By Srimoyee Chowdhury 31 July 2025
City birdwatching? Absolutely possible. From balconies to bylanes, Indian cities are alive with birds you’ve probably overlooked. Here are 7 species that even beginners can spot — no binoculars or parks required.
1. House Sparrow How to identify: Small, brown-grey birds with short tails and stubby beaks. Males have a black bib on their throat. Call: A cheerful, repetitive ‘chirp-chirp’.
2. Rose-Ringed Parakeet How to identify: Bright green body, red beak. Males sport a pink and black neck ring. Call: Loud screeching, often in flight. Where to find them: Trees along roads, apartment complexes, and university campuses.
3. Common Myna How to identify: Brown body, black head, yellow eye patch and legs. Walks with confidence. Call: A loud, varied chatter, whistles, and croaks. Where to find them: Street corners, fruit carts, gardens, and school grounds.
4. Coppersmith Barbet How to identify: Small green bird with a red forehead and yellow throat. Call: Sounds like a coppersmith hammering metal — a steady ‘tuk-tuk-tuk’. Where to find them: Fig trees, city parks, and quiet residential lanes.
5. Indian Pond Heron How to identify: Dull brown bird, often seen standing motionless. In flight, its wings are bright white. Call: Usually silent; sometimes a harsh ‘raak’. Where to find them: Near lakes, ponds, marshy plots, and even puddles in city fields.
6. Purple Sunbird How to identify: Tiny bird. Males are shiny purple-black; females are olive-yellow. Call: Fast-paced chirping and sharp ‘chee-chee’ notes. Where to find them: Balcony planters, hibiscus bushes, terrace gardens.
7. Black Kite How to identify: Large brown raptor with forked tail, glides in wide circles. Call: A piercing, high-pitched ‘kreeeeh’. Where to find them: Above roads, fish markets, landfills, and rooftops — often scavenging.
Tips for beginner birdwatchers • Go birding early — dawn is the best time. • Look for movement in foliage or rooftops. • Stand still and let the birds come to you. • Note colours, sizes, and behaviour. • Avoid sudden movements and loud sounds.
You’re already a birdwatcher Whether you’re sipping chai on your balcony or walking to work, city birds are all around. With just a little attention, you’ll start to notice their colours, calls, and quirks — and fall in love with the wild right outside your door.