KATHMANDU: As the monsoon season departs and chilly winds begin to sweep across the country, migratory birds have started arriving in Nepal once again. Each year, more than a hundred species of migratory birds make their way to Nepal, turning its wetlands and riversides into vibrant havens of biodiversity.
Most of these visitors are waterfowl and ducks, while raptors such as kites, hawks, falcons, and vultures also migrate here in search of favorable climates.
So far, over 900 bird species have been recorded in Nepal. While many migratory birds stop here to rest before continuing to other destinations, species like the Karankurung soar across Nepal without stopping, heading directly toward India.
During the winter, migratory birds prefer to settle around major water bodies such as the Koshi, Karnali, Narayani, and Rapti rivers, as well as Phewa, Jagadishpur, Ghodaghodi, and Barju lakes. Each January, bird counts are conducted across these key habitats, recording tens of thousands of individuals.
Common migratory species include the Common Teal, Gadwall, Northern Pintail, Tufted Duck, and Northern Shoveler. Rarer species like the White-headed Duck, Common Merganser, and Bar-headed Goose also make occasional appearances in smaller numbers.
With the onset of winter, Nepal’s rivers and wetlands once again turn into bustling sanctuaries, offering a temporary refuge to thousands of winged travelers escaping the cold of the north.
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