List of birds of India

This is a list of the bird species recorded in India. The avifauna of India includes around 1314 species, of which 42 are endemic, 1 has been introduced by humans, and 25 are rare or accidental. Two species have been extirpated in India and 82 species are globally threatened. The Indian peacock (Pavo cristatus) is the national bird of India.

More recent birds discovered in India include the Bugun liocichla which was discovered in Arunachal Pradesh in 2006. Besides this, a few birds considered to be extinct have been rediscovered an example being the Jerdon's courser. Some others have been elevated from subspecies to full species.

This list's taxonomic treatment (designation and sequence of orders, families, and species) and nomenclature (common and scientific names) are broadly based on the International Ornithologists’ Union list (version 3.2). The family accounts at the beginning of each heading reflects this taxonomy, as do the species counts found in each family account.

The following tags have been used to highlight certain relevant categories, but not all species fall into one of these categories. Those that do not are commonly occurring, native species.

    (A) Accidental A species that rarely or accidentally occurs in India.
    (E) Endemic A species endemic to India.
    (I) Introduced A species introduced to India as a consequence, direct or indirect, of human actions.
    (Ex) Extirpated A species that no longer occurs in India although populations exist elsewhere.

1. Ceylon Frogmouth (Batrachostomus moniliger)

Ceylon Frogmouth's existed under the dense canopy of tropical forests for a long time. Dr. Salim Ali was instrumental in the identification of the same in 1930.The sanctuary is named after him. Later, the bird was rediscovered in 1990 by Ornithologist Dr.Sugathan, along with its habitat, occurrence, nesting, etc. This bird is best located at night by its peculiar cry, which is a loud descending crackly and frog-like series of Klock-klock calls.

 

2. Vernal Hanging Parrot (Loriculus Vernalis)

Vernal Hanging Parrot is also known as Indian Lorikeet and is mainly found in India and South East Asia. Its small and less gregorious than the other members of the Psittacidae family. They are found in dry vegetation. Its body is mainly green. with adults having a red streak on the rump and blue throat patch. Their main diet includes fruits,seeds and buds. Vernal hanging parrots nest in small holes in the trees. Its local name is Thaththa Chinnan.

 

3. Rose Ringed Parakeet (Pscittacula Krameri)

Rose ringed parakeets are one of the widespread birds in the Indian sub-continent. They are adapted to live in the cities and other urban areas. They are popular pets all over India with an ability to mimic human speeches. They are sexually dimorphic with adult males having black neck ring and a pink nape band. The wild flocks will travel long distance search food and cause extensive damage to farmlands and orchards. Its vernacular name is Mothiravalayan Thaththa.

 

4. Plum Headed Parakeet (Pscittacula Cyanocephala)

Plum headed parakeet is endemic in the Indian sub-continent.It is mostly green in color with the males having red heads with purple blue shades on the napes. A pale black neck collar and black chin strip is another prominent feature. Females have grayish blue head without the neck collar and chin strip. Its local name is Poomthaththa. Albeit not a good talker like Rose ringed parakeet it can be trained to mimic beeps and whistles.

 

5. Black Drongo (Dicrurus Macrocercus)

Black Drongo is a member of the Dicruridae family found through out India. It can be seen on open agricultural areas and light forests preying on small insects close to the ground. In Kerala they are called Aanaranchi. Its a small flossy black bird with a wide fork to the tail. Juveniles are Brownish with white underbelly. They are aggressive birds and never show fear in attacking big birds like Crows and even Birds of Prey,those entered their nesting territory. This particular characteristics of Black Drongo make other small birds to nest along them.

 

6. Racket Tailed Drongo (Dicrurus paradiseus)

Racket tailed drongo is the largest member of the Dicuridae family. They can be easily distinguished from other Drongos by its their tails that have distinctive rackets and crest of curled feathers on the forehead. They often make loud calls “Tunk tunk tunk…”. They are known to imitate the calls of Birds of Prey, during mixed species foraging to create panic among small birds and steal prey from them. They are found through out the Indian Sub-Continent.

 

7. White Bellied Drongo (Dicrurus Caerulescens)

The main physical feature distinguishingthe White Bellied Drongo from Black drongo’s and Ashy drongos are theirwhite belly and vent.The fork of the tail is less deep and are smaller than Black drongo. Juveniles are black. They are known for imitating the sounds of squirrels and cats while mobbing other birds. They are often seen singly. Though their main diet includes insects , they are opportunistic hunters and known to have prey upon small birds. Its local name is Kakka Rajan.

 

8. Bronzed Drongo (Dicrurus aeneus)

Bronzed Drongo is the smallest member of the Dicruridae family found in Kerala. The salient feature of this small bird is its glossy appearance. They have more metallic gloss with a sequined appearance on the head , neck and breast. They are black birds with green and blue undertones. Its vernacular name is Lalita Kakka. Like other Drongos they can also make a variety of beautiful calls and are known to imitate other birds.

