Birds
What Are the Main Features of Birds
Birds are warm-blooded, egg-laying animals with feathers, beaks, and wings. Most can fly, though some, like ostriches, can't. All birds belong to a class called Aves and are found in nearly every environment on Earth.
Defining Traits of Birds: Feathers, Beaks, and More
One of the most striking features of birds is their feathers — not just for flight, but also for insulation and colourful displays. They have hollow bones to keep their bodies light, and instead of teeth, they use beaks shaped to match their diets. Birds also lay hard-shelled eggs and are known for their complex songs and calls.
How Many Bird Species Are There in India?
India is home to over 1,300 bird species, thanks to its wide range of habitats—from Himalayan peaks to coastal wetlands. Out of these, 78 species including the bright blue Nilgiri flycatcher and the shy forest-dwelling Malabar grey hornbill, are found nowhere else on Earth. Some of the most iconic Indian birds include the Indian peafowl, our national bird, known for its iridescent blue-green feathers and elaborate courtship dance. There’s also the sarus crane, the world’s tallest flying bird, and the great Indian hornbill, easily recognised by its oversized yellow beak and casque. In the forests of the Western Ghats, you might spot the Malabar trogon, while the wetlands of Bharatpur attract migratory species like the bar-headed goose, which flies over the Himalayas to reach India.
What Threats Do Birds Face Today?
But bird populations across the country are under pressure. Wetland destruction, deforestation, and pesticide use have all taken a toll, particularly on insect-eating and grassland birds. Vultures, once a common sight, have declined sharply due to poisoning from veterinary drugs like diclofenac. Light pollution and high-rise buildings in cities pose additional threats, especially during migration. Conservation groups in India are working to protect habitats and monitor bird populations, but public awareness is just as important. Birds aren’t just beautiful to watch — they play key roles in pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control. Learning about them is a step toward protecting the rich avian life that shares our skies.












































































































































































































































































































































































































































