Migratory birds are crucial for a healthy ecosystem, as they control pests, disperse seeds, and aid in pollination. Here is a list of 7 migratory birds that travel to India during winter.
Greater Flamingos nest on Anda Bet, an island in the Greater Rann of Kutch (Photo credit: Unsplash)
New Delhi: Every year, many birds in the Northern Hemisphere fly south for the winter and return along the same routes in the spring. This is called bird migration, and their routes are known as flyways. More than 2000 bird species migrate, with some travelling short distances. However, many migratory birds face threats, and their numbers are declining worldwide.
India plays a crucial role in protecting migratory birds at the global level. The United Nations (UN) has adopted measures and agreements to conserve migratory birds, and India’s efforts are vital in this work. The Convention on Migratory Species lists 128 bird species.
The Central Asian Flyway, including India, is important for over 180 migratory birds, including some globally threatened ones. Studies in India provide valuable information about migratory birds and their habitats. Let us look at seven migratory birds that bring light to India during winter.
List of 7 migratory birds to watch in India during winter
- Siberian Crane
- Greater Flamingos
- Ruff bird
- Northern Shoveler
- Gadwalls
- Black-tailed Godwits
- Bluethroat
Siberian Crane
The Siberian Crane is an endangered bird that travels 4,000 miles to India every winter to escape Siberia’s cold and lack of food. They can be spotted at the Kaladeo Ghana National Park and the Bharatpur National Park. However, their visits to India have become sporadic in recent years due to overpopulation, extreme weather changes, and hunting.
Greater Flamingos
The Flamingos of Sewri in Bombay consist of Lesser Flamingos, which migrate within India. Greater Flamingos descend into Flamingo City, an island called Anda Bet, in the Greater Rann of Kutch. Their largest nesting site in the country, the island, hosted around 10 lakh flamingos in 2011. They settle in October and are known to breed once every three years.
Ruff bird
The Ruff bird migrates to India in search of food during the winter months and returns to the Arctic Tundra in the summer to breed.
Northern Shoveler
The Northern Shoveler makes a taxing journey to India and spends its winters in various regions of the Indian Subcontinent.
Gadwalls
Gadwalls, which travel from Europe and North America, can be spotted in north and central India during winter.
Black-tailed Godwits
The Black-tailed Godwits migrate to lowland wet grasslands in North India to escape the harsh northern winters.
Bluethroat
The Bluethroat, known for its beautiful blue feathers, migrates to Rajasthan during the winter and returns to Europe or Alaska in April for breeding.
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