INTRODUCTION
============

The northern part of Myanmar\'s Kachin State borders both China and India and lies in the Indo-Burma conservation hotspot ([@b4-ZoolRes-38-5-264]). Although this area harbors rich biodiversity, conservation-related research in this region is lacking due to its steep topology, difficult transportation, and variable climate ([@b7-ZoolRes-38-5-264]; [@b8-ZoolRes-38-5-264]). Since 1990, one new species of mammal (*Muntiacus putaoensis*) ([@b5-ZoolRes-38-5-264]) and several new subspecies of birds, such as *Tesia olivea chiangmaiensis* ([@b10-ZoolRes-38-5-264]), have been described in this region. This indicates that there are still opportunities for new discovery and exploration and that more information is needed for future conservation plans.

Since the 1990s, several bird surveys had been carried out in the Putao area ([@b8-ZoolRes-38-5-264]). Under the leadership of the Nature and Wildlife Conservation Division (NWCD) of the Myanmar Forestry Ministry, two expeditions were launched in 1997--1998 ([@b1-ZoolRes-38-5-264]) and 2001--2009 ([@b8-ZoolRes-38-5-264]), providing the most detailed inventory of local avian diversity thus far.

Between December 2015 and May 2017, the Southeast Asia Biodiversity Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS-SEABRI), Forest Research Institute (FRI) of Myanmar, Hponkan Razi Wildlife Sanctuary (HPWS), and Hkakabo Razi National Park (HKNP) jointly conducted four general biodiversity surveys in the Putao area of the northwest part of Kachin State, Myanmar. The survey region covered part of HPWS and the surrounding areas south and northeast of Putao ([Figure 1](#F1-ZoolRes-38-5-264){ref-type="fig"}). These surveys were conducted to acquire basic biodiversity distribution data for future conservation policy making.

![Survey area in Putao, Kachin, northern Myanmar](ZoolRes-38-5-264-g1){#F1-ZoolRes-38-5-264}

In this paper, we summarize the results of our four surveys as well as episodic observations of a local officer (Myint Kyaw, M.K.). The present research aimed to: (1) update the avian inventory of the study area; and (2) identify survey and conservation gaps in this region.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
=====================

Study area
----------

The survey area included the southern part of HPWS, one village south of Putao town, and areas northeast of Putao surrounding HKNP ([Figure 1](#F1-ZoolRes-38-5-264){ref-type="fig"}). The total survey area was around 5 000 km^2^. Elevation in the area varies from 400 m a.s.l. at Putao to 5 881 m a.s.l. at the Hkakabo Razi Snow Mountain peak ([@b9-ZoolRes-38-5-264]). Vegetation includes lowland tropical rainforest dominated by Dipterocarpaceae between 400 m a.s.l. and 600 m a.s.l., tropical seasonal rainforest dominated by *Terminalia myriocarpa* and *Dysoxylum* sp. from 600 m a.s.l. to 1 200 m a.s.l., mountain tropical rainforest between 1 200 m a.s.l. and 2 000 m a.s.l., subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest dominated by Lauraceae and Fagaceae between 2 000 m a.s.l. and 2 600 m a.s.l., and bamboo-rhododendron habitats above 3 000 m a.s.l. ([@b9-ZoolRes-38-5-264]; Yun-Hong Tan, personal communication). The temperature varies from 2 ℃ to 36 ℃. Annual precipitation ranges from 3 800--5 100 mm, with a cooler dry season from October to February and a rainy season from March to September (Robinowitz et al., 1999).

Bird survey
-----------

The surveyed habitats include cropland, small areas of riparian wetland (less than 10 count points), and the forest vegetation types mentioned above. Survey locations ranged from 400 m a.s.l. to 3 200 m a.s.l.. We conducted field surveys from 29 November 2015 to 4 January 2016; 23 April to 21 May 2016; 26 November 2016 to 5 January 2017; and 28 April to 26 May 2017.

Point counts and camera traps were combined to obtain bird diversity information. Points were situated along trails from 400 m a.s.l. to 3 200 m a.s.l.; each point was located at least 300 m from other points to ensure quasi-independence ([@b6-ZoolRes-38-5-264]). We stayed at each point for 12 min, recorded all birds seen or heard within a 100-m radius. We used camera traps to detect ground-dwelling birds and used binoculars to detect all other birds. In total, we established 53 camera stations ranging from 700 m a.s.l. to 3 200 m a.s.l.. The distances between any two camera stations always exceeded 500 m. The cameras were installed in the field between December 2015 and May 2016. The distribution of the point counts and camera traps were mapped out to show the sample effort at different elevations. In addition to systematic data obtained from point counts and camera traps, species observed during field trips were also recorded. The second author M.K., who works at HPWS and HKNP, is an experienced bird-watcher and collected anecdotal information and data through photography and direct observations between 2012 and 2015.

RESULTS
=======

During the four surveys, we collected information from 304 count points. Of the 53 cameras installed, one was stolen and one was broken. The remaining 51 cameras accumulated more than 7 500 working days of images.

In total, 319 species were recorded, representing 72 families and 18 orders ([Table 1](#T1-ZoolRes-38-5-264){ref-type="table"}), with one species listed as critically endangered, five species listed as vulnerable, and 13 species listed as near threatened in the IUCN Red List (IUCN, 2016). The percentage of birds of each family is shown in [Figure 2](#F2-ZoolRes-38-5-264){ref-type="fig"}. In terms of number of individuals recorded during the surveys, the most abundant families were Pycnonotidae (989 individuals), Leiothrichidae (850 individuals), and Columbidae (608 individuals). Several families recorded, such as Alaudidae, Artamidae, Indicatoridae, Psittacidae, Troglodytidae, and Upupidae, contained only one identified individual. The number of different species at different elevations is shown in [Figure 3](#F3-ZoolRes-38-5-264){ref-type="fig"}. The distributions of the point counts and camera traps at different elevations are shown in [Figure 4](#F4-ZoolRes-38-5-264){ref-type="fig"}. We observed 3 719 (82%) individuals from 215 (67%) species under 1 500 m a.s.l.. Sampling effort was biased towards elevations below 1 500 m a.s.l..

