IJFBS 2019; 6(3): 33-47 Avian diversity and range ... › archives › 2019 › vol6issue3 › PartA › 6-2-10-… · boundary. The total area of the National Park is ca. 200 sq

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International Journal of Fauna and Biological Studies 2019; 6(3): 33-47

ISSN 2347-2677

IJFBS 2019; 6(3): 33-47

Received: 16-03-2019

Accepted: 20-04-2019

AMK Bharos

State Co-ordinator, IBCN

(BNHS) and AWC (Wetland

International), Chhattisgarh, B-

101, Gayatrinagar, Raipur,

Chhattisgarh, India

Ameet Mandavia

C.R.O.W. Foundation,

Jagdalpur, H. No. 86 Suncity,

Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, India

Faiz Bux

Research Fellow, Dept. of

Botany, Govt. D. B. G. P. G.

College, Raipur, Chhattisgarh,

India

Ravi Naidu

C.R.O.W. Foundation, H. No.

48, Anukal dev Ward-31,

Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, India

Akhilesh Bharos

(a) Naturalist Singhinawa

Resort, Kanha National Park,

Dist. Balaghat, Madhya

Pradesh, India

(b) B-101 Gayatrinagar, Raipur,

Chhattisgarh, India

Correspondence

AMK Bharos

State Co-ordinator, IBCN

(BNHS) and AWC (Wetland

International), Chhattisgarh, B-

101, Gayatrinagar, Raipur,

Chhattisgarh, India

Avian diversity and range extension records of eastern

ghat, western ghat, and Himalayan species to Kanger

Valley National Park and adjoining Machkote forest

range, Bastar division, Chhattisgarh, India

AMK Bharos, Ameet Mandavia, Faiz Bux, Ravi Naidu and Akhilesh

Bharos

Abstract This study was undertaken to determine the status of avifauna and in particular to identify the species

which extend their distribution range from Eastern Ghat, Western Ghat and Himalayas into Kanger

Valley National Park (KVNP) and Mackote Forest Range (MFR), Bastar division, Chhattisgarh. The

study revealed presence of 311 species, belonging to 18 Orders and 70 families in different habitats in

and around KVNP and MFR. Out of these 311 species, 10 species belonged to IUCN Red Data List of

which 3 were recorded as Critically Endangered species, 1 Endangered species, 2 Vulnerable species and

4 Near Threatened species. 23 species were found either extending their distribution range from Eastern

Ghat, Western Ghat, and Himalayas into KVNP and MFR or were of ornithological significance. 25 first-

time reported species hitherto are unreported from Bastar region were also recorded. Breeding or relevant

behavior by 10 important species was also observed.

Keywords: Kanger valley national park, Machkote forest range, avifauna, occurrence, range extension

Introduction

Chhattisgarh state is regarded as highly bio-diverse state of India with ca. 41% forest cover

and overall studded with wetlands and lined with prime river basins of River Mahanadi,

Hasdeo and Godavari. The affordable avian species which commensurate with the biodiversity

of the state have been approximated to be about 486 species (Avibase, last accessed on 3rd

March, 2019) [11], with the apprehension that part of them extend their range distribution from

Eastern ghats, Western ghats and Himalayas.

Price [48] opines that much of the natural forest is being rapidly removed for agricultural

plantation and concerns the controversy over the presence of Himalayan species in the

peninsular mountain ranges. Hora [35] suggested that the Satpuras provides an important avian

migration route to the mountains of south-west India, while Abdulali [1] thought that the

Eastern Ghats route may have been equally important. D’Abreu [26] opined that Western Ghat

species show tendency to migrate eastwards. Modern island biogeography theory (MacArthur

and Wilson) hypothesizes that each mountain range has relict species “stranded” after climate

amelioration, and makes interesting predictions about the numbers of species in relation to

highland area. The Simlipal Hills, Odisha, appears to have bio-geographical affinities to the

north-east and therefore has population of some of the birds which are known only in the

Himalaya and southern Assam hills. In continuity, these hills are connected to Eastern Ghats

which extends through hilly regions into Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, known as

Dandkaranya hills. Rahmani and Nair [51].

These geographical attributes endorse for an increased tendency by the avian to extend their

distribution range and induct speciation. This status was distinct during our study of KVNP

and MFR. Species were recorded, owing to the ‘remaining’ similar or near similar habitat

which attracted convergence of species from the regions mentioned above. KVNP and MFR

speculated to be a part of this convergence area. These state of affairs, shall probably lead to

Establishment of the individual species, which further forms Establishment of the species at

selective Stations as hypothized by Hora [35] in ‘Satpura Hypothesis’.

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International Journal of Fauna and Biological Studies

Previous studies undertaken by Whistler & Kinnear [57-59] in

Eastern ghats, Hyderabad State Ornithology Survey Ali and

Whistler [3-7] D’Abreu [26, 27] in Central Province, Abdulali [1]

in Vizagapatnam district, Ali [8, 9] in Central India Birds in

collection of BNHS, Abdulali [2], Price [48] in Eastern ghats,

Raju et. al. [53] in Eastern ghats, Newton et al. [43] in Kanha

National Park (KNP), Madhya Pradesh, Ali and Ripley [10],

Ripley et. al. [54] in Eastern Ghats, Majumdar [41, 42] Indravati

Tiger Reserve, Pasha et. al. [46] in Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR)

Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, Srinivaslu [56] at Kawal

Wildllife Sanctuary (KWS) Northern Andhra Pradesh,

Chandra et. al. [21, 22] in Madhya Pradesh including

Chhattisgarh and Bastar Plateau, D’Cunha [28] at Kanha

National Park (KNP), Madhya Pradesh, Govindraj [32], Das et

al. [24] Sunabeda WLS, Odisha, Selva Kumar [55] Araku,

Vishakhapatnam, Palei et al [45] at Sunabeda WLS Odisha,

Lahkar et al. [40] Simlipal Hills, Raju Kasambe et al.[38]

Vidharbha (Maharashtra), Bayani and Dandekar[13] Tadoba

and Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR), Maharashtra, Dutta [29] in

Bastar, Chhattisgarh Wildlife Society Report on Nagarnar-

Tiriya, Machkote Range, Bastar [23], Rahmani and Nair [51]

Odisha, Bharos et al. [14-17] in Chhattisgarh were referred for

status determination of range extension species in KVNP and

MFR.

The avifauna of exclusive KVNP has though been

documented in the past or recent years, but no serious attempt

has been made to determine the distribution of range

extension species, extending their range to KVNP and MFR.

With the prevailing alterations in climate and ecological

conditions, this documentation was felt much essential. Hence

this inadequacy, impelled us to assess and study the prevailing

current status of avian in this study area. Which shall suffice

the lacuna and facilitate future ornithologists, on the matter of

range extension of avian species and shall also support future

studies on significant species occuring in KVNP and MFR.

General description of Kanger valley national park and

Machkote forest range

The Kanger Valley National Park is situated in Jagdalpur,

Bastar district of Chhattisgarh (Map No.1). It lies 24 Km

south-east of Jagdalpur on Jagdalpur-Darbha Road. This

National Park derives its name from the river Kanger, which

flows centrally from north-west to south-east direction. The

KVNP came into existence on 22nd July, 1982 notified by

Government of Madhya Pradesh. It was carved out from

Kanger, Darbha and Machkote Forest Range (MFR) of the

then Central Bastar Forest Division. The National Park

comprises of mainly two ranges viz. Kotumsar and Koleng

ranges.

The KVNP is noted for its highly heterogeneous land

formations ranging from low flat and gentle areas to steep

slopes, plateaus, valleys and stream courses. The vast

undulating terrain of the KVNP harbours diverse habitat

which offer an ideal site for diverse kinds of flora and fauna,

thus making it a hotspot of biodiversity in the Central India.

