Rongtong, nestled in the lush foothills of Darjeeling, has long been a favorite haunt for birders looking to catch a glimpse of the Eastern Himalayas’ most vibrant residents. This morning was no exception, providing a double-header of spectacular flycatchers that made every minute of the early start worthwhile.

The star of the show arrived early. Spotting the Sapphire Flycatcher (Ficedula sapphira) was an awesome experience. These birds are notoriously small and active, often making them a challenge to photograph. I was treated to views of both the female, with her subtle rufous tones, and the striking male.

A female Sapphire Flycatcher perched delicately on a branch.

The male is a true jewel of the forest. With its deep blue upperparts and a bright orange-gold throat that contrasts beautifully against the forest green, it lives up to its ‘sapphire’ name. Watching it flit between the bamboo and low branches was a masterclass in avian agility.

The stunning male Sapphire Flycatcher showing off its vibrant colors.

As the morning progressed and the light softened, the forest revealed its next treasure. After some patient waiting, a Small Niltava (Niltava macgrigoriae) made an appearance. While the Sapphire Flycatcher is all about energy, the Niltava has a more regal, quiet presence. It sat perfectly still on a moss-covered branch, allowing me to capture the brilliant, electric blue patches on its neck and crown that seem to glow even in the deep shade of the canopy.

The Small Niltava blending into the shadows with its deep blue plumage.

Rongtong continues to prove why it is a premier birding destination. Within just a few hours, the forest gifted me with these two incredible sightings, making for an unforgettable morning in the Darjeeling hills.