BHARATPUR NATIONAL PARK

Vol. 2. Issue 3

BI-MONTHLY PROGRAMME for May-June, 2014

BI–MONTHLY PROGRAMMEMAY–JUNE, 2014

ONE DAY PROGRAMMES

MAY

11th May Nature Trail at Nagla Block

18th May Flamingo Watch at Sewri Mudflats

25th May Bats and Trees walk at Ranibaug

JUNE

1st June Nature Trail to Sálim Ali Point, BNHS reserve

8th June Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary

15th June Kanheri Upper Trail

22nd June Shilonda Trail - Sanjay Gandhi National Park

29th June Monsoon Trek to Matheran from Dhodani

NATIONAL CAMPS

June Gir National Park – The Last Refuge

Bandhavgarh National Park

July Amboli – Land of the Flying Frog

Valley of Flowers

August Ladakh – Roof of the World

September Wildlife Sanctuary of Goa

October Namdapha National Park

Coorg and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary

INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

August, 2014 KENYA, AFRICAN SAFARI

November, 2014 NEPAL

(contd....)

Ref. 0134/2014 Date: 1st May 2014

Dear Member

In this electronic world where many old books and journals are accessible by internet through numeroussearch engines, keeping old journals in libraries is becoming a burden. This is particularly true if thebook/journal is not directly related to your subject. As BNHS has a natural history library, we keep bookson any subject related to natural history. We have some old journals on agriculture which have neverbeen used by our members or scientists. In order to make some space for more relevant journals/books,we want to dispose of them. Considering the importance of journals, any journal for that matter, we arereluctant to give them to a raddi-wallah. We contacted agriculture universities but there was no response.If any member knows of any institution that is willing to take these journals, we shall be happy to donatethem. Similarly, we have some non-English books that are also never used by any member. To get thislist, please contact the BNHS Librarian, Mrs Nirmala (library@bnhs.org)

Environmental Information System (ENVIS) of BNHS, funded by the Ministry of Environment andForests, Government of India, is considered among the top ten such centres. As you perhaps know, ourENVIS Centre is on birds. We encourage members to visit the website of ENVIS, and also to write to us ifyou have any query on birds. We publish a quarterly newsletter Buceros, which has news and articles onbirds. It is uploaded on our ENVIS website (www.bnhsenvis.nic.in). I encourage our members to write toMrs Divya Warrier, Scientist In-charge of BNHS ENVIS Centre for more information.

Assam is one of my favourite states of India. Its people, its scenery, and its fabulous network ofprotected areas never fail to impress me. During the last 30 years, I must have visited Assam as manytimes, but every visit reveals new beauty of the state. Recently, the young and dynamic District ForestOfficer of Nagaon, Mr. P. Sivakumar contacted me regarding the breeding of a large number of Blue-tailed Bee-eaters in Laokhowa-Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuary, which is under his charge. I had visitedthis Sanctuary in the 1980s during our earlier project on the Bengal Florican. The Sanctuary gainednotoriety in the early 1980s when it lost all 70 odd rhinos to poachers, due to civil disturbance. Anotherunfortunate tag attached to the sanctuary is that it is completely encroached by villagers. While therhino killing is true, the encroachment part is highly exaggerated. Nearly 7% is encroached by villagers:the rest of the sanctuary is free. Although cattle camps, locally called khutis, have been totally removedfrom the sanctuary, village cattle still come in to graze. Mr. Sivakumar is working on this issue with localpeople, elders, panchayat, and politicians to curb this menace. Coming back to bee-eaters: Siva and hisdedicated team took us to show us the bee-eaters on 26 April. It was wonderful to see hundreds of thesechirpy active birds all around us. Fortunately, Mr. K.K. Dwivedi of Government of Assam, whom I hadmet earlier in Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts when he was Deputy Commissioner there, and Mr. A.K.Johri, Chief Conservator of Forests, Biodiversity, and Climate Change, and Member-Secretary, AssamBiodiversity Board, had also come to see the bee-eaters. Siva told us that these birds arrive by Marchand soon spread out in the open short-grass plains, made suitable by grazing, and start pairing. By theend of April they make nest holes in the flat ground and lay eggs deep inside the tunnel. Before the

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monsoon sets in, the chicks are out. Siva estimates that nearly 3,000 bee-eaters breed in the maincolony and many more in smaller colonies. I also met members of Laokhowa-Burhachapori WildlifeConservation Society who are working with the Forest Department to revive this formerly wonderfulSanctuary. The Assam government, under its 2020 Rhino Programme, will soon reintroduce somerhinos, once the sanctuary is totally secured. Some rhinos occasionally appear as Kaziranga is not veryfar, but do not remain permanently. I am sure that under the leadership of people like Mr. P. Sivakumar,and Mr. Rajendra Agarwallah, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, rhino reintroduction programmewill be successful. My worry is that if cattle grazing it totally stopped, the bee-eaters will desert theplace as they need neatly grazed area. I think, with hundreds of Blue-tailed Bee-eaters nesting andrearing chicks, it will be an interesting PhD topic to study how so many insectivorous birds survive insuch a small area, how much food is available, what type of insects they mainly bring to their chicks,and what is the role of cattle grazing in keep their habitat suitable. Will they disappear when grassbecomes tall (when cattle grazing is totally stopped) or adjust and shift to the sandy cliffs of theBrahmaputra which flows close by. All this needs to be studied. Any takers?

