The City Birds of India! All you need to know about our feathered friends.

India, a land of diverse landscapes and cultures, is also a haven for avian enthusiasts. While the country's natural beauty is often celebrated, the bustling cities are home to a surprising array of birdlife. City birds in India provide an intriguing and delightful contrast to the urban hustle and bustle. In this blog, we will explore the unique and often underappreciated world of city birds in India.

Indian cities are not just concrete jungles; they're teeming with pockets of greenery and water bodies that act as vital refuges for a variety of bird species. From pigeons that gracefully navigate crowded streets to the melodious tunes of sparrows in our neighborhoods, city birds have seamlessly integrated into urban life. Here are some of the common city birds you will encounter across India who have made cities their permanent homes.

• The most common is the Rock Pigeon. Rock pigeons, often considered pests in cities, have a unique charm. Their cooing calls and their ability to navigate urban environments are fascinating. They've adapted to city life so well that they can be found perched on skyscrapers and statues. Most people do not appreciate them as they are very comfortable living in your house extensions like ACs, utilities and terraces.
• While crows are known for their intelligence and adaptability, they also play an essential role in maintaining urban cleanliness by feeding on waste and leftovers. You can even leave you table scraps on the terrace or window ledges for these birds to come clean up.
• Cities like Delhi and Bangalore, have a significant population of kites, scavengers that help keep the streets clean. Their graceful flight and striking appearance make them a fascinating sight against the cityscape. Most times they're often mistaken for eagles, but seeing an eagle in an Indian city is truly a rare occasion. These predatory birds are eagle replicas but are happy to be around people. They also hunt the rodents of the city.
• One of the most iconic city birds, the house sparrow, was once a common sight across India. However, their numbers have dwindled in recent years, making them a symbol of conservation concern. These little birds nest in the nooks and crannies of our buildings and serenade us with their chirps. Sparrows are harmless and their presence is barely noticeable so do keep them around if some are living near you!
• Parakeets often nest and look for food atop the trees at sunset. They even come to balconies and terraces if you leave some fruits and nuts out for them! Just like parrots, their bright green plumage can be spotted from a mile away!
• Indian mynas, with their striking yellow eye patches and chatty nature, are a common sight in urban areas. They've become adept at scavenging for food in public spaces and often gather in noisy groups. They closely resemble magpies and have an eye for mischief! Urban life presents numerous challenges for birds.

Pollution, habitat loss, and the availability of food and water can be problematic. Some species, like the house sparrow, have experienced population declines due to factors related to city life. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensuring their survival. City birds in India bring an enchanting quality to the urban environment, showcasing their remarkable adaptability to the bustling city life.

Their resilience is a testament to the avian world's ability to thrive in an urban setting. As we observe these feathered residents in their daily routines, it's crucial to value their presence and work towards the conservation and preservation of the diverse bird species that enhance our cityscapes. Birdwatching in Indian cities is more than just a pastime; it's a celebration of the harmonious coexistence of nature and urban living.

We hope you write in with some of your city bird sightings. We would love to hear about them @stepevoli !