One more number for Bhutan Bird List

March 25, Samtse, Bhutan

Hill Blue Flycatcher (Cyornis banyumas)

While birding in the morning of 14 March 2022, I could hear a bird singing melodious whistling notes from the dense thickets. The notes were totally new to my ears. At first, my skills in birding by ear seemed failing until I managed to take a picture of this species. It turned out to be the Hill Blue Flycatcher- a new record to Bhutan, taking the total bird list to 771.

As I looked at the picture, my mind could not interpret the sensations from my eyes, Yikes! Sitting under a tree by a small, shallow, crystal clear stream, my perception was in tatters at that moment. After reclaiming my senses, I realized that I encountred a new bird species that was not in the Bhutan List.

I can still experience and recall my disbelief, shock, excitement smashing my mind and body of this bird watching moment.

Birding during spring in the tropical forest provides exciting ecounters. It is the peak for birds breeding season. One could witness the playful and magnificent courtship rituals, males displaying its colorful plumages to building a nest, while others are very selective in selecting their nesting materials.