 

9. Hair Crested Drongo (Dicrurus hottentottus)

Hair Crested Drongos are akin to Spangled Drongos(Dicrurus bracteatus) and both are known as “Spangled Drongo” But, Hair crested drongos are Asian and Spangled drongos are Australian. Their main features include long tails with upward twisted corners and hair-like crests. They move in small flocks and are good mimics. Its locally called Kinnari kakka.

 

10. Ashy Drongo (Dicrurus leucophaeus)

Ashy Drongo’s are migratory birds which are seen in Kerala from September to April .They are similar to the Black Drongo although they are dark grey in colour and are slimmer and longer than the latter. It usually prefers forested hill tracts. They travel long distances during migration. They can imitate the sounds of other birds especially that of Common Iora (Aegithina tiphia ). Their feeding habits are similar to that of Black Drongo. In kerala they are called Kakka Thampuran.

11. Darter (Anhinga melanogaster)

The other names of Darter are Oriental Darter and Snake Bird.They are large birds with long slender necks, from which it gets its name Snake Bird,It has a large body and long tail.They often swims with only their neck above the water.Adults have dark grey body with a white stripe on the sides of the neck.They have beautifully patterned white streaks on the wing-coverts and lance shaped white streaks in the scapular region.Juveniles have pale yellow brownish underside. Local name is Cherakkozhi.

 

12. Great Pied Hornbill (Buceros bicornis)

Its also known as the Great Indian Hornbill or Giant Hornbill, the largest of the four hornbills found in Kerala .Its the State bird of Kerala.Its local name is Malamuzhakki Vezhambal.In In South East Asia,they are seen only in the Western Ghats and the foothills of Himalayas.The prominent feature of the bird is its large casque on top of the beak.Their diet mainly comprises fruits though the they occasionally eat snakes,small lizards and even small birds.

 

13. Malabar Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros coronatus)

Malabar pied hornbills prefer open woodlands and cultivation.Its local name is Pandan Vezhambal.Its body has mainly black plumage with a white belly and a white patch on the throat. The bill is yellow in colour with a large black casque. They are omnivorous birds but their main diet constitutes fig.

 

14. Indian Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros birostris)

It is also called, Common Grey Hornbill is found throughout the Indian sub continent.Its local name is Nattu Vezhambal .They prefer open woodlands and are well adapted to live in urban areas.They are grayish brown birds with a black and white tip at the tail end.Their casque is short and pointed.They live in pairs or small groups.

 

15. Little Cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger)

Little Cormorants are small members of the Phalacrocoracidae family . They are usually found near lakes and rivers. During breeding season adults become glossy black with scattered white plumes in the fore head and sides of the head. Non breedind adults and juveniles are Brownish black with a white patch on the chin and lacks the white plumage. Fish constitutes their main diet and they can dive to considerable depths in search for fish.Its local name is Cheriya neerkakka or Kakka thaaravu.

 

16. Indian Cormorant (Phalacrocorax fuscicollis)

Indian Cormorants are also called Indian Shag. They are slightly larger than the Little Cormorant and can be easily distinguished by its thin neck and long narrow beak. Breeding adults have black body with white tuft near the eyes and white plumes on the neck . Non breeding birds are brownish black with whitish throat. Local name is Kinnari Neerkakka.

 

17. Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Great Cormorant are the largest member of the Phalacrocoracidae family in India. During breeding season adults become glossy black with white facial skin. White plumes on the crown and side of the head and white chin are other features. A white patch is seen on the thighs. Non breeding males are brownish black. White plumes and thigh patches are absent. They are seen in large lakes and rivers. Its local name is Valiya Neerkakka.

 

18. Red Spurfowl (Galloperdix spadicea)

Red Spurfowl is a member of the Phasianidae family which is found in the shrubs,and the dry and deciduous forests of Kerala.Its vernacular names are Mullan kozhi or Thavittuthalayan Kattukozhi. They prefer areas with thick undergrowth, which makes its sighting difficult. The upper parts of its body is brown and have a rufous underside with black markings. The breeding season is between January and June, usually before the rains.

 

19. Grey Junglefowl (Gallus sonneratii)

Grey Junglefowl is the wild relative of domestic fowls found in India. Its local name is Kattu Kozhi. The males have black cape with golden yellow spots on it. Its body is grey in colour with fine patterns and has red wattles. Females are duller in colour with black and white streakings on underside. They breed from February to May.Its diet includes bamboo grains, small insects and termites.

