Birds of Ladakh
Previously, Ladakh was not known as a birding paradise due to its vastness, remoteness, and limited accessibility. Only a few researchers spent sufficient time on bird studies in its hostile valleys, hills, and plains. With the passage of time, and the development of infrastructure, especially road connectivity to almost all parts of Ladakh, the region became a perfect spot for bird lovers.
The Ladakh region is situated between two big eco-zones, namely the Pale-Arctic and Indo-Malayan eco-zones. Also Tibetan birds can be spotted here. The marshes of Ladakh attract different breeders. During spring and autumn migration, the region is an important place for aggregations of birds while crossing the lofty Himalayan range. Thanks to these different ornithological influences, Ladakh is a real melting pot of bird movement. Until present, more than 300 bird species have been spotted here.
Ruddy Shelduck, Black-necked Crane
Depending on their respective time of occurrence, four bird groups can be identified within Ladakh: Resident birds, summer visiting birds, wintering birds, and migrants. Hot spots for bird watching within the Tourist Circuit are the Suru Valley, Ulleytokpo area, Rumbak valley, Shey-Thiksey, Spituk, Chushot, and Choglamsar marshes, Nubra valley, Tsomoriri Lake, Puga-Sumdo Valley, and Tsokar Plains.
Come to explore the amazing population of Ladakh's birds! We are happy to help you in putting together your ideal birding tour.