Which Himalayan hill station is situated approximately 5300 feet above sea level?
- Shimla
- Darjeeling
- Naini Tal
- Almora
Correct Answer: Almora
Correct Answer Explanation: Douglas Dewar, in his book “Birds of the Indian Hills,” mentions Almora, a charming Himalayan hill station, as being located approximately 5300 feet above sea level.
What is the distinctive feature of the Scimitar-Babbler’s beak?
- It is short and stubby
- It is long and curved like a scimitar
- It is hooked and sharp
- It is brightly colored
Correct Answer: It is long and curved like a scimitar
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar describes the Scimitar-Babbler as having a long, slender, and curved beak, resembling a scimitar. This beak adaptation is perfect for foraging for insects and small invertebrates in the Himalayan forests.
What is the primary food source for the Imperial Eagle?
- Live prey, like deer and rabbits
- Seeds and fruits
- Insects
- Carrion
Correct Answer: Carrion
Correct Answer Explanation: According to Dewar, the Imperial Eagle is known to primarily feed on carrion, rarely catching its own prey. This makes them important scavengers in the Himalayan ecosystem, helping to keep the environment clean.
Which bird is known for its loud call that some might describe as “laughter”?
- Himalayan Whistling-Thrush
- Laughing Thrush
- Black Bulbul
- Himalayan Cuckoo
Correct Answer: Laughing Thrush
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar refers to the Himalayan Laughing Thrush as being very noisy and having calls that some might describe as “laughter.” Their distinct vocalizations are a characteristic sound of the Himalayan forests.
What is the primary habitat of the Himalayan Whistling-Thrush?
- High mountain peaks
- Dense forests
- Mountain streams
- Open grasslands
Correct Answer: Mountain streams
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar points out that Himalayan Whistling-Thrushes primarily inhabit mountain streams and are often found near dhobi ghats (washermen’s washing areas). They use their long beaks to extract insects and snails from the water.
What type of nesting material do Indian crows prefer?
- Sticks and twigs
- Grass and leaves
- Feathers
- Horsehair
Correct Answer: Horsehair
Correct Answer Explanation: In “Birds of the Indian Hills,” Dewar mentions that Indian crows prefer horsehair for their nests, but will use human hair or cattle hair if necessary. This preference highlights their adaptability and resourcefulness in finding suitable materials for their nests.
Which bird is known for its fearless and aggressive nature?
- Himalayan Whistling-Thrush
- Laughing Thrush
- King Crow
- Black Bulbul
Correct Answer: King Crow
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar describes the king-crow (black drongo) as being known for its fearless and aggressive nature, often attacking other birds. This behavior makes them a dominant presence in the Himalayan sky.
What is the typical size of the Green-Backed Tit?
- Larger than a crow
- Larger than a sparrow
- Smaller than a sparrow
- The size of a pigeon
Correct Answer: Smaller than a sparrow
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions that the Green-Backed Tit is smaller than a sparrow, measuring only a few inches in length. Their small size allows them to maneuver through branches and foliage with ease while searching for insects.
What is the estimated number of birds described by Dewar in the Eastern Himalayas?
- Approximately 10
- Approximately 20
- Over 50
- Over 90
Correct Answer: Over 90
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar’s book, “Birds of the Indian Hills,” documents over 90 bird species found in the Eastern Himalayas, highlighting the region’s rich avian diversity.
What is the distinctive feature of the Black Bulbul’s appearance?
- They have a long, flowing tail
- They have a bright red crest
- They have a unkempt and scruffy appearance
- They have a distinctive black and white plumage
Correct Answer: They have a unkempt and scruffy appearance
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar notes that Black Bulbuls (Hypsipetes psaroides) are known for their unkempt appearance, likely due to their habit of foraging among dense foliage and often engaging in boisterous interactions with each other.
Which bird is known for its loud, crescendo call that can be heard throughout the day and night?
- Brain-Fever Bird
- Himalayan Cuckoo
- Laughing Thrush
- Himalayan Whistling-Thrush
Correct Answer: Brain-Fever Bird
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions that the brain-fever bird (Hierococcyx varius) is known for its loud, crescendo call that can be heard throughout the day and night. This distinctive call has given the bird its name, as people once believed that hearing it could cause brain fever.
What is the typical size of the Himalayan Pied Kingfisher?
- Smaller than a sparrow
- The size of a crow
- The size of a pigeon
- The size of a hummingbird
Correct Answer: The size of a crow
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar describes the Himalayan Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle lugubris) as being the size of a crow. This makes them a large and imposing presence along the Himalayan rivers and streams.
Which bird is known for its unique nesting habit, stitching leaves together with plant fibers?
- Tailor-Bird
- Himalayan Whistling-Thrush
- Ashy Wren-Warbler
- Laughing Thrush
Correct Answer: Tailor-Bird
Correct Answer Explanation: The Tailor-Bird (Orthotomus sartorius) is known for its unique nesting habit, which involves stitching leaves together with plant fibers to create a cup-shaped nest. This behavior has earned them their name.
What is the typical behavior of flocks of Black-Throated Jays?
- They are aggressive and territorial
- They are shy and reclusive
- They are very sociable and often seen in flocks
- They are known to migrate long distances
Correct Answer: They are very sociable and often seen in flocks
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar observes that Black-Throated Jays are very sociable and are typically seen in flocks. These flocks can contain as many as 40 individuals, creating a lively presence in the Himalayan forests.
What is the estimated size of the Great Himalayan Barbet?
- Smaller than a sparrow
- The size of a pigeon
- Over a foot in length
- The size of a hummingbird
Correct Answer: Over a foot in length
Correct Answer Explanation: The Great Himalayan Barbet (Megalæma marshallorum) is a large bird, measuring over a foot in length, making them one of the most noticeable birds in the Himalayan forests.
What is the typical flight pattern of vultures?
- They fly in a straight line, flapping their wings constantly
- They soar high in the air, often hanging motionless on outstretched wings
- They glide low to the ground, searching for prey
- They flap their wings rapidly, making a loud humming sound
Correct Answer: They soar high in the air, often hanging motionless on outstretched wings
Correct Answer Explanation: Vultures are known for their impressive soaring flight, often hanging motionless in the air on outstretched wings. This allows them to cover large distances while searching for carrion.
Which bird is known for its habit of stealing grasshoppers from cattle?
- Himalayan Whistling-Thrush
- Laughing Thrush
- Common Mynas
- Black Bulbul
Correct Answer: Common Mynas
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar notes that Common Mynas (Acridotheres tristis) are known to steal grasshoppers from cattle and even raid fruit gardens. Their opportunistic behavior makes them a familiar sight in the Himalayan hills.
What is the name given to the low-lying, marshy area at the foot of the Himalayas?
- Bhabar
- Tarai
- Deodar
- Rhododendron
Correct Answer: Tarai
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar refers to the Tarai as a low-lying, marshy area at the foot of the Himalayas. This region is characterized by its dense vegetation and abundant wildlife.
What is the typical nesting preference of Verditer Flycatchers and White-browed Blue Flycatchers?
- They build elaborate nests in tree branches
- They create nests on the ground, concealed among leaves
- They prefer to nest in holes
- They use existing bird nests
Correct Answer: They prefer to nest in holes
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions that Verditer Flycatchers and White-browed Blue Flycatchers prefer to nest in holes. This provides them with protection from predators and the elements.
Which bird is known for its plumage that changes from grey to black throughout the year due to wear and tear?
- Bush-chat
- Himalayan Whistling-Thrush
- Laughing Thrush
- Black Bulbul
Correct Answer: Bush-chat
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar describes the plumage of the Dark Grey Bush-chat (Oreicola ferrea) as changing from grey to black throughout the year due to wear and tear. This gradual change in plumage is a natural process for many birds.
What is the typical food source for Himalayan Nuthatches?
- Insects
- Seeds
- Berries
- Nectar
Correct Answer: Berries
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions that Himalayan Nuthatches have a fondness for the red berries of Arisæma jacque-montii. This preference for berries highlights their adaptability to the diverse food sources available in the Himalayan forests.
