The endangered Yellow-Breasted Bunting, a bird once lost to the Shuklaphanta region, has made a surprise reappearance. Known locally as “Bagale Bagedi”, this species hasn’t been seen in the area since its initial documentation in Shuklaphanta National Park in 1980.
Suwan Chaudhary, a conservationist, spotted a flock of these birds in a farmer’s field in Dhaknia, Shuklaphanta Municipality-2. “It’s a sign that there might still be time to save this precious species,” Chaudhary remarked.
Hirulal Dagaura, an ornithologist at Bird Conservation Nepal, adds a note of urgency: “While this sighting is encouraging, their numbers have dwindled dramatically. We must act swiftly to protect their remaining populations and restore their habitat.” Dagaura points to excessive hunting as a major threat.
The Yellow-Breasted Bunting’s presence has been noted in other areas of Nepal, reminding us of the widespread conservation efforts needed across the country.