Best wishes

Asad R. Rahmani

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ONE DAY PROGRAMMES, MAY, 2014

11th May Nature Trail at Nagla BlockSunday Explore the lesser known forest in Nagla Block of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Situated to the north

of Bassein Creek, Nagla Block is considered to be one of the most highly rewarding walks for birdingnear Mumbai, covering a good range of woodland species and a few wetland species along the creekside. It is really a treat for the nature lover, as birds like Grey Junglefowl, Indian Grey Hornbill, RufousWoodpecker, and White-browed Fantail can be seen on the trail.Group leaders: Mr. Vinod Patil & Mr. Siddhesh SurveCharges: Rs. 700/- for members and Rs. 750/- for others.Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar T.T. (near Chandu Halwai) at 6.30 a.m., Andheri (near Bislerifactory) at 6:50 a.m., Borivali, Opp. Sanjay Gandhi National Park (near Omkareshwar temple) 7.10 a.m.Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 22871202/22821811 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.The group should be back at Dadar by 12.30 p.m. Please carry packed breakfast, hat/cap and adequatewater. Be prepared for a hot day.

18th May Flamingo Watch at Sewri MudflatsSunday See graceful Lesser Flamingos and Greater Flamingos feeding at Sewri mudflats. Learn about these

magnificent migrants on a trail with BNHS. During this month you could also catch a few stragglingwaders in their breeding plumage.Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan & Mr. Vinod PatilCharges: Rs. 100/- for members and Rs. 150/- for others.Reporting*: Railway crossing Junction, near Sewri railway station (east) at 7.30 a.m.How to Reach: Sewri railway station is on the harbour line accessible from CST, Andheri, and NaviMumbai. By road, reach Sewri (east) from Parel or Dadar up to Sewri and cross over at the railwaylevel crossing or from the bridge at Wadala or Reay Road to the Mumbai Port Trust road to reachSewri Jetty.Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 22871202/22821811 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.The programme will conclude by 9.30 a.m. Please carry hat/cap and adequate water. Be prepared fora hot day.

Click below for the Google map linksDrive to Sewri

25th May Trees and Bats walk at RanibaugSunday Spread over 53 acres, Ranibaug is Mumbai’s only heritage botanical garden, and has recently

celebrated 150 years of its existence. Ranibaug is home to an astonishing 853 plant species including286 trees. Many exotic species like Baobab and Tree of Heaven can be seen here. Fruiting andflowering trees such as Flame of the Forest, Indian Laburnum, Indian Coral Tree, and fig trees growhere. The garden is also host to a large colony of India’s largest bat, Indian Flying Fox.Grade: Easy Group Leaders: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri & Mr. Vinod PatilReporting: Near Ranibaug Ticket counter at 8.45 p.m. Charges: Rs. 100/- for members and Rs.150/- for others. (Cost includes entry ticket and BNHS expertise)Registration*: On the spot. For further details call at Hornbill House 22871202/22821811 or e-mail atbnhs.programmes@gmail.com. The programme will conclude by 11.00 a.m. Please carry adequatewater and hat/cap. Be prepared for a hot day. Note: Carrying plastic bags, disposable water bottles or food is not allowed inside the zoo premises.Such items will be collected and kept outside at the gate. Participants can carry water in non-disposablewater bottles. Be prepared for a hot day.

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JUNE1st Jun Nature Trail to Sálim Ali Point, BNHS reserveSunday Sálim Ali Point is the pinnacle of the BNHS reserve, offering a panoramic view of the reserve and the

adjoining Sanjay Gandhi National Park. It shows a scenic view of Vihar Lake. During the current season,the forest becomes dry and open, allowing good opportunity for birding.Group leaders: Ms Prachi Galange & Mr. Vinod PatilCharges: Rs. 50/- for members and Rs. 100/- for others.Reporting: Members to meet at CEC, Goregaon (east) at 7.00 a.m.How to reach: Take a 343 bus headed to Film City (not Santosh Nagar) from Goregaon (East) BESTdepot. Alight at the last stop, near Reliance Media Works, and walk straight towards Elephant Gate.Cross the barrier at Elephant Gate and walk straight towards the BNHS sign board. At the sign board,take a right turn to find CEC.Registration: On the spot. For further details call at Hornbill House 22871202/22821811 or e-mail atbnhs.programmes@gmail.com. The programme will conclude by 10.30 a.m. Please carry adequate waterand hat/cap. Be prepared for a hot day.