The overall biodiversity is very rich which attracts a good

number of avian species, including from the Eastern Ghats,

Western Ghats, and Himalayas. Eastern Ghat being the

closest, are spread through Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and

Tamilnadu. They span over ca. 75000 sq. km. with an average

width of 200 km in the north and 100 km in the south and

extend over a length of 1750 km between the River Mahanadi

in the north and River Vaigai in the south, along the east coast

of India. The northern most boundary of the Eastern Ghats

consists of the Mahanadi basin and merge with the tips of the

Bastar, Chhattisgarh. The Eastern Ghat supports nearly 400

species and subspecies of birds, Islam and Rahmani [36].

All together there are 48 villages within 5 km radius of KVNP

boundary. The total area of the National Park is ca. 200 sq.

Km. extending from 18.75 N to 18.9416667° N latitude to

81.8583° E to 82.1667° E longitude. The altitude of the park

varies from 338 m to 781 m above mean sea level. The valley

presumes to start from Tirathgarh waterfalls to the Kolab river

(Odisha State boundary) ranges nearly to 33.5 Km in length

with average width of about 6 Km. Apart from above, the

National Park has famous unique features like many long

subterranean geomorphologic limestone caves viz. Kotumsar

Cave, Kailash Cave, Dandak Cave, Devgiri Cave etc. for their

stalactites. The valley is representative of old growth moist

forests. Kanger river, is lifeline and among one of very few

perennial rivers of Bastar, and the whole National Park is the

catchment of Godavari River. The several drainage of river

Kanger are also perennial, which support the flora and fauna

of the region.

The Machkote Forest Range (MFR) with headquarter at

village Machkote (N 19.02264°, E 082.21014°), is part of

corridor connecting Eastern Ghats to KVNP, with similar

landscape. MFR is ca. 400 sq. km. in area, has a large wetland

at village Kurandi (N 19.02908°, E 082.10134°), river Kolab

forms the eastern boundary of range with Odisha. These

wetlands and surrounding reserved forests attract good

number of migratory and resident, aquatic and non-aquatic

avian species and also forms part of avian convergence zone.

This forest range is comparatively more embellished with

wildlife and also ca. 500 years old Teak (Tectona grandis)

growths (source: State Forest Dept.). MFR is equally

potential, but less studied pocket of this forest division, we

also figured curious geological formations in Kolab river bed

at location Gupteshwar.

As per the bio-geographic classification of India (Rodgers and

Panwar, 1988 Source: State Forest Dept.) KVNP and MFR

lies in Zone 6C Deccan peninsula- Eastern Highlands

designated by Eastern province, which forms boundary with

the Eastern Ghats. The ecological forest types recognizable in

the area are: (i) North Indian Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest

(3C/C2e) Sub. Div. Moist peninsular Sal Forest. (ii) North

Indian Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest (3C/C3) Sub. Div.

Moist mixed deciduous forests. (iii) Southern Indian Moist

Deciduous Forest (3B/CIc) Sub. Div. Slightly moist Teak

Forest. (iv) Southern Indian Moist Deciduous Forest (3B/C2)

Sub. Div. Moist Sal bearing forest Champion and Seth[19]. The

mean annual rainfall is about 1300 mm. Being a tropical

forest the mean annual temperature is 31°C. Hottest months

are April and May, the monsoon strikes by early June, and

tender winter prevails from November to February.

Methodology

The intention of this study is to determine the distribution and

range extension records and to assess status of significant

species of the avifauna from Eastern ghats, Western ghats and

Himalayas into KVNP and MFR.

The study covered the different terrains including hilly and

plain forest area, several wetlands, along with cultivated

lands, surrounding meadows, bamboo forest, scrub lands and

plains. The study area was often visited for bird-watching,

taking note of species encountered at KVNP prior to year

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2000, and up to year 2010 intermittent avian study was

undertaken and documented periodically, the results of these

visits were very fruitful when documented in field diaries

between 2010 to 2014, after the year 2014 the visits were

more frequent and solemn study was undertaken at KVNP

and MFR aided by vehicle drives, surveys following Direct

sighting and calls, Point count method, Look and see method

Bibby et al. [18] Javed & Kaul [37] with the aid of binoculars

(Olympus 8-16x40 Zoom) and images obtained by the

cameras for identification purpose. Difficult species were got

identified by BNHS-ENVIS. The study was carried out at

different hours of the day to obtain maximum prudent

observations, while covering all three seasons. The help from

knowledgeable locals and keen observers were obtained to

gain optimum information about the birdlife.

To determine the range extension status, the avian species

observed were examined with various past studies as

mentioned above, pertaining to Eastern ghats, Western ghats,

Odisha, Andhra Pradesh including Telangana and other

available information from Chhattisgarh, Vidharbha

(Maharashtra) and Madhya Pradesh.

The recorded birds were grouped into Resident (R) and

Migratory (M) categories. Global conservation status was

worked out according to the IUCN Red Data Book, Rahmani [49], Ali and Ripley [10] and Grimmett et al. [33]. The

nomenclature of the avifauna was done following Praveen et

al. [47].

Result and Discussion

During the study, presence of 311 species (Table-1) was

revealed, comprising of 207 Resident (R) species, 104

Migratory (M) species belonging to 18 Order and 70 families.

The dominant families were, for which percentage occurrence

was calculated and reported in braces, w.r.t. the total species

observed: Accipitridae 21 species (6.75%) Muscicapidae 21

species (6.75%), Cuculidae 14 species (4.50%), Ardeidae 13

species (4.18%), Picidae 13 species (4.18%), Strigidae 11

species (3.54%) Phasianidae 10 species (3.22%) Columbidae

9 species (2.89%) Campephagidae 8 species (2.57%). 23

species were found extending their distribution range to

KVNP and/or MFR, or were found to be of noteworthy

importance. Also 25 species were reported for the first time, of which 12 species were Resident (R) and 13 were Migratory

(M).

IUCN Status

The species under various categories of IUCN Red Data Book

2015 have been found as, Critically Endangered (CE) -3

Species viz. White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis),

Indian Long Billed Vulture (Gyps indicus), and Red- headed

Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus). Earlier the population of these

species were abundant, but due to impact of Diclofenac drug,

the population declined drastically and since year 2002 no

vultures were recorded. However, a mixed congregation of

about 40 birds has been irregularly seen in recent years, in

Bijapur district about 160 Km to west. Endangered (EN) 1

species Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus) existed in

good numbers during the start of survey but subsequently its

population declined. This species also probably suffered the

impact of Diclofenac and disappeared, only one sighting

recorded in April, 2017 in Kondagaon district in North.

Vulnerable (VU) -2 species, Indian Spotted Eagle (Clanga

hastate), Eastern Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliacal) and, Near

Threatened (NT) - 04 Species namely Black-headed Ibis

(Threskiornis melanocephalus), Darter (Anhinga

melanogaster), Pallid Harrier (Circus macrourus), and

Alexandrine Parakeet (Psittacula eupatria). Rahmani [49].

Discussion on Range extension from Eastern ghats,

Western ghats, Himalayas and other significant species

Based on the studies of authors mentioned above, the

occurrence status in Eastern ghats, Western ghats, and

Himalaya were examined and following species were found to

extend their distribution range from these regions into KVNP

and MFR or were found to be of ornithological significance in

the study pocket.

1. Jerdon’s nightjar (Caprimulgus atripennis) (Fig. 1)

The species is resident in central and south peninsula

Grimmett et al. [33, 34]. It was recorded on 28th March 2015 at

Nagalsar (KVNP). Calls and photographs were the base for

identification. This species is not mentioned by Chandra et al. [22] and Dutta [29] from Bastar. Thus, it is the first record from

Bastar region of Chhattisgarh.

