Dehradun: In a remarkable discovery, the Siamese Fireback, Thailand’s national bird, has been spotted for the first time in the forest area of Ranikhet, a popular tourist destination in Almora district, Uttarakhand.
The sighting has thrilled nature and bird enthusiasts, marking a significant moment for avian tourism and biodiversity conservation in the region.
Rare sighting captured on camera
The Siamese Fireback, known for its striking appearance, was photographed by Surendra Singh Jalal, a bird enthusiast associated with Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam. The sighting occurred in a dense forest, approximately 600 meters away from Binsar Mahadev Temple. Jalal expressed his astonishment and excitement, stating, “When I first saw this bird in the forest beyond Binsar Mahadev, I couldn’t believe my eyes. Capturing its photograph was an amazing and memorable experience. The sighting of this rare bird here is a joyous occasion for the biodiversity of our mountains.”
Ecological significance of the discovery
The Siamese Fireback is commonly found in the dense, humid forests of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Its grey body, brilliant blue-orange wings, red beak, and elegant gait make it highly attractive, with its metallic sheen in sunlight often described as a living painting.
Rajesh Bhatt, a bird expert from Corbett National Park, emphasized the ecological importance of the sighting, stating, “The appearance of the Siamese Fireback in a high-altitude region like this is ecologically very important. It is typically found in tropical and humid forests. Its presence in Ranikhet indicates that the environment here is still balanced and biologically rich.”
Biodiversity and conservation concerns
The presence of this exotic bird in Uttarakhand’s mountainous region is a strong indicator of the area’s robust biodiversity and environmental balance. While the Siamese Fireback is currently categorized as ‘Least Concern’ by conservation bodies, experts warn that deforestation, climate change, and human intervention could pose serious threats to its natural habitat.
Breeding and behavioral traits
The Siamese Fireback’s breeding season typically runs from March to June. The male attracts the female with a captivating dance-like display, spreading its wings to showcase vibrant colors. The female builds a nest close to the ground, laying 4-6 eggs. The bird is known for its alert and shy nature, spending most of its time foraging on the forest floor.
A new avenue for birdwatching in Uttarakhand
Jalal highlighted the significance of the sighting, stating, “This discovery opens new avenues for birdwatching and highlights the region’s rich potential for avian tourism.” With Uttarakhand’s forests proving to be a haven for rare species, conservationists and bird lovers hope that continued efforts to preserve natural habitats will ensure that such sightings become more frequent in the future.