Click below for the Google map linksDrive to CEC

8th Jun Tungareshwar Wildlife SanctuarySunday Spread over 85 sq. km, Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary forms a corridor between SGNP and Tansa

Wildlife Sanctuary. Three different types of forest: Dry Deciduous, Moist Deciduous and Semi Evergreen,are seen here. Learn about the importance of forest corridors and more from BNHS during this trail. Birdslike Rufous Treepie, Shikra, Black-hooded Oriole, Brown-headed Barbet, Red-whiskered and Red-ventedBulbul can be seen along the trail.Grade: Easy Group leaders: Ms Prachi Galange & Mr. Siddhesh SurveCharges: Rs. 700/- for members and Rs. 750/- for others.Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar T.T. (near Chandu Halwai) at 6.30 a.m., Andheri (near Bisleri factory)at 6:50 a.m., Borivali, Opp. Sanjay Gandhi National Park (Near Omkareshwar temple) 7.10 a.m.Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 22871202/22821811 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.The group should be back at Dadar by 12.30 p.m. Please carry packed breakfast, hat/cap and adequatewater. Be prepared for a hot day.

15th Jun Kanheri Upper TrailSunday A gradual climb through the wooded forest of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP). Perfect time to

see Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, Shikra, Grey Junglefowl, and Indian Peafowl. The trail leads to therocky, grass and Euphorbia strewn plateau near Kanheri Caves, which is excellent for viewing raptors likeCrested Serpent Eagle, soaring on thermals, and spectacular views of the National Park. At the end of thetrail, one can visit the ancient Kanheri caves, which date back around 2,100 years. Carved out of volcanicrocks, there are around 109 such caves. Caves and surrounding structures also harbour good biodiversity.Group leaders: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri & Mr. Vinod PatilCharges: Rs. 700/- for members and Rs. 750/- for others. (Cost includes: Bus from SGNP main gate,Forest Dept. permission charges, entry to SGNP, and BNHS expertise)Reporting: SGNP main gate at 7.30 a.m.How to Reach: Sanjay Gandhi National Park is situated on the Western Express Highway about a kilometeraway from Borivali Station (East).Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 22871202/22821811 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.The programme will conclude by 11.00 a.m. Kindly carry adequate water and packed breakfast. Be preparedfor rains.

JUNE, 2014

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22nd Jun Shilonda Trail - Sanjay Gandhi National ParkSunday With the first monsoon showers rejuvenating the forest, join BNHS for a morning at Sanjay Gandhi

National Park (SGNP). See the first blossoms of wildflowers like Wild Turmeric which last only a fewdays after they bloom. One can also see myriad small life forms during this time, and large mammalslike Spotted and Sambar Deer. The trail leads through fine forest dominated by bamboo and ends at thefirst stream.Grade: Easy (Simple walk for 1.5 km each way, however the walk from the main gate to the trail is about15-20 min.)Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan, Mr. Vinod Patil & Ms Parveen ShaikhCharges: Rs. 150/- for members and Rs. 200/- for others.Reporting: Members to meet inside SGNP, beyond the Ticket Counter under the large map of SGNP at7.30 a.m.Registration*: On the spot. For further details call at Hornbill House 22871202/22821811 or e-mail atbnhs.programmes@gmail.com. The programme will conclude by 11.00 a.m.Note: Participants have to buy the entry ticket at the main gate. Kindly carry adequate water and packedbreakfast. Be prepared for rains.

29th Jun Monsoon Trek to Matheran from DhodaniSunday Trekking through densely forested hills during rains is a unique experience. Myriad life forms are seen

in the misty, cloud laden forests. Watch out for Malabar Whistling Thrush, Orange-headed Thrush, andPuff-throated Babbler; Stink-horn Mushroom and Balsam flowers.Grade: Difficult (strenuous trek)Age Limit: 14-60 yearsGroup Leaders: Mr. Vinod Patil & Mr. Prasad KarveCharges: Rs. 700/- for members and Rs. 750/- for others.Reporting: Bus will leave from Dadar T.T. (near Chandu Halwai) at 6:30 a.m., Chembur (near DiamondGarden) at 6:50 a.m. and Vashi (Vashi Jn.) 7:10 a.m. Participants will return by late evening.Registration*: Call at Hornbill House 22871202/22821811 or e-mail at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.The group should be back at Dadar by late evening. Kindly carry adequate water, packed breakfast andlunch. Be prepared for rains.