###### 

Bird species observed in the Putao area of northern Myanmar from 2013 to 2017

  Species                           English name                       IUCN^\*^   [@b8-ZoolRes-38-5-264]^\*\*^   Habitat^\*\*\*^   Abundance^\*\*\*\*^   Source^\*\*\*\*\*^
  --------------------------------- ---------------------------------- ---------- ------------------------------ ----------------- --------------------- --------------------
  ACCIPITRIFORMES                                                                                                                                        
  Accipitridae                                                                                                                                           
  *Accipiter nisus*                 Eurasian Sparrowhawk               LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Accipiter trivirgatus*           Crested Goshawk                    LC                                        Fo, V             \+                    CP, An
  *Accipiter virgatus*              Besra                              LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Aviceda jerdoni*                 Jerdon\'s Baza                     LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Aquila heliaca*                  Eastern Imperial Eagle             VU         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Buteo burmanicus*                Himalayan Buzzard                  LC                                        Fi, Fo            \+                    An
  *Buteo japonicus*                 Eastern Buzzard                    LC         ×                              Fi                \+                    An
  *Circus cyaneus*                  Hen Harrier                        LC                                        Fi                \+                    An
  *Circus melanoleucos*             Pied Harrier                       LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  *Gyps himalayensis*               Himalayan Vulture                  NT         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Haliaeetus humilis*              Lesser Fish Eagle                  NT         ×                              Fo, R             \+                    CP, An
  *Ictinaetus malaiensis*           Black Eagle                        LC                                        Fi, Fo            \+                    An
  *Lophotriorchis kienerii*         Rufous-bellied Hawk-Eagle          LC                                        Fi                \+                    An
  *Milvus migrans*                  Black Kite                         LC         ×                              Fi, Fo            \+                    An
  *Nisaetus nipalensis*             Mountain Hawk-Eagle                LC                                        Fi, Fo            \+                    CP, An
  *Spilornis cheela*                Crested Serpent Eagle              LC                                        Fi, Fo            \+                    CP, An
  ANSERIFORMES                                                                                                                                           
  Anatidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Mergus merganser*                Common Merganser                   LC                                        R                 \+                    An
  *Tadorna ferruginea*              Ruddy Shelduck                     LC                                        R                 ++                    An
  APODIFORMES                                                                                                                                            
  Apodidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Cypsiurus balasiensis*           Asian Palm Swift                   LC                                        Fi, V, G          ++                    CP, An
  *Hirundapus caudacutus*           White-throated Needletail          LC         ×                              V, R              ++                    CP, An
  *Hirundapus giganteus*            Brown-backed Needletail            LC                                        V, R              ++                    CP, An
  BUCEROTIFORMES                                                                                                                                         
  Bucerotidae                                                                                                                                            
  *Aceros nipalensis*               Rufous-necked Hornbill             VU                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Buceros bicornis*                Great Hornbill                     NT                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Rhyticeros undulatus*            Wreathed Hornbill                  LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  Upupidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Upupa epops*                     Common Hoopoe                      LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  CAPRIMULGIFORMES                                                                                                                                       
  Podargidae                                                                                                                                             
  *Batrachostomus hodgsoni*         Hodgson\'s Frogmouth               LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  CHARADRIIFORMES                                                                                                                                        
  Jacanidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Actitis hypoleucos*              Common Sandpiper                   LC                                        Fi, R             \+                    An
  *Calidris temminckii*             Temminck\'s Stint                  LC         ×                              R                 \+                    An
  *Gallinago gallinago*             Common Snipe                       LC         ×                              G                 \+                    CP, An
  CHARADRIIFORMES                                                                                                                                        
  Jacanidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Lymnocryptes minimus*            Jack Snipe                         LC         ×                              Fi, R             \+                    An
  *Scolopax rusticola*              Eurasian Woodcock                  LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CT
  *Tringa ochropus*                 Green Sandpiper                    LC                                        R                 \+                    An
  *Tringa stagnatilis*              Marsh Sandpiper                    LC                                        R                 \+                    An
  Charadriidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Charadrius dubius*               Little Ringed Plover               LC         ×                              Fi, R             \+                    An
  *Charadrius placidus*             Long-billed Plover                 LC         ×                              Fi, R             \+                    An
  *Vanellus cinereus*               Grey-headed Lapwing                LC         ×                              G, R, Fi          \+                    CP, An
  *Vanellus duvaucelii*             River Lapwing                      NT                                        G, R, Fi          \+                    CP, An
  *Vanellus indicus*                Red-wattled Lapwing                LC                                        G, R, Fi          \+                    CP, An
  *Vanellus vanellus*               Northern Lapwing                   NT         ×                              Fi, R             ++                    CP, An
  Ibidorhynchidae                                                                                                                                        
  *Ibidorhyncha struthersii*        Ibisbill                           LC                                        Fi, R             \+                    An
  Turnicidae                                                                                                                                             
  *Turnix suscitator*               Barred Buttonquail                 LC         ×                              Fi                \+                    CP, An
  CICONIIFORMES                                                                                                                                          
  Ciconiidae                                                                                                                                             
  *Ciconia nigra*                   Black Stork                        LC                                        Fo, R             \+                    An
  COLUMBIFORMES                                                                                                                                          
  Columbidae                                                                                                                                             
  *Chalcophaps indica*              Emerald Dove                       LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Ducula aenea*                    Green Imperial Pigeon              LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Ducula badia*                    Mountain Imperial Pigeon           LC                                        Fo                ++++                  CP, An
  *Macropygia unchall*              Barred Cuckoo-Dove                 LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Spilopelia chinensis*            Spotted Dove                       LC                                        Fi, Fo            ++++                  CP, An
  *Streptopelia orientalis*         Oriental Turtle Dove               LC                                        Fi, Fo            ++++                  CP, An
  *Streptopelia decaocto*           Eurasian Collared Dove             LC                                        Fi, Fo            +++                   CP, An
  *Treron apicauda*                 Pin-tailed Green Pigeon            LC                                        Fo                ++++                  CP, An
  *Treron sphenurus*                Wedge-tailed Green Pigeon          LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  CORACIIFORMES                                                                                                                                          
  Alcedinidae                                                                                                                                            
  *Alcedo atthis*                   Common Kingfisher                  LC                                        R                 \+                    CP, An
  *Alcedo hercules*                 Blyth\'s Kingfisher                NT                                        R                 \+                    An
  *Ceryle rudis*                    Pied Kingfisher                    LC                                        R                 \+                    CP
  *Halcyon smyrnensis*              White-throated Kingfisher          LC                                        R                 \+                    CP
  *Megaceryle lugubris*             Crested Kingfisher                 LC                                        R                 \+                    CP
  Meropidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Merops orientalis*               Green Bee-eater                    LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Nyctyornis athertoni*            Blue-bearded Bee-eater             LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  CUCULIFORMES                                                                                                                                           
  Cuculidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Cacomantis merulinus*            Plaintive Cuckoo                   LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Centropus bengalensis*           Lesser Coucal                      LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Clamator coromandus*             Chestnut-winged Cuckoo             LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Cuculus canorus*                 Common Cuckoo                      LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP
  *Cuculus micropterus*             Indian Cuckoo                      LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Cuculus poliocephalus*           Asian Lesser Cuckoo                LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Hierococcyx sparverioides*       Large Hawk-Cuckoo                  LC                                        Fi, Fo            ++                    CP, An
  *Surniculus dicruroides*          Fork-tailed Drongo-Cuckoo          LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  FALCONIFORMES                                                                                                                                          
  Falconidae                                                                                                                                             
  *Falco severus*                   Oriental Hobby                     LC                                        Fi                \+                    CP, An
  *Falco tinnunculus*               Common Kestrel                     LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  GALLIFORMES                                                                                                                                            
  Phasianidae                                                                                                                                            
  *Arborophila atrogularis*         White-cheeked Partridge            NT                                        Fo                ++                    CP, CT, An
  *Arborophila mandellii*           Chestnut-breasted Partridge        VU         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Arborophila rufogularis*         Rufous-throated Partridge          LC                                        Fo                ++++                  CP, CT, An
  *Arborophila torqueola*           Common Hill Partridge              LC                                        Fo                ++++                  CP, CT, An
  *Gallus gallus*                   Red Junglefowl                     LC                                        G                 \+                    An
  *Lophura leucomelanos*            Kalij Pheasant                     LC                                        Fo                ++                    CT
  *Polyplectron bicalcaratum*       Grey Peacock Pheasant              LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, CT, An
  *Tragopan blythii*                Blyth\'s Tragopan                  VU                                        Fo                \+                    CT
  *Tragopan temminckii*             Temminck\'s Tragopan               LC                                        Fo                \+                    CT
  GRUIFORMES                                                                                                                                             
  Rallidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Amaurornis phoenicurus*          White-breasted Waterhen            LC         ×                              G                 \+                    An
  Gruidae                                                                                                                                                
  Grus grus                         Common Crane                       LC                                        Fi, R             ++                    CP, An
  PELECANIFORMES                                                                                                                                         
  Ardeidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Ardea insignis*                  White-bellied Heron                CR                                        R                 \+                    An
  *Ardeola bacchus*                 Chinese Pond Heron                 LC         ×                              R                 \+                    An
  *Bubulcus Ibis*                   Cattle Egret                       LC                                        R                 \+                    An
  *Butorides striata*               Striated Heron                     LC                                        R                 \+                    An
  *Ixobrychus cinnamomeus*          Cinnamon Bittern                   LC         ×                              R                 \+                    CP
  PICIFORMES                                                                                                                                             
  Megalaimidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Megalaima asiatica*              Blue-throated Barbet               LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Megalaima australis*             Blue-eared Barbet                  LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Megalaima franklinii*            Golden-throated Barbet             LC                                        Fo                +++                   CP, An
  PICIFORMES                                                                                                                                             
  Megalaimidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Megalaima lineata*               Lineated Barbet                    LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Megalaima virens*                Great Barbet                       LC                                        Fo                ++++                  CP, An
  Picidae                                                                                                                                                
  *Blythipicus pyrrhotis*           Bay Woodpecker                     LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Chrysophlegma flavinucha*        Greater Yellownape                 LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Dendrocopos canicapillus*        Grey-capped Pygmy Woodpecker       LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Dendrocopos cathpharius*         Crimson-breasted Woodpecker        LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Dendrocopos darjellensis*        Darjeeling Woodpecker              LC                                        Fo                \+                    CT
  *Dendrocopos hyperythrus*         Rufous-bellied Woodpecker          LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Dendrocopos macei*               Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker        LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Jynx torquilla*                  Eurasian Wryneck                   LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  *Picus chlorolophus*              Lesser Yellownape                  LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Sasia ochracea*                  White-browed Piculet               LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  PASSERIFORMES                                                                                                                                          
  Cettiidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Abroscopus albogularis*          Rufous-faced Warbler               LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Abroscopus schisticeps*          Black-faced Warbler                LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Abroscopus superciliaris*        Yellow-bellied Warbler             LC         ×                              Fo                +++                   CP, An
  *Cettia brunnifrons*              Grey-sided Bush Warbler            LC                                        Fi                \+                    An
  *Cettia castaneocoronata*         Chestnut-headed Tesia              LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Horornis fortipes*               Brownish-flanked Bush Warbler      LC         ×                              G                 ++                    CP, An
  *Tesia cyaniventer*               Grey-bellied Tesia                 LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Tesia olivea*                    Slaty-bellied Tesia                LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  Sturnidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Acridotheres albocinctus*        Collared Myna                      LC                                        V                 ++++                  An
  *Acridotheres tristis*            Common Myna                        LC                                        V                 ++++                  An
  *Agropsar sturninus*              Purple-backed Starling             LC         ×                              V                 \+                    An
  *Ampeliceps coronatus*            Golden-crested Myna                LC         ×                              V                 \+                    An
  *Gracula religiosa*               Hill Myna                          LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  *Sturnia malabarica*              Chestnut-tailed Starling           LC                                        G, V              ++                    CP
  Leiothrichidae                                                                                                                                         
  *Actinodura egertoni*             Rusty-fronted Barwing              LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Actinodura waldeni*              Streak-throated Barwing            LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  Aegithalidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Aegithalos bonvaloti*            Black-browed Bushtit               NE         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP
  *Aegithalos concinnus*            Black-throated Bushtit             LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  Nectariniidae                                                                                                                                          
