India is pure paradise for bird watchers. There is such a rich diversity of habitats and climates from the soaring Himalayas to the Gangetic plains, from lush rain forests to dry deserts that suitable food and shelter is provided for an incredible variety of bird species, both resident and migratory - in total there are more than 1250 recorded species in India with many more sub-species. Visiting India is therefore one of the most rewarding experiences any keen birder can have.

This diverse bird life includes hornbills, serpent eagles, fishing owls and vultures, as well as India's beautiful national bird, the peacock, to name just a very few. Water birds such as herons, ibises, storks, cranes, pelicans and many others are not only seen in the parks but in the numerous water bird sanctuaries and reserves. These Indian bird sanctuaries contain large breeding colonies, and are of immense importance for the huge numbers of migrating birds visiting India annually.

The subcontinent is home to some of the most sought after birds in the world and what's more there are often opportunities to see and photograph them in the most exciting circumstances - you could be lucky enough to see sarus cranes dancing together, watch fish eagles snatching glistening fish from the water, be entertained by colourful rollers doing aerobatics, be mesmerised by the sight of huge vultures fighting over a carcass just a metre or two away from you, or enjoy the beauty of huge flocks of flamingos rising from the water as one ... and many more such magical moments.

Unfortunately, many of India's birds are now facing extinction, human needs being one of the major reasons causing the loss of birds' habitat through deforestation and by continued hunting and poaching. More than 80 species have been listed as endangered and the most critical are listed below: