Folklore on Birds from Bhutia (Sikkimese) People
The Sikkimese Bhutia tribes have multiple folklore associated with them. The elderly people have much knowledge of ethno-ornithology stories and the current generation is still missing the flavor of it. Here are two stories, which are famous in the tribe groups. 

1. Thrung-Thrung-Kam [Black-necked Crane]
2. Jarog [Northern Raven]

Thrung-Thrung-Kam [Black-necked Crane]

Thrung-Thrung-Kam Black-necked Crane is a high-altitude species that exclusively harbors in some selected patches over lake regions in high altitudes areas. There are very few sighting reports for this species from Sikkim. From 2020 a confirmed photographic report is there from Lashar Valley in north Sikkim district. Since the bird is an extremely high-altitude species, the associated folklore and/or religious stories are limited to Sikkimese-speaking Bhutias and Tibetans only.

Though scarce sighting reports are there, but the state was under Bhutanese Deb-Rajah’s rule for nearly three hundred and fifty years. Thus known folklore and associated stories from Sikkim about this bird are the same as those presented in religious pieces of literature, myths, and folktales from Bhutan.

Jarog [Northern Raven]

Jargon Raven is an important entity in Buddhism. It symbolizes protection from negativities and poisons. It is termed as ‘Mahakala’ – guardian deity. In various Tibetan-Bhutanese literature, it is not a spirit that harms or symbolizes evil beings; rather it symbolizes being devoid of fear, darkness, and negativity.
Even in the biography of the first Dalai Lama (HH Gedun Drupa)), it is said that – once the family was attacked by raiders at night the parents of Dalai Lama had to flee. Upon arrival on the next day, the baby was guarded by Mahakalas – two Ravens.
It is placed in the battle crown of the Wangchuk kings of Bhutan. Since the time of Jigme Namgyal Wangchuk, the unique symbol of the satin-silk motif was placed in the crown. The king fought many wars against the Britishers as well as enemies of the states. It is believed the crown protected the king (dharma-rajah) and the country from invasions. Still, the current king wears Raven crowns on special occasions and ceremonies.