100+ Bird Names In Kannada With Translation in English

Kannada, an ancient and rich language of the Indian subcontinent, resonates with history, tradition, and cultural depth. Just as it weaves tales of the land’s legacy, it binds nature’s wonders into its script. With their vivid colors and enchanting melodies, birds find a special place in Kannada literature and folklore.

These winged creatures often symbolize emotions and themes in Kannada tales, from freedom to aspiration. In this article, we will explore over 100 bird names in Kannada, translating them into English and their beautiful script in Kannada, enhanced with concise descriptions.

100+ Bird Names In Kannada

1: Sparrow (ಗುಬ್ಬಚ್ಚಿ | Gubbacchi)

A petite bird, the sparrow thrives in bustling towns and serene villages, often delighting listeners with its sweet chirping.

2: Peacock (ನವಿಲು | Navilu)

With its brilliant plume and mesmerizing dance, the peacock epitomizes grace and beauty in the avian world.

3: Pigeon (ಪಾರಿವಾಳ | Parivaala)

A universal sight in urban parks and squares, pigeons often evoke feelings of peace and tranquility among onlookers.

4: Crow (ಕಾಗೆ | Kaage)

The crow is omnipresent and intelligent and showcases an impressive ability to adapt, making its presence felt in cities and the countryside.

5: Parrot (ಗಿಳಿ | Gili)

With vibrant hues and an uncanny knack for mimicry, parrots are beloved pets and bring joy with their chatter.

6: Eagle (ಹದ್ದು | Haddu)

Soaring the skies with dominance, the eagle symbolizes power and precision, hunting from great heights with pinpoint accuracy.

7: Owl (ಗೂಬೆ | Goobe)

A mysterious nocturnal bird, the owl, with its haunting hoots, has always been associated with wisdom and folklore.

8: Kingfisher (ಮೀನುಪಕ್ಷಿ | Meenupakshi)

A splash of color near water bodies, the kingfisher dives with elegance and swiftness to snag its fishy meals.

9: Woodpecker (ಮರಕುಳಿತಪಕ್ಷಿ | Marakulithapakshi)

Known for rhythmic pecking on tree barks, woodpeckers have a distinctive drumming sound and play a vital role in forest ecosystems.

10: Crane (ಬಕ | Baka)

Tall and slender, cranes roam gracefully in wetlands, captivating viewers with their synchronized courtship dances.

11: Duck (ಬಾತುಕೋಳಿ | Baathukoli)

Frequently spotted on serene ponds and lakes, ducks captivate with their gentle quacking and distinct waddling movement.

12: Swan (ಹಂಸ | Hansa)

Epitomizing grace, swans glide effortlessly on water, their pristine white feathers often playing muse to romantic tales.

13: Cuckoo (ಕೋಗಿಲೆ | Kogile)

Hailing the arrival of spring, the cuckoo’s melodious call resonates deep within the woods, bringing joy to those who hear.

14: Myna (ಮೈನಾ | Maina)

An urban dweller, the myna is both social and vocal, its varied calls echoing across busy streets and gardens.

15: Dove (ಪ್ರೇಮಪಕ್ಷಿ | Prema Pakshi)

Representing peace and gentleness, doves are serene and are often heard cooing softly during calm mornings.

16: Vulture (ಗಿಡುಗ | Giduga)

Often misunderstood, these efficient scavengers play a vital ecological role, ensuring clean environments by feeding on carrion.

17: Quail (ಕಾಡುಕೋಳಿ | Kaadukoli)

A small, elusive bird, quails camouflage seamlessly within grassy terrains and are treasured for their melodious calls.

18: Falcon (ಹಗ್ಗ | Hagga)

Held in high esteem in many cultures, falcons are sleek raptors celebrated for their unmatched hunting prowess.

19: Heron (ಬಗಲ | Bagala)

With elongated necks and poised patience, herons are often seen on water edges, skillfully hunting for their aquatic prey.

20: Penguin (ಪೆಂಗಿನ್ | Pengin)

Native to chillier regions, these endearing birds waddle adorably on land but display incredible agility in icy waters.

21: Flamingo (ಫ್ಲಾಮಿಂಗೋ | Flaamingo)

Characterized by their singular leg stance and vivid pink hues, flamingos are a picturesque sight on salt flats and lagoons.

