A Field Guide to the Birds of the Western Ghats
Birds of Velhe
Discover the remarkable birdlife of Velhe, where ancient forests, mountain streams, grasslands and towering Sahyadri cliffs provide refuge to colourful residents, majestic raptors and fascinating migratory visitors.
Explore Birds by Habitat & Lifestyle
Velhe's diverse landscapes support an extraordinary variety of birds. From dense evergreen forests and mountain streams to open grasslands and village gardens, each habitat shelters its own unique bird community. Choose a group below and begin your journey through the birdlife of Velhe.
Forest Birds
The colourful voices of Velhe's evergreen and moist deciduous forests.
Explore →Raptors
Masters of the sky that soar above cliffs, valleys and forests.
Explore →Woodpeckers
Nature's carpenters that keep forest ecosystems healthy.
Explore →Water Birds
Found along rivers, streams, waterfalls and wetlands.
Explore →Grassland Birds
Birds adapted to open plateaus, fields and rolling grasslands.
Explore →Common Birds Around Nisargshala
Birds you are most likely to encounter during your stay.
Explore →Migratory Birds
Seasonal visitors that travel thousands of kilometres every year.
Explore →Western Ghats Specialities
Birds that make the Western Ghats one of the world's biodiversity hotspots.
Explore →Malabar Whistling Thrush
Among the first voices to greet the morning in Velhe's forests is the unforgettable song of the Malabar Whistling Thrush. Often called the "Whistling Schoolboy", its rich, flute-like notes echo through shaded valleys, forest streams and rocky ravines. Hearing its song before catching a glimpse of the bird is an experience that every nature lover remembers.
Identification
A medium-sized forest bird with glossy blue-black plumage. In good light, the feathers shimmer with deep cobalt blue. It is usually seen hopping over rocks near flowing streams or perched quietly in the forest understorey.
Habitat
Moist evergreen forests, shaded streams, waterfalls and rocky valleys throughout the Velhe landscape.
Behaviour
Usually solitary or found in pairs. Frequently seen hopping among wet rocks while searching for insects, snails, small frogs and other invertebrates.
Interesting Fact
Its beautiful whistles are so clear and melodic that many people mistake them for a person whistling deep inside the forest.