In Similipal, on multiple occasions, we have come across Grey Treepie (Dendrocitta formosae), the closest cousin of our backyard chap, Rufous Treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda).
- Mostly we have seen them foraging in the forested areas which is basically a Miscellaneous type and not dominated by the Sal (Shorea robusta) species.
- Only exceptions are the stunted Sal vegetation of Patbil, Devasthali, Dhudram (especially around Dhudram nala) and Tinadiha where individuals are normally seen flocking from one tree to other.
- The other areas where they are commonly observed are Nekdanacha & Tarinivila area of Upper Barhakamuda.
- We have also photographed ( the individual below) them on the ascent of Jamunadanda ridge.
- Out of 6 occasions, on 4 occasions we had seen them in groups of 3-4 individuals
- Very restless and flush out rapidly on closer approach.
- Commonly known as Himalayan Treepie, the specie has a small population residing in the Eastern Ghats ( mostly in the forested tracts of Odisha) apart from the larger population that is resident of the lower Himalayan forests.
Black dots indicate ( a tentative estimation of the locations and is not based on GPS reading) the locations where the species have been photo-documented.
Source Map: http://similipal.org
Reference:
Ali, Salim & Ripley, S Dillon ; Handbook of the Birds of India and Pakistan; OUP 1972/1987
Reference:
Ali, Salim & Ripley, S Dillon ; Handbook of the Birds of India and Pakistan; OUP 1972/1987
