Best Birding Seasons at Samtse

Samtse, nestled in the Southern foothills of Bhutan, offers a unique birding experience, especially during the autumn and spring seasons. While summer, marked by heavy rainfall and humid conditions, may pose challenges for avid birdwatchers, it's not entirely devoid of avian delights.

Summer Birding (June - September)

Samtse, located in the Southern foothills, offers diverse birdwatching opportunities, although summer is not ideal due to heavy rains from June to September, peaking in July and August. Despite the weather, opportunities exist to observe rare species like the Green Cochoa (Cochoa viridis) and Blue-naped Pitta (Hydrornis nipalensis). Resident hornbill species, including the Rufous-necked Hornbill (Aceros nipalensis), Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis), and Oriental Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris), are visible year-round. Additional summer sightings may include the Red-headed Trogon (Harpactes erythrocephalus) and Chestnut-winged Cuckoo (Clamator coromandus). Occasionally, birders might spot the Indian Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone paradisi) or the rare Golden-crested Myna (Ampeliceps coronatus).

Note: Summer birding in Samtse can be adventurous, but it's advisable to be prepared for wet and warm conditions.

Autumn and Spring Birding (October - May)

The autumn and spring seasons truly shine for birdwatching in Samtse. As temperatures drop and the rains subside, the region becomes a haven for a diverse range of migratory and resident bird species. Altitudinal migrant species like the Blue-fronted Redstart (Phoenicurus frontalis) and Wallcreeper (Tichodroma muraria) make Samtse their winter home. Nightjar species such as Savanna (Caprimulgus affinis) and Large-tailed (Caprimulgus macrurus) can be found in the plains. Almost all Drongo species from India are present, except the White-bellied Drongo (Dicrurus caerulescens).

Birdwatching routes

The Samtse-Dorokha-Denchukha and Samtse-Tendruk highways are excellent birding routes, particularly the former, which hosts rare species like the Beautiful Nuthatch (Sitta formosa). Golden Babblers (Cyanoderma chrysaeum) can be seen in large flocks. Spring is ideal for observing sunbirds and fulvettas, with the vibrant Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus) and Ruby-cheeked Sunbird (Chalcoparia singalensis) frequently visiting flowering plants.