2. Large-tailed nightjar (Caprimulgus macrurus) (Fig. 2)

Ali and Ripley [10] mention its distribution range in central

India. Kasambe and Wadatkar [38] recorded at Pohara-

Malkhed forest, Amravati, Maharashtra. Bayani and

Dandekar [13] mention its occurrence in Tadoba Andhari Tiger

Reserve (TATR), though Chandra et al. [22] recorded it in

Bastar, we re-sighted this significant species on 30th March

2018 in KVNP.

3. Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus)

Ali & Ripley [10] mention it as partly resident and nomadic,

partly winter visitor to Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and

Odisha. In Odisha, it breeds from May to July. D’Abreu [27]

recorded it in Mahanadi river in large flocks. Srinivasulu [54]

at Kawal WLS, Chandra and Singh [21] mention its occurrence

in Madhya Pradesh (location not mentioned). Chandra et al. [22], Dutta [30] while listing the avifauna of Bastar have

mentioned its occurrence. Bayani and Dandekar [13] saw the

species and mention it as resident in TATR. The species has

been recorded at KVNP on 4th January 2017, and re-sighted

on 23rd March 2017 and in subsequent years, which defines

the spread of species in its possible distribution range.

4. Jerdon’s Baza (Aviceda jerdoni)

Occurrence of this Himalayan species has been recorded

mostly in summer by us. Mostly single bird is seen.

In summer of year 2016 two birds were seen together at

location (N 18.9569477°, E 82.2268295°), when one bird

mounted on the other (Photographed but misplaced), possibly

mating. However, no more observations were possible as the

birds flew to a distance. No nest or more breeding evidences

were found. This suggests possible breeding by the species in

KVNP. Chandra et al. [22] have recorded the species but not

mentioned about its breeding here. Hence, it is of

significance.

5. Eastern imperial eagle (Aquila heliacal) The Eastern Imperial Eagle breeds in the Palaearctic from

central Europe to the Russian far East and wintering in the

African and Oriental regions. In India, it is mainly found in

winter in northern parts but stragglers can be found even up to

Nasik, Maharashtra.

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D’Abreu [27] found it a rare winter visitor in Central India. A

bird was sighted by 1st author on 9th November 2004 in

KVNP, first seen perched on a tree and later seen clearly in

flight. The markings in flight were the clues to its

identification so also the plumage and size of bird Rahmani et

al. [52]. This is the only sighting record of the species and

clearly indicate its distribution range extension from hitherto

known distribution range.

6. Crested goshawk (Accipiter trivirgatus)

This Himalayan species is distributed in Northern India and in

south to Godavari river, it affects open deciduous and semi-

evergreen forest Ali and Ripley [10]. In the Eastern Ghats of

Andhra Pradesh Price [48] recorded the species as resident,

noted in display flight, in March. Srinivasulu [56] found it as

resident in KWS.

Our sightings were recorded in KVNP on 6th November 2016

and 20th October 2017.

7. Brown Hawk Owl (Ninox scutulata)

Occurrence status of the species has been recorded by

Whistler and Kinnear [57-59] in South Eastern Ghat as

uncertain. D’Abreu [27] recorded as resident in central India,

found in forests of Nagpur and Chanda (Now Chandrapur,

Maharashtra), Ali and Ripley [10] describes it as widely but

locally distributed through northern and central India, east to

Bengal, Odisha, northern Andhra Pradesh and affects forest,

well wooded country, grooves of trees particularly in

neighborhood of wetland, often close to habitation,

crepuscular and nocturnal in habit. Chandra and Singh [21] in

Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh (location unspecified).

Selva [55] Araku Valley, Vizag (Vishakhapatnam), Chandra

and Dutta [22] recorded in Bastar.

This species was recorded by us in February, 2017 and

March, 2017, its call was heard in monsoon of 2018 at MFR

and thus its occurrence in Bastar is established.

8. Asian Barred Owlet (Glaucidium cuculoides) Ali and Ripley [10] mention its distribution in Kashmir and

Himalayan region, altitude 2100 m to 2700 m, also in

Subtropical and Tropical evergreen forest at lower elevation.

Possible seasonal altitudinal migrant.

The Asian Barred Owlet has been photographed (N

18.9569477°, E 82.22682950°) altitude about 550 m, on 31st

Jan 2016 at KVNP and based on the images its identification

confirmed by BNHS-ENVIS, which leads to confirmation of

presumptions about its sporadic distribution range extension

into KVNP, Bastar, which becomes the first record.

9. Heart Spotted Woodpecker (Hemicircus canente)

This Western ghats species inhabits forested hills of Satpura

in Madhya Pradesh, Bastar district Ali & Ripley [10], KWS

North Andhra Pradesh Srinivasulu [56]. Beyond Bastar it

extends distribution range into Udanti- Sitanadi Tiger Reserve

(USTR) of Chhattisgarh Bharos et al. [17]

The occurrence at KVNP and adjoining MFR, Bailladilla

hills, district Dantewada in February 2017 and in Sukma

district in February 2017, confirms its wide distribution range

extension to KVNP and MFR and much beyond from

Western Ghats.

10. Greater Yellownape (Picus flavinucha)

Price [48] recorded it in Eastern Ghats, Ali & Ripley [10]

mention its occurrence in Odisha, and Vishakhapatnam

district, Eastern Ghat. The species was recorded by us,

regularly (N 18.8522150°, E 81.9709230°) on 3rd January

2017, 11th September 2017, and in subsequent months in

KVNP suggesting extension in distribution range from

Eastern Ghats. It was also documented in north at Shishupal

cliffs, forests of Mahasamund district. In KVNP on 11th

September 2017 we photographed it amongst an exclusive

hunting party of woodpeckers, female observed feeding a

young, suggests breeding by the species here. Other species of

woodpeckers associated in this party were Heart-spotted

Woodpecker Hemicircus canente, Lesser Yellownape Picus

chlorolophus, Rufous Woodpecker Micropternus brachyurus,

Greater Flameback Dinopium benghalense & White-bellied

Woodpecker Dryocopus javensis.

11. Blue-bearded Bee eater (Nyctyornis athertoni)

In Eastern Ghats, Price [48] found the species as conspicuous

and noisy between April and August. Rare in January and

February when birds probably tend to move to lower

elevation. The species has been described as resident, local

and scattered, found over most of peninsular India, including

Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha. It affects secondary

evergreen and moist –deciduous forest biotope, especially

broken foothills country with overgrown ravines, and

occasionally forest clearing. Breeds overall from February to

August, varying locally, nests in horizontal tunnel bored into

precipitous out scoured alluvial banks of forest ravines and

streams Ali and Ripley [10].

We have recorded the species as isolated birds or in flocks in

summer on 21st May 2017. In June 2017 more than 20 birds

were seen at a nullah in MFR. The birds were repeatedly

probing the alluvial banks of the nullah tending to bore

tunnels for possible nesting. Subsequently, no nests were

found. It appears that they have opted alternate site for the

purpose, their activities commensurated with the defined

breeding period of the species. Behavior of the birds lead to

apprehension that they possibly breed somewhere in KVNP or

MFR.

12. Orange Minivet (Pericrocotus flammeus)

Whistler and Kinnear [57-59] mentions about collection of a

specimen from southern Eastern Ghats and cites La Personne

remarks that the species is very common there with altitude

between 3500 to 4500 feet. A few were also seen in the plains

below. Ali and Ripley [10] have described it as resident moving

to lower altitude and extending into the plains in winter,

where it has been recorded at Lucknow (UP) North Bihar and

Bengal. The species has not been recorded in Bastar by

Chandra and Singh [21], Chandra & Dutta [22], Dutta [29].

