Mera is one of the highest peaks in Nepal
Himalaya. Rising south of Everest, the peak was first scaled
20th May 1953 by J.O.M. Roberts and Sen Tenjing.
While most of Asia 's bird habitats (forests)
are being and have been decimated, Bhutan is a very special
because of its lack of deforestation and the government's
commitment to preserve wildlife. Few developing countries have
the cultural and environmental interconnectedness that Bhutan
has always promoted. Sixty percent of Bhutan is now forested and
by law, will remain forested. Bhutan has the highest percentage
of ecological preserves in the world; over 26 percent of Bhutan
is designated for environmental conservation. While all of this
makes economic sustainability tougher but a more needed policy,
it provides the bird lover with the world's best viewing
opportunity.
Birds in Bhutan can be found from the glacial alpine regions of
the north to the sweltering tropics of the south. The geography
and altitude is also the most diverse areas of bird habitats
ever found in a single country. Endangered Black Necked Cranes
winter in the temperate Phobjikha Valley highland marshes while
the Rufous-Necked Hornbill hides out in the lush tropical rain
forests of the south. With an area the same as Switzerland,
Bhutan seems much bigger because of its remoteness and extremely
rugged terrain.
Bhutan 's extensive bird list reflects the
kingdom's wide range of agro-ecological environments, from
subtropical to alpine. Currently 675 species have been recorded
in Bhutan . Most widely known are the Black Neck Cranes, a rare
and endangered crane. In Bhutan , the Black Neck Crane holds a
special place in folklore and Bhutanese hearts. To injure a
Black
Bhutan is a small independent kingdom in the
Himalayas lying between Tibet and India , with a recorded
avifauna of over 616 species. Only recently has it begun to open
up to visitors. Over 72% of the land is still forested and 26%
of the land is protected as National Parks. It is an ideal place
to see a wide variety of birds that are impossible or difficult
Winter season is perhaps the best opportune
time to visit Bhutan and experience a tranquil facade of the
country not usually seen by most visitors. Advent of winter
brings about peace and tranquility in the region, as life in
Bhutan settles down quietly in preparation of the winter months.
One can truly appreciate the natural beauty at this time of the
season, with
