Corbett
is regarded as one of the true bird parks of the world. Out of the 2,060 species
and subspecies of birds recorded in the Indian subcontinent, over 600 species/subspecies
of birds have been recorded from Corbett at one time or another. This number
is greater than the total number of bird species found in Europe and represents
around one fourth of the available diversity found in India.
Out of the 69 species of raptors found in India, 49 can be seen in Corbett making
it a striking element of the local avifauna. The reserve, which covers 520 sq.
kms. is not less than a paradise for bird-watchers. European bird-watchers are
some of the keenest visitors to the reserve during winters when the bird diversity
is at its peak. India's first and finest park spread over 520 sq. kms. along
the banks of the Ramganga river, just 300 kms. northeast of Delhi in the foothills
of the Himalayas is the Corbett National Park.
Established initially
as Hailey National Park on August 8, 1936, in honour of Sir Malcolm Hailey,
then governor of the United Provinces, the name was changed to Ramganga National
Park in 1952. In 1957, it was finally named as Corbett National Park in honour
and memory of the latc Jim Corbett, the legendary hunter, naturalist-turned-author
and photographer who had helped in setting up the park and demarcating its
boundaries. 
Birds which can be spotted
at the banks of River Ramganga on the outskirts of Corbett Park include Brown
Fish Owl, Himalayan Kingfisher, Brown Dipper and Plumbeous/White-Capped Redstarts.
One can also see Little/Staty backed Forktails and Mountain/Rufousbellied
Hawk-Eagles here. Inside Corbett Park, Blue Whistling Thrush and Red Jungle
Fowl are immediate possibilities.
But with some efforts
one can spot Oriental White-eye, Jungle Owlet, Alexandrine Parakeet, Himalayan
Swiftlet, Lesser Fish-Eagle or even Great Thick-knee, Stork-billed Kingfisher
and many more. Mammals include Tiger, Indian Elephant, Chital, Sambhar, Muntjack
(Barking Deer), Hog Deer and Common Langur. A trip to these magnificent Sanctuaries
will also take you through Jaipur (Pink City) and Agra (City of Taj) which
will add the experience of Indian culture, heritage, history and hospitality
to your memories.
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