22: Canary (ಕೇನರಿ | Kaenari)

Petite and vibrant canaries fill homes with delightful and tuneful chirrups, earning their place as cherished companions.

23: Hummingbird (ಗುಂಜನ ಪಕ್ಷಿ | Gunjana Pakshi)

Tiny yet magnificent hummingbirds hover gracefully, their wings a blur as they sip nectar from blossoms.

24: Ostrich (ಉತ್ತಮ ಪಕ್ಷಿ | Uttama Pakshi)

Indigenous to Africa, this colossal bird, although flightless, showcases impressive speed and agility on land.

25: Hawk (ಗರುಡ | Garuda)

Representing sharpness and alertness, hawks patrol the skies with keen eyes, diving swiftly to secure their prey.

26: Magpie (ಮ್ಯಾಗ್ಪೈ | Myagpai)

Distinguished by their contrasting colors, magpies are curious birds often intrigued by shiny trinkets and objects.

27: Raven (ಕಪಿಕಾಗೆ | Kapikaage)

Larger than their crow cousins, ravens possess a mystique, their deep, resonant calls echoing in the wilderness.

28: Partridge (ಪಾರ್ಟ್ರಿಡ್ಜ್ | Paartridge)

Frequenting wilderness terrains, these robust birds have melodious calls familiar in rural landscapes.

29: Pelican (ಪೆಲಿಕಾನ್ | Pelikaan)

Renowned for their unique throat pouches, pelicans are adept fishers, often seen scooping up their aquatic meals in large gulps.

30: Finch (ಫಿಂಚ್ | Finch)

Delightfully vibrant finches serenade gardens with their harmonious tunes, adding a touch of melody to nature.

31: Kite (ಗಾಳಿಪಟ | Gaalipata)

Recognized by their graceful soaring, kites have a distinct V-shaped tail, making them a common sight in the skies.

32: Lark (ಸುಗಣಿ | Sugani)

Larks are renowned for their impressive vertical flights, filling the skies with songs that have captivated the hearts of poets and writers.

33: Swift (ನಿರಂತರವಾಯು | Nirantaravaayu)

Living up to their name, swifts are elegant fliers, spending most of their time airborne, and they’ve adapted to urban life, often choosing building ledges as nesting spots.

34: Nightingale (ರಾತ್ರಿಗಾನಿ | Raatrigaani)

A symbol in many passionate love tales, the nightingale’s mesmerizing song provides a soulful background to many quiet nights.

35: Cockatoo (ಕಾಕತೂ | Kaakatoo)

Originating from Australia, cockatoos, with their striking crests, are not just eye-catching but are also known for their impressive mimicry skills.

36: Albatross (ಅಲ್ಬಾಟ್ರೋಸ್ | Albaatros)

These majestic birds rule the ocean skies. Their vast wingspan gives them the grace to soar effortlessly over expansive ocean waters.

37: Starling (ಸ್ಟಾರ್ಲಿಂಗ್ | Staarling)

Starlings are celebrated for their breathtaking murmurations, assembling in massive, synchronized swarms and dancing in the sky.

38: Moorhen (ಮೂರ್ ಹೆನ್ | Moor Hen)

Commonly spotted along waterbanks, moorhens can be quickly identified by their unique red bill and the prominent frontal shield.

39: Jackdaw (ಜಾಕ್ಡಾ | Jaakdaa)

Belonging to the crow family, jackdaws stand out with their silvery heads and often indulge in playful antics.

40: Tern (ಟರ್ನ್ | Tarn)

Masters of the sea, terns exhibit an exceptional diving skills, making a headlong plunge into the waters to snatch up fish.

41: Robin (ರಾಬಿನ್ | Raabin)

Distinguished by its bright orange breast, the robin is a cherished winter symbol in Western cultures, gracing many a festive card.

42: Seagull (ಕಡಲಪಕ್ಷಿ | Kadalapakshi)

Identifiable by their unmistakable cries, seagulls, ideal coastal birds, have seamlessly integrated into urban settings.

43: Toucan (ಟೂಕಾನ್ | Tookaan)

Brandishing an oversized bill, the vibrantly colored toucan is a visual delight in the tropical regions, predominantly in South America.

44: Pheasant (ಫೆಸಂಟ್ | Phesant)

Displaying a dazzling array of plumage, mostly ground-dwelling pheasants have historically been associated with game hunting.

45: Ibis (ಐಬಿಸ್ | