Dawn birding walk at the forest edge

The mixed forest around Icchey Gaon, with oak, chestnut, maple, pine, tree ferns and mosses, is good habitat for mid-altitude Himalayan birds. Birds recorded here include flycatchers, orioles, finches, sunbirds, woodpeckers, the rufous sibia, the Asian emerald cuckoo, the three-toed kingfisher and the blue whistling thrush, whose loud, tuneless whistle often starts before dawn. You do not need to go far: much of the activity is along the forest edge within a few hundred metres of the homestays.

Start at first light, around 5–6 am depending on the season, and walk slowly along the village road and forest paths. Stop where fruiting trees or flowering shrubs attract activity. March to May is the best season, as birds sing and breed. October to December is quieter but clearer, and some birds from higher up come down for the winter. Patience pays: activity comes in waves as mixed flocks of small birds move through the trees.

A local guide who knows the calls makes a large difference. Carry binoculars, wear muted colours and keep voices low. Do not use recorded calls to lure birds. Return to your homestay for breakfast, and spend the rest of the day on a trek or a visit to Damsang or Pedong. Keep to paths and do not disturb nests, and keep a note of what you see, as local guides welcome records.