Which bird is known for its call that resembles the “whoot-whoot-whoot” of the crow-pheasant?
- Himalayan Cuckoo
- Brain-Fever Bird
- Laughing Thrush
- Himalayan Whistling-Thrush
Correct Answer: Himalayan Cuckoo
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar notes that the call of the Himalayan Cuckoo (Cuculus saturatus) resembles the “whoot-whoot-whoot” of the crow-pheasant. This distinctive call makes them easily recognizable in the Himalayan hills.
What is the estimated area of Bhim Tal, one of the largest lakes in the Himalayas?
- Approximately 100 acres
- Approximately 150 acres
- Approximately 200 acres
- Approximately 250 acres
Correct Answer: Approximately 150 acres
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions that the area of Bhim Tal, one of the largest lakes in the Himalayas, is roughly 150 acres. This picturesque lake is a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
What is the typical size of the White-Crested Kalij-Pheasant?
- Smaller than a sparrow
- The size of a pigeon
- Over two feet in length
- The size of a crow
Correct Answer: Over two feet in length
Correct Answer Explanation: The White-Crested Kalij-Pheasant (Gennæus albicristatus) is a large bird, measuring over two feet in length. Their striking appearance and distinctive calls make them a memorable sight in the Himalayan forests.
What is the name given to the tuft of feathers on the head of some birds?
- Cere
- Tarsus
- Crest
- Aigrette
Correct Answer: Crest
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar uses the term “crest” to describe the tuft of feathers on the head of some birds, often used for display or as a signaling device. This feature can be particularly prominent in the White-Crested Kalij-Pheasant.
Which bird is known for its distinctive mottled brown plumage and red bill?
- Grey Jungle-Fowl
- Painted Bush-Quail
- Ashy Wren-Warbler
- Tailor-Bird
Correct Answer: Painted Bush-Quail
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar describes the Painted Bush-Quail (Microperdix erythrorhynchus) as having distinctive mottled brown plumage and a red bill. This makes them a unique and visually appealing bird in the Himalayan foothills.
What is the estimated number of kites present in each Himalayan hill station?
- A few dozen
- A few hundred
- A few thousand
- Hundreds of thousands
Correct Answer: Hundreds
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions that hundreds of kites (Milvus govinda) are present in each Himalayan hill station. Their soaring flights and scavenging behavior make them a common sight in the sky.
What is the typical food source for the Crested Serpent Eagle?
- Carrion
- Live prey, like snakes and lizards
- Insects
- Seeds and fruits
Correct Answer: Live prey, like snakes and lizards
Correct Answer Explanation: The Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela) is a large bird of prey, known for its distinctive crest and its preference for catching live prey, particularly snakes and lizards.
What is the name given to the part of a flower that encloses the petals and reproductive organs?
- Calyx
- Crest
- Tarsus
- Cere
Correct Answer: Calyx
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar uses the term “calyx” to describe the part of a flower that encloses the petals and reproductive organs. This term is often used in botanical descriptions and is relevant to understanding the relationship between birds and the plants they rely on for food and nesting materials.
Which bird is known for its distinctive crowing and tendency to sprint across roads when disturbed?
- Grey Jungle-Fowl
- Painted Bush-Quail
- Ashy Wren-Warbler
- Tailor-Bird
Correct Answer: Grey Jungle-Fowl
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar describes the Grey Jungle-Fowl (Gallus sonnerati) as having distinctive crowing and a tendency to sprint across roads when disturbed. Their presence in the Himalayan foothills makes them a familiar sight for visitors to the region.
What is the estimated length of the tail of the Spotted Forktail?
- Approximately 2 inches
- Approximately 4 inches
- Over 6 inches
- Over 8 inches
Correct Answer: Over 6 inches
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions that the Spotted Forktail (Henicurus maculatus) has a tail that measures over 6 inches in length. This long, forked tail is a distinctive feature of this bird and contributes to its graceful movements as it searches for insects along mountain streams.
Which bird is known for its distinctive call that resembles the “whoop” of a wolf?