 

20. Malabar Trogon

Malabar Trogon is a small beautifully colored bird of the Trogonidae family. The adult males have Black head,neck and breast. The under part of this bird is crimson red separated from the sooty black of the breast by a white collar. Wing coverts are black brilliantly barred with white. The back and tail is yellowish brown. Tails have a terminal black band. Females are less gregarious with cinnamon colored head and orange brown under parts. They mainly feed on caterpillars, cicadas and other insects. Its call is a musical cue-cue –cue. Its local name is Thee kakka , literally meaning “fire crow”. 

21. Common Hoopoe (Upupa epops)

Hoopoe is a medium sized bird which can be identified at once by the conspicuous fan like crest and distinctive black and white markings in the wing coverts and a white middle band in its tail. Its body is light yellowish brown and have a slender long bill. Crest feathers have black tip. Its call is a soft musical hoo-po-po. They are often seen in lightly wooded regions and avoid thick forests. Breeding season is from February to May. Local name is Uppooppan

 

22. Stork Billed Kingfisher (Halcyon capensis)

These birds can be easily distinguished from other kingfishers by its large body size and its huge red bill. They have grayish brown head and greenish blue upper parts. Under parts are pale yellow brown and have a buff collar. Legs are bright red. Their call is a high pitched laugh ke-ke-ke-ke-ke-ke. They feed mainly on fish , frog and crab. Local name is Kakka ponman.

 

23. White Throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis)

They are also called White Breasted Kingfisher. They have turquoise blue upper parts and dark brown head , nape and flank.. Under parts are mostly brown with a white neck and centre of the breast. In flight a white patch is seen on the wings.They are commonly found in various water bodies.Their call is a loud ke-ke-kek-kek-kek . Local name is Ponman

 

24. Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)

They are common birds found throughout India. They have short body with a stumpy tail and large head with strong beaks. Adults have greenish blue head,scapulae and wings are covert orange. Their under parts are rufous and have a green-blue neck stripe and a white neck patch.Local name is Podi ponman.

 

25. Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher (Ceyx erithacus)

A tiny bird brilliantly colored with purplish blue on the mantle and bluish black upper wing coverts.Their under parts are yellow and the beak is light pinkish-orange. It prefers small streams inside evergreen forests which make its sighting bit difficult. A recent sighting has been reported from the Thattekkad Sanctuary. Local name is Meni ponman.

 

26. Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis)

Indian Cormorants are also called Indian Shag. They are slightly larger than the Little Cormorant and can be easily distinguished by its thin neck and long narrow beak. Breeding adults have black body with white tuft near the eyes and white plumes on the neck . Non breeding birds are brownish black with whitish throat. Local name is Kinnari Neerkakka.

 

27. Rufous Treepie (Dendrocitta vagabunda)

Rufous Treepie is a member of the Corvidae family found throughout India. Its vernacular name is Olen njaali. It prefers open forests and is well adapted to live in urban areas. Its body is Cinnamon colored and have black head and legs. White patches are seen on the wings and have tawny brown underside with a long bluish grey tail with a black patch at its tip. It usually travel alongside with unrelated species like Drongos and Babblers. The breeding season in India is April to June.

 

28. White Bellied Treepie (Dendrocitta leucogastra)

As its name suggests White bellied treepie can be easily distinguished from the Rufous treepie with its white colored head and body. Its endemic to the hills of South India. Unlike Rufous Treepie it avoids urban areas and are found in the dense forests. Its local name is Kaatu Njali. Its main diet includes fruits, insects and worms.

 

29. House Crow (Corvus splendens)

House Crows are the most common birds in India. They are well adapted to live in cities and other urban areas as they show no fear for humans. Its forehead, wings, legs and tail are glossy black whereas breast and neck are light grayish brown. They are omnivorous and feed almost anything that is edible. These birds can be seen in market places and garbage areas. Their voice is a harsh Kaa – kaa hence getting the local name kakka

 

30. Large billed Crow or Jungle Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos)

Jungle Crows are also widespread and common as the House Crow.They are slightly larger in size with glossy black forehead, wings and tails. Its neck and breast are dark grey in colour. Eleven sub species are also found in the Sub-Continent. Their diet includes a wide range of items, eating almost everything edible. Their vernacular names are Tonnan kakka or Beli kakka.

31. Pale Billed Flowerpecker (Dicaeum erythrorhynchos)

They are also called Tickell’s Flower pecker. Its a tiny Olive-brown bird with grayish white under parts and light pink colored bill. They are found throughout India.Its main food comprises of the berries of the plant parasites Dendrophthoe and Viscum. Its local name is Chengokkan Ittikkanni Kuruvi.(ittikkanni =Dendrophthoe).

