Andaman Islands
Andaman
Best time to visit: October to March/April
Peak: November–February/March – when weather is dry/pleasant (cooler post-monsoon, 25–30°C), migratory birds arrive (e.g., waders, ducks), and resident/endemic activity is high with better visibility/access. Winters offer overwintering species and pelagic chances
Summer: February–May suits breeding/visible activity.
Monsoon May/June–September – brings heavy rain, restricted access, and fewer flights—avoid for most birding, though some breeding occurs.
Visible Species
✔ Andaman Woodpecker.
✔ Andaman Serpent Eagle.
✔ Andaman Crake.
✔ Andaman Teal.
✔ Andaman Wood Pigeon.
✔ Andaman Green Pigeon.
✔ Andaman Coucal (Brown Coucal).
✔ Andaman Scops Owl.
✔ Hume’s Boobook (Andaman Boobook).
✔ Andaman Masked Owl.
✔ Andaman Drongo.
✔ Andaman Treepie.
✔ White-headed Starling.
✔ Andaman Bulbul.
✔ Andaman Flowerpecker.
Andaman Islands (part of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, India) are a tropical paradise for birders, with lush rainforests, mangroves, coastal habitats, and islands like South Andaman (Port Blair base), Havelock, Neil, and Chidiya Tapu. This isolated chain hosts over 400–444 bird species (including ~16–21 endemics to the Andamans, with more shared across the group), featuring many island forms distinct from mainland India (e.g., Andaman counterparts of mainland species). Key sites include Mount Harriet National Park, Chidiya Tapu (sunset birding hotspot), Sippighat wetlands, Shoal Bay, Cuthbert Wildlife Sanctuary, and forest trails near Port Blair—ideal for endemics, migrants, seabirds, and nocturnal species. Guided tours (essential for access and rarities like owls/crakes) from Port Blair combine birding with beaches and marine life.