Top 15 Types Of Birds In West Bengal (With Pictures)

Yearning to discover West Bengal's avian treasures? Explore the top 15 bird species, from the majestic to the endangered, with stunning visuals.

bird diversity in west bengal

West Bengal, a region rich in biodiversity, is home to a variety of bird species. Notable among them are the Red Junglefowl, ancestor of domestic chickens, and the Baer's Pochard, a critically endangered diving duck that finds refuge in the state's wetlands during winter. Other significant birds include Jerdon's Baza, a medium-sized bird of prey thriving in forested areas, and the Bengal Florican, critically endangered and found in grassland habitats. The Black Francolin, known for its melodious calls, also marks its presence in this region. Each of these species contributes uniquely to the ecological tapestry of West Bengal, offering further insights into their habits and survival challenges.

Red Junglefowl

wild ancestor of chickens

The Red Junglefowl, scientifically known as Gallus gallus, is commonly recognized as the progenitor of all domestic chickens.

Native to regions including West Bengal, this bird is found primarily in forested areas and scrublands.

Exhibiting vibrant plumage, males are particularly striking with their red and orange feathers, whereas females display more subdued colors for effective camouflage in their natural habitat.

Baer's Pochard

endangered diving duck species

While the Red Junglefowl thrives in the forested areas of West Bengal, Baer's Pochard, a critically endangered diving duck, finds refuge during the winter in the region's wetlands.

Known for their striking plumage, red eyes, and black bill, these birds are primarily threatened by habitat loss and hunting.

Conservation efforts in West Bengal aim to protect the crucial wetlands they depend on.

Jerdon's Baza

bird of prey species

In West Bengal, Jerdon's Baza is a medium-sized bird of prey distinguished by its striking black and white plumage. It is a member of the Accipitridae family and thrives in forested areas, often found perched high in trees. This World Bird is adept with sharp talons and a hooked beak, vital to conservation efforts due to its vulnerability to habitat loss and deforestation near water.

Bengal Florican

endangered bird in asia

Bengal Florican's striking black plumage and bright yellow bill mark it as a critically endangered species in West Bengal. Usually found in grassland habitats, this rare bird faces threats from agricultural expansion and development.

Conservation efforts are essential to preserve its dwindling numbers. Spotting a Bengal Florican is a remarkable event for birdwatchers, highlighting the urgency of its protection.

Black Francolin

bird species in pakistan

The Black Francolin is characterized by its striking black plumage with white speckles and a reddish beak. It is a notable gamebird species in West Bengal. Found in open grasslands, agricultural fields, and scrub habitats, males are distinguished by their loud, melodious calls during the breeding season.

Conservation efforts aim to protect this species from habitat loss and hunting pressures.

Indian Skimmer

bird with orange bill

Moving from terrestrial to aquatic habitats, another fascinating bird found in West Bengal is the Indian Skimmer. Known for its unique feeding technique and striking appearance, this bird sports black and white plumage, and a bright orange, uneven bill. Indian Skimmers skim water surfaces to catch fish, and they are commonly found along rivers and coasts. However, these birds face threats from habitat loss, prompting crucial conservation efforts.

The Indian Skimmer is a captivating species that showcases the diversity of birdlife in West Bengal. Its specialized feeding behavior and eye-catching appearance make it a valuable part of the local ecosystem. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure the continued survival of these birds and to protect the habitats they rely on.

Asian Paradise Flycatcher

exotic bird with long tail

Renowned for their spectacular tail feathers, Asian Paradise Flycatchers are a mesmerizing sight in the forests of West Bengal.

Males flaunt long, white streamers, while females display rufous plumage without these elongated tails.

Members of the Monarchidae family, they perform intricate courtship dances.

Primarily insectivores, these birds enhance the region's biodiversity, skillfully catching insects in mid-air.

Purple Sunbird

colorful small tropical bird

Shifting focus to another fascinating species, Purple Sunbirds offer a vivid display of metallic hues and melodious songs in West Bengal's natural landscapes.

Males dazzle with purple-blue plumage, contrasting the females' olive-brown. They thrive on nectar, insects, and spiders, adeptly using their curved bills.

Commonly seen in gardens, parks, and wooded areas, these birds are cherished by local birdwatchers for their vibrant presence and delightful calls.

Greater Adjutant

large scavenging stork species

The Greater Adjutant, a critically endangered stork species, stands out due to its impressive size and unique physical characteristics in the wetlands of West Bengal.

Characterized by a massive, heavy bill and a strikingly naked pink neck, these scavengers are vital for maintaining ecological balance by consuming carrion.

Efforts are underway to bolster the sparse populations inhabiting the region's marshy areas.

Painted Stork

elegant wading bird species

Adorned with vibrant pink and white plumage, Painted Storks are large wading birds that inhabit the wetlands and marshy areas of West Bengal. They are easily recognizable by their striking coloration and long, yellow beaks.

These birds are communal nesters, often found building large stick nests in trees. Their diet primarily consists of fish and small aquatic creatures, adeptly caught with their specialized bills.

Pallas's Fish Eagle

majestic african raptor species

From the communal nests of Painted Storks, we turn our attention to another avian resident of West Bengal, Pallas's Fish Eagle, known for its striking white head and imposing presence.

This Near Threatened species thrives near water bodies, mainly feeding on fish. With a wingspan reaching 6 feet, it's a remarkable sight, underscoring the urgency of conservation efforts to protect its dwindling numbers.

Yellow-footed Green Pigeon

colorful pigeon with yellow feet

In West Bengal, the Yellow-footed Green Pigeon stands out with its vivid yellow legs and feet, contrasting sharply against its green plumage. These birds primarily feed on fruits, seeds, and buds, making a substantial contribution as seed dispersers.

Typically found in flocks around fruit-laden trees, their colorful presence is a delight for birdwatchers, enhancing the region's ecological and aesthetic value.

White-rumped Vulture

endangered bird species decline

The White-rumped Vulture, a critically endangered species, faces severe threats from habitat loss and the widespread use of the veterinary drug diclofenac.

Found in West Bengal, these vultures are essential for the ecosystem, scavenging carcasses to maintain ecological balance.

Conservation efforts are important, focusing on the protection and rehabilitation of this species, easily recognizable by a distinctive white patch on their rump.

Himalayan Monal

colorful bird of himalayas

West Bengal's Himalayan Monal, renowned for its vibrant and iridescent plumage, thrives in the high-altitude forests and alpine meadows of the region.

Known as Danphe in Nepal, where it is the national bird, this species dazzles with green, blue, red, and yellow feathers.

The male is particularly striking, engaging in elaborate courtship displays to attract mates.

Are the Types of Birds in West Bengal and Delhi Similar?

Yes, the types of birds in Delhi and West Bengal are quite similar. Both regions boast a diverse range of avian species, including migratory and resident birds. Some common types of birds in Delhi such as parakeets, mynahs, and peacocks can also be spotted in West Bengal, making the birdwatching experience quite comparable in both places.

Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher

colorful bird in india

Enthralling bird enthusiasts, the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher stands out with its vivid blue, orange, and black plumage in the lush landscapes of West Bengal.

Known also as the Black-backed Kingfisher, this species thrives near water bodies, preying on small fish and insects.

Birdwatchers flock to the region during its summer breeding season, keen to spot this stunning yet elusive avian wonder.