Birds of the Western Ghats Spotted at Jungle Park Resort, Wayanad | Jungle Park Resort

1. Nilgiri Wood Pigeon

The Nilgiri Wood Pigeon is a large forest pigeon associated with the Western Ghats. It is recognised by its grey body, dark tail and distinctive patterned markings on the back of its neck. This species prefers dense, moist forests and often feeds on fruits and berries found among the trees.

Spotting this pigeon is a rewarding experience for birdwatchers exploring the forested landscapes of Wayanad.

2. Malabar Imperial Pigeon

The Malabar Imperial Pigeon is a large canopy-dwelling pigeon found in forest habitats of the Western Ghats. Its size, strong build and characteristic calls make it an interesting species to observe in the forest.

It feeds mainly on fruits and plays a role in seed dispersal, helping support the regeneration of forest vegetation.

3. Malabar Parakeet

The Malabar Parakeet is a colourful green parakeet native to the Western Ghats. It is often seen moving through the forest canopy in pairs or small groups. Its curved beak and long tail are characteristic features of this species.

Listen for its calls while looking up through the treetops, as these birds can sometimes be heard before they are seen.

4. Malabar Grey Hornbill

The Malabar Grey Hornbill is a forest bird recognised by its grey plumage, long tail and prominent bill. It is closely associated with the wooded landscapes of the Western Ghats and is often found in areas with mature trees.

Hornbills feed on fruits and other food sources available in the forest. Their movements between trees also contribute to seed dispersal.

5. Malabar Barbet

The Malabar Barbet is a forest-dwelling bird found in the Western Ghats. It has green plumage that helps it blend into the foliage and a stout bill suited to feeding on fruits.

Its repeated calls may be easier to notice than the bird itself, particularly when it is sitting among dense leaves or high branches.

6. Malabar Flameback

The Malabar Flameback is a striking woodpecker associated with the forests of the Western Ghats. Its contrasting plumage and powerful bill make it well adapted to searching for insects in tree trunks and branches.

Watch and listen for tapping sounds against tree bark, which may reveal a woodpecker searching for food.

7. Grey-fronted Green Pigeon

The Grey-fronted Green Pigeon is a fruit-eating bird found in wooded habitats. Its green plumage provides natural camouflage among leaves, making it easy to overlook when it rests quietly in the canopy.

These pigeons help disperse seeds as they feed on fruits, making them an important part of the forest ecosystem.

8. Flame-throated Bulbul

The Flame-throated Bulbul is a colourful bird of the Western Ghats, recognised by its yellow body and distinctive flame-coloured throat. It is commonly associated with forested habitats and areas with plenty of fruit-bearing vegetation.

Its bright colours make it a memorable sight for birdwatchers exploring the forests of Wayanad.

9. Square-tailed Bulbul

The Square-tailed Bulbul, also known as the Square-tailed Black Bulbul, is a forest bird associated with the Western Ghats. It has dark plumage and a distinctive tail shape, along with calls that can carry through the forest.

Look for it among the trees and thick vegetation, where it may be seen feeding on fruits and other available food.

10. Wayanad Laughingthrush

The Wayanad Laughingthrush is a forest bird associated with the Wayanad region. Like other laughingthrushes, it is known for its vocal behaviour and may be heard calling from within dense vegetation.

Patient observation and careful listening can help birdwatchers notice this species in its natural surroundings.

11. Nilgiri Flycatcher

The Nilgiri Flycatcher is a small forest bird associated with the Western Ghats. The male is known for its deep blue plumage, while the female has more subdued colouring. It typically inhabits forested areas where it can catch insects from perches.

Its quick movements can make it challenging to photograph, but watching quietly may offer a better chance of observing its behaviour.

12. White-bellied Blue Flycatcher

The White-bellied Blue Flycatcher is a colourful forest species found in the Western Ghats. The male has blue upperparts and a pale underside, creating a striking contrast in the forest shade.

It often sits on branches before darting out to catch insects. Look carefully along shaded forest paths and among the lower and middle layers of vegetation.

13. Nilgiri Flowerpecker

The Nilgiri Flowerpecker is a tiny bird associated with the Western Ghats. Despite its small size, it is an interesting species for birdwatchers to look for among flowering trees and shrubs.

Flowerpeckers feed on small fruits, berries and other food sources, including nectar in some circumstances. Their quick movements mean that patience is often essential when trying to spot them.

14. Crimson-backed Sunbird

The Crimson-backed Sunbird is a small, colourful bird found in the Western Ghats. The male is recognised by its striking crimson and dark plumage, while the female is more subtly coloured.

Sunbirds are often seen visiting flowers to feed on nectar. Keep an eye on flowering plants around the forest edges and gardens for a chance to observe their feeding behaviour.

Best Time for Birdwatching in Wayanad

Early mornings are generally a good time for birdwatching, as many birds are active while searching for food and communicating with calls. The quieter hours of the day can also make it easier to hear birds moving through the forest.

For a more rewarding experience, carry binoculars, wear comfortable clothing and move slowly through the surroundings. Avoid loud conversations and sudden movements, and maintain a respectful distance from wildlife.

Bird sightings depend on natural conditions, season and animal activity. Although these 14 species have been recorded around Jungle Park Resort by our naturalist, sightings cannot be guaranteed during every visit.