Grandala

The recent sighting of the Grandala in Sainj Valley, Himachal Pradesh, has drawn attention to the rich biodiversity of the Himalayan foothills and their importance as habitats for rare and spectacular species.

About the Grandala

• Scientific Name: Grandala coelicolor

• Family: Thrush family (Turdidae)

• Habitat: Primarily found in the Himalayas, this bird inhabits alpine and subalpine regions at elevations between 3,000 to 5,000 meters. Its distribution spans across the northeastern Indian Subcontinent, including Bhutan, India, Nepal, Myanmar, and parts of China, including Tibet.

Physical Features

• Male: The male Grandala is known for its striking blue-gray plumage, with its tail and wings being black, making it stand out.

• Female: The female Grandala has more subdued colors with brownish plumage, white stripes, a gray-blue rump, and white-tipped wing feathers.

• Size:

  • Body Length: 20.5–23 cm

  • Weight: 38 to 52 g

Behavior and Ecology

• Insectivore: The Grandala is an arboreal insectivore, meaning it primarily feeds on insects, making it crucial for maintaining the ecological balance in its habitat.

• Flock Formation: One of the most fascinating aspects of the Grandala’s behavior is its flock-forming tendencies during the non-breeding season, where groups of up to 200 individuals can be seen. This makes for a spectacular sight, with large flocks of vibrant blue birds flocking together in the high-altitude forests.

Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: The Grandala is currently classified as 'Least Concern', indicating that it does not face any immediate threats to its population. However, its restricted habitat in the Himalayas means it is vulnerable to environmental changes, such as climate change or habitat disruption.