Chauhan [20] mentions occurrence of Pericrocotus flammeus

from Bastar and Raipur districts of Chhattisgarh.

The species was recorded on 13th January 2016 at KVNP,

which suggest that the species though straggler has been

found to extend its winter distribution range to altitude about

550m as far south as Bastar.

13. Rosy Minivet (Pericrocotus roseus)

This species has been recorded by D’Abreu [27] at Nagpur,

Whistler and Kinnear [57-59] cites Jerdon having procured a

specimen at Gunsoor, and Ball had seen it at Jaipur (Jeypore -

Odisha). Ali and Whistler [3-7] while enlisting birds of

Hyderabad state mentions about sighting of a pair in the

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deciduous forest along the Outram Ghat Road at Bhamarvadi

(2500 feet altitude) and about nearest record of a specimen

collection by Blanford from the Godavari Valley near

Dumagudiam. Price [48] in Eastern Ghat as summer visitor,

where it is fairly common during April to June and breeds.

Post breeding birds are associated in flocks with Small

Minivet (Pericrocotus cinnamomeus). Pasha et al. [46]

recorded at Pench Tiger Reserve (PTR). Chandra & Dutta [22]

in Bastar.

Sightings recorded by us at KVNP on 13th December 2015

and more in January 2016 indicate it to be a winter visitor

here and later leaving for breeding grounds in Eastern Ghats.

Also found in February 2018 in Jashpur district, Chhattisgarh

ca. 700 km in north.

14. Black-winged Cuckooshrike (Coracina melaschistos)

Price [48] found this species as an uncommon winter visitor

occasionally recorded in December and March in Eastern

Ghats. Ali and Ripley [10] mention occurrence in Himalayan,

does not breed in lower foothills, wintering and straggling in

the peninsula through Odisha, Madhya Pradesh affects open

forest abandoned land and groove.

The species has been recorded in KVNP in winter months, on

27th December 2001, 19th January 2019, suggesting its

distribution range extension from adjacent Odisha.

15. Yellow-bellied Prinia (Prinia flaviventris)

Mainly distributed in Assam and adjoining area Ali and

Ripley [10], few sightings in Eastern ghats Grimmett et al. [33,

34]. Our sighting of a bird possibly a straggler, on 10th

November 2018 at fringes of MFR, suggests its distribution

range extension to KVNP / MFR and thus, is a first record.

16. Jerdon’s Bush Lark (Mirafra affinis)

Grimmett et al. [33, 34] mention it as a racial variation of

Mirafira assamica, treated as separated species by Alstrom,

distributed over much of south and east peninsula, including

Eastern ghats and adjacent parts of Andhra Pradesh. It was

recorded in January 2019 at MFR, suggesting its marginal

distribution range extension westwards.

17. Little Spiderhunter (Arachnothera longirostra) (Fig. 9)

The species occurs in south Eastern Ghat, Whistler and

Kinnear [57-59], Eastern Ghats at Lamasingi in Vishkhapatnam

district Ali and Ripley [10], in North Andhra Pradesh Raju et

al. [39], Price [48] mentions about collection of specimen in

Eastern Ghats. Srinivasulu [56] recorded it in KWS and opined

that probably it is resident, uncommon, and breeds. Bharos et

al. [17] recorded at USTR, Chhattisgarh.

Our sighting of three birds and their photographs in Koleng

range (N 18.4552°, E 82.02195°) of KVNP on 28th November

2018 confirms its distribution range extension.

18. Ruby cheeked sunbird (Chalcoparia singalensis)

Ali & Ripley [10] describes this Himalayan species occurring

in Assam, and Vishakhapatnam Hills, Andhra Pradesh. It

affects open forest, scrub jungle and glades or tracks in

evergreen forests to 700 m altitude and adjacent plains. In

winter sometimes found in small flocks. Nests from March to

June. The species is resident in KVNP as seen in all seasons

regularly since 2015 to 21st May 2017, also recorded here by

Dutta [29, 30]. Chicks have been seen here by us in November

2018, which suggests breeding by the species.

19. Eurasian tree sparrow (Passer montanus) Price [48] recorded it first in April, breeding population

discovered at Busalkort, where it breeds from April to June.

Small post breeding flocks seen during July to August.

Population in Eastern Ghats was estimated to be 500 birds and

decreasing to extinction. He has recorded, House Sparrows

and this species breeding together side by side in thatched

roof and opined that it possibly hybridize with house

sparrows. Raju et al. [53] mentions its occurrence in eastern

ghats and extension beyond its known Himalayan range This

Himalayan species, occurs in Eastern Ghats Grimmett et al. [33, 34].

A male Eurasian Tree Sparrow was recorded by first author,

on 1st April 2007 at Kotumsar (KVNP) and photographed, and

identified with the aid of binocular. The sighting on 1st April

suggested that the species was possibly on its way to breeding

grounds in Eastern Ghats. This is the first sighting record of

the species, which defines its range extension in KVNP,

possibly as passerby, at other times it may either has been

overlooked or misidentified as House Sparrows (Passer

domesticus).

20. Brown Breasted Flycatcher (Muscicapa muttui)

Ali and Ripley [10] mention its breeding in Assam, where it

affects dense evergreen forest, winters in south Western India,

South to the hills of Mysore, Kerala from low country to 1000

m, commonly above 300 m. In this season it affects evergreen

forest frequenting dense scrub preferably on fringes of jungle,

over grown rocky streams between October-November to

May. Recorded on passage in Eastern Bihar-Nagpur and

Andhra Pradesh.

Srinivasulu [56] in Kawal WLS recorded it as rare and

probably a straggler. Chandra and Singh [21] have recorded the

species from KNP in Madhya Pradesh and Pasha et al. [46] in

PTR, Madhya Pradesh as winter visitor.

Our first sighting was on 28th March 2015 (N 18.9569477°, E

82.2268295°), next on 28th August 2016 and in later winter

months, suggest extension in its distribution range during

winter months to KVNP, which is more than 300 km away

from its known occurrence in KWS and PTR, Madhya

Pradesh.

21. Blue-throated Blue Flycatcher (Cyornis rubeculoides)

Whistler and Kinnear [57-59] mention distribution of the species

from eastern and western coasts of India. Price [48] mentions

as passage migrant, recorded between October and April in

Eastern Ghats. This species breeds in Himalayas. In winter

found scattered in hills of southern India to Kerala, Eastern

Ghats, Bihar, Odisha where it affects well wooded country,

secondary and bamboo jungle and keeps to undergrowth and

low trees Ali and Ripley [10]. Chandra et al. [22], Dutta [29]

recorded it in Bastar.

We have recorded it in winter months in Bastar. It was sighted

by us on 13th October 2016 in MFR, on 27th November 2016

and 1st April 2018 at KVNP forest (N 18.8326894°, E

82.0488928°), also on 20th Feb 2017 defining its distribution

range extension from Eastern ghats and Odisha into KVNP.

22. Blue-capped rock thrush (Monticola cinclorhynchus)

This Himalayan summer breeder species has been recorded in

Eastern ghats Whistler and Kinnear [57-59], Price [48],

Srinivasulu [56] at KWS North Andhra Pradesh, Kanha

National Park (KNP) Madhya Pradesh by D’Cunha [28], Dutta

~ 38 ~


[29] in Bastar and in USTR Chhattisgarh by Bharos et al. [17].

The species was sighted and photographed in KVNP in

January, 2017, March and April 2018 and 19th January 2019

which confirms not only its occurrence in KVNP, situated in

south-east Madhya Pradesh (Now Chhattisgarh) but that it

probably uses this passage as one of the routes for migration

to Eastern Ghats as opined by Price [48].

