National Bird Day 2024: Top beautiful birds and where you can spot them

National Birds Day 2024 is observed on January 5, every year. The United States of America observes the day as National Bird Day to raise awareness about the importance of birds and their habitats. In 2024, the global community will recognize that birds play an important role in maintaining ecological balance, from pollination to pest control. With climate change posing a growing threat to many bird species, this day serves as a reminder of the need for conservation efforts to ensure their survival. 

Here are the top 5 most beautiful birds in India and places where you can spot them:

Lesser Flamingo:

The smallest of the flamingo species is the lesser flamingo. They are considered one of the most widely seen migratory birds in India, though a small resident population also occurs in the Indian subcontinent. 

The beautiful pink color of the bird comes from its unique eating habit. The blue-green algae, largely found in saltwater lakes and saline lagoons, form a major part of their diet. A special pigment present in blue-green algae causes this lovely color on various parts of the bird’s body, like the plumage and legs. Their specially designed bill can filter even microscopic food items present in alkaline water. They like to live in large flocks ranging from hundreds to thousands. Migratory flamingos can be witnessed in India during the winter. 

The Indian Peafowl (Peacock):

It's time for a burst of color with the Indian Peafowl, commonly known as the Peacock. The detailed and vibrant feather of the male peafowl is a sight to behold. Journey to the Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, India, for a chance to witness the grandeur of these birds displaying their magnificent plumage during the breeding season. 

Indian Roller:

The Indian roller species is widely distributed across the country. This vividly colorful bird has been declared the state bird of Odisha, Telangana, and Karnataka. It is one of the most commonly sighted birds in India and is referred to as ‘neelkanth’ locally. They are blessed with brightly colored wings with shades of blue, green, purple, and brown. In flight, colors can be prominently seen. Distinguishing male and female birds is not easy since both sexes have similar appearances. 

Open grasslands, farmlands, and scrub forests are their natural habitat. Earlier, you could see them in cities as well, but they have now almost disappeared from city landscapes due to habitat loss. 

Common Kingfisher:

A brightly colored bird with blue and orange plumage and a long pointed bill, the common kingfisher is one of the most exquisite birds in India. It is largely a resident species.They are not easy to spot because of their shy nature. Male and female look alike, and the only perceptible difference is in the bill. Female birds have a shade of red at the base of their bill, whereas male birds have a completely black bill. 

These birds are found mainly along streams, lakes, and other water sources rich in fish. Around such places, they can be seen silently sitting on trees, waiting for their prey. The moment it notices a fish, it dives into the water to catch the prey.