owl, and Grey-headed Fish Eagle.

LCOAL CAMPS Vandan Jhaveri

Asif N Khan

NATIONAL CAMPS

Vandan Jhaveri

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Grade: Easy Date: Batch I: 11th–14th January 2014 Batch II: 16th–19th January 2014 (on demand) Group leader: Ms Prachi Galange Camp Charges: Rs. 17,500/- for Members and Rs. 18,100/ - for non-members (ex Nagpur).

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis, in Bundela Safari Lodge (www.campsofindia.com) Reporting: Nagpur Railway station at 07:30 a.m. on Day One Drop at Nagpur railway station on last day at 02:30 p.m.

How to Reach: Mumbai-Nagpur: Sewagram Exp. (12139) leaves CSTM at 03:00 p.m. and Nagpur Duronto leaves CSTM at 08:15 p.m. Nagpur-Mumbai: Sewagram Exp. (12140) leaves Nagpur at 09:00 p.m.

Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 022-22821811, 02222871202 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

CEC

Asif N Khan

Asif N Khan Asif N Khan

11

INDEX

KEOLADEO NATIONAL PARK AND CHAMBAL CAMP

Asif N Khan

LCOAL CAMPS

Asif N Khan

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

NATIONAL CAMPS Asif N Khan

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park is a paradise for birds and birdwatchers alike.

It is listed as an IBA (Important Bird Area) and is a World Heritage Site. Although small in size, it is home to more than 375 species of birds, out of which more than 132 species breed inside the Park. Birding here is a rewarding experience with sightings like Siberian Rubythroat, Bluethroat, Comb Duck, Tufted Duck, Mallard, Spotted Crake, Great White Pelican, Western Marsh Harrier, Brown Shrike, Red-breasted Flycatcher , Red-throated Flycatcher , and T ickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Water Rail, Painted Snipe, Oriental Darter, Lesser Adjutant, Sarus and Common Crane, Greater Spotted Eagle, Brown Fish-owl, Collared Scops-owl and many more.

Chambal river is a tributary of the Yamuna river, which flows northward through Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Chambal is one of the best places to see the Critically Endangered Gavial or Gharial. Chambal is also home to the Endangered Gangetic Dolphin and Black-bellied Tern, Vulnerable Indian Skimmer, Near Threatened Laggar Falcon, River Lapwing, and many more species.

Grade: Easy walking is required in Keoladeo National Park (Main gate to the Temple in Keoladeo is a 5 km walk; however bicycles and cycle rickshaws can be hired at extra cost).

Dates: Batch I: 12th–16th January, 2014 Batch II: 17th-21st January, 2014 (on demand) Group Leaders: Mr. Asif Khan Charges: Rs. 15,500/- for members, and Rs. 16,100/- for nonmembers (ex New Delhi) Reporting: New Delhi railway station at 09:00 a.m. on Day One, drop-off at New Delhi Railway station at 06:00 p.m. on the last day. Return will be through Agra. How to Reach: Mumbai-Delhi: Mumbai Rajdhani (12951) Dep. 04:40 p.m., arrives in Delhi next day at 08:30 a.m., Swaraj Exp. (12471) Dep. 07:55 a.m., Arr. 04:30 a.m. Other trains like Dehradun Exp. (19019), LTTHW AC SUP (12171), Amritsar Exp. (11057).

Participants can also fly to Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi which is about 20 km from the meeting point (New Delhi railway station).

Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or e-mail: bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

CEC

Asif N Khan

Raju Kasambe

12

Asif N Khan

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

LCOAL CAMPS

Chilika, India’s largest brackish water lake is home to a whole array of birds. It is also the largest wintering ground for migratory birds in the Indian subcontinent. Around 216 species of birds have been listed here. Chilika is famous for the only known population in India of the Vulnerable and rare Irrawaddy Dolphin; the Bottlenose Dolphin can also be seen here. During this season one can see birds like Fulvous and Lesser Whistling Duck, Northern Pintail, Northern Shoveller, Red-crested Pochard, Comb Duck, Ruddy Shelduck, Tufted Duck, Common Snipe, Streaked Weaver, Greater Flamingo, Great White Pelican, Osprey, Marsh Harrier, White-bellied Sea-eagle. Four species of Kingfishers namely White-throated, Common, Lesser Pied, and Black-headed Kingfisher can also be spotted. Chilika offers refuge to many threatened birds species like Near Threatened Ferruginous Duck, Falcated Teal, Spot-billed Pelican, Oriental Darter, Lesser Flamingo, Black-headed Ibis, Black-bellied Tern, Pallid Harrier, Black-tailed Godwit, Eurasian Curlew, Vulnerable Dalmatian Pelican and Pallas’s Fish-eagle, and the Critically Endangered White-rumped Vulture.

