Bird Walk at Sal Forest Trail, Dehradun

  • Dehradun
  • 12 July, 2026
  • Ashika Talreja

About Sal Forest Trail

Tucked within the green outskirts of Chandrabani, the Sal Patch is a tranquil stretch of forest dominated by towering Sal (Shorea robusta) trees, forming a dense canopy that filters sunlight into a soft, golden glow. This patch represents the classic foothill habitat of the Himalayan terai, where moist deciduous forests blend with undergrowth, shrubs, and seasonal streams. The forest floor is alive with insects and small mammals, while the mid and upper canopy host a variety of birds, making it an ecologically rich and layered habitat.
For birders and nature enthusiasts, Sal Patch offers a peaceful yet rewarding experience, with every trail echoing with calls, songs, and movement. From vibrant canopy dwellers to shy understorey species, the diversity here reflects the health of this forest ecosystem. However, increasing urban expansion around Dehradun, habitat fragmentation, and human disturbance pose growing threats to such pockets. Preserving areas like Sal Patch is crucial—not just for biodiversity, but for maintaining green buffers that sustain both wildlife and the human communities around them.

Bird Guide: Ashika Talreja

Ashika Talreja is a Project Associate with the Birds Component of the WII–NMCG project at the Wildlife Institute of India, with over 7 years of experience in avian research and conservation. She specializes in bird monitoring and habitat assessment, combining field expertise with a strong focus on conservation.

Bird walk Location

Common birds of Sal Forest Trail

The birdlife of Sal Patch, Chandrabani, showcases a delightful mix of forest specialists and edge species, making every walk dynamic and engaging. The canopy often reveals flashes of colour with Rosy Minivets moving in small flocks, while the striking Black-hooded Oriole adds bursts of yellow against the green backdrop. Woodpeckers such as the Gray-capped Pygmy and Gray-headed Woodpecker bring life to tree trunks, and the elegant Indian Paradise-Flycatcher glides gracefully through the forest, often becoming a highlight sighting. In the undergrowth and mid-storey, species like White-browed Scimitar-Babbler and Gray-breasted Prinia remain active yet elusive, while the cheerful White-crested Laughingthrush moves in noisy groups. Bee-eaters, drongos, and parakeets add movement to open patches, and the familiar calls of Oriental Magpie-Robin and Spotted Dove provide a comforting background chorus. Together, these birds paint a vivid picture of a thriving Sal forest ecosystem, making Sal Patch a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the richness of Himalayan foothill birdlife.
Spotted Dove
Oriental Pied Hornbill
Asian Green Bee-eater
Chestnut-headed Bee-eater
Gray-capped Pygmy Woodpecker

Rose-ringed Parakeet
Rosy Minivet
Indian Cuckooshrike
Black-hooded Oriole
White-throated Fantail
Indian Paradise Flycatcher
Asian Tit
Gray-breasted Prinia
Hume’s Warbler
White-browed Scimitar Babbler
White-crested Laughingthrush
Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch
Chestnut-tailed Starling
Oriental Magpie Robin
Ashy Drongo

Summary of Walk

Five enthusiastic participants explored the beautiful Sal Forest Trail, where dense woodland, tall sal trees, and shaded forest paths created the perfect setting for a rewarding morning of birdwatching. The peaceful forest echoed with bird calls as participants carefully searched the canopy and undergrowth, ultimately recording 25 bird species. The smaller group allowed for unhurried observation and discussions on bird behaviour, making the outing especially engaging for everyone involved.

The highlight of the morning was witnessing a remarkable behavioural interaction where a pair of Indian Paradise Flycatchers, both male and female, repeatedly mobbed a Black Kite to drive it away from their nesting territory. Other memorable sightings included the brilliant Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher and a quietly perched Asian Emerald Dove, both rewarding careful observation within the forest. As the walk drew to a close, participants were treated to the spectacular sight of the colourful Indian Pitta (Navrang), providing a perfect finale to an unforgettable forest birding experience.

Number of Participants
0
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ATAAVI Bird Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering a deeper connection between people and the avian diversity of India. Through advocacy, education and conservation efforts, we strive to increase awareness and appreciation for birds across communities.

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