 

32. Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)

They are also called sea Hawks. Osprey is a large raptor found all over the world except Antartica. In kerala they are a non-breeding migratory birds spend the entire winter and summer seasons here and then go back to the Eurasian highlands for breeding. Its usually found near water bodies provide them with adequate food supply. Though their main diet constitutes of fish they occasionally prey upon rats, frogs and other small birds. They have evolved specialized physical characteristics that assist them in hunting and catching prey and hence included in a separate family Pandionidae . Its local name is Thaali parunth.

 

33. Black Crested Baza (Aviceda leuphotes)

The are also known as Black crested baza. Black Baza’s are small distinctively colored birds of prey. It has a small body with short stout legs and feet with strong talons. The prominent feature of this bird is its crest. They mainly feed on insects but have been reportedly prey upon small birds as well .

 

34. Black Winged Kite (Elanus caeruleus)

Black winged kites are small beautiful birds of the Accipitridae family. They are predominantly grey or white bird with black patches on the wings and red irides.The other main feature is the forward looking eyes. Its large wings extends beyond the tail when it is perched. They are usually seen on plains and open forests feeding upon crickets, small lizards and rodents. Its vernacular name is Velli eriyan

 

35. Black Kite (Milvus migrans)

Black kites are one of the common member of the Accipitridae family found in Kerala. Its also called Pariah Kite. In India they are well adapted to live in urban areas. They are medium sized birds with a dark brown body becoming pale towards neck and chin. The lower parts of the body are pale brown . They are opportunistic hunters mainly feeding on small lizards, birds and rodents. They can quickly swoop down with their legs lowered and snatch the small live prey. They are fearless birds and are known to snatch food from humans. Its local name is Chakki Parunth.

 

36. Brahminy Kite (Haliastur Indus)

Like Black Kite, Brahminy kite is a medium sized member among Birds of prey, commonly seen through out India. They can be easily identified by their chest nut colored body except the white head and breast and the black wing tips. Their call is a loud keeyoo…Their main diet includes fish, small lizards etc. They nests in tall trees. According to the Hindu belief they are considered to be the contemporary representation of Garuda, the mount of Lord Mahavishnu, the Supreme God. Its local name is Krishna Parunth.

 

37. Grey Headed Fish Eagle (Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus)

They are forest birds seen mainly near the rivers and lakes. As their name suggests their main diet includes fish. They are large birds having dark grey head and neck and light brown nape and breast.The tail and belly are white with tail having dark terminal bands. Its loud cry “Aiyyooo aiyyooo” resembles human female cry. Its local name is Meen Parunth.

 

38. Short Toed Snake Eagle (Circaetus gallicus)

Short Toed Snake Eagles are medium sized bird of prey found in the dry deciduous forests and dry scrub jungles. They have predominant white underside and head with greyish brown upper body and wings. The forward looking eyes resemble that of an owl. Legs are yellow with black talons. It gets its name from its short toe. They mainly prey on snakes and small lizards.

 

39. Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela)

Crested Serpent Eagles are slightly larger than the Brahminy Kite(Haliastur Indus). Its a Dark brown bird with pale brown under side. White spots are visible on the belly. This bird can be easily identified by its short fan shaped crest. Its short tail and round wings gave it a stocky appearance. They are specialized snake hunters but also known for attacking jungle fowls and peacocks. Their local name is Chutti Parunth.

 

40. Eurasian Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus)

Eurasian Marsh Harrier is also called Western Marsh Harrier. In India they are winter visitors seen commonly during the months of November-December. Their main breeding grounds are regions north of the Himalayas. Males are predominantly reddish brown with yellow streaks becoming pale brown at the underside.A black wing tip is another feature. Females are mostly chocolate brown colour with whitish brown forehead and chin. They prefer marshy areas with abundant water plants and are known to avoid trees completely. Its local name is Kari Thappi.

 

41. Pallid Harrier or Pale Harrier (Circus macrourus)

Pale Harriers are smaller and slimmer than Marsh Harriers.Its a migratory bird seen in India during winter seasons. Females are slightly bigger than males. Males are whitish grey in colour on the top and white below with narrow black wing tips. Females are brown birds with pale brown underside with dark brown streaks. Feeding habits are similar to that of Marsh harriers. Its local name is Medu Thappi.

 

42. Pied Harrier (Circus melanoleucos)

Pied Harriers are migratory birds seen on winter seasons. Males have Black head, upper parts and breasts. A black median covert bar and black primaries are special features. Females have White upper tail covert patch.The under wings have pale colour with dark grey barred remiges and retrices. Its local name is Vellakkaruppan Medu Thappi .

 

43. Montagu’s Harrier (Circus pygargus)

Montagu’s Harriers are migratory birds. Males have pale grey plumage with black wing tips. They have Black bands across the secondaries both above and below and have rufous streaks on the belly. Females are brown birds with spotted wing coverts.The under parts are mostly pale brown with brown streaks. They are small birds but may appear big due to its large wings which extends beyond the tail when perched.Like other harriers they fly at low heights searching for rodents and small lizards.

