Although Bhutan has limited wetland areas, they are still vital habitats for specific bird species. The valleys formed by Himalayan rivers have remained unchanged and have played a significant role in connecting Indian and Eurasian wildlife. The rivers and lakes in dense broad-leaved forests below 1,400 m (4,600 ft.) are crucial habitats for two globally threatened species: the White-bellied Heron and Pallas’s Fish Eagle.
Along the rivers and streams, you can find common bird species such as Kingfishers, Forktails, Dippers, Wagtails, Blue Whistling Thrush, and Redstarts. The Phobjekha valley in central Bhutan is home to the globally threatened Black-necked Crane, serving as an important wintering ground for these birds. Additionally, Bhutan’s numerous small ponds and wetland marshes located near human settlements are used by species such as the Black-tailed Crake and Ruddy-breasted Crake for their spring and summer homes.