  *Aethopyga ignicauda*             Fire-tailed Sunbird                LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Aethopyga nipalensis*            Green-tailed Sunbird               LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Aethopyga saturata*              Black-throated Sunbird             LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  PASSERIFORMES                                                                                                                                          
  Nectariniidae                                                                                                                                          
  *Aethopyga siparaja*              Crimson Sunbird                    LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Arachnothera longirostra*        Little Spiderhunter                LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Arachnothera magna*              Streaked Spiderhunter              LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Chalcoparia singalensis*         Ruby-cheeked Sunbird               LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  Alaudidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Alauda gulgula*                  Oriental Skylark                   LC                                        G                 \+                    An
  Pellorneidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Alcippe castaneceps*             Rufous-winged Fulvetta             LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Alcippe cinerea*                 Yellow-throated Fulvetta           LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Alcippe morrisonia*              Grey-cheeked Fulvetta              LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Alcippe nipalensis*              Nepal Fulvetta                     LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Alcippe poioicephala*            Brown-cheeked Fulvetta             LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Alcippe rufogularis*             Rufous-throated Fulvetta           LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  Motacillidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Anthus hodgsoni*                 Olive-backed Pipit                 LC                                        Fi, Fo            ++                    CP, An
  *Anthus richardi*                 Richard\'s Pipit                   LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  *Anthus roseatus*                 Rosy Pipit                         LC         ×                              Fi                ++                    An
  *Anthus rufulus*                  Paddyfield Pipit                   LC         ×                              Fi                \+                    An
  *Motacilla alba*                  White Wagtail                      LC                                        R                 ++                    CP, An
  *Motacilla cinerea*               Grey Wagtail                       LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  *Motacilla citreola*              Citrine Wagtail                    LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  Artamidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Artamus fuscus*                  Ashy Woodswallow                   LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  Elachuridae                                                                                                                                            
  *Elachura formosa*                Spotted Wren-babbler               LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  Muscicapidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Anthipes monileger*              White-gorgeted Flycatcher          LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Brachypteryx hyperythra*         Rusty-bellied Shortwing            NT                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Brachypteryx montana*            White-browed Shortwing             LC                                        Fo                \+                    An, CT
  *Chaimarrornis leucocephalus*     White-capped Water Redstart        LC                                        R                 ++                    CP, An
  *Copsychus saularis*              Oriental Magpie Robin              LC                                        V, Fi, G          ++                    CP, An
  *Cyornis banyumas*                Hill Blue Flycatcher               LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Cyornis rubeculoides*            Blue-throated Flycatcher           LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Cyornis tickelliae*              Tickell\'s Thrush                  LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Enicurus leschenaulti*           White-crowned Forktail             LC                                        R                 \+                    An
  *Enicurus maculatus*              Spotted Forktail                   LC                                        R                 \+                    CP, An
  *Enicurus schistaceus*            Slaty-backed Forktail              LC                                        R                 ++                    CP, An
  *Enicurus scouleri*               Little Forktail                    LC                                        R                 \+                    CP, An
  *Eumyias thalassinus*             Verditer Flycatcher                LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Ficedula albicilla*              Taiga Flycatcher                   LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP, An
  PASSERIFORMES                                                                                                                                          
  Muscicapidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Ficedula hyperythra*             Snowy-browed Flycatcher            LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Ficedula strophiata*             Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher         LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Ficedula superciliaris*          Ultramarine Flycatcher             LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP
  *Luscinia svecica*                Bluethroat                         LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Monticola solitarius*            Blue Rock Thrush                   LC                                        R                 \+                    CP
  *Muscicapa ferruginea*            Ferruginous Flycatcher             LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP
  *Myiomela leucura*                White-tailed Robin                 LC                                        Fo                \+                    CT
  *Myophonus caeruleus*             Blue Whistling Thrush              LC                                        Fo, V, R          +++                   CP, An
  *Niltava grandis*                 Large Niltava                      LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Niltava macgrigoriae*            Small Niltava                      LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Niltava sundara*                 Rufous-bellied Niltava             LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Phoenicurus auroreus*            Daurian Redstart                   LC                                        Fo, V             \+                    CP
  *Phoenicurus hodgsoni*            Hodgson\'s Redstart                LC         ×                              V                 \+                    CP, An
  *Rhyacornis fuliginosa*           Plumbeous Water Redstart           LC                                        R                 ++                    CP, An
  *Saxicola caprata*                Pied Bushchat                      LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Saxicola ferreus*                Grey Bushchat                      LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Saxicola torquatus*              Siberian Stonechat                 LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  *Tarsiger hyperythrus*            Rufous-breasted Bush Robin         LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Tarsiger indicus*                White-browed Bush Robin            LC         ×                              Fo                ++                    CT
  Campephagidae                                                                                                                                          
  *Coracina melaschistos*           Black-winged Cuckooshrike          LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Pericrocotus brevirostris*       Short-billed Minivet               LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Pericrocotus ethologus*          Long-tailed Minivet                LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Pericrocotus roseus*             Rosy Minivet                       LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Pericrocotus solaris*            Grey-chinned Minivet               LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Pericrocotus speciosus*          Scarlet Minivet                    LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  Chloropseidae                                                                                                                                          
  *Chloropsis hardwickii*           Orange-bellied Leafbird            LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  Cinclidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Cinclus pallasii*                Brown Dipper                       LC                                        R                 ++                    CP, An
  Cisticolidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Cisticola juncidis*              Zitting Cisticola                  LC         ×                              V                 \+                    An
  *Orthotomus sutorius*             Common Tailorbird                  LC                                        G, V              \+                    CP, An
  *Prinia crinigera*                Striated Prinia                    LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP
  *Prinia inornata*                 Plain Prinia                       LC         ×                              G                 \+                    An
  *Prinia rufescens*                Rufescent Prinia                   LC         ×                              G                 \+                    An
  *Prinia superciliaris*            Hill Prinia                        LC                                        G                 \+                    An
  Corvidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Cissa chinensis*                 Common Green Magpie                LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP
  *Corvus macrorhynchos*            Large-billed Crow                  LC                                        Fo, V             +++                   CP, An
  PASSERIFORMES                                                                                                                                          
  Corvidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Dendrocitta formosae*            Grey Treepie                       LC                                        Fi, Fo            +++                   CP, An
  *Dendrocitta frontalis*           Collared Treepie                   LC                                        Fo, V             ++                    CP, An
  *Garrulus glandarius*             Eurasian Jay                       LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Urocissa flavirostris*           Yellow-billed Blue Magpie          LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  Dicaeidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Dicaeum minullum*                Plain Flowerpecker                 LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  Dicruridae                                                                                                                                             
  *Dicrurus aeneus*                 Bronzed Drongo                     LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Dicrurus hottentottus*           Hair-crested Drongo                LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Dicrurus leucophaeus*            Ashy Drongo                        LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Dicrurus macrocercus*            Black Drongo                       LC                                        Fi, Fo            ++++                  CP, An
  *Dicrurus paradiseus*             Greater Racket-tailed Drongo       LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Dicrurus remifer*                Lesser Racket-tailed Drongo        LC                                        Fi, Fo            \+                    CP, An
  Emberizidae                                                                                                                                            
  *Emberiza pusilla*                Little Bunting                     LC                                        Fi                ++                    CP, An
  Estrildidae                                                                                                                                            
  *Lonchura striata*                White-rumped Munia                 LC                                        Fi, G             ++                    CP, An
  Eurylaimidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Psarisomus dalhousiae*           Long-tailed Broadbill              LC                                        Fo, V             \+                    An
  *Serilophus lunatus*              Silver-breasted Broadbill          LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  Fringillidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Carpodacus erythrinus*           Common Rosefinch                   LC                                        G                 \+                    CP, An
  *Procarduelis nipalensis*         Dark-breasted Rosefinch            LC                                        G                 ++                    CP, An
  Hirundinidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Hirundo rustica*                 Barn Swallow                       LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  *Riparia chinensis*               Asian Plain Martin                 NE                                        R                 +++                   CP, An
  Indicatoridae                                                                                                                                          
  *Indicator xanthonotus*           Yellow-rumped Honeyguide           NT         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  Irenidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Irena puella*                    Asian Fairy Bluebird               LC                                        V                 +++                   An
  Laniidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Lanius collurioides*             Burmese Shrike                     LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  *Lanius cristatus*                Brown Shrike                       LC                                        V                 \+                    An
  *Lanius schach*                   Long-tailed Shrike                 LC                                        Fo, V             ++                    CP, An
  *Lanius sphenocercus*             Chinese Grey Shrike                LC         ×                              V                 \+                    An
  *Lanius tephronotus*              Grey-backed Shrike                 LC                                        Fo, V             \+                    CP, An
  Leiothrichidae                                                                                                                                         
  *Cutia nipalensis*                Himalayan Cutia                    LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Garrulax caerulatus*             Grey-sided Laughingthrush          LC         ×                              Fo                ++                    CP, CT
  *Garrulax leucolophus*            White-crested Laughingthrush       LC                                        Fo                ++++                  CP, CT, An
  PASSERIFORMES                                                                                                                                          
  Leiothrichidae                                                                                                                                         
  *Garrulax monileger*              Lesser Necklaced Laughingthrush    LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Garrulax pectoralis*             Greater Necklaced Laughingthrush   LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, CT
  *Garrulax ruficollis*             Rufous-necked Laughingthrush       LC         ×                              Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Garrulax rufogularis*            Rufous-chinned Laughingthrush      LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Garrulax striatus*               Striated Laughingthrush            LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Garrulax nuchalis*               Chestnut-backed Laughingthrush     NT                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Heterophasia annectans*          Rufous-backed Sibia                LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Heterophasia picaoides*          Long-tailed Sibia                  LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Heterophasia pulchella*          Beautiful Sibia                    LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Leiothrix argentauris*           Silver-eared Mesia                 LC                                        Fo, G             ++++                  CP, An
  *Leiothrix lutea*                 Red-billed Leiothrix               LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Minla cyanouroptera*             Blue-winged Minla                  LC                                        Fo                +++                   CP, An
  *Minla ignotincta*                Red-tailed Minla                   LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Minla strigula*                  Bar-throated Minla                 LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Trochalopteron affine*           Black-faced Laughingthrush         LC                                        Fo                ++                    CT
  *Trochalopteron squamatum*        Blue-winged Laughingthrush         LC                                        Fo                ++                    CT
  *Trochalopteron subunicolor*      Scaly Laughingthrush               LC                                        Fo                ++                    CT
  *Liocichla phoenicea*             Red-faced Liocichla                LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  Locustellidae                                                                                                                                          
  *Megalurus palustris*             Striated Grassbird                 LC                                        G                 \+                    An
  Monarchidae                                                                                                                                            
  *Hypothymis azurea*               Black-naped Monarch                LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Terpsiphone paradisi*            Indian Paradise Flycatcher⑧        LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  Oriolidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Oriolus traillii*                Maroon Oriole                      LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  Paridae                                                                                                                                                
  *Machlolophus spilonotus*         Yellow-cheeked Tit                 LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Melanochlora sultanea*           Sultan Tit                         LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Parus monticolus*                Green-backed Tit                   LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Periparus ater*                  Coal Tit                           LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Periparus rubidiventris*         Rufous-vented Tit                  LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  Passeridae                                                                                                                                             
  *Passer domesticus*               House Sparrow                      LC                                        V                 ++                    An
  *Passer montanus*                 Eurasian Tree Sparrow              LC                                        G, V              ++++                  CP, An
  *Passer rutilans*                 Russet Sparrow                     LC         ×                              V                 \+                    An
  Pellorneidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Gampsorhynchus rufulus*          White-hooded Babbler               LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Pellorneum albiventre*           Spot-throated Babbler              LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Pellorneum ruficeps*             Puff-throated Babbler              LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  PASSERIFORMES                                                                                                                                          
  *Phylloscopidae*                                                                                                                                       
