Nepal – Wildlife

Nepal has in total about 852 recorded bird species, and all within a very small country.  There are a number of very interesting locations for bird watching, Koshi Tappu is one of our favourites.

This Crested Serpent Eagle was patiently waiting above a small stream for a tasty snake to come along

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a paradise for bird watchers, no matter what your level of involvement, in particular to those interested in waterfowl, waders all manner of birds that enjoy wetlands. If you are a serious birding fanatic there are many different habitats within the reserve and in the surrounding area.  For others just sitting watching the kingfishers for a lazy afternoon, as they scoop the fish from the numerous ponds or the mighty Sapta Koshi River. The Pied Kingfisher appears to be the master at this art, I have watched them for hours (Maurice Adshead FRGS - Manager of Muir's Tours).

Wings a blur 60ft above the lake, the Pied Kingfishers are so successful at fishing - a mesmerizing sight

The kingfisher hits the lake surface and 8 times out of 10 up he pops with a fish in his beak

Established in 1976 and situated on the flood plains of the Sapta-Koshi River in Eastern Nepal it has attracted more than 465 bird species, including dusky eagle owl, bengal florican, great stone plover, peregrine falcon, comb ducks and many other wildfowl. Designated a Ramsar site in 1987 due to its importance for wildfowl, waders, gulls and terns. 

February through to early March is a great time as the wildfowl migrate through Koshi Tappu at this time and as many as 53,000 geese and ducks come through the area. Regular sightings are seen of 9 globally threatened species.

The reserve is a 24-km long section of the Koshi River lying at about 78 m above sea level. The Sapta Koshi provides life to the reserve and its existence gives this area tremendous charm, serenity and beauty. The river is home to the rare gangetic dolphin, a fresh water dolphin. Hardly seen in any other part of Nepal, these dolphins can be seen in the Sapta Koshi River, especially at Koshi barrage towards the south of the reserve. The fish eating gharial crocodile is also found here along with smooth coated otters, which can often be seen on the banks of the Koshi River basking in the sun.

A barrage on the southern side of the reserve was created to form the water reservoir where thousands of migrating waders and wildfowl now take rest. This is also a good place to see the otters and fresh water dolphin.

Many small marshland areas, pools and the grasslands provide a haven for birds and waterfowl. The vegetation near the river banks holds many passerines. In addition, large agricultural fields that lie adjacent to the reserve make fine habitat for many birds.  Koshi Tappu is the ultimate destination for any birding enthusiast who visits Nepal.

Rare birds like the red necked falcon, black necked stork, swamp frankolin and the impressive lesser adjutant are often seen here. It is common to see as many as 100 different bird species a day.

Apart from birds, Koshi Tappu is the only remaining home for one of the rarest animal species of Nepal, the wild buffalo (bublas arnee). There are now an estimated 100 wild buffalo here and therefore this species is in great danger. Other mammals, which can be seen here include the hog deer, wild boar, spotted deer and mongoose.

Another very attractive aspect of the reserve is the river side sandy beaches. Nepal being a landlocked kingdom, the people here do not have the luxury of sea beaches, but the riverside beaches here give equal pleasure. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Camp is located within the reserve and a good starting point for a boating trip on the river, usually for birding. Though, the water in the river is cold enough to discourage most from swimming, a wonderful stroll on the beach is irresistible.

Flora and fauna are the main interest that brings people to the reserve but more pleasure awaits as you experience the different cultures in the villages near the reserve. There are many ethnic backgrounds represented here, such as the Gurung, Tamang, Chettri, Brahmins and the oldest tribe of the country Tharus.

The Tharus' house structure is very different from most other villages in Nepal with wooden attic houses on the second level with sturdy wooden poles forming their base. The villages are very picturesque, and offer a very different cultural flavour to a visit to the area.

There are three lodges in the area. One can enjoy comfortable accommodation with natural beauty all around. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is definitely a place for nature lovers and a place for guaranteed peace and tranquility.

You will need at least 4 or 5 days here if you are keen on birds. Asia in general is very good for birding, however Nepal is quite special as it lies directly on the main migratory route for Asian birds. The birds follow the rivers which run more or less north to south on their journeys going from the cold northern areas of Asia to the warm southern areas and back in the spring. There is a tented camp with a central restaurant and bar catering for about 20 visitors. In addition to bird watching you can take boat trips, paddle a kayak, ride elephants / ride in a jeep / walking safaris.  In the evening there is plenty to talk about plus there are cultural shows and stars to gaze at.

Email for details of safaris to Koshi Tappu