JUNE, 2014

CORBETT NATIONAL PARK & NAINITAL (SATTAL & PANGOT)Corbett National Park was created in 1936, the first wildlife park of India. Besides Tiger and Asian Elephant,the area is known for a large number of sub-Himalayan species and in the summer an equally largenumber of breeding migrants that come from north Indian plains and peninsular India.Date: 10th –14th May, 2014 (FULL)

TADOBA NATIONAL PARKCreated in 1955, Tadoba National Park is Maharashtra’s oldest National Park. It is one of India’s 28 ProjectTiger reserves. Situated in Chandrapur district, the National Park covers 623 km² of two forested areas ofthe Tadoba and Andhari range.Date: 24th – 27th May 2014 (FULL)

NATIONAL CAMPS, MAY, 2014

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NATIONAL CAMPS, JUNE, 2014

GIR NATIONAL PARK– THE LAST REFUGE

Gir National Park is one of the oldest National Parks

of India and is famed for being last the refuge of

the Asiatic Lion. Besides the Asiatic Lion, Gir also

supports a large population of Leopards, and boasts

of having the largest concentration of big cats.

Important prey species comprise Spotted Deer,

Wild Boar, Bluebull, and Sambar. Other mammals

include Four-horned Antelope, Chinkara, Striped

Hyena, Golden Jackal, Common Langur, Porcupine,

and Black-naped Hare. Gir is also a good place for

birding, birds like Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Ultra-

marine Flycatcher, Mottled Wood-owl, Red-

rumped Swallow, Spotted Owlet, Oriental Honey-

buzzard, Short-toed Eagle, Common Hawk-cuckoo

can be seen here.

Date

Batch I: 1st – 4th June 2014 (FULL)

Batch II: 5th – 8th June 2014 (Last few seats only)

Group leaders: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri

Camp Charges: Rs. 17,500/- for members and Rs.

18,100/- for others.

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.

Reporting: Outside Rajkot Railway station at 8.00

a.m. Drop at Rajkot on last day at 2.00 p.m.

How to get there: Train - Sau Janta Exp (19017)

leaves from Mumbai at 5.35 p.m. and reaches

Rajkot at 7.30 a.m. Sau Janta Exp (19018) can be

booked for return which leaves from Rajkot at 3.20

p.m. Flight - Direct flights from Mumbai to Rajkot

are available.

Cost includes: Accommodation, food (1st day lunch

to last day breakfast), transfers to/from Rajkot,

Safari charges and entry to the park.

Registration*

Kindly contact us at 22871202/22821811 or

e-mail us at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.

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JUNE, 2014

Once the abode of maharajas, Bandhavgarh is royalty at its

best. One of the best national park’s in the country to see a

tiger–few have returned disappointed from this place. Join

BNHS as we take you to witness the real rulers of the jungle,

the Tiger. Besides Tiger, the park is also home to other

mammals like Four-horned Antelope (Chousingha), Sambar,

Barking Deer, Leopard, Gaur, Indian Wild Dog (Dhole). A

variety of birds like Black-naped Monarch, Asian Paradise

Flycatcher, Crested Hawk-eagle, Red-headed Vulture, Mottled

Wood Owl and Painted Sandgrouse can be seen here.

Date:

Batch I: 1st – 4th June 2014

Batch II: 5th – 8th June 2014 (On demand)

Group leaders: Mr. Asif Khan

Camp Charges: Rs. 16,200/- for members and Rs. 16,800/-

for others

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis.

Reporting: Pick up at Katni railway station at 10.40 a.m. on

day one. Drop off at Katni railway station at 1.00 p.m. on the

last day.

How to get there: Train – Kamayani EXP (11071) Arrives in

Katni at 10.00 a.m. Return: Many trains are available from

Katni to Mumbai, HWH Mumbai Mail (12321) arrives in Katni

at 4.20 p.m. Flight- Closest Airport to Katni is Jabalpur about

64 km away. Cost includes: Accommodation, food (1st day

lunch to last day breakfast), transfers to/from Katni, Safari

charges and entry to the park.

Registration*: Kindly contact us at 22871202/22821811 or

e-mail us at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.

BANDHAVGARHNATIONAL PARK

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JULY, 2014Nestled amongst the crest of the Western Ghats at a height

of above 2000 feet, Amboli is the last hill station in

Maharashtra before the coastal highlands of Goa. Misty

weather, rejuvenating rain, cool climate and lush evergreen

forest form the perfect setting to see reptiles and

amphibians. It is also one of the best places to see the

Malabar Gliding Frog. The forest here reverberates with

the calls of various frogs and toads in colourful and loud

display, singing in beautiful synchronisation to attract their

lady love. Amboli is part of a Biodiversity Hotspot and we

can see amphibians and reptiles like Fungoid Frog, Bicolour

Frog, Amboli Bush-frog, Amboli Toad, Beddome’s Cat

Snake, Ceylon Cat Snake, Green Vine Snake, Malabar Pit

Viper, and various caecilians.

