Wildlife
Nepal Raptors: Eagles, Vultures, and Falcons Guide
Nepal is exceptional raptor country — nine vulture species, multiple eagle species, and several globally rare raptors use Nepal's diverse habitat zones. Here is where to find the best birds of prey.
Overview
Nepal's raptor diversity reflects its compressed altitude range. The Terai holds fishing eagles, harriers, and kites. Mid-hills concentrate accipiters and large eagles. The high Himalaya is the realm of Lammergeier, Himalayan griffon, and golden eagle. Winter brings rare migrants including imperial eagle, greater spotted eagle, and the spectacular Pallas's fish eagle to Koshi Tappu.
Vultures are Nepal's most visible raptors. All nine South Asian vulture species have been recorded. The long-billed vulture, white-rumped vulture, and Himalayan griffon are common at carcass sites in Chitwan and Bardia. Red-headed vulture — listed as Critically Endangered — is reliably seen at Koshi Tappu in winter.
For eagles, the Phulchoki hill road above Kathmandu is the most accessible location for mountain hawk-eagle, crested serpent-eagle, and Changeable hawk-eagle. The Koshi embankment road in January–February produces the most reliable sightings of Pallas's fish eagle and occasional white-tailed eagle.
Lammergeier (bearded vulture) is reliable in all high-altitude trekking regions — watch the thermals above gorges in Langtang, Everest, and Mustang. The pink-tinged undertail and distinctive diamond-shaped tail are unmistakable.
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Falcons: Amur falcon passage in October–November over the Nepal Himalaya is a spectacular migration event. Thousands of birds concentrate at roost sites in the eastern hills before their transoceanic crossing to Africa.
FAQ
Where is the best single site for raptor diversity? Koshi Tappu in December–January offers the widest variety including rare migrants.
Can I see Lammergeier without a high-altitude trek? Yes — regular sightings occur above Nagarkot (1,900m) and above Dhulikhel in cold clear weather.
Are vulture restaurants operating in Nepal? A few operate in the Terai as part of conservation programmes. These are among the best locations to study vultures at very close range.