23. Indian Black Bird (Turdus merula) Price [48] described it as resident in Eastern Ghats, influx in

November to February. Srinivasulu [56] has recorded Turdus

merula as uncommon and probably a seasonal local migrant

in KWS, frequently met with in open scrub, nearby cultivated

and fallow fields and teak mixed miscellaneous forest. Selva [55] mentioned it from Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh.

Our sighting of a solitary bird was on 25th December 2016 (N

20.16189569477°, E 82.2268295°) in thick tree cover in

MFR, confirms occurrence and range extension of Turdus

merula from Eastern Ghats to KVNP and MFR, though may

be sporadically.

Discussion on other significant and noticeable species

from KVNP

Oriental Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros coronatus) Chauhan [20] mentions occurrence of Anthracoceros coronatus from

Bastar and Raigarh districts, Chhattisgarh. In recent years it

has not been recorded from Bastar. Locals mention its

existence in recent past. Only evidence of its presence is

availability of a beak in possession of a tribal in Koleng area,

which he stated, was procured few years back from same

forest. This beak was seen by Ravi Naidu in 2017 and species

identification was tentative. The incumbent was hesitant to

reveal any more details and permit to photograph. The species

has now possibly been hunted out. Tribal use its feathers for

dancing costumes, which have now been substituted with

feathers of Greater Racket-tailed Drongo (Dicrurus

paradiseus). Indian Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros birostris), this

species was regularly seen at KVNP/MFR and mentioned as

Resident and rare, Chandra and Singh [21]. Since 2015 it has

not been recorded in KVNP/MFR and other adjacent areas,

possibly hunted out for flesh and feathers or other purposes.

Oriental Scops Owl (Otus sunia) sighted on 23rd March 2017

is first sighting record from Bastar. Tickle’s Leaf Warbler

(Phylloscopus affinis) Ali and Ripley [10] mentions that the

species occur on the Eastern side of Indian peninsula, is not

known to occur below the Chhota Nagpur area to Raipur and

Anantgiri, in between these two western and eastern areas

there is no previous record, but now recorded in KVNP by us.

Common House Martin (Delichon urbicum) recorded from

KVNP (N 19.0118600°, E 82.1326350°) on 18th Jan 2018,

which is first ever record from Bastar region, Chhattisgarh.

First time reported species from Bastar region (KVNP

and MFR)

25 species were first time reported from Bastar region, of

which 12 species were Resident and 13 were Migratory from

KVNP and MFR. These species were not mentioned in

previous studies by Chandra and Singh [21], Chandra et al. [22]

and Dutta [29]. The species are: King Quail (Coturnix

Chinensis), Red Spurfowl (Galloperdix spadicea),Jerdon's

Nightjar (Caprimulgus atripennis), Small Buttonquail (Turnix

sylvaticus), Eastern Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliacal) Besra

(Accipiter virgatus), Asian Barred Owlet (Glaucidium

cuculoides), Oriental Scops Owl (Otus sunia), Indian Eagle

Owl (Bubo bengalensis), Oriental Pied Hornbill

(Anthracoceros albirostris), Greater Yellow-naped

Woodpecker (Chrysophlegma flavinucha), White-bellied

Minivet (Pericrocotus erythropygius), Black-winged

Cuckooshrike (Lalage melaschistos), Little Spiderhunter

(Arachnothera longirostra), Crimson-backed Sunbird

(Leptocoma minima), Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer

montanus), Olive-backed Pipit (Anthus hodgsoni), Crested

Bunting (Melophus lathami), Red-headed Bunting

(Granativora bruniceps), Fire-capped Tit (Cephalopyrus

flammiceps), Yellow-bellied Prinia (Prinia flaviventris),

Sykes's Warbler (Iduna rama), Blyth's Leaf Warbler

(Seicercus reguloides), Malabar Starling (Blyth’s Starling)

(Sturnia blythii), Brown-breasted Flycatcher (Muscicapa

muttui), Indian Blackbird (Turdus simillimus).

Important nesting species

Importantly, species like Black Baza (Aviceda leuphotes)

(Fig.4) was found by our team with nesting evidences, which

is first record from Central India (Bharos et al., unpublished).

White-bellied Woodpecker (Dryocopus javensis) (Fig. 3) nest

found in Kotumsar range on 13th March 2019, Greater

Yellownape (Chrysophlegma flavinucha) (Fig. 5), Malabar

Trogon (Harpactes fasciatus), Green-billed Malkoha

(Phaenicophaeus tristis) (Fig.6), Ruby- cheeked Sunbird

(Chalcoparia singalensis) were found nesting and species like

Blue-bearded Bee eater (Nyctyornis athertoni), Jerdon’s Baza

(Aviceda jerdoni), Verdieter Flycatcher (Eumyias thalassinus)

observed tending to breed here as their behavior suggested.

Common Hill Myna (Gracula religiosa peninsularis) (Fig. 7

& 8), the state bird of Chhattisgarh is found to breed in fairly

good numbers in KVNP, MFR, and parts of adjacent

Narayanpur and Sukma districts. Nests were also located in

Kotumsar range in April 2016 (Anurag Vishwakarma Pers.

comm.), Koleng range in May 2017 and at Pulchha area on

17th March 2019.

Conclusion

This study revealed presence of 311 species comprising of

207 Resident (R) species, 104 Migratory (M) species

belonging to 18 Order and 70 families. The dominant families

were, for which percentage occurrence was calculated and

reported in braces, w.r.t. the total species observed:

Accipitridae 21 species (6.75%) Muscicapidae 21 species

(6.75%), Cuculidae 14 species (4.50%), Ardeidae 13 species

(4.18%), Picidae 13 species (4.18%), Strigidae 11 species

(3.54%) Phasianidae 10 species (3.22%) Columbidae 9

species (2.89%) Campephagidae 8 species (2.57%), which

commensurate with the type of habitat.

Also 25 species were reported for first time, of which 12

species were Resident(R) and 13 were Migratory. Following

IUCN Red Data List (2015), total 10 species were identified

for different catagories: Critically Endangered – 3 species,

Endangered - 1 species, Vulnerable- 2 species, and Near

Threatened -4 species.

While 23 species which were found to extend their

distribution range from Eastern Ghats, Western Ghats, and

Himalayas to KVNP and MFR along with other ornithological

significant species recorded were Jerdon’s Nightjar

Caprimulgus atripennis, Large-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus

macrurus, Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus, Jerdon’s Baza

Aviceda jerdoni, Eastern Imperial Eagle Aquila heliacal,

~ 39 ~


Crested Goshawk Accipiter trivirgatus, Brown Hawk Owl

Ninox scutulata, Asian Barred Owlet Glaucidium cuculoides,

Heart Spotted Woodpecker Hemicircus canente, Greater

Yellownape Picus flavinucha, Blue-bearded Bee eater

Nyctyornis athertoni, Orange Minivet Pericrocotus flammeus,

Rosy Minivet Pericrocotus roseus, Black-winged

Cuckooshrike Coracina melaschistos, Yellow-bellied Prinia

Prinia flaviventris, Jerdon’s Bush Lark Mirafra affinis, Little

Spiderhunter Arachnothera longirostra, Ruby Cheeked

Sunbird Chalcoparia singalensis, Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Passer montanus, Brown Breasted Flycatcher Muscicapa

muttui, Blue Throated Blue Flycatcher Cyornis rubeculoides,

Blue-capped Rock Thrush Monticola cinclorhynchus, Indian

Black Bird Turdus merula.