Grade: Easy Date: 25th–28th January 2014 Group leader: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri Camp Charges: Rs. 17,000/- for members and Rs. 17,600/- for non-members (ex Bhubaneshwar).

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.

Reporting: Bhubaneswar Airport at 09:30 a.m. on Day One. Participants can be picked up from Bhubaneswar railway station at 08:30 a.m. Drop at Bhubaneswar railway station on last day at 02:30 p.m.

How to Reach: Bhubaneswar is well connected by air. By rail: One can take the LTT Puri SUP Exp (22865) and Konark Exp (11019) which arrives in Bhubaneswar at 07:15 a.m. and 04:25 a.m. respectively. (Kindly note Konark Exp takes 37 hrs, thus plan your journey accordingly) Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

INDEX

CHILIKA LAKE

NATIONAL CAMPS

Asif N Khan

Asif N Khan

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Asif N Khan

CEC Asif N Khan

13

INDEX

February, 2014

TAL CHHAPAR SANCTUARY

CEC

Arun Raghuraman

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Arun Raghuraman

NATIONAL CAMPS

Arun Raghuraman

LCOAL CAMPS

Arun Raghuraman

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

If your idea of a paradise is golden grasses with graceful antelopes leaping about and birds of many kinds living in harmony, then Tal Chhapar is the place to be. India has very few grassland habitats and grasslands are high biodiversity areas and as they are specialized habitats they feature some unique wildlife.

Tal Chhapar is one of the very few well kept grasslands, an oasis for many rarities. It is located in the Churu district of North-western Rajasthan. Named after a local village “Chhapar”, Tal Chhapar is a flat salt plain, 120 kms from Jaipur.

Tal Chhapar is the perfect place to see many passage migrant and resident species like harriers, kestrels, larks like Bimaculated, Greater Short-toed, Rufous-tailed and Sand Lark, White-browed Bushchat, doves, bee-eaters, wheatears, pipits, francolins, quails, shrikes, rollers, owls, partridges, Demoiselle Cranes, the list just goes on. Tal Chhapar is one of the best places to see the Vulnerable and scarce Yellow-eyed Pigeon. But mammal lovers need not despair, this desert landscape is home to one of the largest populations of Blackbucks, a graceful Near Threatened antelope.

You can also feast your eyes on Desert Fox, Desert Cat, Desert Gerbil, Jungle Cat, Hedgehog, and Spiny-tailed Lizard.

Grade: Easy Date: Batch I: 1st–4th February, 2014 Batch II: 5th-8th February, 2014 (on demand) Group leader: Mr. Asif Khan Camp Charges: Rs. 13,000/- for members, and Rs. 13,600/- for non-members (ex Jaipur).

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.

Reporting: Jaipur Jn. railway station at 07:40 a.m. on Day One Drop at Jaipur Jn. railway station on last day at 02:00 p.m.

How to Reach: Train- DEE Garibrath (12216) reaches Jaipur Jn. at 07:05 a.m. Return, Jp Duronto (12240) & YPR G Rath Spl (06512). Flight- Jaipur is also connected with direct flights one can take Jet Konnect flight S2-3051, which reaches Jaipur at 07:25 a.m.

Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

14

Asif N Khan

INDEX

THATTEKAD AND MUNNAR

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

Sudheer Sapre

CEC

15

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Dr. Sálim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Thattekad: Dr. Sálim Ali described Thattekad as “the richest bird habitat on peninsular India”. This small sanctuary situated 60 km from Kochi is a paradise for bird watchers. Over 280 birds have been recorded here. The sanctuary is a good place to see the endemic birds of the Western Ghats like Nilgiri Woodpigeon, Malabar Parakeet, White-bellied Treepie, Malabar Grey Hornbill, White-cheeked Barbet, Grey-headed Bulbul, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Blackand-orange Flycatcher, and Small Sunbird.

Eravikulam National Park, Munnar: The best place to see Mountain Monarch – the Endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The shola grassland ecosystem is also a good place for birds like the Endemic Nilgiri Pipit, White-bellied Blue Robin, Wynaad Laughingthrush, and Indian Rufous Babbler.

