We are excited to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the most ubiquitous birds in India, complete with stunning images and verified data. Our research was meticulously conducted by an Ornithologist using only dependable sources for accuracy.
Asian Paradise Flycatcher
The striking Asian Paradise Flycatcher is one of the most common birds in India, and features a long tail with two streamers that stretch out nearly twice its body length. It can be found throughout India, often near open forests, gardens, and parks.
The Asian Paradise Flycatcher is an insectivore, feasting on a variety of insects such as grasshoppers and beetles.
This species lives in pairs or small family groups, often with several males and one female. The birds are usually seen perching atop high trees, from which they swoop down to catch their prey. They are also known to catch the wings of flying insects mid-air. During the breeding season, these birds become increasingly territorial and will fiercely defend their nests against intruders.
The Asian Paradise Flycatcher is an unmistakable sight in India, with its bright colors and long tail streamers. Its beautiful plumage and delightful chirping make it an attractive sight for many bird watchers. Though their numbers are decreasing due to habitat loss, the species is still relatively common in India and provides a colorful addition to any outdoor scene.
Its bright feathers also make it an important symbol of beauty and love in Hindu mythology, with tales of its majestic flight serving as metaphors for a deep bond between two loving souls.
Despite its beauty and cultural significance, the Asian Paradise Flycatcher is still vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation, as well as being hunted for its feathers. Conservation efforts are needed in order to ensure that this lovely species remains a common sight in India for years to come.
Indian Pitta
The Indian Pitta is one of the most colorful and spectacular birds in India, with a bright blue head and body, orange-red wings, and a striking white tail. It makes its home in thick vegetation near forests, woodland edges, hillsides, and grasslands. The Indian Pitta is a ground-dwelling bird that feeds mainly on insects and small invertebrates. It is also known to eat fruit, particularly berries, occasionally foraging in trees for food. The breeding season of the Indian Pitta takes place between February and May, during which time the males display their colorful plumage as they court potential mates.
The female lays her eggs in a shallow cup-shaped nest that is built on the ground and hidden among thick vegetation. Indian Pittas are considered to be of the least concern by the IUCN’s Red List due to widespread distribution and stable population trends. However, they do face some threats from habitat destruction and fragmentation, as well as illegal hunting and trapping. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the continued protection of this species.
The Indian Pitta is a beloved bird in India, known for its remarkable plumage, beautiful singing voice, and playful behavior. It is an iconic species that is often seen gracing books and calendars, bringing joy to many people. It is also a symbol of hope and resilience, given its ability to survive in a wide range of habitats despite the threats it faces. With continued conservation efforts, we can ensure that this magnificent bird will continue to entertain us with its beauty for many years to come.
Indian Roller
The Indian Roller is another common bird found in India, with a long and slender body and bright blue upperparts. Its wings feature contrasting black and white patches which are visible when in flight. It can be seen flying over grasslands, fields, open forests, and other habitats with low vegetation. The Indian Roller feeds on insects, lizards, and other small creatures. It has a loud call that is often heard in the early morning or late evening. During breeding season, these birds are known to perform courtship displays which involve fluttering in the air while making loud calls.
The Indian Roller plays an important wildlife role by eating numerous agricultural pests, providing important pest control services for farmers. It is also an important part of Hindu and Buddhist mythology, associated with the god Vishnu as well as being a symbol of good luck and fortune.
Due to its importance, it is protected in parts of India by law. The Indian Roller’s population has been steadily declining due to habitat destruction, poaching, and other human activities. Efforts are being made to conserve this species, as well as its habitat, in order to protect it for future generations.
Common Kingfisher
(Alcedo atthis) is a species of small, brightly colored kingfisher found in the Indian subcontinent. It has been recorded from almost the entire Indian subcontinent except for some parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. The Common Kingfisher lives in close association with water bodies such as rivers, lakes, ponds, marshes and even sea coasts.
They are terrestrial birds, usually perching on trees or wires near water bodies to scan for prey. They feed mainly on fish but also eat amphibians, crabs, reptiles and other aquatic animals. Common Kingfishers are known for their bright blue back, orange breast and white forehead. The male and female have similar plumage, but the male has a brighter orange breast than the female.