Nesting by Black Baza Aviceda leuphotes, first record from

central India (Bharos, unpublished), White-bellied

Woodpecker Dryocopus javensis, Greater Yellownape

Chrysophlegma flavinucha, Malabar Trogon Harpactes

fasciatus, Green-billed Malkoha Phaenicophaeus tristis,

Ruby- cheeked Sunbird Chalcoparia singalensis, Hill Myna

Gracula religiosa peninsularis were also observed during our

study. While Blue-bearded Bee eater Nyctyornis athertoni,

Jerdon’s Baza Aviceda jerdoni, Verdieter Flycatcher Eumyias

thalassinus were observed tending to breed here, as their

behavior suggested.

Threats and Mitigation

The threats as assessed during our study period were

primarily: Poaching with use of fire arms, traditional bows

and arrows, catapult, traps, snares and poison which

continued to be in use for the purpose. Secondarily, the illegal

encroachments, hunting of wild animals, collection of fuel

wood & small timber, cattle grazing inside the National park,

human induced forest fires, fragmentation of wildlife

corridors etc. were also found to be in practice. Few

mitigation measures suggested are habitat conservation,

avoidance of mining and other development activities, control

on poaching and breaking the trade-links, awareness

education and involvement of community in conservation

within and around the KVNP and MFR.

Fig 1: Jerdon’s Nightjar Fig 2: Large –tailed Nightjar

Fig 3: White-bellied Woodpecker Fig 4: Black Baza

~ 40 ~


Fig 5: Greater Yellownape Fig 6: Green-billed Malkoha

Fig 7: Common Hill Myna Fig 8: Common Hill Myna in its nest

Map 1: Map of Kanger Valley national park and Machkote forest range

~ 41 ~


Fig 9: Little Spider Hunter

Fig 10: Malabar Trogon

Fig 11: Vernal Hanging Parrot

Acknowledgement

Authors are sincerely thankful to Dr. Asad Rahmani Ex.

Director Bombay Natural History Society for encouragement

and valuable guidance to undertake this study, PCCF (WL),

APCCF (WL) Chhattisgarh Forest Department, Area Officers

and Field staff Premdas Yadav and others, for their

permissions and cooperation to conduct studies. Thanks to

members of Chhattisgarh Wildlife Society specially Ajeet

Bharos, Saurabh Agrawal, Arvind Bharos, members of

C.R.O.W, Ankit Badesha, Softy Smith, Seetharam Raju,

Anurag Vishwakarma for their field assistance and sharing

valuable observations. Special thanks to photographs

contributors.

Thanks to BNHS-ENVIS for identification of species. Thanks

also to several others, for direct / indirect help and

cooperation in study, field assistance and preparation of

manuscript.

Table 1: Bird list of Kanger valley national park and Machkote forest range, Bastar, Chhattisgarh

