The Black Baza, a rare bird, surprised everyone at Bihar’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR).
Tourists captured this rare sight while enjoying a jungle safari in the Manguraha forest range.
Earlier, the Black Baza lived mostly in the forests of northeast India, the eastern Himalayas, China, and Southeast Asia.
Meet the Black Baza Bird
The Black Baza is a small but powerful hunter.
Usually, it moves in small groups and prefers dense forests.
Quick facts about this bird:
- Length: 30–35 cm
- Wingspan: 60–65 cm
- Weight: 168 to 224 grams
- Habitat: Thick forests of Asia
- Diet: Carnivorous
Did you know?
Despite being a skilled hunter, the Black Baza remains rarely seen by humans.
Biologist Pankaj Ojha said that spotting this bird is a good sign for the health of VTR’s forests.
Why Black Baza’s Arrival at VTR Matters
Earlier, the Black Baza stayed far from Bihar.
However, its appearance in VTR shows that the reserve’s forests are improving.
Biologist Pankaj Ojha shared several important points:
- The Black Baza hunts small animals to survive.
- Its presence proves that the forest ecosystem is strong.
- Moreover, it highlights the success of conservation efforts at VTR.
Clearly, VTR is now home to even rare species like the Black Baza.
Usual Habitat of the Black Baza
The Black Baza usually lives in:
- Northeast India
- Eastern Himalayan forests
- Some parts of China
- Regions across Southeast Asia
During winter, the bird migrates to warmer places like India’s Western Ghats.
Interestingly, winter also marks its main breeding season.
Why the Black Baza Is Special
The Black Baza, also called the Black-Faced Baza, belongs to the hawk family.
In fact, it hunts using sharp eyes and fast wings, even in thick jungles.
Thus, the sighting of this bird proves that VTR’s forests are healthy and full of life.
FAQs on Black Baza Sighting at Valmiki Tiger Reserve
1. Where was the Black Baza spotted for the first time?
Tourists spotted the Black Baza at Bihar’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve during a jungle safari.
2. What is the scientific name of the Black Baza?
The scientific name of the Black Baza is Aviceda leuphotes.
3. In which areas does the Black Baza usually live?
The Black Baza mostly lives in northeast India, the eastern Himalayas, parts of China, and Southeast Asia.
4. Why is spotting the Black Baza important for VTR?
It shows that the forests of VTR are healthy enough to support rare and sensitive species.
5. When does the Black Baza migrate?
The Black Baza migrates during winter to warmer regions like the Western Ghats for breeding.