 

44. Crested Goshawk (Accipiter trivirgatus)

Crested Goshawks are secretive medium sized bird of prey. They prefer forests with thick vegetation where they perch on trees and make a surprise attack on the prey unaware. The males have dark grey forehead and crest with black sub moustachial stripes.Their pale under sides have rufous streaks on the breast and bars on the belly. Females have browner crest and ear coverts and brown streakings and bar on the underside. Its local name is Malampullu.

 

45. Shikra (Accipiter badius)

Shikras are common birds of prey in India. They are small raptors with rounded wings and narrow long tails. Males have pale blue upperside and pale blue breast with fine brownish Orange barrings.The lower belly is whitish and has fewer bars. Thighs are whitish.Females have brownish grey upper side and are larger than males. They are found in a wide range of habitats including forests, farmlands and urban areas.They are easy to train and are favourites among falconers. Its local name is Prappidian.

 

46. Besra (Accipiter virgatus)

Besra can be distinguished from Shikra by its dark grey upper part,the rufous streaks on the breast and strongly barred underwings. Males have dark slate grey upper parts with strong rufous streaks on the breast and bars on the belly. Females have brown upper parts with black head and nape. They are more similar to Crested Goshawk but are smaller,without the crest, and have long legs. They are also called Besra Sparrow Hawk.

 

47. Black Eagle (Ictinaetus malayensis)

Black eagles are large raptors found in the dense evergreen forests. Its body is brownish black and have faint grey bars under the remiges and tail. In contrast with their body colour they have yellow cere and legs. They are usually found flying above the canopy. They are prolific predators feeding on other birds, small mammals and eggs. They are known to hunt young Bonnet macaques (Macaca radiate) in the forests. Its local name is Karimparunthu.

 

48. Bonelli’s Eagle ( Aquila fasciata)

Bonelli’s Eagles are medium sized birds with adults having dark brown upper parts and pale under side with dark streaks. A black band along the under wing coverts and black terminal band at the tail tips are among the prominent feature. Juveniles have pale reddish brown underside. They are often seen in hilly places that are not so thickly fortested.

 

49. Booted Eagle (Aquila pennata)

Booted Eagles are small eagles with whitish brown head and upper side. White shoulder patches are seen. Other features include pale median covert panel and a pale wedge-shaped region in the inner primaries. The tail underside is grey with dark centre and tip.It hunts small mammals, reptiles and birds.

 

50. Changeable Hawk Eagle (Nisaetus cirrhatus)

They are also called Crested Hawk Eagle .They are medium sized birds seen in wooded countries.Various sub species are seen in the Indian Sub-Continent which are dimorphic, some with crests and others without,hence the name “changeable”, making precise identification difficult.Adults have Brown upperparts and white breast with bold brown streaks.Thighs, vent and tail under coverts are are brown. Its local name is Kinnari Parunthu.

51. Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus)

Common Kestrel is a member of the Falconidae family. Its a small bird of prey with males having grey head and tail and rufous upper side heavily marked with black. Tail ends are rounded.Females and juveniles have rufous upper parts heavily streaked with black and have dark barrings on rufous tail. Dark moustachial stripes are also seen. Their breeding season is between January and June. They mainly feed on small rodents. Its vernacular name is Virayan Pullu.

 

52. Red Necked Falcon (Falco chicquera)

Red Necked Falcon is not a common resident in Kerala. Adults have rufous crown and nape.The upper parts are bluish grey and underside is white with fine black bars.The tail is long with black sub terminal band.Their main diet includes small birds rodents and bats.

 

53. Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)

Peregrine Falcon is a large member of the falcon family renowned for its speed reaching over 200 mph while it stoops down during hunting. Three sub-species are found here with each of them showing disparity in color. F.p peregrinator has black head and upper parts, with broad black moustachial stripe. Under parts are rufous with black bars.The local name Karimpullu .F.p calidus has slate grey upper parts . F.p babylonicus have pale blue grey upperside with rufous crown and nape. Underparts are white with meager markings.

 

54. Purple Rumped Sunbird (Nectarinia zeylonica)

Purple Rumped Sunbird are small birds at less than 10 cm. Sexes are dissimilar with males having metallic crimson upper side with a bluish-green crown, purple tinge on the throat and rump.The under side is yellowish. Females have olive brown upper side with white breast and yellow under parts.Therir call is a high pitched ptsee ptsee. Local name is Manja Thenkili.

