Aizawl, July 6, 2025: In a major breakthrough for Indian ornithology, the White-throated Rock Thrush (Monticola gularis) - locally known in Mizo as Va-inronghak awr-var sava - was recently recorded for the first time in India by bird researchers at Phawngpui National Park in Mizoram.
According to birders and researchers, the rare sighting occurred on the morning of March 10, 2025, at the Far Pak area of the park. Using binoculars and digiscopes, the team carefully studied and documented the bird. After comparing its features with various ornithological records and scientific journals, they confirmed it as the White-throated Rock Thrush, a species previously known from countries like China and parts of Southeast Asia.
The discovery has been recognized and published in the Indian Birds Journal on June 24, 2025, and is now considered the first officially recorded sighting of this species in India. The researchers have also given the bird a local Mizo name: Va-inronghak awr-var (roughly "forest-thrush with white throat").
The bird is believed to be a migratory visitor, with some earlier unconfirmed records from Mount Popa in Myanmar. Experts say this new record not only adds to India’s avian diversity but also highlights Phawngpui National Park's ecological significance as a haven for rare and migratory bird species.
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The team of bird researchers included both local experts and visiting scientists from mainland India, who are currently cataloging 246 species observed across various locations in Mizoram.