Other attractions that can be spotted during the camp are Ceylon Frogmouth, Drongo Cuckoo, Black Baza, Malabar Trogon, Green Imperial-pigeon, Blue-throated Flycatcher, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher, Lesser Yellownape, Vernal Hanging Parrot, White-bellied Woodpecker, Indian Pitta, and Asian Fairy-bluebird.

Dates: 8th-10th February, 2014 Group leader: Ms Prachi Galange Camp Charges: Rs. 20,500/- for members, and Rs. 21,100/- for non-members (ex Kochi).

Grade: Easy (walking is required during birding trail) Accommodation: Twin sharing basis Reporting: Members will report at Ernakulam Railway Station (Kochi) on Day 1 at 9.00 a.m. and will return to Ernakulam Rly Station (Kochi) on Day 4 at 1.00 p.m.

How to reach: Air: There are several direct flights to Kochi and back.

Trains: Kanyakumari Express (16381) starts from Mumbai CST Return: Cape Mumbai Express (16382) from Ernakulam Railway Station.

Cost includes: Accommodation, all meals (first day Lunch to last day Breakfast), Transfers to/from Ernakulam Railway Station, and visit to Sanctuaries.

Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or e-mail bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

NATIONAL CAMPS

Sudheer Sapre

Sudheer Sapre

LCOAL CAMPS

Sudheer Sapre

INDEX

VELAVADAR, THOL AND NALSAROVAR SANCTUARY

Arun Raghuraman

Arun Raghuraman

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Arun Raghuraman

NATIONAL CAMPS

Arun Raghuraman

LCOAL CAMPS

Arun Raghuraman

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

Blackbuck National Park: Blackbuck National Park at Velavadar along with nearby areas forms an Important Bird Area as designated by Birdlife International. Grassland species like Singing Bush-Lark, Crested Lark, Rufous-tailed Lark, pipits, harriers, quails, partridges, and sandgrouse can be seen here.

It is one of the largest roosting grounds for harriers which can be seen in large numbers. Mammals including Striped Hyena, Indian Fox, Golden Jackal, Golden Cat, and the endangered Indian Grey Wolf are also found here. We have chosen the rutting season of the Blackbuck for this trip to witness their courtship and sparring males.

Thol Wildlife Sanctuary: Thol is an artificial lake constructed for irrigation purposes. Surrounded by agricultural land, this Sanctuary forms an oasis for many bird species. It is a popular destination for bird lovers, the lake being home to ducks and geese like Eurasian Widgeon, Spot-billed Duck, Garganey, Gadwall, Greylag and Bar-headed Geese, Northern Shoveller, Northern Pintail, and Ruddy Shelduck, Greater and Lesser Flamingoes can be seen as well.

NalSarovar Bird Sanctuary: Declared as a bird sanctuary in 1969, this 123 sq. km. waterbody is one of the largest waterbird sanctuaries in our country. It has been listed as one of the 15 most important wetlands in India. An excellent wintering ground, it harbours more than 200 species of wetland birds.

Grade: Easy Date: 22nd–25th February, 2014 Group leader: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri Camp Charges: Rs. 28,900/- for members, and Rs. 29,500/- for nonmembers (ex Ahmedabad).

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis, in Blackbuck Lodge for two nights and hotel in Ahmedabad for one night.

Reporting: Ahmedabad Jn. railway station at 09:00 a.m. on Day One. Drop at Ahmedabad Jn railway station on last day at 02:00 p.m.

How to Reach: Ahmedabad is very well-connected by trains, buses, and flights. One can take ADI Duranto Exp (12267) or Gujarat Mail (12901) both of which reach Ahmedabad well before the reporting time. Shatabdi Exp (12010) can be booked for return.

Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

CEC Dr. Tejus Naik

16

INDEX

KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK & GIBBON WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

LCOAL CAMPS NATIONAL CAMPS

Kaziranga National Park – A World Heritage Site and home of 65% of the world population of the One-horned Rhinoceros.

Herds of Barasingha, Hog Deer, and Wild Buffalo are seen in the marshes. Rhinos browse unconcernedly as visitors pass by and occasionally a herd of elephants or wild boar is also sighted. Kaziranga is one of the best places in India to see Pied Harrier and other raptors like Crested Serpent-eagle, Pallas’s Fish-eagle, and Grey-headed Fish-eagle.

Hoollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary – Perhaps the best known site to see India’s only ape, it is an island of dense evergreen rain forest patch in the midst of sprawling tea gardens. The sanctuary has a rich biodiversity and is home to the only ape in India, the Western Hoolock Gibbon, and northeastern India’s only nocturnal primate – the Bengal Slow Loris. Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary is popularly known for its staggering primate community, it is one of the highest primate density areas in the world. Other primates include the Stump-tailed Macaque, Northern Pig-tailed Macaque; and Eastern Assamese, Rhesus, and Capped Langur. Apart from mammals the sanctuary can also boast of at least 230 bird species like Collared Treepie, Green-tailed and Ruby-cheeked Sunbird; Scarlet-backed Flowerpecker, Sultan Tit, Rufous-bellied and Large Niltava, Beautiful and Long-tailed Sibia, Great Pied and Oriental Pied Hornbill.

Grade: Easy (Walking will be required in the Gibbon Sanctuary) Date: Batch I: 23rd–26th February 2014 Batch II: 27th February–2nd March 2014 (on demand) Group leader: Mr. Isaac Kehimkar Camp Charges: Rs. 22,800/- for members, and Rs. 23,400/- for non-members (ex Guwahati).

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.

Reporting: Members to meet on Day One at Guwahati at 08:00 a.m. at Hotel Mayur in the lobby (Tel: 0361-2734855 to 61), Paltan Bazar, opposite Guwahati railway station. Return on last day after breakfast to reach Guwahati at lunch time.

You are advised to arrive at Guwahati one day prior to the first day of the camp and leave Guwahati one day later.

Cost includes: All accommodation, all meals (B/L/D) from first day lunch to last day breakfast. Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811, 022-22871202 or email bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

Isaac Kehimkar

Isaac Kehimkar

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Arun Raghuraman

CEC

Vandan Jhaveri

Vandan Jhaveri

17

INDEX

March, 2014

DUDHWA TIGER RESERVE

NATIONAL CAMPS INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Gangadharan Menon

LCOAL CAMPS

Asif N Khan

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

The Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is located in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh, near the Indo-Nepal border, and comprises of Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, and Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. The terrain of Dudhwa ranges from grasslands to one of the finest Sal forests in India and marshland which makes Dudhwa a paradise for wild enthusiasts. Dudhwa is famous for the threatened Western Swamp Deer (Rucervus duvaucelii duvaucelii) and Tiger; other animals like Sambar Deer, Hog Deer, Barking Deer, and Spotted Deer, Jungle Cat, Leopard Cat, Sloth Bear, Honey Badger, Indian or the Great One-horned Rhinoceros can be seen here. The Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for the Critically Endangered Gharial and Endangered Gangetic Dolphin. Dudhwa is also a birder’s paradise with over 400 species recorded here. It is one of the last refuges of the Critically Endangered Bengal Florican. It also harbours birds like Swamp Francolin, Pallas’s Fish eagle, Sarus Crane, Lesser Adjutant, White-rumped Vulture, Slender-billed Vulture, Red-headed Vulture, Great Slaty Woodpecker, and five species of Drongo, namely Hair-crested, Greater Racket-tailed, Lesser Racket-tailed, White-bellied and Black Drongo.

Grade: Easy Date: Batch I: 8th–11th March, 2014 Batch II: 13th–16th March, 2014 (On demand) Group leaders: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri Camp Charges: Rs. 20,000/- for members and Rs.20,600/- for others.

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.

Reporting: On day one pick up from Lucknow railway station at 07.00 hrs and drop off at Lucknow on last day at 17.30 hrs.

NOTE: Book your tickets to reach Lucknow prior to day one. How to Reach: Many trains and flights are available from Mumbai/Delhi to Lucknow.

Mumbai-Lucknow: Gorakhpur Exp. (12542) Pushpak Exp. (12534) Delhi-Lucknow: Avadh Assam Exp (15610) Shramjeevi Exp. (12392) Cost includes: All accommodation, meals (B/L/D) from first day lunch to last day breakfast, Transfers from and to Lucknow, permits, and entry to park.