Common Kingfishers build their nests in burrows or crevices on vertical banks near water bodies. The nest is lined with feathers, grasses and other material gathered from the ground. They lay 3-5 eggs at a time which are incubated for 12-17 days. The young are fed by both parents until they become independent and able to fly. Common Kingfishers have a wide range of vocalizations, including chirping, croaking, and rattling calls.
Red Headed Trogon
Red Headed Trogon is an endemic bird species of India. It is also known as the flame-throated bulbul and is found in the Western Ghats in states such as Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Goa. The Red Headed Trogon is a medium sized bird with a pointed beak. Its body is mainly reddish brown in color with white plumage on its lower belly.
The bird has a bright red head and wings, which are black with white bars on the underside. This distinctive coloration makes it easily recognizable in its natural habitat. It mainly feeds on fruits, flowers, insects, and small reptiles. Red Headed Trogons are territorial birds and they live in pairs or small groups in the forests of the Western Ghats.
They are also known as migratory birds seasonally from their breeding grounds in search of favorable weather conditions. During the winter months, they can be found in the northern parts of India near Delhi and Rajasthan. Red Headed Trogons are an important part of India’s avifauna as they help to maintain a balance in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations. They are also of great cultural significance as they are seen as a symbol of good luck in many parts of India.
The Sarus crane
The Sarus crane is the largest bird native to India, standing up to 5.5 feet tall and weighing between 10-15 kilograms. For centuries, these majestic birds have been celebrated as symbols of fidelity and love in India due to their remarkable lifelong commitment to a single mate. In many places throughout India, Sarus cranes are still considered sacred and respected by local communities.
Sarus cranes are known for their distinctive red crown and long grey body, which makes them easily distinguishable from other species of crane. The birds can also be identified by their loud trumpeting call that is often heard from afar. In addition to India, Sarus cranes can be found in parts of Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Southeast Asia.
Sadly, the population of Sarus cranes in India has been steadily declining due to habitat destruction, an increased risk of poaching, and a shrinking food supply. The birds are also threatened by power lines that run through their migration paths as well as pollution from nearby cities.
Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
(Ceyx erithaca) is a bright and colorful bird found in India. It lives in water bodies like rivers, streams, lakes, ponds and canals. The Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher has an average length of 14-16 cm and has a distinctive blue back with white undersides. The most remarkable feature of this species is its bright red bill and eye-ring, which make it highly visible in its habitat. It is a territorial species and can be found singly or in pairs during breeding season.
The Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher feeds mainly on small fish, crustaceans, insects and other aquatic invertebrates. During the breeding season, they don’t migrate and stay in the same area. They are often seen perched on a rock or tree branch close to their breeding grounds near water bodies. They breed during the monsoon season and build a mud nest in an overhanging rock, or hollow tree trunk or stump near waterbodies. Both male and female take turns to incubate the eggs and feed the chicks.
The Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is an important part of the Indian avifauna, and it plays a vital role in the food chain by preying on aquatic insects and small fishes. Unfortunately, this species is vulnerable to many threats like habitat destruction, pesticide use and pollution. It is listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List, and conservation efforts should be taken to ensure its survival.
Red-wattled Lapwing
Red-wattled Lapwing is a species of bird found in India. It is known for its loud, metallic call that can be heard at dawn and dusk. The male birds have red wattles on their heads along with white spots on their wings, while the female birds are mostly brownish-grey in color.
These birds prefer to live in open grasslands and fields, where they forage for insects and other small invertebrates. They nest on the ground in shallow depressions that are lined with vegetation or feathers. The male birds will usually perform elaborate courtship displays to attract a mate.
Red-wattled Lapwings are common throughout India but their populations have decreased due to habitat loss and degradation. They are also vulnerable to predation by larger birds, such as eagles and owls. Conservation efforts have been implemented in some areas in order to protect these birds from further declining populations.