  *Phylloscopus cantator*           Yellow-vented Warbler              LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Phylloscopus claudiae*           Claudia\'s Leaf Warbler            LC         ×                              Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Phylloscopus davisoni*           Davison\'s Leaf Warbler            LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Phylloscopus fuscatus*           Dusky Warbler                      LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Phylloscopus maculipennis*       Ashy-throated Warbler              LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Phylloscopus reguloides*         Blyth\'s Leaf Warbler              LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Phylloscopus whistleri*          Whistler\'s Warbler                LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Seicercus affinis*               White-spectacled Warbler           LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Seicercus burkii*                Green-crowned Warbler              LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Seicercus castaniceps*           Chestnut-crowned Warbler           LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Seicercus poliogenys*            Grey-cheeked Warbler               LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Seicercus tephrocephalus*        Grey-crowned Warbler               LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  Pittidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Hydrornis nipalensis*            Blue-naped Pitta                   LC         ×                              Fo                ++                    CT
  Pnoepygidae                                                                                                                                            
  *Pnoepyga pusilla*                Pygmy Wren-Babbler                 LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  Pycnonotidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Alophoixus flaveolus*            White-throated Bulbul              LC                                        Fo                +++                   CP, An
  *Alophoixus pallidus*             Puff-throated Bulbul               LC         ×                              Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Hemixos flavala*                 Ashy Bulbul                        LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Hypsipetes leucocephalus*        Black Bulbul                       LC                                        Fo, V             ++++                  CP, An
  *Iole propinqua*                  Grey-eyed Bulbul                   LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Ixos mcclellandii*               Mountain Bulbul                    LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Pycnonotus cafer*                Red-vented Bulbul                  LC                                        Fo, V, Fi, G      +++                   CP, An
  *Pycnonotus flaviventris*         Black-crested Bulbul               LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Pycnonotus jocosus*              Red-whiskered Bulbul               LC                                        Fo, V, Fi, G      ++++                  CP, An
  *Pycnonotus striatus*             Striated Bulbul                    LC                                        G                 \+                    An
  Rhipiduridae                                                                                                                                           
  *Rhipidura albicollis*            White-throated Fantail             LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  Sittidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Sitta cinnamoventris*            Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch          LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Sitta frontalis*                 Velvet-fronted Nuthatch            LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Sitta himalayensis*              White-tailed Nuthatch              LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  Stenostiridae                                                                                                                                          
  *Chelidorhynx hypoxantha*         Yellow-bellied Fantail             LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Culicicapa ceylonensis*          Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher      LC                                        Fo, V             ++                    CP, An
  Strigidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Glaucidium brodiei*              Collared Owlet                     LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Glaucidium cuculoides*           Asian Barred Owlet                 LC                                        Fo, V             ++                    CP, An
  *Otus spilocephalus*              Mountain Scops Owl                 LC                                        Fo, V             \+                    An
  PASSERIFORMES                                                                                                                                          
  Sylviidae                                                                                                                                              
  *Chleuasicus atrosuperciliaris*   Lesser Rufous-headed Parrotbill    LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Lioparus chrysotis*              Golden-breasted Fulvetta           LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP
  *Psittiparus bakeri*              Rufous-headed Parrotbill           LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Psittiparus gularis*             Grey-headed Parrotbill             LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Suthora poliotis*                Grey-breasted Parrotbill           LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  Tephrodornithidae                                                                                                                                      
  *Hemipus picatus*                 Bar-winged Flycatcher-shrike       LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP
  Timaliidae                                                                                                                                             
  *Pomatorhinus ferruginosus*       Coral-billed Scimitar Babbler      LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Pomatorhinus ochraceiceps*       Red-billed Scimitar Babbler        LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Pomatorhinus ruficollis*         Streak-breasted Scimitar Babbler   LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP
  *Stachyris roberti*               Chevron-breasted Babbler           N/A                                       Fo                ++                    CT
  *Stachyridopsis chrysaea*         Golden Babbler                     LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Stachyridopsis ruficeps*         Rufous-capped Babbler              LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP
  *Stachyridopsis rufifrons*        Rufous-fronted Babbler             LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Stachyris nigriceps*             Grey-throated Babbler              LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Stachyris oglei*                 Snowy-throated Babbler             VU                                        Fo                \+                    An
  Troglodytidae                                                                                                                                          
  *Troglodytes troglodytes*         Eurasian Wren                      LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Harpactes erythrocephalus*       Red-headed Trogon                  LC                                        Fo                \+                    CT
  *Harpactes wardi*                 Ward\'s Trogon                     NT         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  Turdidae                                                                                                                                               
  *Cochoa viridis*                  Green Cochoa                       LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    An
  *Turdus boulboul*                 Grey-winged Blackbird              LC                                        Fo                \+                    An
  *Zoothera mollissima*             Plain-backed Thrush                LC         ×                              Fo                +++                   An, CT
  Vireonidae                                                                                                                                             
  *Erpornis zantholeuca*            White-bellied Erpornis             LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Pteruthius aeralatus*            White-browed Shrike Babbler        LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  *Pteruthius aenobarbus*           Chestnut-fronted Shrike Babbler    LC         ×                              Fo                                      An
  *Pteruthius melanotis*            Black-eared Shrike Babbler         LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Pteruthius xanthochlorus*        Green Shrike Babbler               LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP
  Zosteropidae                                                                                                                                           
  *Yuhina bakeri*                   White-naped Yuhina                 LC                                        Fo                +++                   CP, An
  *Yuhina castaniceps*              Striated Yuhina                    LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Yuhina flavicollis*              Whiskered Yuhina                   LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Yuhina gularis*                  Stripe-throated Yuhina             LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Yuhina nigrimenta*               Black-chinned Yuhina               LC                                        Fo                ++                    CP, An
  *Zosterops erythropleurus*        Chestnut-flanked White-eye         LC         ×                              Fo                \+                    CP, An
  *Zosterops palpebrosus*           Oriental White-eye                 LC                                        Fo                \+                    CP, An
  PSITTACIFORMES                                                                                                                                         
  Psittacidae                                                                                                                                            
  *Psittacula finschii*             Grey-headed Parakeet               NT                                        V                 \+                    An
  SULIFORMES                                                                                                                                             
  Phalacrocoracidae                                                                                                                                      
  *Phalacrocorax carbo*             Great Cormorant                    LC                                        R                 +++                   CP, An