Cost excludes: Flight/rail ticket to Lucknow, all expenses of personal nature like laundry, beverages, camera fees, any cost not specified above. Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811/22871202 or email bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

CEC Gangadharan Menon

18

INDEX

May, 2014

CORBETT NATIONAL PARK & NAINITAL

LCOAL CAMPS NATIONAL CAMPS INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Divya Warrier

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

This National Park was created in 1936, the first wildlife park of India. Besides Tiger and Asian Elephant, the area is known for a large number of sub-Himalayan species and in the summer an equally large number of breeding migrants that come from north Indian plains and peninsular India. We can expect to see Kalij Pheasant, Great Slaty Woodpecker, Great Hornbill, Himalayan Pied Kingfisher, Tawny Fish Owl, both Pallas’s and Lesser F ish-eagles, Hooded Pitta, Grey Treepie, Black-winged Cuckoo-shrike, Blue-throated Flycatcher, and Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler.

Nainital This hill station, situated at 1900 msl, is close to Corbett National Park. This picturesque town sits around a lake. We will visit birding hot-spots like Pangot and Sattal. More than 200 species have been reported from the area. We will be looking for specialities like Scaly-bellied Woodpecker, Great Barbet, Collared Owlet, Lammergeier, Black Eagle, Redbilled Blue Magpie, Indian Blue Robin, Spot-winged, Black-lored and Black-throated Tit, Striated Prinia, Streak-breasted Scimitar Babbler, White-browed Shrike Babbler, Rufous Sibia, Fire-breasted Flowerpecker, and Yellow-breasted Greenfinch. Mammals include Goral and Yellow-throated Marten.

Grade: Easy Date: Batch I: 10th–14th May, 2014 Batch II: 15th–19th May, 2014 (On demand) Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan Camp Charges: Rs. 19,800/- for members and Rs. 20,400/- for others.

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.

Reporting: Pick-up at New Delhi railway station at 8.45 a.m. on day one and drop at New Delhi railway station at 7.30 p.m. on the last day. How to Reach: Mumbai Rajdhani (12951) Dep. 16.40 hrs, Arr. New Delhi next day at 08.30 hrs, Swaraj Exp. (12471) Dep. 07.55 hrs, Arr. 04.30 hrs. Other trains like Dehradun Exp. (19019), LTT HW AC SUP (12171), Amritsar Exp. (11057).

New Delhi is also well connected by air; New Delhi airport is 20 km from New Delhi railway station.

Cost includes: All accommodation, meals (B/L/D) from first day lunch to last day lunch, Transfers from and to New Delhi, permits, and entry to park.

Cost excludes: Flight/rail ticket to New Delhi,all expenses of personal nature like laundry, beverages and lunch on first and last day, camera fees, any cost not specified above. Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811/22871202 or email bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

CEC Isaac Kehimkar

19

INDEX

May, 2014

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Vandan Jhaveri

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Vandan Jhaveri

NATIONAL CAMPS

Srikanth K Iyengar

LCOAL CAMPS

Come and explore the wildlife of Northern Tanzania, also known as “the prime game viewing country”. Witness the spectacle of African wildlife in Tanzania. Watch the dust rise and feel your heart pound as herds of over a million Wildebeest and Zebra thunder across your path on the great migration. Masai Giraffe, Thomson’s Gazelle, Cheetah, Striped and Spotted Hyena, and many more wild animals roam the savannah. Tanzania provides the best opportunity to see distinctive African animals like African Lion, Cheetah, Eland, and Kudu, and birds such as Secretary Bird, African Fisheagle, Lilac-breasted Roller, Superb Starling, Vulturine and Crested Guineafowl, Southern Ground Hornbill, Kori Bustard, and Red-billed Hornbill. Other attractions are Nile Crocodile and the largest land animal, the African Elephant.

Serengeti, Tanzania’s largest and most famous National Park, the Mecca of wildlife lovers, is truly a wildlife paradise.

Experience the thrill of exploring the endless plains of Serengeti and witness extensive herds of wildebeest and zebra.

The largest bird in the world, Common Ostrich, can also be seen here.

Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to see the Critically Endangered Black Rhinoceros, Serval, Wildebeest, African Elephant, Cape Buffalo, and African Lion at close range.

Tarangire National Park is the sixth largest park in Tanzania and is famous for the large number of elephants that can be seen here. It is also a good place to see the uncommon Yellow-collared Lovebird. Tarangire is also famous for its population of tree climbing lions.

Dates: 1st–8th March, 2014 (ex Mumbai) Reporting: 1st March 2014 at 23.30 hrs at Mumbai International Airport.

Camp Fee: Rs.1,78,500/- for members and Rs. 1,79,100/- for others.

