Top 15 Types Of Birds In Delhi (With Pictures)

Get a glimpse of Delhi's top 15 bird species, featuring stunning images and intriguing facts that will captivate any bird lover's curiosity.

birdwatching in delhi guide

Delhi hosts a diverse range of bird species, combining both native and migratory birds. The Indian Peafowl, known for its spectacular tail feathers, is amongst the most striking. The Rose-ringed Parakeet is easily noticeable with its bright green plumage and rose-colored neck ring. The Asian Koel, appreciated for its melodious call, is a frequent visitor. Another common resident, the Red-vented Bulbul, displays a vibrant red underbelly. The Common Myna, a familiar sight, is notable for its sociable nature and mimicry skills. Each bird brings unique characteristics to Delhi's avian community, offering a fascinating glimpse into urban wildlife. Explore further to uncover the full spectrum of these winged inhabitants.

Indian Peafowl

majestic bird with iridescent feathers

Renowned for their dazzling tail feathers, Indian Peafowls are a common sight in Delhi and proudly represent India as its national bird.

These beautiful birds thrive in Delhi's grasslands and parks, mesmerizing onlookers with their iridescent plumage.

Omnivorous, they dine on insects, plants, and small creatures.

Males famously display their extravagant feathers in elaborate courtship rituals to attract mates.

Rose-ringed Parakeet

colorful bird with ring

The Rose-ringed Parakeet is a common sight in Delhi. It is easily identified by its vivid green plumage and the distinctive rose-colored neck ring on males.

These birds are often seen in flocks, making loud calls and feeding on fruits, seeds, and nuts. They are adaptable to urban areas, frequenting gardens, parks, and residential neighborhoods.

Their presence contributes to the city's diverse avian population.

Asian Koel

eurasian cuckoo with crested

Asian Koels, known for their enchanting calls, migrate annually from Singapore to Delhi, drawn by the cooler climate and abundant food sources.

These birds are brood parasites, utilizing crow nests to incubate their eggs.

Characterized by their mesmerizing voice and distinctive red eyes, Asian Koels are also adept mimics, skillfully imitating the calls of other bird species to blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

Red-vented Bulbul

colorful bird with crest

Among the most recognizable birds in Delhi, the Red-vented Bulbul captivates with its melodious songs and distinctive red patch on its lower belly.

Commonly found in urban green spaces, it thrives on a diet of fruits, insects, and nectar.

Its grey body, black head, and playful foraging antics make it a delightful sight for birdwatchers throughout the city.

Common Myna

invasive bird species australia

Common Mynas, scientifically known as Acridotheres tristis, are a prevalent bird species throughout Delhi. These birds are easily recognized by their brown plumage, distinct yellow eye patches, and matching yellow bill.

Known for their sociable nature, they thrive around human habitats and are often spotted at local eateries. They are also skilled mimics, capable of imitating various sounds including human speech.

Indian Silverbill

finch species in india

Indian Silverbills are characterized by their unique pale silver plumage. They are a notable species of small passerine birds found in Delhi. They thrive in open grasslands, scrublands, and agricultural areas, feeding on seeds, grains, and small insects.

Known for their melodious twittering and social flocking behavior, these adaptable birds are easily spotted across both urban and suburban settings in the region.

Black Kite

bird of prey species

The Black Kite, known scientifically as Milvus migrans, is a prevalent bird of prey in Delhi, distinguished by its impressive wingspan and adept scavenging abilities.

They utilize their 5-6 feet wingspan to soar high while scavenging for food, including small mammals and carrion.

Adaptable to urban settings, these raptors help control rodent populations and maintain sanitary conditions by consuming waste.

Rock Pigeon

urban bird species description

Rock Pigeons, often spotted in Delhi's bustling markets and residential areas, are well-adapted to urban life.

These birds, also known as Blue Pigeons, thrive in cities due to their ability to consume a varied diet including seeds, grains, and food scraps.

Their distinctive cooing and flocking behavior are notable, as is their role as scavengers, effectively helping to manage urban waste.

House Sparrow

common urban bird species

House Sparrows, small birds with brown and gray plumage, are commonly found in urban areas such as Delhi. They are known for their cheerful chirping and adaptability to human environments.

Males display a distinctive black bib, contrasting with the more subdued females. These birds primarily eat seeds, grains, and insects, aiding pest control. However, their numbers have declined due to habitat loss and pollution.

Jungle Babbler

bird found in india

Jungle Babblers, easily recognized by their brown bodies and distinctive black crowns, are a common sight in Delhi's green spaces. These sociable birds typically move in small groups, feasting on insects, fruits, and seeds.

Known for their vocal mimicry, they imitate various sounds, contributing to ecosystem health by controlling insect populations. They thrive in the city's gardens, parks, and wooded areas.

Purple Sunbird

colorful tropical bird species

Often seen flitting among the blossoms in Delhi, the Purple Sunbird exhibits a dazzling display of metallic purple and blue plumage in males, while females sport a subtler olive green.

These small birds, with long, curved beaks, adeptly navigate flowering trees like hibiscus and tecoma, showcasing their agility as they feed on nectar.

A common, charismatic sight, they thrive in urban and suburban settings.

White-throated Kingfisher

vibrant bird with beak

Shifting our focus to the waterways of Delhi, the White-throated Kingfisher stands out with its striking blue and orange plumage.

This bird is often seen near reservoirs, lakes, and rivers, preying on fish, crustaceans, and insects.

Known for its diving skills and loud, distinctive call, the White-throated Kingfisher is a vibrant and skilled component of Delhi's avian diversity.

Indian Pond Heron

bird found in india

Lurking in the shallow waters of Delhi's wetlands, the Indian Pond Heron is a small yet fascinating bird, distinguished by a white stripe down its neck and chest.

This adaptable bird showcases a mottled brown and white body, skillfully hunting fish, insects, and small amphibians.

In breeding season, they display vibrant orange and red plumage, enhancing their allure.

Laughing Dove

peaceful cooing bird

The Laughing Dove, with its slender figure and distinct coloration, stands out among Delhi's bird population. Known for its gentle, cooing call, it presents a contrast to typical pigeon sounds.

Commonly seen in urban settings and open landscapes, these peaceful birds display distinctive white markings on their necks and primarily forage on the ground, seeking seeds and grains.

Is the Bird Species Found in Delhi Different from Common Birds Found in India?

Yes, the bird species found in Delhi can differ from the common birds in India. Delhi is home to a variety of bird species, some of which may not be found in other parts of the country. For a closer look, you can find pictures of common birds in India online.

Spotted Owlet

nocturnal bird of prey

Amid the bustling urban landscape of Delhi, the Spotted Owlet thrives, its white-spotted brown plumage and bright yellow eyes making it a distinctive presence in the city's fauna.

These small, round-headed owlets are nocturnal hunters, feeding mainly on insects and small rodents.

Their presence in both urban and rural settings underscores a healthy ecosystem and balanced biodiversity within the city.