Out of 899 bird species recorded across Nepal, a remarkable 325 are found in Gulmi district alone, according to a recent study by Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN).

The study identified 289 species in the Madane forest area and 267 in the Resunga forest, Shambhu Bhattarai, project officer at the BCN, confirmed. A month-long study conducted from mid-November to mid-December revealed new species, highlighting the region’s ecological richness. The BCN conducts biannual surveys during mid-November to mid-December and mid-March to mid-April.

Among the recent discoveries is a large population of the globally rare cheer pheasant in the Resunga forest. The endangered slender-billed vulture has also been observed nesting at four different sites within the same area.

Notably, 36 percent of all bird species recorded in Nepal are found in Gulmi, including endangered and threatened species such as the spiny babbler, cheer pheasant, Egyptian vulture, slender-billed vulture, white-rumped vulture, Himalayan griffon, golden eagle, koel, crested serpent eagle, kalij pheasant, Himalayan monal, owls, and partridges.

Experts attribute this avian diversity to the conservation importance of the Madane and Resunga forests, which are recognised as vital bird and biodiversity areas. Resunga alone is home to six of the nine vulture species found in Nepal–a notable figure for a region that once faced a sharp decline in vulture populations.

Bird survey teams typically consist of three to five members and carry out ten-day field studies.

BCN is currently working in coordination with the Gulmi Division Forest Office to enhance conservation efforts and ensure the long-term protection of these crucial habitats.

(Photos: Courtesy of Shambhu Bhattarai.)