 

55. Crimson Backed Sunbird (Nectarinia minima)

Crimson Backed Sunbird or Small Sunbird is a little similar to Purple Rumped Sunbird but smaller than the latter and have deep crimson or maroon upper side.They have a broad crimson collar covering the breast.Belly is yellowish.Females have olive brown upper parts and a crimson red lower rump.Calls include a short thlick thlick and a high pitched see-see-wi-see.Local name is Cheru thenkili

 

56. Purple Sunbird (Nectarinia asiatica)

Purple Sunbirdare widespread birds found through out India. Breeding males have dark metallic blue with purple undertone. A bright yellow pectoral tuft is a prominent feature. Females have olive brown upperside and a pale yellow underside.Non breeding males are similar to females but with a long black stripe in the yellowish breast.Calls are loud wich-wich. Local name is Karuppan thenkili

 

57. Loten’s Sunbird (Nectarinia lotenia)

Loten’s Sunbird are endemic to the peninsular India and Sri Lanka. Males have metallic green upper side with purple tinge. A dark crimson band is seen across the breast and bright yellow patches at the side of the breasts. Females are olive with bluish black tail with a white tip. The long curved bill is an adaptation to its feeding habits. Call is hard chit chit.Local name is Valiya thenkili or Kokkan thekili.

 

58. Crimson Sunbird (Aethopyga siparaja)

Crimson Sunbird are small brilliantly colored bird with males having crimson back and an orange red breast. Tail is long with metallic green colour and have distinctive yellow rump. Females have olive green upper parts with ashy green below. Bill is long and downwardly curved. Their call is a sharp chi-wee. It is seen in deciduous and evergreen forests.

 

59. Collared Scops Owl (Otus bakkamoena)

Collared Scops Owl is a common bird found all over India. They are small birds, though it’s the largest among the Scops Owl, with grey or brown upper parts and buff under parts with dark streaks. The facial disc is whitish. Eyes are dark brown. They are seen in well wooded areas and near human habitation. Their call is a soft Whuk. They mainly feed on small rodents. It nests in small tree holes and lay 3-5 eggs. Local name is Cheviyan Nathu.

 

60. Jungle Owlet (Glaucidium radiatum)

Two sub species are found in India .Of which G.Radiatum is found in the plains of India and Srilanka whereas G.Malabaricum is confined to the western ghats. G.r malabaricum is more rufous than G.Radiatum with both of them having fine white barrings on upper and under parts. White patches are seen on the upper breast and abdomen. Local name is Chemban nathu.

 

 

61. Eurasian Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo)

The Eurasian Eagle Owl is also called Great Horned Owl. They are large owls with upright ear tufts and orange eyes.Their upper parts are dark brown with heavy dark streakings on the nape and sides of the neck.The under parts are yellowish brown with dark streakings along with fine brown bars. Their call is a loud wu-hoo. They are commonly seen in hilly forested countries. Local name is Komban Moonga.

 

62. Spot Bellied Eagle Owl (Bubo nipalensis)

Spot Bellied Eagle Owl otherwise called Forest Eagle Owl, Spot bellied Eagle Owls are very large owls with prominent ear tufts and dark brown eyes.Their upper parts are dark brown with buff bars.They are well distinguished from other species by their heart shaped spots on the under parts. Their call resembles that of a female human scream. They prefer thick evergreen forests and their main diet includes small mammals, reptiles and fish. Local name is Kattu Moonga.

 

63. Brown Fish Owl (Ketupa zeylonensis)

Brown Fish Owl is a large bird with prominent ear tufts and bright yellow irides.The under part are dull buff with dark streaks along with fine brown bars. Upper part is dark brown with heavy streakings. Throat is whitish. They usually never stray away from water bodies as their main diet includes fish and crabs. Their call is a loud Hu- hu- hu…hu- ha and a soft Hup-hup. Its local name is Meen Kooman.

 

64. Mottled Wood Owl (Strix ocellata)

Mottled Wood Owl are medium sized birds with a distinctive white facial disc with black concentric bars. They lack ear tufts.The upper body is dark brown with white, rufous and dark brown blotches.The under parts are buff with fine dark bars. They can be easily identified with their distinctive calls which include a quavering Huhuhuaa and soft hoot. According to local belief their call is a bad omen and are locally called Kalan kozhi, which means ‘Bird of Death’.

 

65. Brown Hawk Owl (Ninox scutulata)

Brown Hawk Owl are very hawk-like in appearance due to their long tail and lack of facial disc which is common among other owls. Head and upper parts are very dark. Underparts are whitish with heavy rufous brown vertical streakings. Often seen in wooded regions not far from human habitation. Their call is a soft oo…uk oo…uk. They feed on small mice and lizards. Local name is Pullu Nathu .

