Wildlife · Pasighat, Arunachal
Birding in Daying Ering sanctuary
Cross to the river islands of the Siang to look for wintering ducks, waders and grassland birds in a sanctuary of sandbars, tall grass and riverine forest, 13 km from town.
Photo: Prashanthns · CC BY-SA 3.0 · CommonsDaying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary protects a stretch of the Siang's islands, channels, grasslands and patches of riverine forest close to Pasighat. Declared in 1986, it is one of the few protected wetland and grassland habitats in Arunachal, and in winter it draws migratory ducks, waders and raptors alongside resident river birds. Hog deer and wild pig live in the grass.
Access is by road to the sanctuary edge and then by boat to the islands, so you need permission from the forest department in Pasighat and usually a forest staff member or local guide. Go early: leave town around 6 am to be on the water when birds are most active. Bring binoculars, a long lens if you have one, water and snacks.
Facilities are basic, and arrangements vary from year to year with river levels and staffing. Ask at the forest office a day ahead, and check current status before you travel. Keep voices low, stay on the paths your guide shows you, and take all rubbish back to town.
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Each of these trips stops in Pasighat. Tell us and we keep a slot for this day.
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Comfort
The Siang valley and Mechuka
Private SUV with driver
Questions
Before you book
How do I visit Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary?
Get permission from the forest department in Pasighat, then drive about 13 km to the sanctuary and cross by boat with forest staff or a local guide. Arrangements change with river levels, so check current status before you travel.
What birds can I see at Daying Ering?
In winter, migratory ducks, waders and raptors join resident river birds such as kingfishers, cormorants and egrets. Grassland species live in the tall grass. Sightings vary each year.
When is the best season for Daying Ering?
November to March, when migratory birds are present and the river is low. The monsoon brings floods that cover much of the sanctuary.