Birding in Andaman

Endemic Bird Species of Andaman

Andaman Drongo

This sleek, black bird with a deeply forked tail is a master of the skies in the Andaman forests. Look for its acrobatic displays and flashes of silvery-brown under its wings.

Andamani Green Pigeon

This large, emerald green pigeon is a beauty of the Andaman Islands. Look for flashes of yellow on its wings and listen for its distinctive, low whistle echoing through the trees.

Nicobari Parakeet

This vibrant green parakeet adds a dash of color to the Andaman Islands’ forests. Endemic to the region, it’s a unique sight with its pale blue head and red beak.

Andamani Woodpecker

This aptly named woodpecker is a magnificent resident of the Andaman Islands. Look for its impressive red crest and slate-grey plumage flashing through the trees. Endemic to the island chain, it’s a vital part of the local ecosystem.

Andaman Serpent Eagle

The Andaman Serpent Eagle, a bird of prey with a striking contrast of dark brown feathers and a bright yellow face, is a resident of the Andaman Islands. Sadly, this beautiful bird, with its spotted chest and black-banded tail, is vulnerable due to habitat loss.

Andaman Flowerpecker

A Tiny Jewel Sipping Sunshine. This incredibly small bird is a flash of green amongst the Andaman’s leaves. Look for its olive-green upperparts and pale yellow belly as it flits from flower to flower, its slender bill perfectly adapted for sipping nectar.

Narcondam Hornbill

An Island King with a Colorful Crown. This critically endangered bird, found only on Narcondam Island, is a sight to behold. Males sport a flamboyant rufous-brown head and neck contrasting with their black body. Both sexes have a unique, bumpy hornbill “casque” on their bill and a flash of white on their tail.

Andaman Masked Owl

A Cryptic Hunter with a Glowing Stare. This owl, with rich brown feathers and a heart-shaped, buff-colored face, is a master of disguise in the Andaman forests. Look for its piercing yellow eyes and silent flight as it hunts for prey at night.

Andaman Nightjar

A Nocturnal Hunter with a Hidden Song. This elusive, medium-sized bird is most active at night, hunting insects on the wing. During the day, it hides perfectly amongst the leaves, thanks to its mottled brown and gray camouflage. Listen for its loud, repeated “chowk” calls at dusk to spot this nocturnal marvel.

Andaman Coucal

A Shy Songster in Brown Garments. This ground-dwelling bird prefers the forest undergrowth. Keep an ear out for its deep “hoop” calls and watch for glimpses of its rich brown plumage with a hint of rust on its wings.