Bird Watching in Kerala: Superb Paradise for Ornithologists
Bird watching in Kerala, often referred to as God’s Own Country, is a paradise not just for nature lovers but also for bird watchers and ornithologists. With its diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush rainforests and serene backwaters to coastal wetlands and grasslands, Kerala is home to over 500 species of birds, including endemic and migratory species.
Table of Contents
From the vibrant Malabar Trogon in the Western Ghats to the elusive Ceylon Frogmouth in the dense forests, birding in Kerala is an absolute delight. Whether you are a professional ornithologist or a casual bird enthusiast, this guide will take you through the best bird-watching destinations in Kerala, the top birds to look out for, and tips for an unforgettable birding experience.
Top Bird-Watching Destinations in Kerala
1. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary – The Jewel of Indian Birding
Location: Ernakulam District (Near Kochi)
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Famous For: Malabar Grey Hornbill, Sri Lanka Frogmouth, White-bellied Treepie
Why Visit Thattekad? Bird watching in Kerala
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, also known as Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, is Kerala’s first bird sanctuary and one of the richest bird habitats in India. With its diverse landscapes of evergreen forests, grasslands, and wetlands, it is home to more than 300 species of birds.
Top Birds to Spot in Thattekad
✔ Malabar Grey Hornbill – A stunning endemic species of the Western Ghats.
✔ Sri Lanka Frogmouth – A nocturnal bird, well-camouflaged in the dense foliage.
✔ White-bellied Treepie – A rare and striking bird unique to the Western Ghats.
✔ Indian Pitta – Known for its vibrant colors and distinctive call.
✔ Black Baza – A small, striking bird of prey found in the sanctuary.
For the TLOW backpacking experience click on this link
2. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary – The Migratory Bird Paradise
Location: Kottayam District (Near Vembanad Lake)
Best Time to Visit: September to March (Peak migration season)
Famous For: Siberian Cranes, Egrets, Kingfishers, Herons
Why Visit Kumarakom?
Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is one of Kerala’s best wetlands for birdwatching, especially during the winter months when migratory birds arrive from Siberia and Europe. The sanctuary can be explored on foot or by boat, offering a unique birding experience.
Top Birds to Spot in Kumarakom
✔ Siberian Crane – A rare visitor from Russia.
✔ Purple Heron – A majestic bird found in wetland areas.
✔ Stork-billed Kingfisher – One of the largest and most colorful kingfishers.
✔ Egrets and Cormorants – Often seen in large flocks fishing in the lake.
✔ Indian Darter (Snakebird) Bird watching in Kerala – Recognizable by its long, snake-like neck.
3. Periyar Tiger Reserve – Birding Amidst the Wild
Location: Thekkady, Idukki District
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Famous For: Malabar Trogon, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Great Hornbill
Why Visit Periyar for Birdwatching?
While Periyar is famous for its elephants and tigers, it is also a fantastic bird-watching destination, particularly for spotting Western Ghats endemics. The sanctuary’s mix of evergreen forests, rivers, and grasslands creates an ideal habitat for a wide variety of birds.
Top Birds to Spot in Periyar Bird watching in Kerala
✔ Great Hornbill – The largest and most iconic hornbill species of Kerala.
✔ Malabar Trogon – A beautifully colored bird with striking red and black plumage.
✔ Nilgiri Flycatcher – A rare endemic species of the Western Ghats.
✔ Rufous-bellied Eagle Bird watching in Kerala – A majestic bird of prey seen soaring above the forest canopy.
✔ Grey-headed Fish Eagle – Often spotted near water bodies in Periyar.
4. Silent Valley National Park – The Pristine Birding Destination
Location Bird watching in Kerala: Palakkad District
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Famous For: Lion-tailed Macaque (though not a bird!), Rufous Babbler, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher
Why Visit Silent Valley for Birding?
Silent Valley is one of India’s last untouched rainforests, offering a chance to see rare and endemic bird species in an undisturbed environment. With its dense canopies and riverine ecosystems, this park is a dream destination for serious birdwatchers.
Top Birds to Spot in Silent Valley
✔ Rufous Babbler – An endemic species of the Western Ghats.
✔ White-bellied Blue Flycatcher Bird watching in Kerala – A beautiful small bird with blue and white plumage.
✔ Black-throated Munia – Found in small flocks in the grasslands.
✔ Indian Scimitar Babbler – Recognizable by its curved beak and melodic calls.
✔ Nilgiri Wood Pigeon – A Western Ghats endemic with a distinctive call.
Other Notable Bird Watching in Kerala
✔ Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary – Home to the Jungle Owlet and Malabar Parakeet.
✔ Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary (Kochi) – An urban bird sanctuary, great for wetland birds.
✔ Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary – Good for spotting raptors like the Crested Serpent Eagle.
✔ Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary – Ideal for watching forest birds like the Indian Pitta.
Bird watching in Kerala tips
✔ Best Time for Birdwatching: Early morning (5:30 AM – 9:00 AM) and late afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:30 PM).
✔ Carry Binoculars & Field Guides: A 7x or 10x zoom binocular is ideal. Guidebooks like “Birds of the Indian Subcontinent” by Grimmett and Inskipp are useful.
✔ Be Patient & Silent: Birds are sensitive to noise. Move slowly and observe carefully.
✔ Wear Earth-Toned Clothes: Avoid bright colors that can startle birds.
✔ Use a Camera with a Zoom Lens: If photographing, use at least 200mm or 300mm lenses.
✔ Join Local Bird-Watching Groups: Kerala has several birding communities that offer guided tours.
Conclusion: Kerala – A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
With its rich biodiversity, diverse habitats, and stunning landscapes, Kerala offers some of the best bird-watching experiences in India. Whether you’re exploring the dense forests of Silent Valley, paddling through the backwaters of Kumarakom, or trekking in Periyar, Kerala’s avian treasures will leave you in awe.
So, pack your binoculars, put on your trekking shoes, and embark on a bird-watching adventure in God’s Own Country!