Date: 4th – 6th July 2014

Group leaders: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri

Camp Charges: Rs. 5,300/- members and Rs. 5,900/-

Others

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis, in Nisarg Hotel.

Reporting: Pick up at Sawantwadi ST Bus Depot at 9.00

a.m. on day one. Drop off at Sawantwadi ST Bus Depot at

4.00 p.m. on the last day. Kindly book your tickets

accordingly.

How to get there: Bus – Bus is the best option to reach

Sawantwadi; Every Mumbai–Goa bus halts at Sawantwadi.

Buses can be booked through www.redbus.in.

Train – Sawantwadi Railway station is about 8 km from

the ST Depot. Konkan Kanya EXP (10111) reaches

Sawantwadi at 8.22 a.m. Note: The train timing and

schedule for Konkan Railway during monsoon is very

fluctuating and prone to delays due to landslides.

Registration*: Kindly contact us at 22871202/22821811

or e-mail us at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.

AMBOLI– LAND OF THE FLYING FROG

Photo: Saurabh Sawant

Photo: Saurabh Sawant

Photo: Saurabh Sawant

Photo: Saurabh SawantPhoto: Arun Raghuman

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Nestled high in Uttaranchal, Western Himalaya is renowned for

its meadows of diverse alpine flowers and outstanding natural

beauty. The beauty of Valley of Flowers has been acknowledged

by renowned mountaineers and botanists. Its gentle landscape,

breath-taking beautiful meadows of alpine flowers and ease of

access make the journey to this valley an enchanting experience.

One can see gorgeous flowers like the Brahma Kamal, Blue

Poppy, Brook Anemone, and Forget-me-not flower. Also birds

like White-capped River-Chat, Plumbeous Water-redstart,

Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Blue Whistling-thrush can be seen

along the way.

Date: 24th-31st July 2014

Group leaders: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri

JULY, 2014VALLEY OF FLOWERS

Camp Charges: Rs. 25,500/- for Members and Rs. 26,700/-for

others (Ex-Delhi).

Accommodation: Triple sharing in guesthouses and Hotels.

Reporting: Pick-up on day 1(24th July) outside Birla Temple, near

Connaught Place at 9.00 p.m. Drop on last day (31st July) at

8.30 p.m. (evening) outside New Delhi Railway Station.

Participants are advised to book return tickets from 1st August

(one day later) onwards.

Cost includes: Transport ex-Delhi, transfer of luggage,

accommodation, all meals (vegetarian) and BNHS expertise.

From Govindghat to Ghangaria, luggage will be carried

separately by ponies.

Registration*: Kindly contact us at 022-22821811/22871202 or

e-mail us at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com

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AUGUST, 2014

Ladakh is bounded by two of the world’s mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram. The amazing landscape

is nature’s own sculpture by wind and water over millennia. Embark on this land safari to explore Ladakh’s wilderness; we will journey

through this vast landscape exploring the wilderness of the lakes of Ladakh, the world’s highest motorable road, a high altitude desert

and one of the highest national parks in the world. We can spot birds like Black-necked Crane, Golden Eagle, Bearded Vulture, Fire-

fronted Serin, Winter Wren, White-winged Redstart, Horned Lark, Wallcreeper, Alpine Accentor, Brandt’s Mountain-finch, Common

Rosefinch, Himalayan Griffon, Common Merganser, Chukar partridge, and Bar-headed Goose. Also mammals like Kiang (Tibetan Wild

Ass), Himalayan Blue Sheep, Mountain Stoat, Royle’s Pika, Himalayan Marmot, Long-tailed Marmot. The rare Apollo butterflies can

also be seen at this altitude.

Date: 15th – 25th August 2014

Group leader: Mr. Asif Khan

Accommodation: Twin sharing in hotels.

Reporting: Leh Airport.

Camp Charges: Rs. 36,500/- for members and Rs. 37,100/- for others

Registration: Kindly contact us at 22871202/22821811 or e-mail us at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.

Note: Kindly book your flight tickets early to avail of good rates.

A medical certificate from a qualified physician stating that you are fit to travel at 18,000 feet is compulsory.

LADAKH– ROOF OF THE WORLD

Photo: Arun Raghuman

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SEPTEMBER, 2014

Chorla Ghat region of the Western Ghats of Goa has been acknowledged as a Mega Biodiversity Hotspot. Using Wildernest Resort as

a base we will explore the forests of Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Mollem National Park, and Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. The Wildernest

Resort is placed in the lap of the Chorla Ghats. The resort itself is a symbol of wildlife conservation, the forest around the cottages

is pristine and home to an array of wildlife. Just a stroll outside the eco-cottages at Wildernest can reward the participants with a

variety of life forms. Birds like Malabar Grey Hornbill, four types of bulbul namely Grey-headed, Yellow-browed, White-browed, and

Square-tailed Black Bulbul, can be seen during this camp. Other wildlife like Indian Giant Squirrel, Sambar and Cheetal Deer, Hump-

nosed Pit Viper, Green Vine Snake, Bronze-backed Tree Snake, Malabar Gliding Frog, and Blue Mormon butterfly are seen here.

Date:

Batch I: 14th – 17th September 2014

Batch II: 18th – 21st September 2014 (On Demand)

Group leaders: Ms Prachi Galange

Camp Charges: Rs. 13,000/- for members, and Rs. 14,200/- for others (ex-Thivim)

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis in Eco-cottages in Wildernest (www.wildernest-goa.com).

Reporting: Pick-up and drop timing will be according to timings of the Konkan Kanya Exp on the respective dates. How to reach:

Konkan Kanya Express (10111) starts from Mumbai CST. Return: Konkan Kanya Express (10112) from Thivim.

Air: Closest airport is Dabolim, Goa which is 50 km from Thivim Railway Station. Participants can take early morning flight which

reaches at 6:25 a.m. on the same day.

Cost includes: Accommodation, all meals (first day Lunch to last day Lunch), transfers to/from Thivim Railway Station, and visit to

Sanctuaries.

Registration*: Kindly contact us at 22871202/22821811 or e-mail us at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.

WILDLIFE SANCTUARY OF GOA

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OCTOBER, 2014

Namdapha National Park is situated at the southeastern tip of Arunachal Pradesh and bounded by the international boundary with

Myanmar to the south and east. Due to great altitudinal variation, diverse habitats occur in the area, from tropical wet evergreen in

the lower areas to subtropical and temperate forests to alpine region in the higher mountains. The BNHS camp will be at low

altitude and there is no strenuous trekking involved.

Walking in the dense evergreen forests is truly an unforgettable experience, one can see birds like five species of hornbills namely

Brown, Rufous-necked, Great Pied, Oriental Pied, Wreathed Hornbill; White-bellied Heron, Pied Falconet, both Greater and Lesser

Necklaced Laughingthrush; Sultan Tit. In addition, mammals like Hoolock Gibbon and Yellow-throated Marten can also be seen.

North-east is a butterfly watcher’s paradise and Namdapha attracts many butterflies like White Dragontail, Popinjay, Great Windmill,

Powdered Baron, Punchinello, Common Lascar, Red-base Jezebel, Staff Sergeants, Archduke, Purple Emperor, Fluffy Tit, Great Nawab,

Variegated Rajahs and many more.

Grade: Easy (Walks for birding and butterflies).

Dates: 9th – 16th October 2014 (Ex-Guwahati)

Group leader: Mr. Isaac Kehimkar

Camp Charges: Rs. 25,500/- for members, and Rs. 26,700/- for others(ex-Guwahati)

Accommodation: Twin/triple sharing in Forest Guest House and tents.

Reporting: Reporting on Thursday, 9th October (Day One) at Guwahati at 4.00 p.m. (evening) at Hotel Mayur, Phaltan Bazaar, near

Guwahati railway station.

Travel by overnight bus to Miao by Network Travels. Return to Guwahati on 15th October 2014 early morning. Participants are

advised to arrive at Guwahati ONE day prior and book return tickets from Guwahati after 12.00 noon on 15th October.

How to reach: Guwahati is well connected by air and rail.

Bare minimum facilities will be available at the campsite, including simple vegetarian meals. Sleeping bags to be brought by the

participants. All luggage will be carried separately in vehicles.

Registration*: Kindly contact us at 22871202/22821811 or e-mail us at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.

NAMDAPHA NATIONAL PARK

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OCTOBER, 2014

Madikeri, Coorg: Madikeri is a small hill station in the Coorg district of

Karnataka, situated in the heart of the Western Ghats. Madikeri is an ideal

place for birds and butterflies.It is an excellent destination to see endemic

birds like Malabar Grey Hornbill, White-cheeked Barbet, Malabar Trogon, Small

Sunbird, Malabar Parakeet, Grey-fronted Green-pigeon, Square-tailed Black

Bulbul, Flame-throated Bulbul and Malabar Barbet. This season is also good

for butterflies if you are lucky you can spot the largest butterfly in India, the