S.No. Order Family Species Name Scientific Name Occurrence

Status

Iucn

Status

1 Anseriformes Anatidae Lesser Whistling Duck Dendrocygna javanica R LC

2

Galliformes Phasianidae

Indian Peafowl Pavo cristatus R LC

3 Common Quail Coturnix coturnix R LC

4 Rain Quail Coturnix coromandelica R LC

5 King Quail / Blue Breasted Quail Coturnix Chinensis New, R LC

6 Jungle Bush Quail Perdicula asiatica R LC

7 Rock Bush Quail Perdicula argoondah R LC

8 Painted Bush-Quail Perdicula erythrorhyncha R LC

9 Grey Francolin Francolinus pondicerianus R LC

10 Red Junglefowl Gallus gallus R LC

11 Red Spurfowl Galloperdix spadicea New, R LC

12 Phoenicopteriformes Podicipedidae Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis R LC

13

Columbiformes Columbidae

Rock Pigeon Columba livia R LC

14 Oriental Turtle Dove Streptopelia orientalis R LC

15 Eurasian Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto R LC

16 Red Collared Dove Streptopelia tranquebarica R LC

17 Spotted Dove Streptopelia chinensis R LC

18 Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis R LC

19 Orange-breasted Green Pigeon Treron bicinctus R LC

20 Yellow-legged Green Pigeon Treron phoenicopterus R LC

21 Emerald Dove Chalcophaps indica R LC

22

Caprimulgiformes

Caprimulgidae

Jerdon's Nightjar Caprimulgus atripennis New, R LC

23 Jungle Nightjar (Indian Jungle

Nightjar) / Grey Nightjar Caprimulgus indicus R LC

24 Large-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus macrurus R LC

25 Indian Nightjar Caprimulgus asiaticus R LC

26 Savanna Nightjar Caprimulgus affinis R LC

27

Apodidae

Crested Treeswift Hemiprocne coronata R LC

28 White-rumped Spinetail Zoonavena sylvatica R LC

29 Asian Palm Swift Cypsiurus balasiensis R LC

~ 42 ~


30 Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba M LC

31 Indian House Swift Apus affinis R LC

32

Cuculiformes Cuculidae

Greater Coucal Centropus sinensis R LC

33 Southern Coucal Centropus (sinensis) parroti R LC

34 Sirkeer Malkoha Taccocua leschenaultii R LC

35 Green-billed Malkoha Phaenicophaeus tristis R LC

36 Pied Cuckoo Clamator jacobinus M LC

37 Asian Koel Eudynamys scolopaceus R LC

38 Banded Bay Cuckoo Cacomantis sonneratii R LC

39 Plaintive Cuckoo Cacomantis merulinus R LC

40 Grey-bellied Cuckoo Cacomantis passerinus R LC

41 Drongo Cuckoo Surniculus lugubris R LC

42 Large Hawk Cuckoo Hierococcyx sparverioides R LC

43 Common Hawk Cuckoo Hierococcyx varius R LC

44 Indian Cuckoo Cuculus micropterus R LC

45 Common Cuckoo Hierococcyx varius R LC

46

Gruiformes Rallidae

Ruddy-breasted Crake Zapornia fusca R LC

47 Brown Crake Zapornia akool R LC

48 White-breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus R LC

49 Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio R LC

50 Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus R LC

51

Pelecaniformes

Ciconiidae Asian Openbill Anastomus oscitans R LC

52

Ardeidae

Yellow Bittern Ixobrychus sinensis R LC

53 Cinnamon Bittern Ixobrychus cinnamomeus R LC

54 Black Bittern Dupetor flavicollis R LC

55 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea R LC

56 Purple Heron Ardea purpurea R LC

57 Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax R LC

58 Striated Heron Butorides striata R LC

59 Indian Pond Heron Ardeola grayii R LC

60 Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis R LC

61 Red naped Ibis Pseudibis papillosa R LC

62 Great Egret Ardea alba R LC

63 Intermediate Egret Ardea intermedia R LC

64 Little Egret Egretta garzetta R LC

65

Threskiornithidae

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus R LC

66 Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis

melanocephalus R NT

67 Red-naped Ibis (Indian Black Ibis) Pseudibis papillosa R LC

68 Darter Anhinga melanogaster R NT

69

Phalacrocoracidae

Little Cormorant Microcarbo niger R LC

70 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo R LC

71 Indian Cormorant Phalacrocorax fuscicollis R LC

72

Charadriiformes

Charadriidae

Yellow-wattled Lapwing Vanellus malarbaricus R LC

73 Red-wattled Lapwing Vanellus indicus R LC

74 Pacific Golden-Plover Pluvialis fulva M LC

75 Little Stint Calidris minuta M LC

76 Scolopacidae

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago R LC

77 Pin-tailed Snipe Gallinago stenura R LC

78 Rostratulidae Greater Painted-Snipe Rostratula benghalensis R LC

79 Jacanidae

Pheasant-tailed Jacana Hydrophasianus chirurgus R LC

80 Bronze-winged Jacana Metopidius indicus R LC

81

Turnicidae

Small Buttonquail Turnix sylvaticus New, R LC

82 Barred Buttonquail Turnix suscitator R LC

83 Watercock Gallicrex cinerea R LC

84 Glareolidae Indian Courser Cursorius coromandelicus R LC

85

Accipitriformes Accipitridae

Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus R LC

86 Oriental Honey Buzzard Pernis ptilorhynchus M LC

87 Jerdon's Baza Aviceda jerdoni M LC

88 Black Baza Aviceda leuphotes R LC

89 Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus R, Not recorded

recently EN

90 Red-headed Vulture Sarcogyps calvus R, Not recorded

recentlt CR

91 White-rumped Vulture Gyps bengalensis R, Not recorded

recently CR

92 Indian Vulture Gyps indicus R, Not recorded CR

~ 43 ~


recently

93 Crested Serpent Eagle Spilornis cheela R LC

94 Short-toed Snake Eagle Circaetus gallicus R LC

95 Rufous-bellied Eagle Lophotriorchis kienerii M LC

96 Black Eagle Ictinaetus malaiensis R LC

97 Indian Spotted Eagle Clanga hastata M VU

98 Eastern Imperial Eagle Aquila heliaca New, M VU

99 Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus M LC

100 Crested Goshawk Accipiter trivirgatus M LC

101 Shikra Accipiter badius R LC

102 Besra Accipiter virgatus New, M LC

103 Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus M LC

104 Black Kite Milvus migrans R LC

105 White-eyed Buzzard Butastur teesa R LC

106

Strigiformes

Tytonidae Common Barn Owl Tyto alba R LC

107

Strigidae

Brown Hawk Owl Ninox scutulata R LC

108 Asian Barred Owlet Glaucidium cuculoides New, M LC

109 Jungle Owlet Glaucidium radiatum R LC

110 Spotted Owlet Athene brama R LC

111 Oriental Scops Owl Otus sunia New, R LC

112 Collared Scops Owl Otus bakkamoena R LC

113 Mottled Wood Owl Strix ocellata R LC

114 Brown Wood Owl Strix leptogrammica R LC

115 Eurasian Eagle Owl Bubo bubo R LC

116 Indian Eagle Owl Bubo bengalensis New, R LC

117 Brown Fish Owl Ketupa zeylonensis R LC

118 Trogoniformes Trogonidae Malabar Trogon Harpactes fasciatus R LC

119

Bucerotiformes Bucerotidae

Indian Grey Hornbill Ocyceros birostris R LC

120 Oriental Pied Hornbill Anthracoceros coronatus New, R, Not

recorded recently LC

121 Upupidae Common Hoopoe Upupa epops R LC

122

Piciformes

Picidae

Northern Wryneck Jynx torquilla M LC

123 Speckled Piculet Picumnus innominatus M LC

124 Heart-spotted Woodpecker Hemicircus canente R LC

125 Lesser Golden-backed Woodpecker Dinopium benghalense R LC

126 Rufous Woodpecker Micropternus brachyurus R LC

127 Greater Yellow-naped Woodpecker Chrysophlegma flavinucha New, R LC

128 White-naped Woodpecker Chrysocolaptes festivus R LC

129 Lesser Yellow-naped Woodpecker Picus chlorolophus R LC

130 Streak-throated Woodpecker Picus xanthopygaeus R LC

131 White-bellied Woodpecker Dryocopus javensis R LC

132 Greater Golden-backed Woodpecker Chrysocolaptes lucidus R LC

133 Brown-capped Pygmy Woodpecker Dendrocopos moluccensis R LC

134 Yellow-crowned Woodpecker Dendrocopos mahrattensis R LC

135 Ramphastidae

Brown-headed Barbet Psilopogon zeylanicus R LC

136 Coppersmith Barbet Psilopogon haemacephalus R LC

137

Coraciiformes

Meropidae

Blue-bearded Bee-eater Nyctyornis athertoni M LC

138 Green Bee-eater Merops orientalis R LC

139 Chestnut-headed Bee-eater Merops leschenaulti R LC

140 Blue-tailed Bee-eater Merops philippinus R LC

141 Coraciidae Indian Roller Coracias benghalensis R LC

142

Alcedinidae

Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis R LC

143 White-throated Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis R LC

144 Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis R LC

145 Falconiformes Falconidae Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus M LC

146

Psittaciformes Psittaculidae

Plum-headed Parakeet Psittacula cyanocephala R LC

147 Alexendrine Parakeet Psittacula eupatria R NT

148 Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri R LC

149 Vernal Hanging Parrot Loriculus vernalis R LC

150

Passeriformes

Pittidae Indian Pitta Pitta brachyura M LC

151

Campephagidae

White-bellied Minivet Pericrocotus erythropygius New, R LC

152 Small Minivet Pericrocotus cinnamomeus R LC

153 Scarlet Minivet Pericrocotus flammeus R LC

154 Orange Minivet Pericrocotus flammeus M LC

155 Rosy Minivet Pericrocotus roseus R LC

156 Large Cuckooshrike Coracina javensis R LC

