State of India’s Birds

The State of India’s Birds 2023 (SoIB 2023) report is a comprehensive assessment of bird species in India, driven by citizen science. This edition builds on the previous one from 2020 and incorporates a significantly larger dataset with 30 million field observations contributed by over 30,000 birdwatchers across the country. This extensive data enables the evaluation of a broader range of bird species (942 species in this report, up from 867 in 2020). Additionally, new sections highlight the importance of systematic bird monitoring and the various threats faced by birds in India.

The findings in SoIB 2023 mirror global trends, indicating that while some generalist species are thriving, many others are facing various degrees of decline. According to the IUCN Red List, 49% of bird species worldwide are declining, compared to only 6% that are increasing. In India, generalist species like the feral Rock Pigeon, Ashy Prinia, Asian Koel, and Indian Peafowl are doing well. However, a substantial 60% of species show long-term declines, and 40% are currently in decline.

The decline is particularly evident among habitat specialists, especially those in grasslands, open habitats, wetlands, and woodlands. Certain dietary groups such as carnivores, insectivores, and granivores are declining more rapidly than omnivores or fruit- and nectar-eaters. Migratory species and those endemic to the Western Ghats–Sri Lanka region are also facing significant threats.

The report underscores that a considerable number of common species are in trouble, emphasizing the need for robust conservation efforts. The findings also reveal gaps in data, highlighting the importance of enhanced data collection for a more comprehensive assessment.

Highlights

• 942 Indian birds assessed for conservation priority
• 30,000 birdwatchers contributed 30 million observations analysed for trends and distribution
• 217 species stable or increasing in the last eight years
• 204 species declining in the past three decades
• 178 species classified as High Conservation Priority
• 14 species, including Indian Roller, recommended for IUCN Red List reassessment
• Asian Koel has increased in the past three decades
• Indian Peafowl continues to thrive
• Birds that live in key habitats like open ecosystems, rivers, and coasts have declined
• Raptors, migratory shorebirds, and ducks have declined the most
• Eight major threats to birds in India are synthesised
• Case studies from sites across India illustrate the vital role of systematic bird monitoring
• Policy and action must align to highlight species of high conservation priority, address problems of neglected habitats, and promote research and monitoring

Download the full report here and explore species-level assessments for your region here!

SoIB 2023 is a partnership of 13 premiere institutions of the country: six government institutions and seven conservation NGOs, together with a number of independent professionals.