 

66. Short Eared Owl (Asio flammios)

Short Eared Owl as its name suggests these birds have small ear tufts which is normally not visible.The upper body is pale buff with dark brown streaks. Dark patches are seen at the carpal joints.The under parts are pale buff with moderately streaked breast. Dark brownish black bands are seen on the upper wing coverts and tail.They are usually found on scrubby grasslands.Its local name is Poocha Moonga.

 

67. Barn Owl (Tyto alba)

Barn Owls are widely spread in the world, found almost everywhere except Polar Regions. They have white face with dark eyes.The under part is whitish whereas upper parts are light yellowish brown and grey. Like other owls they are nocturnal creatures feeding mainly on rats and other small rodents. They usually make nests in old buildings and they are often seen in cities. They make a variety of eerie screeching and hisses. Hunt for illegal trading make this owl rare now. Local name is Velli Moonga.

 

68. Grass Owl (Tyto capensis)

Grass Owl are also called Eastern Grass Owl. Its similar to that of Barn owl with its white face. But its upper parts are darker and have heavy dark brown markings. Base of the primaries are golden brown whereas the ends are Black. Tails have dark barrings. Their call includes a loud hissing screech. Unlike Barn Owls they are more forest creatures.

 

69. Oriental Bay Owl (Phodilus badius)

Oriental Bay owl is a member of the Tytonidae family. The most prominent feature of this owl is its ‘v’ shaped facial disc. Under parts have pale wine red undertone with black spots. Upper parts are brownish red with black spots and bars. They prefer dense evergreen forests and are very difficult to sight.The local name is Ripley Moonga.

 

70. Honey Buzzard (Pernis plitorhyncus)

Other names are Oriental Honey Buzzard and Crested Honey Buzzard. They are medium sized Brown birds with long neck and small head making it taxonomically similar to the Kites. It has a long tail and small head crest. The sexes can be distinguished with males having a Bluish grey head where as females have brown head. As its name suggests its main diet includes honey and honey bees and also feeds upon cicadas. Its local name is Thenkothichi Parunth .

 

 

71. Asian Openbill Stork (Anastomus oscitans)

Asian Openbill Stork is a small stork with a sturdy dull colored ‘open bill’ from which it gets its name. Breeding adults have white upper parts with black flight feathers and tail. During non-breeding season it becomes grayish white.Its legs are pale pink. Juveniles have brownish neck, breast and head with pale black flight feathers.It mainly feeds on molluscs and use its open bill to crack the shells of its prey.The local name is Cherakokkan.

 

72. Woolly Necked Stork (Ciconia episcopus)

Woolly Necked Stork is also called White Necked Stork. They are sturdily built black birds with a prominent white ‘woolly’ neck and a black ‘skull cap’.The vent and under tail coverts are white and upper wing and under wing coverts are black. Juveniles are dull brown with pattern similar to that of adults. They prefer well-watered areas.The local name is Karim kokku.

 

73. Blue Rock Pigeon (Columba livia)

It is a bird seen in almost every continent except Antartica and Polar Regions. They are more common in urban areas than forest and are accustomed to live in the hustle and bustle of the populated cities around the world.Adult males have bluish grey body with green and reddish purple irridiscence along the neck,chest and wings. Two dark bars are seen on the wings and a terminal band in the tail.Females are identical but with less intense irridiscence around the chest. Their main diet includes cereals,pulses etc.Their call is a deep gootr-goo.The local name is Kutta Pravu

 

74. Nilgiri Wood Pigeon (Columba elphinstonii)

Nilgiri Wood Pigeons are endemic birds seen in the evergreen forested hills of Western Ghats.It is slightly larger than Blue Rock Pigeon with a reddish brown upper part and a grey head. They have a distinctive chequered board pattern on the hind neck.The rump is pale black in color.The local name is Mara Pravu.

 

75. Spotted Dove (Streptopelia chinensis)

Brown Hawk Owl They are small slender birds having pale pinkish brown and grey upper parts with white spots. Like Nilgiri Pigeon, a chess board pattern is seen behind the neck. Their call is Kroo-krook-kru. They are usually seen in open wooded and cultivated countries.The local name is Ari Pravu.

 

76. Emerald Dove (Chalcophaps indica)

The Emerald Dove is also called the Bronze Winged Dove. This medium sized bird has brownish pink under parts and emerald bronze-green upper parts. Black and white bands are seen on the rump. Adult males have whitish forehead and a white shoulder patch.They are found in deciduous and evergreen forests and absent in arid areas.The local names are Marathaka pravu , Maanikka pravu.

 

77. Orange Breasted Green Pigeon (Treron bicincta)

Orange Breasted Green Pigeon are birds with yellowish green upper parts with an orange breast and a narrow lilac band on the upper breast.The tail is slate grey with rufous under side and a pale black sub-terminal band.The nape is slatey grey. Outer long feathers have a narrow pale yellow edge. Their call is a mellow whistle.The local name is Manjavariyan Pravu..

