KAZIRANGA: An area of attraction among bird-watchers, the Kaziranga National Park in Assam has always been a place of diversified variety of wetland, grassland, and forest ecosystems. Kaziranga is renowned for wide ranges in residential and migratory bird species and thus forms one of the most sought-after places for all birdwatchers around the world.
Recently, two young tourist guides, Pallab Prakash Saikia and Hemanta Gogoi, in a rare find, spotted the rare Blue-and-White Flycatcher (Cyanoptila cyanomelana) near the Panbari Reserve Forest. It is the first record of the species in Northeast India. The male Blue-and-White Flycatcher is very easily identified with its bright blue upperparts and the white belly. Females, on the other hand, have a dullish brown and white coloration, with a rather distinctive black mask.
This migratory bird breeds in east Asia, which includes Japan and Korea and certain parts of China and Russia, and it migrates to Southeast Asia for its winter. Kaziranga becomes important when this bird forms a habitat within its boundaries.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared that the Panbari Bird Safari will be reopened on February 2, 2025, which is also World Wetlands Day. This will be reopened after a ten-year gap. It is likely to increase eco-tourism and wildlife conservation, giving visitors an opportunity to view the region's rich biodiversity.
Only three vehicles per day will be allowed in the safari to reduce its ecological footprint. It will ensure a sustainable experience for birdwatchers and researchers. Kaziranga invites nature lovers to explore its avian wonders with the Blue-and-White Flycatcher as the focal point.
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