5 Days Bhutan Birding Tour. This 5-day birding tour offers the chance to see a special White Bellied Heron on the way to Tsirang. We have crafted this Itinerary especially to witness the extravagant white-bellied Heron habitat.
Itinerary Over view for White Bellied Heron
Location of White-Bellied Heron
5 Days Bhutan Birding Tour. Previously, herons were confined to the banks of the Punatshangchu. However, recent sightings of heron chicks in Zhemgang, located in Central Bhutan, suggest that herons may also inhabit other parts of Bhutan. Additionally, a recent discovery was made along the Dangchu Punakha, Sunkosh highway, near Kamichu.
Habitat of White belied Heron
Bhutan’s low-elevation riparian environments below 1,700 m (5,600 ft). From a total of 65 Birds in the world 25 are found in Bhutan. Bhutan is the best place to visit to see critically endangered birds.
What is special about white-bellied herons?
5 Days Bhutan Birding Tour. The White-bellied Heron stands out with its large size, grey body, and white underparts, with striking grey wings contrasting sharply against white linings during flight. Unlike the Grey Heron, it features a larger bill and lacks the dark “shoulder” patch, making identification easier.
During winter, from January to February, as river levels drop, these herons exhibit fascinating courtship behaviors. They playfully chase each other with sticks, catch fish, bask in the sun, and call to attract mates.
With fewer than 200 individuals globally, the White-bellied Heron (Ardea insignis) ranks among the world’s 50 rarest bird species. While primarily found in Southeast Asia, Bhutan shelters over 30 of these critically endangered birds.
In Bhutan, the heron thrives along the Punatshangchu Basin, with eight nesting sites identified amid flowing waters, pebbly riverbeds, and Chir pine forests. These habitats highlight the species’ resilience despite its fragile existence.
Cause of White Bellied Heron Decrease in Population
Predators attacking birds and their eggs have significantly contributed to their decline. Adding to this pressure, the absence of scientific strategies and limited awareness among local communities has further endangered these birds. Moreover, developmental activities like hydropower projects and road construction risk fragmenting their habitats, threatening their survival even more.
Best time to Visit Bhutan to see White Bellied Heron
5 Days Bhutan Birding Tour. The ideal time to visit is from January to June, coinciding with the heron nesting season. During this period, a local forest officer from Tsirang Toed discovered several nesting sites near Kamichu and Sunkosh highways. According to RSPN, the local NGO dedicated to bird conservation, additional nesting areas have been identified in the forests of Kamichu.
As you travel to Tsirang, consider stopping by the White-bellied Heron Information Centre. Here, Mr. Thinley Phuntsho will serve as your guide, offering insights and leading you through the experience.
Itinerary Overview for Heron Explore
- Arrival at Paro Airport | Transfer to Thimphu | Distance 49.8 km | Driving time 1hr | Altitude 2300m
- Thimphu to Punakha via Dochula and to White Bellied Heron Center| Distance 140 km | Driving time 4 hrs | Altitude 1242m
- Tsirang Explore White-bellied Heron along Sunkosh Highway and drive to Paro| Distance 215 km | Driving time 7 hrs | Altitude 2200m
- Paro Excursion to Taktshang | Altitude 3120m
- Drop at Paro Airport and See Off
Similar Sightseeing
Trip Highlight of this Tour
- Opportunity to see White Bellied Heron
- See the Nesting place of the Birds
- Spend time in the forest exploring the area for sightings.
- Hike the most popular Tiger Nest Temple
