Kerala, a biodiversity hotspot in India, boasts a variety of unique bird species. Among them, the Malabar Trogon captivates with its vivid colors in the Western Ghats. The Indian Pitta flashes brilliant hues of blue, green, and yellow, enlivening the undergrowth with its melodious calls. The Great Hornbill, with its impressive size and striking yellow and black casque, plays an essential role in ecosystem health. The White-bellied Treepie stands out in the forests with its contrasting plumage, while the Malabar Parakeet dazzles with its bright green and blue feathers. Each species not only adds to Kerala's natural beauty but also underlines the importance of conservation. Exploring these birds offers a glimpse into the vibrant avian life of the region.
Malabar Trogon
The Malabar Trogon is a strikingly colorful bird that inhabits the dense forests of Kerala's Western Ghats. This bird species thrives near fresh water sources within National Parks, contributing to its vibrant ecosystem.
Renowned for its vivid green and red plumage, the Malabar Trogon is a favorite among birdwatchers, symbolizing the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of the region.
Indian Pitta
Why does the Indian Pitta capture the attention of birdwatchers in Kerala?
The Indian Pitta, with its striking green, blue, and yellow plumage, thrives in the lush undergrowths of Kerala's moist deciduous forests.
This terrestrial bird is celebrated for its distinctive two-note whistle and unique hopping behavior as it hunts for insects.
Arriving during the monsoon, it adds vibrant life to the region's biodiversity.
Great Hornbill
Renowned for its striking appearance, the Great Hornbill is a prominent feature of Kerala's dense forests.
This large bird ranges from 95-120 cm in length with a wingspan up to 150 cm, easily recognized by its yellow and black casque atop its bill.
Important for forest ecology, it helps in seed dispersal.
Conservation is essential as it is listed as Near Threatened.
White-bellied Treepie
Native to the Western Ghats of India, the White-bellied Treepie is a distinctive member of the Corvidae family. It features a striking appearance with a white belly, black head, and vibrant blue wings and tail.
This omnivorous bird feeds on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. It thrives in dense forests and plantations, where its loud calls signify a robust social behavior.
Conservation efforts are essential for its survival.
Malabar Parakeet
Found primarily in the Western Ghats of India, the Malabar Parakeet, also known as the Blue-winged Parakeet, showcases a vibrant green plumage accented with blue wings.
These birds are frequently observed in small flocks, feeding on a variety of fruits, seeds, and blossoms.
Their loud, distinct calls contribute to the dynamic soundscape of their forest habitats, underscoring the urgency for continued conservation efforts.
Kerala Laughingthrush
The Kerala Laughingthrush, a bird of significant conservation concern, thrives in the dense forests of regions like Periyar National Park.
Highlighted in the State of India's Birds report, this species faces challenges in habitat, feeding, and reproduction, necessitating urgent conservation measures.
Monitoring by the National Biodiversity Authority is essential for documenting its abundance and ensuring the survival of this uniquely characteristic bird.
Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
Shifting focus to another avian marvel of Kerala, the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher stands out with its vividly colored plumage and elusive nature. Known also as the Black-backed Kingfisher, this small bird thrives in dense tropical forests near water sources.
Its diet includes small fish, insects, and crustaceans, making it a fascinating subject for birdwatchers despite its shy demeanor and rare visibility.
Nilgiri Wood Pigeon
Sporting a bright orange bill and iridescent green and purple plumage, the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon is a visually striking bird native to the Western Ghats of India.
It thrives on fruits from the forest canopy, yet faces threats from habitat loss, making it Near Threatened.
Conservation is crucial for preserving its distinct montane ecosystem and ensuring the survival of this unique species in Kerala.
Crimson-backed Sunbird
Renowned for its vivid crimson back, the Crimson-backed Sunbird is a small yet striking bird species prevalent in Kerala.
Males feature a metallic blue-green throat and breast, contrasting with the females' duller olive-green.
These nectar feeders are essential for pollination, often seen flitting among flowers with their long, curved bills, enriching the biodiversity of Kerala's gardens, forests, and plantations.
Indian Peafowl
Indian peafowls, with their vibrant plumage and regal bearing, have become increasingly prevalent across Kerala. They enjoy the highest protection under law, reflecting their conservation importance. The state even hosts the Choolannoor peafowl sanctuary dedicated to them.
However, their rising numbers have led to conflicts, such as crop damage in Palakkad, highlighting complex human-wildlife interactions. The exact reasons for their population increase remain under study.
Black Baza
The Black Baza, a small but enchanting bird of prey, thrives within Kerala's dense forests.
Recognizable by its striking black and white plumage, this member of the Accipitridae family primarily feeds on insects, small birds, and mammals.
Birdwatchers may observe it gliding through the canopy, although it is listed as 'Near Threatened' due to ongoing habitat loss and degradation.
Broad-tailed Grassbird
In Kerala, the Broad-tailed Grassbird is recognized as a critical species needing urgent conservation efforts.
The State of India's Birds report highlights its vulnerability due to habitat loss, impacting its feeding and breeding behaviors.
Conservation priorities include habitat protection and detailed assessments of its distribution and status, as outlined in the NBA report, to guarantee the survival of this significant bird species in the region.
Ceylon Frogmouth
Renowned for its exceptional camouflage, the Ceylon Frogmouth is a nocturnal bird species inhabiting Kerala. It resembles a broken tree branch, aiding its stealth.
This member of the nightjar family primarily hunts insects and small vertebrates at night. During the day, its cryptic plumage allows it to stay motionless and undetected, perfectly blending into the natural forest environment.
Blue-winged Parakeet
Although primarily found in the Western Ghats of Kerala, the Blue-winged Parakeet, also known as the Malabar Parakeet (Psittacula columboides), showcases a striking array of vibrant green plumage, complemented by vivid blue wings and a red shoulder patch.
These birds thrive on a frugivorous diet, often seen in small flocks, and despite their stable conservation status, face threats from habitat loss and illegal trapping.
Are the Types of Birds in Kerala Different from the Types of Birds in Other Parts of India?
Yes, the types of birds in Kerala are different from the types of birds in other parts of India. Kerala’s diverse habitats and geographical features make it an ideal home for a wide variety of bird species. You can easily discover the types of birds in India with pictures online to see the differences for yourself. One of the unique features of Kerala’s bird population is the presence of migratory birds in India during certain times of the year. These birds travel thousands of miles from their breeding grounds in search of food and warmer climates, adding even more diversity to Kerala’s bird-watching opportunities. With the wide range of habitats, from wetlands and forests to coastal areas, Kerala provides a welcoming environment for both resident and migratory birds in India.
Spot-billed Pelican
The Spot-billed Pelican, a notable member of the Pelecanidae family, thrives in Kerala's freshwater ecosystems, distinguished by a unique spot on its bill.
These large birds, with a wingspan exceeding 7 feet, often weigh up to 15 pounds.
Renowned for their cooperative fishing technique, they synchronize movements to encircle and catch fish, commonly seen gliding elegantly in groups above local lakes and marshes.