157 Black-winged Cuckooshrike Lalage melaschistos New, R LC

~ 44 ~


158 Black-headed Cuckooshrike Lalage melanoptera R LC

159

Oriolidae

Black-hooded Oriole Oriolus xanthornus R LC

160 Indian Golden Oriole Oriolus kundoo R LC

161 Black-naped Oriole Oriolus chinensis R LC

162 Artamidae Ashy Woodswallow Artamus fuscus R LC

163

Vangidae

Bar-winged Flycatcher-shrike Hemipus picatus R LC

164 Large Woodshrike Tephrodornis virgatus R LC

165 Common Woodshrike Tephrodornis pondicerianus R LC

166 Aegithinidae Common Iora Aegithina tiphia R LC

167

Dicruridae

Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocercus R LC

168 Ashy Drongo Dicrurus leucophaeus R LC

169 White-bellied Drongo Dicrurus caerulescens R LC

170 Bronzed Drongo Dicrurus aeneus R LC

171 Hair-crested Drongo Dicrurus hottentottus R LC

172 Greater Racket-tailed Drongo Dicrurus paradiseus R LC

173 Rhipiduridae

White-browed Fantail Rhipidura aureola R LC

174 White-throated Fantail Rhipidura albicollis R LC

175

Laniidae

Brown Shrike Lanius cristatus M LC

176 Isabelline Shrike Lanius isabellinus M LC

177 Bay-backed Shrike Lanius vittatus R LC

178 Long-tailed Shrike Lanius schach R LC

179

Corvidae

Rufous Treepie Dendrocitta vagabunda R LC

180 House Crow Corvus splendens R LC

181 Large-billed Crow Corvus macrorhynchos R LC

182 Monarchidae

Black-naped Monarch Hypothymis azurea R LC

183 Indian Paradise-flycatcher Terpsiphone paradisi R LC

184 Dicaeidae

Thick-billed Flowerpecker Dicaeum agile R LC

185 Pale-billed Flowerpecker Dicaeum erythrorhynchos R LC

186

Nectariniidae

Little Spiderhunter Arachnothera longirostra New, M LC

187 Ruby-cheeked Sunbird Chalcoparia singalensis R LC

188 Purple-rumped Sunbird Leptocoma zeylonica R LC

189 Crimson-backed Sunbird Leptocoma minima New, R LC

190 Purple Sunbird Cinnyris asiaticus R LC

191 Crimson Sunbird Aethopyga siparaja R LC

192 Irenidae

Golden-fronted Leafbird Chloropsis aurifrons R LC

193 Jerdon's Leafbird Chloropsis jerdoni R LC

194

Ploceidae

Streaked Weaver Ploceus manyar R LC

195 Baya Weaver Ploceus philippinus R LC

196 Bengal Weaver (Black-breasted

Weaver) Ploceus benghalensis R LC

197

Estrildidae

Red Munia Amandava amandava R LC

198 Indian Silverbill Euodice malabarica R LC

199 White-rumped Munia Lonchura striata R LC

200 Scaly-breasted Munia Lonchura punctulata R LC

201 Black-headed Munia Lonchura malacca R LC

202 House Sparrow Passer domesticus R LC

203 Yellow Throated Sparrow Gymnoris xanthocollis R LC

204 Passeridae Eurasian Tree Sparrow Passer montanus New, M LC

205

Motacillidae

Forest Wagtail Dendronanthus indicus M LC

206 Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis M LC

207 Olive-backed Pipit Anthus hodgsoni M LC

208 Richard's Pipit Anthus richardi M LC

209 Paddyfield Pipit Anthus rufulus M LC

210 Blyth's Pipit Anthus godlewskii M LC

211 Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris M LC

212 Long-billed Pipit Anthus similis M LC

213 Western Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava M LC

214 Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea M LC

215 Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola M LC

216 White Wagtail Motacilla alba M LC

217 Eastern Yellow Wagtail Motacilla tschutschensis M LC

218 White Browed Wagtail Motacilla maderaspatensis M LC

219 Fringillidae Common Rosefinch Erythrina erythrina M LC

220

Emberizidae

Crested Bunting Melophus lathami New, R LC

221 Red-headed Bunting Granativora bruniceps New, M LC

222 Black-headed Bunting Granativora melanocephala M LC

223 Stenostiridae Grey-headed Canary-flycatcher Culicicapa ceylonensis M LC

~ 45 ~


224

Paridae

Fire-capped Tit Cephalopyrus flammiceps New, M LC

225 Cinereous Tit Parus cinereus R LC

226 Black-lored Tit Machlolophus xanthogenys R LC

227 Sylviidae Lesser Whitethroat Curruca curruca M LC

228 Alaudidae

Rufous-tailed Lark Ammomanes phoenicura R LC

229 Ashy-crowned Sparrow Lark Eremopterix griseus R LC

230

Alaudidae

Oriental Skylark Alauda gulgula R LC

231 Singing Bushlark Mirafra cantillans R LC

232 Bengal Bushlark Mirafra assamica R LC

233 Indian Bushlark Mirafra erythroptera R LC

234 Jerdon's Bushlark Mirafra affinis R LC

235

Cisticolidae

Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis R LC

236 Rufous-fronted Prinia Prinia buchanani R LC

237 Grey-breasted Prinia Prinia hodgsonii R LC

238 Yellow-bellied Prinia

New, M LC

239 Jungle Prinia Prinia sylvatica R LC

240 Ashy Prinia Prinia socialis R LC

241 Plain Prinia Prinia inornata R LC

242 Common Tailorbird Orthotomus sutorius R LC

243

Acrocephalidae

Booted Warbler Iduna caligata M LC

244 Sykes's Warbler Iduna rama New, M LC

245 Blyth's Reed Warbler Acrocephalus dumetorum M LC

246 Paddy Field Warbler Acrocephalus agricola M LC

247 Clamorous Reed Warbler Acrocephalus stentoreus M LC

248

Hirundinidae

Northern House Martin Delichon urbicum M LC

249 Streak-throated Swallow Petrochelidon fluvicola M LC

250 Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica M LC

251 Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii M LC

252 Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica M LC

253 Dusky Crag Martin Ptyonoprogne concolor R LC

254 Plain Martin Riparia paludicola R LC

255

Pycnonotidae

Black-crested Bulbul Pycnonotus melanicterus M LC

256 Red-whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus M LC

257 Red-vented Bulbul Pycnonotus cafer M LC

258 White-browed Bulbul Pycnonotus luteolus M LC

259

Phylloscopidae

Hume's Leaf Warbler Abrornis humei M LC

260 Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita M LC

261 Plain Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus neglectus M LC

262 Sulphur-bellied Warbler Phylloscopus griseolus M LC

263 Tickell's Leaf Warbler Phylloscopus affinis M LC

264 Green Leaf Warbler Seicercus nitidus M LC

265 Greenish Leaf Warbler Seicercus trochiloides M LC

266 Blyth's Leaf Warbler Seicercus reguloides New, M LC

267 Western Crowned Leaf Warbler Seicercus occipitalis M LC

268 Zosteropidae Oriental White-eye Zosterops palpebrosus R LC

269 Sylviidae Yellow-eyed Babbler Chrysomma sinense R LC

270

Timaliidae

Indian Scimitar Babbler Pomatorhinus horsfieldii R LC

271 Tawny Bellied Babbler Dumetia hyperythra R LC

272 Striped Tit Babbler Mixornis gularis R LC

273 Pellorneidae Puff-throated Babbler Pellorneum ruficeps R LC

274

Leiothrichidae

Quaker Tit Babbler Alcippe poioicephala R LC

275 Common Babbler Argya caudata R LC

276 Jungle Babbler Turdoides striata R LC

277 Yellow-billed Babbler Turdoides affinis R LC

278 Sittidae

Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch or Indian

Nuthatch Sitta castanea R LC

279 Velvet-fronted Nuthatch Sitta frontalis R LC

280

Sturnidae

Rosy Starling Pastor roseus M LC

281 Malabar Starling (Blyths Starling) Sturnia blythii New, M LC

282 Asian Pied Starling Gracupica contra R LC

283 Brahminy Starling Sturnia pagodarum R LC

284 Chestnut-tailed Starling Sturnia malabarica R LC

285 Common Myna Acridotheres tristis R LC

286 Jungle Myna Acridotheres fuscus R LC

287 Hill Myna Gracula religiosa R LC

288 Muscicapidae

Indian Robin Saxicoloides fulicatus R LC

289 Oriental Magpie Robin Copsychus saularis R LC

~ 46 ~


290 White-rumped Shama Kittacincla malabarica R LC

291 Asian Brown Flycatcher Muscicapa dauurica M LC

292 Brown-breasted Flycatcher Muscicapa muttui New, M LC

293 Tickell's Blue Flycatcher Cyornis tickelliae M LC

294 Blue-throated Blue Flycatcher Cyornis rubeculoides M LC

295 Brown Breasted Flycatcher Muscicapa muttui M LC

296 Verditer Flycatcher Eumyias thalassinus M LC

297 Bluethroat Luscinia svecica M LC

298 Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva M LC

299 Taiga Flycatcher Ficedula albicilla M LC

300 Ultramarine Flycatcher Ficedula superciliaris M LC

301 Little Pied Flycatcher Ficedula westermanni M LC

302 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros M LC

303 Blue-capped Rock Thrush Monticola cinclorhyncha M LC

304 Siberian Stone Chat Saxicola maurus M LC

305 Blue Rock Thrush Monticola solitarius M LC

306 Siberian Ruby Throat Calliope calliope M LC

307 Pied Bushchat Saxicola caprata R LC

308 Brown Rock Chat Oenanthe fusca R LC

309

Turdidae

Orange-headed Thrush Geokichla citrina M LC

310 Indian Blackbird Turdus simillimus New, M LC

311 Tickell's Thrush Turdus unicolor M LC

Abbreviations

M – Migratory VU - Vulnerable

R – Resident NT - Near Threatened

CR - Critically Endangered LC - Least Concern

EN – Endangered New- New Record from KVNP &/or MFR

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Documents

IJFBS 2019; 6(3): 33-47 Avian diversity and range ... › archives › 2019 › vol6issue3 › PartA › 6-2-10-… · boundary. The total area of the National Park is ca. 200 sq