Rediscovery of the Long-billed Bush Warbler in India

Rediscovery of the Long-billed Bush Warbler in India After 46 Years

1. What is the Long-billed Bush Warbler and why is it significant?

The Long-billed Bush Warbler (Locustella major) is a Near Threatened bird species known for its insect-like call. It has a very limited global range, previously recorded only in China and Tajikistan. Its sighting in India after 46 years is ecologically significant and marks a milestone for avian conservation efforts.

2. Where and when was the bird spotted in India?

The bird was sighted on July 15 in Ladakh’s Suru Valley, at an altitude of over 3,200 metres, during an expedition that began on July 12.

3. Why had it not been seen in India for so long?

The species had not been recorded for decades due to habitat loss and agricultural expansion in its historical ranges, particularly in the Dras and Suru valleys. Additionally, the bird’s preference for dense thickets makes sightings rare and challenging.

4. Who was part of the team that rediscovered it?

The rediscovery was made by a team comprising Lt Gen Bhupesh Goyal, Manjula Desai, Rigzin Nubu, Irfan Jeelani, and Harish Thangaraj. The group conducted extensive research and utilized digital mapping tools before undertaking the field survey.

5. Was there any previous unconfirmed sighting?

Yes. Birders reported hearing warbler-like calls as early as 2015 in the same region, but without photographic or video evidence, those observations remained unverified.

6. What altitudes does the species prefer?

The species typically inhabits altitudes between 3,000–3,100 metres. The team initially explored Tulail Valley (2,400–2,800 m) before shifting to Suru Valley, where the confirmed sightings occurred.

7. What kind of habitat does it live in?

The Long-billed Bush Warbler prefers sheltered glades in spruce forests and areas with dense bushes such as sea buckthorn, Rumex, and Ribes (wild gooseberry).

8. What time of year is best for spotting it?

The bird is most active between mid-June and mid-July, which coincides with its breeding season — the best period for observation and research.

9. How does this sighting help conservation?

The rediscovery renews interest in locating other rare species and reinforces the importance of conserving high-altitude ecosystems. It also fosters citizen science by involving local communities and birdwatchers in conservation activities.

10. What is its IUCN status?

The Long-billed Bush Warbler is listed as Near Threatened (NT) on the IUCN Red List due to its restricted habitat and declining population trends.

11. How far was the spotting from the Line of Control?

Several confirmed sightings between 2023 and 2025 occurred within 120 km of the Line of Control (LoC), confirming the bird’s presence in remote, high-altitude border habitats.

12. What does this mean for birdwatchers and researchers in India?

This rediscovery encourages ornithologists and enthusiasts to continue exploring remote regions in search of other “long-lost” species, contributing to India’s growing body of biodiversity knowledge.

“A civil servant must always remain curious about the unseen, just like a birder seeking the call of a forgotten species.”