Winters in India are a birdwatcher’s paradise, with flocks of migratory birds flocking to the country’s lakes and wetlands to escape the harsh winters in their native habitat. These birds arrive in search of food, shelter and more favorable weather.
According to a 2023 paper published in the journal Record of the Zoological Survey of India, the migration of birds is mainly due to lack of food and harsh weather conditions such as cold temperatures and snowfall in their home regions. Birds migrate to warmer climates (known as wintering grounds) where conditions are suitable for survival. When spring comes, they return home.
The magazine mentioned that this is also interesting All species of birds Do not migrate, but most species are subject to seasonal movements to varying degrees. This seasonal movement of birds is called ‘bird migration’.
Here is a quick list of popular birds that migrate to India every year during the colder months.
Siberian crane
The Siberian crane is an endangered species that migrates about 4,000 miles from Siberia to India each winter. Escaping cold temperatures and food shortages, these birds usually find refuge in the Keuladeo Ghana National Park and Bharatpur National Park, known worldwide for their migratory bird populations.
Greater Flamingo
While Mumbai’s urban landscape is home to the Lesser Flamingo, the Greater Flamingo prefers the Greater Rann of Kutch, especially the vast islands of Anda Bet, Khadir and Pacham, from November to March. Although their numbers have been declining in recent years due to climate change, these birds are abundant, especially in December and January.
Rosy Pelican on the Lake (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
Pink Pelican
Known for their impressive wingspan of 12 feet, pink pelicans migrate to northern India during the winter months. They also inhabit shallow, freshwater lakes in Pakistan and Nepal, but overfishing has driven them to seek refuge in southern India, where they can find more stable conditions.
Rudy Shelduck
Native to Central Asia, the Ruddy Shelduck migrates to Delhi from Siberia and Central China during the colder months, according to Homegrown. these Birds are found in the wetlands of DelhiLakes, and rivers, provide ample opportunities for bird watchers to capture their amazing behaviors and interactions.
Spotted Redshank
A native species of Scandinavia, the Spotted Redshank prefers temperate and tropical environments. According to Outlook Traveler, they prefer wet coniferous forests for nesting. The swampy areas of Haryana are their favorite places to migrate after the heavy monsoon season ends.
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