![Taxonomic families observed in the bird surveys](ZoolRes-38-5-264-g2){#F2-ZoolRes-38-5-264}

![Species distribution in different elevations](ZoolRes-38-5-264-g3){#F3-ZoolRes-38-5-264}

![Distribution of count points in different elevations](ZoolRes-38-5-264-g4){#F4-ZoolRes-38-5-264}

New record
----------

We observed three new bird records for northern Myanmar (*Agropsar sturninus*, *Aviceda jerdoni*, and *Ampeliceps coronatus*) and two new record species (*Arborophila mandellii* and *Lanius sphenocercus*) for Myanmar.

Purple-backed Starling (*Agropsar sturninus*)
---------------------------------------------

One individual was photographed ([Figure 5](#F5-ZoolRes-38-5-264){ref-type="fig"}) by M.K. on 30 April 2012 in Makung Ghang Station (E98°16′56″, N27°38′54″) in the Hkakabo Razi direction.

![Photograph of Purple-backed Starling (*Agropsar sturninus*) (photo by Myint Kyaw)](ZoolRes-38-5-264-g5){#F5-ZoolRes-38-5-264}

Jerdon\'s Baza (*Aviceda jerdoni*)
----------------------------------

One individual was photographed by Z.X.L. (fifth author) on 5 May 2016 around camp 2 at Hponyin Razi (E96°59′3″, N27°36′10″).

Golden-crested Myna (*Ampeliceps coronatus*)
--------------------------------------------

One individual was photographed by M.K. on 23 November 2013 at Ziadam village (E97°5′56″, N27°34′13″).

Chestnut-breasted Partridge (*Arborophila mandellii*)
-----------------------------------------------------

One individual was photographed ([Figure 6](#F6-ZoolRes-38-5-264){ref-type="fig"}) by M.K. on 17 November 2013. The bird was hunted by a local villager close to camp 1 at Hponyin Razi (E96°58′52″, N27°36′21″).

