The Andaman Islands are home to a rich variety of bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers from around the world. With its diverse habitats, including tropical rainforests, mangrove forests, and coastal areas, the Andaman Islands offer an ideal location to observe and enjoy a wide variety of birdlife.

Birds to Look Out For

The Andaman Islands are home to over 270 bird species, including a number of endemic and rare species. Some of the most notable species include the Andaman Scops Owl, Andaman Serpent Eagle, Andaman Drongo, Andaman Woodpecker, Andaman Bulbul, Andaman Treepie, and Andaman Crake. Other species commonly found in the Andaman Islands include the White-bellied Sea Eagle, Black-naped Oriole, Blue-tailed Bee-eater, White-throated Kingfisher, and the Red-breasted Parakeet.

Birdwatching Locations

The Andaman Islands offer a variety of locations for birdwatching, ranging from lush forests to coastal areas. Some of the best locations for birdwatching include the Mount Harriet National Park, Chidiya Tapu, Saddle Peak National Park, and the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.

Mount Harriet National Park

The Mount Harriet National Park is a popular destination for birdwatchers in the Andaman Islands. The park is home to a wide variety of bird species, including the Andaman Woodpecker, Andaman Treepie, Andaman Cuckoo Dove, and Andaman Drongo. Visitors can also take a trek through the park’s dense forests, which provides an opportunity to spot a range of birdlife.

Chidiya Tapu

Chidiya Tapu, located 25 km from Port Blair, is another popular destination for birdwatching in the Andaman Islands. The area is renowned for its rich birdlife, with several bird species including the Andaman Bulbul, White-bellied Sea Eagle, and Black-naped Oriole commonly spotted. The picturesque sunset view from the beach at Chidiya Tapu is an added bonus.

Saddle Peak National Park

Located on North Andaman Island, the Saddle Peak National Park is home to a diverse range of bird species, including the Andaman Serpent Eagle, Andaman Cuckoo Dove, and Andaman Woodpecker. Visitors can take a trek through the park’s forests to spot a range of birdlife, and enjoy the stunning views from the Saddle Peak summit.

Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park

The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park is located on Wandoor Beach and is renowned for its rich birdlife. The park is home to several bird species, including the White-bellied Sea Eagle, Pacific Reef Egret, and the Mangrove Whistler. Visitors can take a boat tour through the park to observe the birdlife and explore the surrounding mangrove forests.

Best Time for Birdwatching

The best time for birdwatching in the Andaman Islands is from November to April, which falls within the dry season. The dry season is ideal for birdwatching as it provides clear skies and mild temperatures, making it comfortable for visitors to spend time outdoors. During this time, many bird species are also in breeding plumage, making it easier to identify and observe them.

Tips for Birdwatching in the Andaman Islands

Here are some tips to keep in mind while birdwatching in the Andaman Islands:

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes and carry a water bottle, hat, and sunscreen.
  • Carry binoculars, a bird field guide, and a camera to capture the bird species.
  • Respect the natural habitats of the birds and avoid disturbing them.
  • Listen for bird