8 Types Of Birds To Spot In The Western Ghats

Waquar Habib

Malabar Trogon

Known for its striking colours, the Malabar Trogon is often seen in the shaded canopies of evergreen forests. Males have vivid red bellies and black heads, making them easy to spot.

A Malabar Trogon sits on a branch | pravin_shanmughanandam/instagram

Nilgiri Flycatcher

Endemic to the higher altitudes of the Western Ghats, this small bird is known for its deep blue plumage and melodic call. It prefers shola forests and wooded slopes.

A Nilgiri Flycatcher | rsriram9/instagram

Great Hornbill

One of India’s largest forest birds, the Great Hornbill is notable for its massive yellow casque. It inhabits dense forests and is often seen gliding between fruiting trees.

A Great Hornbill in its habitat | dipin.sreepadmam/instagram

White-bellied Treepie

Unique to the Western Ghats, this noisy bird has a long tail, white underparts, and black crown. It lives in forest edges and canopy layers, often in small groups.

A shot of a White-bellied Treepie | raghunst/instagram

Malabar Whistling Thrush

Nicknamed the “whistling schoolboy,” this bird’s melodious call mimics human whistling. Found near forest streams, it has glossy blue-black feathers and a striking cobalt sheen.

An elegant Malabar Whistling Thrush sits on a branch in Sanjay Gandhi National Park | Shutterstock

Sri Lanka Frogmouth

A master of camouflage, this nocturnal bird blends into dry forest foliage. With its wide, flat beak and mottled plumage, it roosts silently during the day in thick cover.

A Sri Lanka Frogmouth on a branch | aravind_thammineni/instagram

Indian Pitta

A colourful ground-dwelling bird with vibrant green, blue, and orange feathers. It’s a summer visitor to the Western Ghats, often heard before it’s seen due to its two-note call.

Indian Pitta | DepositPhotos

Grey Junglefowl

The wild ancestor of the domestic chicken, the Grey Junglefowl is native to the Western Ghats. Males have striking hackle feathers and loud, echoing calls during the breeding season.

A Grey Junglefowl in its habitat | gurunath.prabhudesai/instagram

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