Butterflying with Sohail Madan (Sep 7-9, 2023)
Mr. Sohail Madan, a distinguished naturalist and the current Assistant Director at the Bombay Natural History Society,
Day 1: September 7
On September 7th, 2023, Sohail Madan, along with the team, embarked on a butterflying and birding to Pangot, accompanied by Rajesh Chaudhry, Mohan Sivaramakrishanan, Priya Mohan, Rajeev, and Akshat sir. The team arrived at Pangot at 2 o'clock in the afternoon and commenced their activities.
Evening Activity: Bird Watching and Butterflying
In the evening, the team engaged in bird watching and butterfly identification, resulting in the observation of various avian and insect species:
Birds Identified:
- Black Headed Jay
- Streaked Laughingthrush
- Oriental Turtle Dove
Butterflies Identified:
- Pallid Argus
- Kumaun Five Ring
- Night Activity: Moth Light Trapping
During the night, a light trap was set up to observe nocturnal moths. The team successfully identified several species, including Grass Moths, Hawkmoths, and Tiger Moths
Day 2: September 8
Morning Activity: Bird Watching and Butterflying at Shaur Village
On the second day of the expedition, the team proceeded to Shaur Village, where they continued their bird-watching and butterfly identification activities:
Birds Identified:
- Yellow Breasted Greenfinch
- Blue Winged Minla
- Himalayan Bulbul
- Green Backed Tit
- Blue Whistling Thrush
- Streaked Laughingthrush
- Striated Laughingthrush
- Rufus sibia
Butterflies Identified:
- Yellow Coaster
- Himalayan Five Ring
- Common Punch
- Argus Species
Night Activity: Moth Light Trapping
As with the previous night, the team conducted a moth light trapping session, yielding similar moth species as the previous night.
Day 3: September 9
On the third day of the expedition, adverse weather conditions in the form of heavy rainfall prevented the team from engaging in outdoor activities.
Evening Surprise: Campus Bird Watching
However, at 5 o'clock in the evening, the team had the privilege of observing various bird species within the campus:
- Indian Paradise Flycatcher
- Verditer Flycatcher
- Black Headed Jay
- Black-Throated Tit
Conclusion
Despite the weather challenges on the third day, Sohail Madan sir and his team were highly successful in identifying a diverse range of avian and insect species during their time in Pangot and the surrounding areas. This valuable data will contribute to our ongoing efforts to document and protect the rich biodiversity of the region.
Report compiled by:
Jagjeewan Singh Dhami
Research Intern
Jungle Lore Birding Lodge & Asian Adventures
