Sundarbans Mangroves is enriched by many birds species
Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, is a sanctuary for spectacular birdlife. This article showcases 9 fascinating species I photographed in this unique ecosystem.
Please note, bird identification has been done using internet resources and Artificial Intelligence; it may not be 100% accurate in all cases.
1. Brown-winged Kingfisher (Pelargopsis amauroptera)
Bright orange plumage, brown wings, and a coral-red bill make this rare mangrove specialist a true jewel. Often perched quietly along tidal creeks, it’s a key indicator of healthy mangrove ecosystems.
A Brown-winged Kingfisher scanning for a perfect catch
2. Black-capped Kingfisher (Halcyon pileata)
A bold winter visitor, easily recognized by its black cap, electric blue wings, and vivid red bill. Hunts from high perches along creeks, diving for fish and crabs.
A winter jewel- Black-capped Kingfisher
3. Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
Tiny but dazzling, this kingfisher’s blue-green back and orange underparts shimmer in sunlight. Perches low over water before diving for fish with pinpoint accuracy.
A kingfisher is ready to dive
4. Red-whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus)
With its upright crest and cheerful song, this bulbul thrives in forest edges and groves near human settlements bordering the Sundarbans.
Crested dawn silhouette of a bunch of Bulbuls
5. Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos)
A small wader with a distinctive bobbing gait, often feeding alone on mudflats and tidal creek edges. A regular winter migrant to the Sundarbans.
Quick steps on mudflat, Sandpiper
6. Greater Flameback (Chrysocolaptes guttacristatus)
A large, golden-backed woodpecker with a loud drumming call. Often seen in pairs, scaling trunks in search of insects high in the mangrove canopy.
A pair of woodpeckers
7. Crested Serpent Eagle (Spilornis cheela)
With piercing yellow eyes and a loud whistle, this raptor patrols open banks, hunting snakes and reptiles in the Sundarbans interior.
A precise hunter, Serpent Eagle
8. Common Tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius)
A master craftsman among birds, sewing leaves and fibers into a delicate hanging nest. Its sharp call and industrious nature make it a delight to spot.
A tiny architect
9. Great Egret (Ardea alba)
Elegant and statuesque, the Great Egret hunts fish and crustaceans in the shallows, its pure white plumage standing out against the muddy mangrove backdrop.
Pure grace in white, Great Egret
These birds are more than just beautiful – they are vital to the health of this ecosystem. We need to work together to protect them and maintain the harmony of the ecosystem.
An eagle nest on a dead tree