The Red-wattled Lapwing is a much loved bird in India and its loud call is often heard across the countryside. It is also an important part of the cultural heritage of India, having featured in many folklore tales over the centuries.
White-throated Kingfisher
White-throated Kingfisher is a widespread resident bird species found in India. It is mostly seen in open woodland near rivers, lakes and ponds, typically perching on bare branches or wires. It has a distinct white throat which is the feature that sets it apart from other kingfisher species. The White-throated Kingfisher feeds mainly on fish, but also hunts insects and frogs. It hunts by making a diving plunge into the water, sometimes hovering before plunging. It nests in tree holes or mud burrows and usually lays 3-7 eggs at a time.
The White-throated Kingfisher is an important species in India’s avifauna because of its wide range and distribution. Its presence often characterises the landscape and many villagers consider it a harbinger of good luck. Its vibrant colours make it an attractive bird to watch and enjoy, especially when it is perched on high with its wings spread wide.
Great Hornbill
The great Hornbill is one of the most iconic birds in India. It is a large bird with impressive size and coloration and can be found in different parts of the country. These birds are known as ‘trees of life’ as they act as flagship species for their tropical forest habitats. The Great Hornbill plays an important role in maintaining the ecological balance of the forests.
The Great Hornbill is a large, bulky bird with huge black and yellow beaks, and eye-catching white casques on their head. The males have yellow faces and red eyes, while the females are dark grey in coloration. Its long tail feathers are tipped in orange or red.
The Great Hornbill is an arboreal bird, and spends most of its time in the upper canopy of evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. It eats a variety of fruits, and has been known to feed on small rodents and birds. During the breeding season, it builds large nests high up in the trees. These nests are often used as breeding sites for several other species of birds.
The Great Hornbill is threatened by the destruction and fragmentation of its habitat due to human activity. It is also vulnerable to hunting and trapping, as it is a highly prized bird in some parts of India. Conservation efforts have been taken to protect this species, including habitat protection and captive breeding programs.
The Common Myna
The Common Myna, or Indian Myna, is a popular and distinctive bird native to India. It is one of the most commonly seen birds in urban areas, often living near human habitation, and has even been spotted perching on electrical wires. The Common Myna is known for its vocalisations – it has a wide repertoire of calls that can be heard throughout the day. Not only is the Common Myna highly visible and vocal, but it is also an important part of Indian culture.
It has been mentioned in classical literature and featured in various artwork, including paintings and sculptures, for centuries. Today, it remains a firm part of India’s national identity, often perceived as a symbol of resilience and strength. With its beautiful combination of black and yellow feathers, the Common Myna is truly a sight to behold!
The Common Myna is also renowned for its intelligence. It has been observed using tools to reach food, such as stones or sticks, and can even identify and remember individual faces. In some parts of India, the bird has even been trained to act as a living alarm clock, waking people up in the morning! It is no wonder why this remarkable creature has won the hearts of so many Indians.
The Common Myna is an important member of India’s avian community, and its presence is an integral part of Indian life. By appreciating its beauty and marveling at its intelligence, we can ensure that this remarkable species will remain a beloved part of India’s culture for many years to come.
Rose-ringed Parakeet
(Psittacula krameri) is a species of parrot found in India. It is the most widely distributed parrot in the world, ranging from Africa and Arabia to parts of China and South Asia. In India, it can be seen in different habitats such as farms, parks, cities and forests. Rose-ringed Parakeets usually feed on fruits, nuts and seeds, but they have also been known to eat grains and will sometimes scavenge for food. They are social birds found in pairs or small groups, often joining with other parakeets when there is a large food source available.
Rose-ringed Parakeets can be trained to speak and mimic human speech, making them popular pets in many parts of the world. They usually make loud and piercing calls that can be heard from some distance away, earning them the nickname ‘ringneck’. These beautiful birds may not be native to India, but they have become an integral part of its avian population.
Oriolus oriolus
(Oriolus oriolus) is a species of bird that can be found in India. It belongs to the family Oriolidae and is native to the Indian subcontinent. The plumage of the Golden Oriole is mainly yellow, with blue-black on the wings and tail. The males have bright yellow heads and upperparts, while the females are less brightly coloured.
