Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Conservation Reserve near Nainital is home to more than 350 bird species

The Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Conservation Reserve lies near Nainital, along the Pangot route. It is home to more than 350 bird species, including resident and migratory birds.

The reserve’s oak and deodar forests, natural water sources and mountain terrain provide habitat for diverse birdlife. Migratory bird activity increases in winter, with birds arriving from regions including Siberia, Central Asia and Europe.

Species found in the area include the Himalayan woodpecker, Asian tit, blue-winged minla, cheer pheasant, Himalayan wood owl, white rock bunting and yellow-breasted greenfinch.

Notable Points

• Biogeography and ecoregions: Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Conservation Reserve lies at the junction of the Palearctic and Indomalayan realms. Its listed ecoregions include Himalayan subtropical broadleaf and pine forests, Western Himalayan subalpine conifer forests, and Western Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows.
• Forest and river features: The reserve is reported to harbour five oak species. North-flowing tributaries pass through its forest and drain into the Ramganga River.
• Birdlife: Birds listed for the reserve include hill partridge, koklass pheasant, rufous sibia, red-billed leiothrix and yellow-breasted greenfinch.