![Photograph of Chestnut-breasted Partridge (*Arborophila mandellii*) (photo by Myint Kyaw)](ZoolRes-38-5-264-g6){#F6-ZoolRes-38-5-264}

Chinese Grey Shrike (*Lanius sphenocercus*)
-------------------------------------------

One individual was photographed ([Figure 7](#F7-ZoolRes-38-5-264){ref-type="fig"}) by M.K. on 23 November 2013 at Jobali village close to Putao town (E97°35′, N27°2′). It was identified by its large body size, black facial mask, grey nape and upperparts, white scapular, and white spot on the wings.

![Photograph of Chinese Grey Shrike (*Lanius sphenocercus*) (photo by Myint Kyaw)](ZoolRes-38-5-264-g7){#F7-ZoolRes-38-5-264}

DISCUSSION
==========

Because our data came from direct observations and camera trap photos, some species could be under sampled, particularly those living in shrub and canopy habitats. Our sampling effort was more intensive in lower elevations, partly because a larger proportion of the survey area occurred at lower elevations and partly because of easier transportation in the lowland plain. The overrepresentation of lower elevation habitats in our study could explain the low frequency of many bird families in our surveys. In the future, surveys should be conducted at higher elevations, especially in the mountains above 3 000 m a.s.l.. Although our sampling effort and checklist is incomplete, the present work provides preliminary data for local diversity research and conservation projects.

[@b8-ZoolRes-38-5-264] conducted five bird surveys in a 10 000 km^2^ area in the Hkakabo Razi region, mainly covering the east. While the present study area also lies within the same region, we focused on the western part of Putao. Furthermore, [@b8-ZoolRes-38-5-264] set mist nets from 500--3 000 m a.s.l., and recorded 413 species, of which 159 were not observed during our surveys. Of the 319 species recorded in the present research, 65 were not recorded by [@b8-ZoolRes-38-5-264]. The greatest difference in species occurred in the families Muscicapidae (*n*=7) and Accipitridae (*n*=6). This disparity between studies is likely explained by the different study areas sampled as well as the differences in methodology. Our methodology was more suited for detecting certain species. For example, birds of prey (Accipitridae) can be more easily observed during point counts, and some cryptic species can be captured by camera trap. In our study, one Eurasian Woodcock (*Scolopax rusticola*) was captured by camera trap at 1 190 m a.s.l.. We believe future exploration of new survey routes and a combination of different survey methods will lead to the discovery of additional species not previously recorded here.

The Chestnut-breasted Partridge was identified by its rufescent crown, white gorget, and chestnut breast. It was previously only known from Bhutan, Southeast Tibet, China, and Northeast India ([@b3-ZoolRes-38-5-264]). The Chinese Grey Shrike was previously recorded in eastern Mongolia to southeast Russia, northern China, and North and South Korean, also known to migrate to east and southeast China and Korea ([@b11-ZoolRes-38-5-264]). The finding of these species formerly unrecorded in the area not only increase two new species of birds for Myanmar, but also reiterates the high biodiversity in this region and highlights the importance of long-term field observations.

Based on our observations, the forest is in good condition. The Leiothrichidae, Columbidae, and Phasianidae species are forest-adapted, and their high abundance shows adequate food and resources for breeding in the local forest. Hornbills were observed almost every day around the camp sites at 1000--1 500 m a.s.l. during winter, and gibbons (*Hoolock* spp.) were often heard from the camp sites below 2 000 m a.s.l.. The most abundant species observed belonged to Pycnonotidae, Leiothrichidae, Columbidae, and Phasianidae. The bulbuls (Pycnonotidae) are common birds living in tropical and subtropical areas, which can adapt to diverse habitats ([@b2-ZoolRes-38-5-264]).

In addition to the forest, the local cropland also provides important habitat for many migrating species. Farmers in Putao plant large areas of rice in June-July and harvest it in October-November. The land is barren in other months of the year. These fallow lands provide important habitat for migrating bird species. M.K. observed more than 10 000 common cranes (*Grus grus*) migrating through Putao in March 2016, where they forage in the fallow rice paddies and wetlands by the Malika riverside.

[Figure 3](#F3-ZoolRes-38-5-264){ref-type="fig"} shows that both abundance and species richness were higher below 1 500 m a.s.l.. Species of high conservation value, (e.g., critically-endangered White-bellied Heron (*Ardea insignis*), vulnerable Rufous-necked Hornbill (*Aceros nipalensis*), and near-threatened Lesser Fish Eagle (*Haliaeetus humilis*)) were all recorded under 1 500 m a.s.l.. We also observed some birds with narrow ranges such as the Snowy-throated Babbler (*Stachyris oglei*) at lower elevations. Current protected area boundaries are set too high in minimal elevation (1 000 m a.s.l. for HPWS and 900 m a.s.l. for HKNP) and should be lowered to accommodate greater biodiversity, a conclusion also drawn by former researchers ([@b5-ZoolRes-38-5-264]; [@b9-ZoolRes-38-5-264]). The Burmese government currently plans to extend these two protected areas to incorporate lower elevations, and is applying for World Heritage Site status for these two regions. This is an important decision with long-term benefits for local conservation. The HPWS forest connects to the Hukawng Valley extension in the west. Extending the current HPWS and HKNP borders will ensure the protection of the largest forest complex in northern Myanmar and will maintain intact habitat for important wildlife.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
================

We are grateful for the support from the HPWS and HKNP Offices and FRI of Myanmar during field work. We thank Mr. Kyaw Win Maung, Mr. Kyaw Win Myint, and Mr. Dee Shin for their help during field work. We appreciate Mr. Francis Commercon for improving the language of the manuscript.