Southern Birdwing. You can also spot Blue Mormon, Common Map, Paris

Peacock, Dark Blue Tiger, and Colour Sergeant.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: A tiger reserve under Project Tiger and a

biodiversity hotspot, the Sanctuary is covered by dry deciduous, moist

deciduous and semi-evergreen forest. Large mammals like Tiger, Indian Bison

(Gaur), Asian Elephant, Wild Dog, Sloth Bear, four types of deer namely Sambar,

Barking, Spotted, and Mouse Deer. Malabar Giant Squirrel and Flying Squirrel

can be seen here. A boat ride in the Bhadra river gives great opportunity for a

close encounter with Marsh Crocodile and waterbirds. Bhadra is also home

to endemic birds like Red Spurfowl, Grey Junglefowl, Malabar Pied Hornbill,

White-bellied Treepie, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Blue-faced Malkoha, and other forest

birds like Vernal Hanging Parrot, Great Pied Hornbill, Orange-breasted Green-

pigeon, Jerdon’s Leafbird, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, and Greater

Flameback.

COORG ANDBHADRA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Grade: Easy (Short walks for nature trails required

at Madikeri).

Dates: 29th October – 2nd November 2014

Group leader: Ms Prachi Galange

Camp Charges: The charges for this camp will be

announced soon on www.bnhs.org

Accommodation: Twin sharing basis in Bhadra and

upto 4 Sharing in Coorg.

Reporting: Pick-up on Day One outside Mangalore

Central Railway Station at 8:00 a.m. Drop on last day

at 1:30 p.m. outside Mangalore Central Railway

Station.

How to reach: Matsyagandha Exp (12619) starts

from LTT (Mumbai) at 3:20 p.m., and reaches

Mangalore Central at 7:30 p.m.

Return: Matsygandha Exp (12620) starts from

Mangalore Central at 1:30 p.m.

Air: Mangalore is well connected by air with several

direct flights.

Cost includes: Accommodation, food (first day lunch

to last day breakfast), transfers to/from Mangalore,

and visit to Sanctuaries and safaris.

Registration*

Kindly contact us at 22871202/22821811 or e-mail

us at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.

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INTERNATIONAL CAMPSAUGUST, 2014

After twelve successful camps to Kenya, once again the Bombay Natural History Society brings you the African Safari,

Kenya. With sightings of around 150 species of birds and 30 species of mammals, Kenya is a boon for nature lovers.

During the camp we cross the Equator to visit the Samburu National Park to see the unique wildlife of North Kenya. Take

a boat ride on Lake Naivasha to see hippopotami and waterbirds up close. Take a walking safari on Crescent Island. Safari

ride on Lake Nakuru to witness thousands of flamingos and pelicans. Experience the thrill of watching wildebeest,

zebras, giraffe, and gazelles running across the plains of the Masai Mara. Participants can see animals like East African

Lion, the fastest land mammal Cheetah, three kinds of giraffe like Reticulated, Rothschild’s, and the tallest Masai Giraffe,

Hook-lipped and Square-lipped Rhinoceros, Cape Buffalo, Spotted Hyena, Grevy’s and Burchell’s Zebra, Oryx, the largest

land animal - the African Elephant, and the Nile Crocodile. Besides these one can see the largest birds, Somali and

Common Ostrich, huge flocks of Lesser and Greater Flamingos, Purple Grenadier, Secretarybird, Superb Starling, Lilac-

breasted Roller, Vulturine and Helmeted Guineafowl, Red-billed, Yellow-billed, Von der Decken’s, Black-and-White Casqued

and Southern Ground Hornbill, Black-bellied, White-bellied, Buff-crested, and Kori Bustard, Malachite and Woodland

Kingfisher.

African Safari, Kenya

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Dates: 9th – 18th August 2014 (ex- Mumbai)

Reporting: 9th August 2014 at 11.30 p.m. at Mumbai International Airport.

Camp Fee: Rs. 1,88,000/- for members and Rs. 1,89,200/- for others

Group Leader: Mr. Vandan Jhaveri

Payment schedule:

1st Installment (non-refundable) Immediate Rs. 50,000/-

2nd Installment Date- Immediate Rs. 50,000/-

3rd Installment Date- 30th May Rs. 45,000/-

Final Installment Date- 20th June Rs. 43,000/-

Camp fee includes:

Economy Class Airfare on Kenya Airlines

Normal Visa and processing charges.

Full board accommodation

All Game Park entrance fees.

Three meals (BLD) a day while on Safari.

1 litre of mineral water per person per day.

Professional driver guide.

Game drives as per itinerary.

Insurance for the camp period for participants

aged upto 70 yrs

BNHS expertise

Price does not include:

Food & drinks not part of group menu.

Any sightseeing not mentioned on the programme.

Expenses of a personal nature e.g., laundry, telephone calls.

Tips and gratuities.

