Wildlife and birds · Seven Sisters Waterfall
Birdsong by the falls
Listen and look for birds in the forest around the falls before the traffic builds up. The Kabi area is recorded as home to species such as the crested serpent eagle and Ward's trogon, though sightings are never guaranteed.
Photo: Tarunsamanta · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Wikipedia's article on Kabi Lungchok, citing ENVIS Sikkim, lists birds recorded in the area, including the pariah kite, crested serpent eagle, rufous-necked hornbill, chestnut-breasted partridge, black-breasted parrotbill, grey-crowned prinia and Ward's trogon. These records cover the wider Kabi area and are not specific to the falls, and we promise no sightings.
Come early, in the first hour after sunrise, when traffic is thin. Stand at the pull-off, stay quiet and listen before you look. The sound of the water covers some calls, so move a short distance along the road for a better chance. Binoculars help.
Stay on the verge, and keep clear of the road edge and the wet rock. Do not play recorded calls, and do not leave the track to follow a bird. In the monsoon, leeches and slides make this a poor choice. Check current status before you travel.
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Questions travellers ask
Before you book
What birds are recorded near the falls?
Wikipedia lists the crested serpent eagle, rufous-necked hornbill, Ward's trogon, black-breasted parrotbill and others for the Kabi area, citing ENVIS Sikkim. These records are not specific to the falls. Sightings depend on luck, season and patience, so we never promise any.
What is the best time of day for birds?
The first hour after sunrise, when the forest is quiet and traffic is light. Late afternoon can also be good. Midday is quiet for birds, and the sound of the falls hides many calls. Check current status before you travel.
Do we need a guide?
Not for a short roadside stop, but a local guide who knows the calls improves your chances a lot. Ask us in advance if you want one, and mention the season. Do not play recorded calls to attract birds, and keep to the road verge.
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