This species of bird is found in open woodlands and scrub, as well as cultivated areas with trees. The Golden Oriole feeds on insects such as caterpillars, as well as fruits like figs and berries. They build their nests in tree cavities or on branches, using twigs, leaves and grass to construct a cup-shaped structure. The female lays 3-5 eggs which hatch after 10-12 days.
The Golden Oriole is an important species for Indian agriculture as it helps to control insect pests that can damage crops. Unfortunately, due to habitat destruction, their population has been declining in recent years.
Indian Peafowl
Indian Peafowl, also known as blue peafowl, are native to India and Sri Lanka. These tropical birds have become an iconic symbol of the country, appearing in art and literature throughout its history. In Hindu mythology, the bird is associated with Lakshmi—the goddess of wealth and beauty—and is thought to bring good luck.
Indian Peafowl are one of the most colorful and instantly recognizable birds in the world. The males have an iridescent blue-green plumage with long, flowing tails adorned with eye-catching eye spots. Females are a muted brownish grey but can still be identified by their shorter tail feathers.
These birds inhabit open grassland and scrub forest throughout India and Sri Lanka, where they make their homes in the branches of trees. During breeding season, males can be seen strutting around for potential mates with their colorful plumage on full display. They will also use their tails to create a fanlike shape and vibrate it as part of a “dancing” behavior that is thought to attract the attention of females.
House Crow
(Corvus splendens) is a common bird found in India. It is one of the most widespread birds in urban areas, often seen perched on buildings or power lines. The adult House Crow has glossy black plumage and yellow eyes. It measures between 30-40 cm from beak to tail.
The House Crow is omnivorous, eating a variety of foods such as insects, small mammals, eggs, carrion, and seeds. It is often seen scavenging for food in garbage dumps or thrashing foraging sites. They typically hunt alone or in pairs but may gather in large groups when searching for food.
The House Crow is an intelligent bird and can learn quickly. It has been known to imitate human speech and is even able to recognize individual people.
The House Crow usually builds its nest in tree hollows, telephone poles, or holes in walls. Its nest is made from twigs and lined with grasses and feathers. The female lays 2-4 eggs that are glossy white with brown spots. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the young.
Black Kite
(Milvus migrans govinda) is one of the most widespread birds in India, with a range that covers most of the country. It can be found in fields, towns and cities, often circling overhead or perched atop buildings or telephone poles. Black Kite is easily distinguishable by its kite-like shape, its long slender wings and its deeply forked tail. It has a greyish-brown head, back and wings, with black flight feathers and a white patch at the base of its primaries. The underside is pale grey or white, with barred patches on the chest and belly. Its call is a loud cawing sound that can be heard from far away.
Black Kite is an opportunistic feeder, eating a variety of small animals like lizards, frogs, small birds and large insects as well as garbage and carrion. It usually hunts by hovering in the air and swooping down to seize its prey from the ground or in midair. It is sometimes seen attacking other birds for their prey. It is also known to steal food from the mouths of other predatory birds and animals, a behaviour called kleptoparasitism.
Green Bee-eater
Green Bee-eater is an exquisite bird species found in the Indian Subcontinent. Its vibrant colors and unique features make it a sight to behold. It is known for its long, curved beak which helps it catch insects quickly and efficiently. The Green Bee-eater has been declared as India’s national bird as a result of its significance to the country’s ecology and culture. It is known to inhabit agricultural fields, wetlands, and other open areas.
The bird moves in large flocks during the monsoon season when food is abundant and can be seen hovering over flowering trees for nectar or perching on branches waiting to catch their prey. Its call is quite distinctive and it produces a loud “che-wit” sound when disturbed. The Green Bee-eater has been known to feed on various insects like bees, beetles, and dragonflies.
It is also known to hunt spiders and ants which it catches in mid-air with its long beak. The species plays an important role in helping keep the insect population at bay as well as providing much needed sustenance to the locals. The Green Bee-eater is an incredibly beautiful species and a symbol of India’s unique biodiversity. It is often used as an example to highlight the importance of conservation and preserving nature.
