One of world’s smallest bird spotted in Pithoragarh’s Darma Valley
One of world’s smallest bird spotted in Pithoragarh’s Darma Valley
B.D.Kasniyal
Pithoragarh, Nov 10
The sighting of a Golden-crowned Kinglet (Regulus regulus), one of the world’s smallest birds, in the Nagling region of Darma Valley at an altitude of 3,200 metres in Pithoragarh district has come as a relief to bird watchers, as its presence indicates a healthy and balanced ecosystem in the region.
Jagdish Bhatt, a keen bird watcher and Director of the Wings Foundation, said the Golden-crowned Kinglet is among the smallest bird species in the world, measuring just 8 to 10 cm in length and weighing between 4.5 and 7 grams.
“The bird is also known as the Goldcrest in Europe. Its distinctive golden-coloured crest, which appears like a crown on its head, gives it its name,” said Bhatt.
He said the Nagling region of Darma Valley provides a suitable natural habitat for the bird because of its rich coniferous and juniper forests. Bhatt recently photographed the bird in the area.
“Preservation of its natural habitat, particularly the coniferous forests, is vital for the survival of this species. Depletion of coniferous forest cover and increasing tourism-related activities in its habitat could pose a threat to the bird,” he said.
Deepak Singh, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Pithoragarh, also expressed happiness over the sighting of the Goldcrest in Darma Valley, describing it as an indication of the rich biodiversity of the upper Himalayan region.
“Scientific studies of natural habitats and systematic documentation of rare Himalayan bird species are essential for protecting the valuable flora and fauna of the Himalayan region. The Forest Department will also initiate efforts in this direction,” the DFO said.
