In search of the Cheer Pheasant, Uttarakhand, India

From Makkumath, Soma and the bird watching group set off in search of the Cheer Pheasant, towards Mayali village which is at a higher altitude than Makkumath.

The best part of traveling to these regions is the scenic beauty. Not only do you get to see birds , the scenic beauty is an additional bonus. Just writing about it during these times is a pleasure. I can close my eyes and escape to these beautiful places and dream of the days when I can travel again... Travel the world and the seven seas.

For now, I have to make do with experiencing travel vicariously:)

On the way to Mayali village

Himalayan Vulture

The highlight of this trip for Soma was the sighting of the Cheer Pheasant which is extremely difficult to find. In the picture below you will find that the habitat where they live does not make it easy to spot them. Cheer Pheasants easily camouflage themselves in the yellow grass. Their red eyes are perhaps the only giveaway. Thanks to Negi ji’s (their bird guide) persistence and continuous scanning and monitoring of the area that they could finally see the Cheer Pheasants ( three of them together!).

Cheer Pheasant habitat

Cheer Pheasant	Cheer Pheasants

Rock Bunting

I guess that is what birding is all about, lots of patience… and the current situation in our lives also calls for the same. Not certain though if we will be awarded with rare beautiful sightings once this pandemic ends, but for now we have to be happy to be safe and healthy :) Until my next post...stay safe, healthy, and happy :)

Scaly-bellied Woodpecker	Upland Pipit

You may like the following posts:

• Birds in and around Makkumath in Uttarakhand India
• A bird watcher's paradise, Makkumath, Uttarakhand
• Bird sightings in Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand, India