Nepal wildlife

Planning a trip for Nepal next year, December or January. I want to go to the Terai and see wildlife - not just the big ticket mammals, but birds. I am willing to splash to stay in the park for longer than the usual 2-night package, get an early start (5-6 in the morning) to view the critters. I am also willing to pay for an expert guide/spotter. However, the Tiger Tops website prices are completely insane! Can anyone advise if the less expensive packages outside the park can see the same beasties, leave early, and provide expert guides? How about Bardia, Kosi Tappu, Royal Sukla Phanta or Shivapuri Watershed? Anyone been there? And, lastly, can anyone recommend an expert bird guide in the Kathmandu Valley and Poharka available for day hire (and of course, willing to go out at crazy early hour)? Thanks in advance!

The much cheaper alternative is obviously to stay at one of the lodges in Sauraha, just outside the park. There are a number of good lodges there, some on the river, that cost about between a tenth and a quarter of Tiger Tops or even Bardia. Of course you are not in the middle of the park, but some people appreciate the tranquil, though bohemian, atmoshpere of the place. Lonely Planet and the Rough Guide to Nepal have all the details you need.
The lodges have guides that they recommend

Have a look to http://www.visitnepal.com/travelers_guide/bird_watching.htm
Andrées