Blessed with geographical diversity, Jharkhand fosters wildlife which only a few other states can match. Apart from the different species of animals that walk its terrain, and an equally impressive number of birds brightens its skies.
The state extends its esteemed hospitality to a whole bunch of migratory birds that flock during the winter months. Plenty of birds seek refuge from the cold countries in the North as well come down from the Himalayan range and takes shelter in the different water bodies present in the state.
According to the survey taken in January and February 2018, the state is visited by 46,883 birds of 69 different species, out of which 57 are waterbird species and 12 wetland species. Birdwatchers and ornithologists visit the state in the winter months for a study or for photographing the gorgeous birds.
Let's check some of the interesting migratory birds that can be found in Jharkhand.
1. Black-Winged Kite
The Black Winged Kite, also known as the Black Shouldered Kite is a small and distinctive falcon-like kite having white underneath, and blue-gray above with conspicuous black shoulders formed by black wing coverts. They are generally found across mainland Australia.
2. Red Crested Pochard
Red Crested Pochard has a puffy yellowish redhead with fuzzy erectile crown feathers, black throat and breast, and white sides. They dive, dabble, and up-end for their food. There is a large population in Spain and nearer but smaller numbers in France, Netherlands, and Germany.
3. Ruddy Shelduck
Striking and distinctive gooselike duck, Ruddy Shelduck is plumage bright ruddy overall with contrasting pale creamy head and neck. Often found around saline lakes, also reservoirs, and agricultural fields of Europe, Central Asia, and South Asia.
4. Purple Sunbird
Purple Sunbird is a small bird belonging to the sunbird family, found in South and Southeast Asia and also in the western parts of the Arabian peninsula. They feed mainly on nectar, and insects, especially when feeding young.
5. Eurasian Wigeon
Eurasian Wigeon, also known as Widgeon is one of three species of the dabbling duck. The species has a paler head and white axillaries on its underwing. It is common and widespread within the Palearctic range and northernmost areas of Europe.
6. Green Bee-eater
The Green Bee-eater belongs to the bee-eater family and is found widely across sub-Saharan Africa. They are mainly insect eaters especially bees, wasps, and ants.
7. Black Headed Oriole
Black-headed Oriole belongs to the Oriolidae family and is found in Africa. It has a very striking appearance with a bright yellow body, contrasting blackhead, and flesh-colored beak. Few consider the mountain oriole to be a subspecies of the black-headed oriole.
Best places for bird watching in Jharkhand
Best time for bird watching in Jharkhand: November to March