Group Leader: Mr. Asif Khan Payment schedule: 1st Installment (non-refundable) Immediate Rs. 45,000/2nd Installment 15th November 2013 Rs. 50,000/3th Installment 15th January 2014 Rs. 50,000/Final Installment 1st February 2014 Rs. 33,500/-

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

African Safari - Tanzania

CEC Asif N Khan

Srikanth K Iyengar

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Camp fee includes: Economy Class Airfare on Kenya Airlines Visa and processing charges Full board accommodation All game park entrance fees Travel insurance for participants aged upto 70 years 1.5 litres of mineral water per person per day Professional driver guide Game drives as per itinerary BNHS expertise

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

Price does not include: Food and drinks not on the group menu Any sightseeing not mentioned in itinerary Expenses of a personal nature, laundry, telephone calls Tips and gratuities Services other than those specified in “Camp fee includes”

Vandan Jhaveri

LCOAL CAMPS

Srikanth K Iyengar

Vandan Jhaveri

NATIONAL CAMPS

Note: The cost has been calculated @ 1 USD = 60 INR, with minimum 15 participants traveling together.

Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202, 22821811 or e-mail bnhs.programmes@gmail.com for more details.

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS CEC Srikanth K Iyengar

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April, 2014

Spring in the Himalaya, Bhutan

Isaac Kehimkar

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Isaac Kehimkar

NATIONAL CAMPS

Isaac Kehimkar

Isaac Kehimkar

LCOAL CAMPS

Alka Vaidya

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

Bhutan, the jewel of the eastern Himalaya and a global biodiversity hotspot is home to a variety of wildlife. Here you can see birds like Beautiful Nuthatch, Red-billed Leiothrix, Red-faced Liocichla, Blue-winged, Black-faced, and Greysided Laughingthrush, Grey-throated Babbler, Brown and Red-headed Bullfinch, Brown-throated Treecreeper, Ward’s Trogon, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Black-throated, Great, Brown and Fulvous Parrotbill, Slender-billed Scimitar-babbler, Asian Emerald Cuckoo, Long-billed and Bar-winged Wren Babbler, Streaked-breasted Scimitar-babbler, Goldenbreasted Fulvetta, Shortwings, White-winged Grosbeak, Collared Grosbeak, Long-tailed Thrush and several more species can be seen. Bhutan has a good diversity of butterflies too, ranging from Bhutan Glory, Golden Birdwing, Kaisers to Sergeants, and Jezebels.

April is the perfect time to enjoy the spring in the Himalaya. Enjoy the Himalayan floral splendour of Rhododendron, primulas, and orchids. You will be in the middle of the courtship and nesting time of Himalayan birds – and this is the time to hear them sing. Do not miss this spring in the Himalaya.

Group Leader: Mr. Isaac Kehimkar Dates and cost will be announced on www.bnhs.org after 20th November 2013.

Registration*: Call Hornbill House at 22871202, 22821811 or e-mail bnhs.programmes@gmail.com for more details.

CEC

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Upcoming camps: MARINE CAMP AT LAKSHADWEEP

WEEKEND PROGRAMMES

LCOAL CAMPS

Lakshadweep is a group of islands, 200 – 440 km off the southwest coast of India. These islands form the smallest union territory of the country. The Lakshadweep region has about 600 species of fish, 78 species of coral, and over 100 species of other marine invertebrates. This is a perfect opportunity to explore the fascinating marine life under the se a .

Participants will get training in snorkeling as part of the camp activity. Need not worry if you do not know how to swim, you can still enjoy the deep blue sea and move among amazing corals, fishes, shells, shrimps, and crabs. Most of the snorkeling will be in waist-deep coral lagoons.

Scuba diving will be at extra cost.

Grade: Easy (A rope ladder climb during the docking/cast off of the ship at Kavrati) Dates: 19th-25th February 2014 (participants are advised to book their tickets to reach Manglore on day prior i.e. on 18th Feb and leave a day later from Kochi i.e. on 26 th Feb) Group Leaders: Mr. Isaac Kehimkar Charges: 29,600/- for members and 30,200/- for others. Reporting: Manglore Old Port on 19th February, 2013 at 9.00 a.m. drop at Kochi on 25th February, 2013 Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 22871202, 22821811 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

NATIONAL CAMPS

Isaac Kehimkar

Isaac Kehimkar

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

Isaac Kehimkar

Isaac Kehimkar

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CEC

* Note: " If you are registering for any of the programmes, it is assumed that you have read and agreed to all the Rules and Guidelines. " Rules and Guidelines for BNHS programmes are available on our website: www.bnhs.org.