BIRDWATCHING IN COONOOR:

A GUIDE TO SPOTTING

RARE AVIAN SPECIES

Ever stood in a misty mountain clearing, binoculars in hand, and felt your heart skip as a flash of blue darts between trees? That's the magic awaiting you in Coonoor. This charming hill station in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu offers a quieter alternative to bustling Ooty while harbouring extraordinary avian diversity.

Coonoor's unique microclimate, with cool summers (15-20°C) and mild winters (5-10°C), combined with annual rainfall exceeding 1,500mm, creates perfect conditions for both endemic and migratory birds. The varied topography, with elevations ranging from 1,800-2,400m, features shola forests, tea plantations , and grasslands that serve as diverse habitats for bird species.

Birdwatching in Coonoor has evolved from a niche pursuit to a major attraction as travellers increasingly seek authentic ecological experiences. The Western Ghats' status as a biodiversity hotspot has placed Coonoor on international birders' maps, with species like the Nilgiri Flycatcher and Black-and-Orange Flycatcher drawing enthusiasts from across the globe. Keep reading to know how you can enjoy birdwatching in Coonoor!

Diverse Habitats

Coonoor has an impressive mix of ecosystems with lush shola forests, expansive tea plantations, open grasslands, and small wetlands, each supporting distinct bird communities. This ecological variety allows you to encounter the brilliant turquoise of White-throated Kingfishers near streams, Pied Bushchats perched on tea bushes, and Malabar Whistling Thrushes calling melodiously through valleys.

Endemic & Migratory Birds

Coonoor proudly hosts several birds native only to the Western Ghats, alongside seasonal visitors that transform the landscape. As winter approaches, Bluethroats and Greenish Warblers arrive from the Himalayas, while Kashmir Flycatchers add splashes of vibrant colour.

Easy Accessibility

Another wonderful thing about Coonoor is that you can reach birdwatching spots without long treks. This is because some of the best tourist attractions in Coonoor are within a comfortable driving distance from the town, so you can explore them easily. Even remote spots require only moderate hikes, making the area suitable for all birdwatchers.

Opportunities for all Birdwatchers

The best thing about Coonoor is that it offers something for everyone. Whether you prefer long treks or short walks, the city has numerous trails and birdwatching spots suited for all experience levels. Beginners, for instance, can start at Sim’s Park, spotting common species, while seasoned enthusiasts can explore secluded ravines, where the rare birds in Coonoor like Black-and-Orange Flycatcher reward the keen observer.

1. Sim's Park

This historic 12-hectare botanical garden combines horticultural wonders with excellent birdwatching opportunities. Morning walks through its winding paths often yield sightings of:

• Nilgiri Flycatcher with its bright blue feathers
• Malabar Whistling Thrush, known locally as the ‘whistling schoolboy’
• Colourful Vernal Hanging Parrots feeding on fruit trees

Visit between October and February, especially early mornings, when bird activity peaks and the post-monsoon growth attracts numerous species. Sim's Park ranks high among the best places to visit in Coonoor for nature enthusiasts.

2. Lamb's Rock

This scenic viewpoint is located in the midst of thick forest, creating ideal conditions for spotting canopy dwellers. A short uphill trek rewards birdwatchers with potential sightings of:

• The striking Black-and-Orange Flycatcher darting between branches
• Grey-headed Canary Flycatcher hovering near flowering plants
• Indian Blue Robin during winter migration

The moderately difficult access keeps crowds minimal, allowing for peaceful observation sessions.

3. Dolphin's Nose

Beyond its spectacular views of Catherine Falls, this viewpoint offers excellent opportunities to spot larger birds riding thermals above the valley. Regular sightings include:

• The majestic Crested Serpent Eagle soaring overhead
• Nilgiri Wood Pigeon perched on tall trees
• Colourful Chestnut-headed Bee-eater hunting insects

Winter months bring additional migratory species, making December-January particularly productive for birdwatching.

1. Black-and-Orange Flycatcher

The Black-and-Orange Flycatcher is perhaps the most emblematic endemic of the Western Ghats. Males display dramatic black upperparts contrasting with blazing orange below, while females wear slightly subdued versions of this distinctive pattern.

These birds prefer dense undergrowth in evergreen forests, particularly areas with fallen logs and thick leaf litter. Their characteristic hunting strategy involves perching silently on low branches before making lightning-quick sorties to catch insects.

2. Nilgiri Flycatcher

Found exclusively in high-altitude forests above 1,500 meters in the Nilgiris, the Nilgiri Flycatcher features deep indigo-blue feathers with a distinctive white tail patch. Unlike many popular species, these birds often search for food in relatively open areas of the mid-canopy.

During breeding season (March-May), their melodious songs cascade through the forest, alerting birdwatchers to their presence.

3. Nilgiri Wood Pigeon

This handsome, robust pigeon presents a challenging quest for serious birders visiting Coonoor. It has a unique combination of a maroon back, gray head, and white-spotted nape, resembling pearls against dark velvet.

Classified as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List, these birds prefer the highest branches of dense, undisturbed forests. They typically move in pairs or small family groups, with deep, resonant calls often providing the first indication of their presence.

4. Malabar Trogon

The Malabar Trogon showcases the beauty of birdlife in the Western Ghats. Males feature striking crimson underparts alongside a deep blue-black head and upper body, while females have warm brown instead of crimson.

These stunning birds are masters of stillness, often remaining motionless for long stretches before suddenly darting into action when they spot prey. Early morning outings offer the best chances to see these magnificent creatures.

1. Winter (October to February)

For anyone exploring things to do in Coonoor, a winter visit promises the best time for birdwatching in Coonoor, offering a mesmerizing experience. The hills transform into an international avian convention as resident species are joined by migratory birds fleeing the northern winters. Winter's clear light provides perfect conditions for observation and photography, while the dry weather keeps the trails accessible.

2. Post-monsoon (September-November)

The post-monsoon period brings lush vegetation supporting abundant insects, creating a feast that attracts insectivorous birds in remarkable numbers. This combination of pleasant weather, vibrant scenery, and peak bird activity creates an immersive experience that is particularly rewarding for those interested in endemic mountain species.

3. Early Mornings & Late Afternoons

Bird activity follows the sun, with peak times between 6:00-9:00 AM as species break their overnight fast, and 3:30-6:00 PM as they prepare for nightfall. These golden hours offer not just increased activity but magical lighting conditions. Adjusting your schedule may mean setting your alarm earlier, but the benefits greatly surpass the brief loss of sleep.