They Sikkim Here-They Sikkim There!

The visit to the small, mountainous state of Sikkim in India was magical. There were lots of birds and butterflies such as the Oriental white eye (Zosterops palpebrosus) the Red Helen (Papillo helenus), respectively. Orchids grow wild all over the place and are clearly an enthusiasm (although European collectors pay a vast mark up on what the Sikkim growers receive). The area really pushes the environmental message but, in spite of this, there are clearly likely problems with substantial dam constructions in the area (largely for hydro-electric power). There is also notable accumulations of human-activity associated rubbish. The tradition of washing the 4x4 cars used in the substantial tourist trade in the torrents that stream down the mountain sides is also going to pollute. The 4x4's are essential for tourists to get about but this is a region that is already very prone to land slides. Even at great altitudes, like Tsomgo lake, the smell of diesel can be over-powering. There they use yaks like donkeys on the Blackpool shore (this can also erode and yak poo can change the vegetation). The state mammal, the Red panda (Ailurus fulgens) is clearly in trouble. The 'Switzerland of East' is a fascinating case study on several levels!