7 most colourful birds of Indian forests

Among the most biodiverse places on the planet, India's forests range from the alpine forests of the Himalayas to the rain-soaked evergreen forests of the Western Ghats and the jungles of Northeast India. These habitats are not only biodiversity hotspots for the wildlife enthusiast; they are visual feasts for the bird enthusiast. Thick canopies, ancient trees, forest clearings, and riverine corridors create the perfect stage for birds whose colours, calls, and courtship displays feel almost unreal. Some birds are impressive because of their iridescence, some because of their size, and some because of their extravagant tails, and many of them are crucial to the health and regeneration of our forests, making India perhaps the most rewarding country in the world to birdwatch.

Often described as the most colourful pheasant in the world, the Himalayan Monal is a visual marvel of high-altitude forests. Found in the oak, conifer, and rhododendron forests of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and parts of the Northeast, the male monal displays an extraordinary mix of metallic green, copper, violet, and blue that seems to change with every movement. Its crest feathers add to its regal appearance, especially when seen foraging on open forest slopes. Females, while less showy, are also attractive with their earth-toned camouflage, which helps them blend in with the forest floor.

While they are reputed to inhabit open areas and temple complexes, peafowl are equally at home in forests, particularly dry deciduous and mixed forests. In such environments, the peacock's iridescent blue throat and impressive train can be dramatically contrasted against the subdued tones of browns and greens. During the monsoon, in forest clearing areas, the peacock engages in a lovely display of courtship, vibrating its feathers and making a soft rustling sound.

Of all the birds, few seem to represent the true spirit of tropical India as much as the great hornbill. These birds are really enormous, with a wingspan that stretches five feet, it's impressive, to say the least. Their oversized yellow beak, which is adorned with a casque on top, has a prehistoric look to it. These birds are an integral part of the dispersion of seeds. These birds consume fruits whole and then disperse the seeds. Their slow wing movement has a whoosh sound.

The Malabar trogon is one of country's most highly sought-after forest birds that are endemic to the Western Ghats. Unlike loud or conspicuous species, this quiet, somewhat elusive bird favours the sheltered, moist evergreen forests near streams, with an arresting crimson belly against a black head and finely patterned wings. It is never to be forgotten once seen. The Malabar trogon will sit for long periods almost unmoving, and merge into the stillness of the forest.

The Indian roller is famed for its spectacular flashes of blue when in flight. Relatively subdued shades of brown and turquoise when perched, the moment it takes to the air, its wings flash brilliant electric-blue and aquamarine bands that seem to glow in sunlight. This dramatic colour contrast is what gives the bird its reputation as one of India’s most eye-catching species. It is commonly found in open woodlands, forest edges, and agricultural landscapes.

Often described as a living jewel, the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher looks almost unreal even by kingfisher standards. Tiny in size but explosive in colour, it displays a dazzling mix of deep purple, electric blue, bright orange, yellow, and crimson, all packed into a body barely larger than a sparrow. Unlike most kingfishers, it is not usually seen near open water; instead, it prefers dense forest undergrowth near shaded streams, especially in the Western Ghats and parts of eastern and northeastern India.

Often called the “Navrang” (nine-coloured bird), the Indian Pitta is one of the most visually striking birds of the forest floor. Compact and round-bodied, it wears an extraordinary mix of colours, emerald green wings, a buffy underside, a bold black eye-stripe, and flashes of electric blue on its wing coverts that are usually visible only when it flies. This sudden burst of colour is what makes first sightings so thrilling.