White Breasted Waterhen
White Breasted Waterhen, a water bird commonly found in India, is a part of the Rallidae family. It is known for its unique behaviour, as it dives into shallow streams and ponds in search of food. In addition to being an excellent swimmer, it also has great agility when flying from one place to another. The White Breasted Waterhen is easily identified by its distinct white breast and dark-gray feathers. Its diet consists of small invertebrates, such as tadpoles, aquatic insects, and frogs. In some parts of the country, it is also known to feed on grain crops in fields.
The White Breasted Waterhen often roosts in trees near water bodies during the day and becomes active after dusk, when it looks for food in shallow water. It is a shy bird and often sits motionless on branches near the shoreline and may be spotted easily from a distance. The White Breasted Waterhen can be found in large numbers throughout India but is most commonly seen in the wetland areas of Northern, Central, and South India.
It breeds in the wet season, from July to October, and usually lays three to four eggs in a clutch. The White Breasted Waterhen is an important species that help maintain the balance of aquatic ecosystems. As it feeds on insect larvae and other small invertebrates, it keeps their population in check and maintains water quality by keeping the number of pest species in check.
Fire Tailed Myzornis
Fire Tailed Myzornis is a species of passerine bird native to the Himalayan region of India. It is a small, colorful bird with bright yellow head and breast and vibrant red tail feathers. The Fire Tailed Myzornis inhabits forests, scrublands, and mountain slopes near streams and rivers. It feeds mainly on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates.
The Fire Tailed Myzornis is known to move in flocks of up to 50 birds during its breeding season. The males are known for their loud call which they make while displaying their brightly colored tail feathers in an attempt to attract females. The Fire Tailed Myzornis is an important species for the Indian ecosystem as it helps maintain insect and pest control. Unfortunately, due to deforestation and other human activities, its population has seen a sharp decline in recent years. It is now listed as a vulnerable species and conservation efforts are underway to help protect it from further decline.
India’s rich biodiversity makes it an incredibly unique and fascinating place. By conserving the habitats of these beautiful species, we can help ensure their vibrant population for generations to come.
Which bird is most common in India?
The most common bird in India is the House Sparrow (Passer domesticus). It is found in urban and rural areas throughout the country. The House Sparrow is easily identified by its grayish-brown feathers with white underside, black patches on its chest, and bright yellow bill. It feeds on a variety of grains, insects, fruits, and nectar. The House Sparrow is a very social bird and can often be seen in large flocks flying together or foraging for food. It is also known to build its nests close to human dwellings, making it a common sight in Indian cities and villages.
Which bird is only in India?
The Indian Pitta (Pitta brachyura) is a species of birds endemic to India. It is easily identified by its bright plumage, with a blue head, green back, and chestnut breast. The bird can be found in the tropical forests of India, mainly in areas with dense foliage.
It feeds on small insects, such as ants, beetles, spiders, and caterpillars. It also eats fruits, such as figs and berries. The Indian Pitta is a shy bird and is rarely spotted in the wild. It is classified as near-threatened due to habitat destruction caused by deforestation.
Which bird is very rare in India?
The White-bellied Herons (Ardea insignia) are very rare birds found only in the wetlands of Northern India. It has white plumage with a black neck, wings, and tail. Its beak is yellowish-brown in color and its legs are long and sturdy to help it move around in shallow waters. It usually feeds on fish, amphibians, reptiles, and small invertebrates. The White-bellied Heron is listed as critically endangered due to the loss of habitat caused by increased urbanization and water pollution. As a result, it has become a very rare bird in India and its population continues to decline.
Passerine birds in India
Passerine birds are a large group of small to medium-sized birds found in India. They belong to the order of Perching Birds and can be identified by their sharp claws, which they use to cling onto branches and other surfaces.
The most common passerine birds in India include the Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis), the Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus), and the Common Tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius). The Common Myna is easily identified by its bright orange-yellow bill, black head, and brown body. It often forages in open areas for insects as well as fruits and grains.