Services other than those specified in “Camp fee includes”

Note: The cost has been calculated as per 1 USD= 60 INR, and minimum 15 pax traveling

together.

Important: Participants need to take Yellow fever vaccination at least 15 days prior and

Polio vaccination at least four weeks prior to the date of travel.

Registration: Kindly contact us at 22871202/22821811 or e-mail us at

bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.

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NOVEMBER, 2014

Nepal is known for its exquisite natural beauty, with the iconic Himalaya running across the northern part of the country.

The country rises from near sea level in the Terai region through the foothills to the mighty Himalaya all within a distance

of about 200 km. Due to its location in the centre of the Himalayan range, Nepal falls in the transitional zone between

Eastern and Western Himalaya, which contributes to its rich biodiversity. For a country half the size of Maharashtra, Nepal

has recorded an amazing proportion (almost 10 per cent) of the world’s bird species and a bird list of over 800 species.

Explore this fascinating country with BNHS as we delve into the rich biodiversity that Nepal has to offer.

Chitwan National Park: Chitwan National Park is the first national park to be notified in Nepal. This World Heritage reserve

protects over 932 sq. km of forests, marshland and rippling grassland, and is home to sizeable populations of wildlife.

Meaning ‘Heart of the Jungle’, Chitwan is famous as one of the best wildlife-viewing national parks in Asia, and you’ll have

an excellent chance of spotting One-horned Rhinoceros, Leopard, Sloth Bear, deers, and over 450 species of birds, like

Kalij Pheasant, Brown Fish-owl, Pied Harrier, Pallid Harrier, Ibisbill, Lesser Fish-eagle, Bengal Florican, Orange-breasted

Green-pigeon, Ashy-headed Green-pigeon, and Collared Falconet.

Phewa Lake, Pokhra: This scenic lake is surrounded by forested hills and is the second largest lake in Nepal. Birding

around the lake and in these forested hills can be rewarding with birds like Spiny Babbler, Blue-throated Babbler, Red-

billed Blue Magpie, Blue Whistling Thrush, Russet Sparrow, Crimson Sunbird, White-crested Laughing Thrush and Wedge-

tailed Pigeon.

Phulchowki: Home to the only endemic bird species of Nepal, the Spiny Babbler, Phulchowki is a must visit for birdwatchers.

Phulchowki, which means “Hill of Flowers” in the local language, is the highest hill in Kathmandu valley. More than 260

species of birds have been recorded in this oak and rhododendron forest. Birds like Yellow-browed Tesia, Chestnut-headed

Tesia, Small Niltava, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Rufous Sibia, Nepal Fulvetta, Mountain Hawk-eagle, Golden-throated Barbet,

Rufous-bellied Niltava, Brown-throated Treecreeper, Maroon Oriole, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Ashy Wood-pigeon,

Himalayan Cutia, and Black-throated Sunbird can be seen here.

WILD NEPAL

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Dates: 8th – 15th November 2014 (Ex-Delhi)

Reporting: 8th August 2012 at Delhi International Airport.

Camp Fee: Rs.76,300/- for members and Rs. 77,500 for others

Group Leader: Mr. Asif Khan

Payment schedule:

1st Installment (non-refundable) Immediate Rs. 20,000/-

2nd Installment Date- 30th July Rs. 20,000/-

3rd Installment Date- 30th August Rs. 20,000/-

Final Installment Date- 30th September Rs. 16,300/-

Camp fee includes:

Economy Class Airfare ex-Delhi.

Full board accommodation.

All park entrance fees and permit charges

Three meals (BLD) a day while on Safari.

Insurance for the camp period (upto 70 years)

BNHS expertise.

Price does not include:

Food and drinks not part of group menu.

Any sightseeing not mentioned on the programme.

Expenses of a personal nature e.g., laundry, telephone calls.

Tips and gratuities.

Services other than those specified in “Camp fee includes”

Note: The cost has been calculated as per 1 USD= 60 INR, minimum

18 pax traveling together and Air fare as on 1st May, 2014.

Registration: Kindly contact us at 22871202/22821811 or e-mail us

at bnhs.programmes@gmail.com.

Editor: Dr.Asad Rahmani, Isaac Kehimkar, Consultant Editor: Gayatri UrgaLayout and Designed by: Gopi NaiduProgrammes Team: Mr.Isaac Kehimkar, Asif N Khan, Vandan Jhaveri and Prachi GalangePhoto credits: Isaac Kehimkar, Asif N Khan, Vandan Jhaveri, Raju Kasambe, Arun Raghuraman and Saurabh Sawant

* Note: - If you are registering for any of the programmes,

it is assumed that you have read and agreed to all the Rules

and Guidelines. Rules and Guidelines for BNHS programmes

are available on our website: www.bnhs.org.

Photo: Raju Kasambe