1. Mumbai physiotherapist Kalyan Kapdi identifies a rare giant shrike in Tawang, the first sighting in India.
2. A giant shrike was spotted during a family holiday to Bumla Pass and Sangetsar Lake in late March.
3. Despite challenges, Kapdi captured clear photos of the bird flying near the Chinese border.
Tawang, May 15: In a groundbreaking discovery, Mumbai-based physiotherapist Kalyan Kapdi identified a rare giant shrike bird species in the Tawang district, marking the first recorded sighting of this species in India.
Kapdi spotted the giant shrike during a family holiday to Bumla Pass and Sangetsar Lake in late March.
Despite the narrow roads and heavy military presence near the Chinese border, Kapdi managed to capture clear photographs of the bird as it flew alongside their vehicle.
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Initially resembling the great gray shrike, common in India, Kapdi’s identification was later confirmed as the giant shrike, previously only found in China.
After sharing her findings with birder Salehin Md Habib from Kolkata, who consulted with Sandeep Biswas, it was confirmed that the bird was indeed a giant shrike, marking its first recorded presence in India.
Kapdi expressed her astonishment at the discovery, emphasizing her dedication to birdwatching despite her profession as a physiotherapist.
The sighting has generated excitement within the birdwatching community, highlighting the importance of continued exploration and documentation of bird species in the region.
This unprecedented discovery enriches India’s avian records and encourages birdwatchers to remain vigilant for other rare species in the country’s diverse habitats.
