10 Birds To Spot In North East India

OT Staff

Himalayan Monal

The Himalayan Monal, with its shimmering metallic green, blue, and copper plumage, is a highlight of the alpine meadows and rhododendron forests in Singalila and Neora Valley National Parks. Found at elevations of 2,100–4,500 metres, this pheasant captivates birdwatchers.

A bright and beautiful Himalayan Monal | Shutterstock

Rufous-necked Hornbill

The Rufous-necked Hornbill’s bright orange neck and distinct casque make it a striking sight. Inhabiting subtropical forests, it thrives in Namdapha and Kaziranga National Parks. As a Vulnerable species, it is vital for forest regeneration but faces threats from hunting and habitat loss.

A shot of a Rufous-necked Hornbill | Shutterstock

White-winged Duck

The White-winged Duck, one of the rarest waterfowl, has a white head and wings that stand out in its forested wetland habitats. This Critically Endangered species, with fewer than 1,000 individuals left, is spotted in Dibru-Saikhowa and Nameri National Parks.

A view of White-winged Duck | Wikimedia Commons

Bugun Liocichla

The Bugun Liocichla, with its olive-green plumage and orange-yellow highlights, is a rare treasure of Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary. Named after the Bugun community, this Critically Endangered species has an extremely limited range, underscoring its conservation importance.

A shot of a beautiful Bugun Liocichla | Wikimedia Commons

Great Hornbill

The Great Hornbill’s yellow casque and large bill make it a charismatic presence in the dense forests of Pakke Tiger Reserve and Manas National Park. A Vulnerable species, it is crucial for seed dispersal but faces pressures from habitat destruction.

The beautiful Great Hornbill sitting on a single branch | Shutterstock

Black-necked Crane

The Black-necked Crane, a symbol of Tibetan culture, winters in Arunachal Pradesh’s Sangti Valley. Known for its elegant black neck and tail, this Vulnerable species relies on high-altitude wetlands, which are increasingly threatened by agricultural expansion.

A shot of a Black-necked Crane | Shutterstock

Ward’s Trogon

The Ward’s Trogon dazzles with its crimson body, green back, and vivid blue eyes. Found in dense montane forests like Dzukou Valley, this elusive bird is a rare and prized sight for birdwatchers, reflecting the region’s ecological diversity.

An elegant Ward’s Trogon sits on a branch | Shutterstock

Hodgson’s Frogmouth

The Hodgson’s Frogmouth is a nocturnal bird known for its exceptional camouflage, blending into tree bark. Inhabiting subtropical forests in places like Manas National Park, this elusive species adds intrigue to North East India’s nocturnal wildlife.

A shot of a groggy Hodgson’s Frogmouth | Shutterstock

Fire-tailed Myzornis

The Fire-tailed Myzornis enchants with its green plumage, black markings, and a vivid scarlet tail. Found in bamboo thickets and high-altitude forests in Singalila National Park and Tawang, this bird is a highlight of Himalayan birdwatching.

Fire-tailed Myzornis is a regular customer when it comes to feeding on rhododendron flowers | Shutterstock

Blyth’s Tragopan

Blyth’s Tragopan, or the “horned pheasant,” is known for its red-black plumage and fleshy horns displayed during courtship. Inhabiting temperate forests in the Saramati region and Namdapha National Park, this Vulnerable species faces threats from hunting and habitat loss.

Blyth's Tragopan , a beautiful but elusive pheasant | Shutterstock

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