A New Trail for Nature Lovers
The Andaman and Nicobar Administration has launched a new initiative focused on curated birdwatching experiences. A key event, the 'Rainforest Birding Trail', was recently organised at the Biological Park in Chidiyatapu, a renowned biodiversity hotspot
at the southern tip of South Andaman. This event, a collaboration between the Directorate of Information, Publicity & Tourism and the Department of Environment & Forests, signals a focused effort to promote the islands' unique avian diversity. The trail takes enthusiasts through dense tropical rainforests, offering a chance to see a wide variety of native and migratory birds in their natural habitat. Chidiyatapu, long celebrated by birders, serves as the perfect venue, providing accessible yet pristine forest and mangrove ecosystems just a short drive from Port Blair.
The Emphasis on Expert Guidance
What sets this initiative apart is its formal emphasis on the quality of guides. The local administration has been actively organising training and certification programmes for local youths to become professional eco-tour and birding guides. These programmes cover a wide curriculum, including the biodiversity of the Andamans, professional etiquette, communication skills, and the principles of eco-tourism. By creating a pool of skilled and knowledgeable guides, the administration aims to provide visitors with a richer, more engaging, and educational experience. This move towards standardised, high-quality guidance ensures that visitors not only see the birds but also understand their ecological significance, the importance of habitat conservation, and the fragile nature of the island's ecosystems.
The Feathered Stars of the Show
The Andaman Islands are an endemism hotspot, and South Andaman's trails offer a front-row seat to this spectacle. Birders can look forward to spotting a host of species found nowhere else on Earth. Key targets include the Andaman Woodpecker, Andaman Serpent Eagle, Andaman Crake, and the Andaman Drongo. Other endemic gems like the Andaman Scops-Owl, Andaman Cuckooshrike, and Andaman Treepie are also frequently sighted. The trails within Chidiyatapu and nearby Mount Harriet National Park are prime locations to encounter these unique birds. Guided walks significantly increase the chances of spotting these often-elusive species, as local experts are adept at recognising their calls and behaviour.
A Boost for Sustainable Eco-Tourism
This focus on structured, guide-led birding is a cornerstone of the Andaman administration's broader push for sustainable eco-tourism. By formalising such activities, they aim to create a model that is both environmentally responsible and beneficial to the local community. Training and employing local guides provides valuable livelihood opportunities, giving the community a direct stake in conservation. It also helps manage tourist activity, ensuring that it remains low-impact and respectful of the delicate rainforest environment. These initiatives promote responsible travel that educates visitors, supports the local economy, and actively contributes to the preservation of the islands' unparalleled natural heritage for future generations.
Planning Your Birding Trip
For travellers inspired to experience this for themselves, planning is straightforward. The best time for birdwatching in the Andamans is during the dry season, from October to April. Chidiyatapu is located about a 45-60 minute drive south of Port Blair, making it an accessible day trip. While you can visit independently, engaging one of the newly certified guides is highly recommended for the best experience. The recent birding trail event saw enthusiastic participation from local tour operator associations, who are now more likely to incorporate these quality-assured experiences into their itineraries. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes, carry binoculars, and be prepared for an early start, as bird activity is highest in the morning.
