Whispers in the Willow: Long-Billed Bush Warbler Rediscovered in Ladakh

Image Source : Birds of the World

In a thrilling rediscovery for India’s birding community, the longbilled bush warbler (Locustella major) was officially sighted in Ladakh’s Suru Valley on July 15, 2025—marking its first confirmed appearance in 46 years. The tiny, elusive bird was last recorded in the region in 1979, making this a landmark moment for conservationists and ornithologists.

Rediscovery and Habitat:

The warbler was spotted at an altitude of 3,200 meters, the highest ever recorded for the species
Found trilling from a willow tree near terraced fields surrounded by rumex and gooseberry shrubs in Sankoo, Kargil
This expands its known habitat range, previously limited to lower altitudes and scrublands

Expedition Team:

The sighting was achieved by a fivemember team: Harish Thangaraj, Lt Gen Bhupesh Goyal, Manjula Desai, Rigzin Nubu, and Irfan Jeelani
The group had previously attempted a search in Gurez and Tulail valleys but failed due to altitude mismatch

Global Context:

Only one other sighting occurred since 1979—by ornithologist James Eaton in GilgitBaltistan in 2023
The species is classified as nearthreatened by the IUCN, with habitat loss and climate change pushing it to higher elevations

Conservation Significance:

Experts like Pankaj Gupta of the Delhi Bird Society hailed the rediscovery as extraordinary
The event underscores the need to protect fragmented landscapes and revive interest in “lost birds”

Sources: Times of India, MSN India, Bird Count India, The Hindu, Telegraph India, Hindustan Times