The Qinghai -Tibet Plateau, also known as the “Tibetan Plateau”, is a geographical wonder attracting thousands of tourists every year. Whether a professional photographer, a nature lover, or simply an avid traveler, this region invites all with its stunning beauty. However, beyond its dramatic landscapes and rich culture, it is also a dream destination for birdwatchers.
Like other regions of China, the plateau boasts vast grasslands, alpine forests, wetlands, and rugged mountains. This creates a proper home for many endemic and rare bird species thriving in this environment.
This article highlights the variety of bird species a traveler can witness while on a Qinghai birding trip. It will not just enhance their birding experience but also grow their knowledge regarding local wild birds.
Top birding hotspots in Qinghai to discover endemic and rare bird species
To make the most of this trip, including the following hotspots in the itinerary is essential.
1. Dongxia Forest Park: This forest part is dominated by evergreen coniferous trees and lush shrubs that create great habitats for small forest species. Birders exploring this region can target nuthatches, warblers, tits, and other species in the wood. A few to be named here are - Crested Tit Warbler, White-browed Tit Warbler, Gansu Leaf Warbler, Chinese Nuthatch, Przewalski's Nuthatch, Elliot's Laughingthrush, Siberian Rubythroat, and Chinese Thrush.
Besides, visitors can also witness noteworthy species like Daurian Jackdaw, Rook, Kessler's Thrush, Chestnut Thrush, Chinese White-browed Rosefinch, Grey-headed Bullfinch, Grey-capped Greenfinch, Red Crossbill, Slaty-backed Flycatcher, etc.
2. Huzhu Beishan Mountains: Located in Huzhu, the mountain area is perfect for targeting endemic Blue Eared Pheasant. They are usually found feeding on the openings around the forest line in the early morning.
In the lower forest area, birdwatchers can expect a glimpse of Wallcreeper and Eurasian Eagle Owl along with Crested Tit Warbler, Himalayan Bluetail, Chestnut Thrush, Common Rosefinch, Pink-rumped Rosefinch, Grey-headed Bullfinch, Goldcrest, Rufous-breasted Accentor, White-winged Grosbeak, Spotted Bush Warbler, Large-billed Warbler, etc.
3. Qinghai Lake: The breathtaking Qinghai Lake is home to waterfowl, namely the Black-necked Crane. It is the only crane breeds on the plateau. Other species to discover here are the bar-headed Goose, Northern Pintail, Red-crested Pochard, Eurasian Wigeon, Whooper Swan, Ferruginous Duck, Ruddy Shelduck, Tufted Duck, Black-necked Grebe, Kentish Plover, Pale Martin, Green Sandpiper, Common Redshank, etc.
In the nearby grassland, birders can also search for Twite, Hume's Short-toed Lark, Mongolian Lark, Tibetan Lark, Rufous-necked Snowfinch, Pere David's Snowfinch, Isabelline Wheatear, Ground Tit, etc.
4. Chaka Area: The mountain ranges of Chaka offer more than just scenic reflections. It’s a haven for birds like Henderson's Ground Jay, Isabelline Shrike, Isabelline Wheatear, Desert Wheatear, Crested Lark, Hume's Short-toed Lark, Mongolian Finch, Pere David's Snowfinch and Blanford's Snowfinch.
In the nearby forest area, birders can target arboreal species such as the Eurasian Golden Oriole, Great Spotted Woodpecker, White-cheeked Starling, Eurasian Hoopoe, Azure-winged Magpie, Upland Buzzard, Amur Falcon, etc.
Conclusion
A well-structured Qinghai birding trip involves careful planning, expert guidance, and a thoughtfully designed itinerary that covers key habitats across the plateau. So, whether you are a seasoned traveler or a birding enthusiast, you should look for a professional local guide for an enriching birdwatching experience. This way, you can explore responsibly and return with unforgettable memories.
Eagle’s Nest Wildife Sanctuary -( an unlimited treasure cove in terms of both birds and wildlife) is a protected area in Himalayan foothills located in west kameng district in Arunachal Pradesh.
Eagle’s Nest acquired its name from the Indian army regiment named “Eagle” stationed there years ago.
Eagle’s Nest prime draw is that it is considered amongst the topmost birding destinations in the World – a birding paradise ( some species found nowhere else in the country) with the checklist growing faster than the expectations of the birding enthusiasts.Link:-http://www.tribestourorissa.com/birding-in-arunachal-pradesh/