- Himalayan Cuckoo
- Brain-Fever Bird
- Cheer Pheasant
- Laughing Thrush
Correct Answer: Cheer Pheasant
Correct Answer Explanation: The Cheer Pheasant (Catreus wellichi) is known for its distinctive call that resembles the “whoop” of a wolf. This call can be heard up to a mile away and is a memorable sound of the high Himalayan altitudes.
What is the name given to the strip of forest located between the Tarai and the Himalayas, characterized by tall evergreen sal trees?
- Deodar
- Bhabar
- Tarai
- Rhododendron
Correct Answer: Bhabar
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar describes the Bhabar as a strip of forest located between the Tarai and the Himalayas, characterized by tall evergreen sal trees. This transition zone between the lowlands and the mountains is home to a diverse range of bird species.
What is the typical behavior of birds in the Himalayas when they flock together?
- They are competing for food and resources
- They are seeking protection from predators
- They are migrating to warmer regions
- They are socializing and sharing resources
Correct Answer: They are socializing and sharing resources
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar observes that many Himalayan birds flock together, likely due to the abundance of food and their natural sociability. Flocking behavior allows them to share information about food sources and provide mutual protection from predators.
What is the typical size of the Southern Hill-Bulbul (Otocompsa fuscicaudata)?
- Smaller than a sparrow
- The size of a crow
- Over a foot in length
- The size of a pigeon
Correct Answer: Smaller than a sparrow
Correct Answer Explanation: The Southern Hill-Bulbul (Otocompsa fuscicaudata) is a small bird, smaller than a sparrow. Their presence in the Nilgiris highlights the region’s diverse birdlife, even at lower altitudes.
What is the typical food preference of Indian Orioles (Oriolus kundoo)?
- Insects
- Seeds
- Fruits
- Nectar
Correct Answer: Fruits
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions that Indian Orioles (Oriolus kundoo) are often seen in fruit gardens, suggesting that they have a preference for fruits. Their bright plumage and melodic calls make them a welcome sight in the Nilgiris.
What is the name given to the fleshy, often colored, part of a bird’s beak at the base of the upper mandible?
- Tarsus
- Cere
- Crest
- Aigrette
Correct Answer: Cere
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar uses the term “cere” to describe the fleshy, often colored, part of a bird’s beak at the base of the upper mandible. This feature can vary in shape and color depending on the bird species.
What is the name given to the lower part of the leg of a bird, between the ankle and the toes?
- Crest
- Tarsus
- Cere
- Aigrette
Correct Answer: Tarsus
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar uses the term “tarsus” to describe the lower part of the leg of a bird, between the ankle and the toes. This anatomical feature is important for understanding how birds move and interact with their environment.
Which bird is known for its fondness for the red berries of Arisæma jacque-montii?
- Himalayan Nuthatch
- Himalayan Whistling-Thrush
- Laughing Thrush
- Black Bulbul
Correct Answer: Himalayan Nuthatch
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions that Himalayan Nuthatches have a fondness for the red berries of Arisæma jacque-montii. This highlights their adaptability to the diverse food sources available in the Himalayan forests.
What is the estimated size of flocks of Black-Throated Jays?
- A few individuals
- A dozen individuals
- Up to 40 individuals
- Over 100 individuals
Correct Answer: Up to 40 individuals
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar observes that Black-Throated Jays are very sociable and are typically seen in flocks. These flocks can contain as many as 40 individuals, creating a lively presence in the Himalayan forests.
What is the typical nesting preference of Shrikes (butcher-birds)?
- They build nests on the ground
- They build elaborate nests in tree branches
- They prefer to nest in holes
- They use existing bird nests
Correct Answer: They build elaborate nests in tree branches
Correct Answer Explanation: Shrikes (butcher-birds) are known for their elaborate nests, which they build high in tree branches. These nests provide them with a vantage point for hunting and protection from predators.
What is the name given to a tuft of long, delicate feathers on the head of some birds, often used for display?
- Cere
- Crest
- Aigrette
- Tarsus
Correct Answer: Aigrette
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar uses the term “aigrette” to describe a tuft of long, delicate feathers on the head of some birds, often used for display. This feature can be particularly striking in certain bird species.
What is the typical size of the Tickell’s Golden-Backed Woodpecker?
- Smaller than a sparrow
- The size of a crow
- Over a foot in length
- The size of a pigeon
Correct Answer: Over a foot in length
Correct Answer Explanation: Tickell’s Golden-Backed Woodpecker (Chrysocolaptes gutticristatus) is a large bird, measuring over a foot in length. Their distinctive plumage and drumming calls make them a common sight in the Himalayan forests.
Which bird is known for its habit of picking up dead leaves and turning them over while searching for insects in streams?
- Himalayan Cuckoo
- Spotted Forktail
- Laughing Thrush
- Brain-Fever Bird
Correct Answer: Spotted Forktail
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar describes the Spotted Forktail (Henicurus maculatus) as picking up dead leaves and turning them over while searching for insects in streams. This behavior is a testament to their meticulous foraging techniques.
What is the typical behavior of Tits, even though they are small birds?
- They are shy and reclusive
- They are aggressive, sometimes attacking young and sickly birds
- They are known to migrate long distances
- They are very sociable and often seen in flocks
Correct Answer: They are aggressive, sometimes attacking young and sickly birds
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions that Tits, while small, are known to be aggressive birds, sometimes even attacking young and sickly birds. This behavior highlights their competitive nature and their drive to secure resources.
What is the name given to the birdlife of a particular region or time period?
- Avifauna
- Tarai
- Bhabar
- Deodar
Correct Answer: Avifauna
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar uses the term “avifauna” to describe the birdlife of a particular region or time period. This term is often used in scientific studies of birds and is important for understanding the diversity of bird species in different geographic areas.
Which bird is known for its distinctive plumage that is a striking combination of black, blue, and white?
- Tailor-Bird
- Ashy Wren-Warbler
- Blue-Magpies
- Himalayan Whistling-Thrush
Correct Answer: Blue-Magpies
Correct Answer Explanation: Blue-magpies, with their striking black, blue, and white plumage, are a common sight in the Himalayas. Dewar highlights the red-billed species (Urocissa occipitalis) and the yellow-billed blue-magpie (U. flavirostris). Their loud, ringing calls make them easily noticeable.
What is the name given to a species of cedar tree native to the Himalayas?
- Rhododendron
- Tarai
- Deodar
- Bhabar
Correct Answer: Deodar
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions the Deodar (Cedrus deodara) as a species of cedar tree native to the Himalayas. This iconic tree is a prominent feature of the Himalayan landscape and is often associated with the region’s unique culture and history.
Which bird is known for its bright scarlet and black plumage and is often found in flocks in the Nilgiris?
- Tailor-Bird
- Ashy Wren-Warbler
- Grey Jungle-Fowl
- Minivets
Correct Answer: Minivets
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar highlights the Minivets, with their bright plumage and small size, as being often found flitting about in flocks, feeding on insects. The common minivet of the Nilgiris, the Orange Minivet (Pericrocotus flammeus), displays bright scarlet and black plumage.
What is the typical behavior of birds in the Himalayas when they flock together?
- They are competing for food and resources
- They are seeking protection from predators
- They are migrating to warmer regions
- They are socializing and sharing resources
Correct Answer: They are socializing and sharing resources
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar observes that many Himalayan birds flock together, likely due to the abundance of food and their natural sociability. Flocking behavior allows them to share information about food sources and provide mutual protection from predators.
What is the estimated number of birds described by Dewar in the Western Himalayas?
- Approximately 10
- Approximately 20
- Over 50
- Over 90
Correct Answer: Approximately 20
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar’s book, “Birds of the Indian Hills,” documents approximately 20 bird species found in the Western Himalayas.
What is the name given to a genus of flowering shrubs, many of which are native to the Himalayas and the Nilgiris?
- Deodar
- Tarai
- Rhododendron
- Bhabar
Correct Answer: Rhododendron
Correct Answer Explanation: Dewar mentions the Rhododendron as a genus of flowering shrubs, many of which are native to the Himalayas and the Nilgiris. These vibrant and colorful shrubs are a hallmark of the region’s landscape.