 

78. Pompadour Green Pigeon (Treron pompadora)

These are small light green birds with grey cap on the head. Males have maroon mantle whereas females have green mantle and can be distinguished from the female Orange Breasted Green Pigeon by its grey cap and green tails. They mainly feed on fruits and berries.The local name is Charavariyan Pravu.

 

79. Green Imperial Pigeon (Ducula aenea)

Green Imperial Pigeon are large when compared to other pigeons .The upper parts and tail are metallic green. Under parts are pinkish grey and have chestnut brown under tail coverts. They are arboreal birds feeding mainly on fruits especially figs. Their calls include wuk-wuk-woor.The local name is Meni Pravu.

 

80. Chestnut Tailed Starling (Sturnus malabaricus)

Chestnut Tailed Starling are also called Grey Headed Starling.The two races , S.m. malabaricus and S.m.blythii are found in India.The upper part of this bird is grey with rufous under side and chestnut colored tail. The head of the southern race S.m. blythii is white. Its found in moderately forested regions mainly feeding on berries, nectar , insects etc.The local name is Charakkili.  

81. Rosy Starling (Sturnus roseus)

Rosy Starling is a distinctive rosy pink bird with black head, neck and upper breast. During breeding season males have elongated black crest feathers. Females are duller and lacks the sharp separation between black and pink. Juveniles are sandy brown. It usually travels in large flocks feeding mainly on berries and nectar.

 

82. Common myna (Acridotheres tristis)

The Common Myna is one of the widespread bird in India. They can be easily identified by their dark brown body, black head and yellow bare skin around the eyes.The bill and legs are also yellow. Like parakeets these birds can also imitate human voices. They make a variety of calls like kew-kew-keew , chur-chur.The local names are Kavalam kili and Madatha.

 

83. Jungle Myna (Acridotheres fuscus)

The Jungle mynas are grayish brown birds with dark head. It lacks the yellow skin around the eyes found in Common Myna. Its most prominent feature is a small tuft of feathers in its forehead. A white patch is seen on the wings and the tail have a white tip. It usually avoids human habitation. Their calls are indistinguishable from that of Common Mynas.The local name is Kinnari myna

 

84. Hill Myna (Gracula religiosa)

Hill Mynaare glossy black birds with a green undertone and have a prominent bright orange-yellow wattles on the nape and below the eye. A white patch is seen on the wings which become more evident in flight.The legs and bills are yellow. Several species are found in India. They can imitate a wide variety of sounds including human voice and whistles and are much priced cage birds.The local name is Kattu myna.

 

85. Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea)

Purple Heronare slender long-necked birds with bluish grey mantle and dark brown under belly.The head and neck is chestnut colored with black stripes. A long black stripe runs along the neck and have dark and white plumes in the upper breast.The under wing coverts are purplish brown. They are solitary creatures usually found in inland waters mainly feeding on fish, frogs and small snakes etc.The local name is Chaya mundi.

 

86. Great Egret (Casmerodius albus)

The Great Egretis a large white bird with long slender neck and pointed dagger like bill.Its very difficult to distinguish between various Egrets. One prominent feature of the Great Egret is its black gape line extend beyond the eye. During breeding season its yellow bill will turn to black,and legs become reddish. Breeding adults develop a long ornamental dorsal feathers.The local name is Peru

 

87. Intermediate Egret (Mesophoyx intermedia)

Intermediate Egret are slightly smaller than the Great Egret and devoid of the black line that extends beyond the eye.The bill is short,yellow with black tip. Breeding adults have black bill and yellow green lores .They are found in Inland and coastal waters.

 

88. Indian Pond Heron (Ardeola grayii)

Indian Pond Heron is a small bird commonly found in marshy areas. Non breeding adults are earthy brown with white wing coverts and white streaks in the breast. During breeding season a maroon color is developed in the back and pale yellowish head with a long white occipital hair.The local name is Kula mundi.

 

89. Little Heron (Butorides striatus)

Like Indian Pond Heron, these birds are short stocky birds found near water bodies. They have blackish grey upper parts with glossy bronze green tinge.The crown and occipital crest is black and have a short black streak under eyes.The chin and upper breast are white and have grey underparts. Juvenile birds have buff streaked upper parts and dark streaked under parts.The local name is Chinna kokku.

 

90. Black Crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)

Black Crowned Night Heron are stocky birds with thick neck and short leg. Adults have black crown, occipital crest, nape and mantle.A few white long plumes are seen in the crest.The upper wing coverts are grey and have whitish under parts. Juveniles are earthy brown with white streaked upper parts and buffish under parts with brown streakings.The local name is Toppi kokku.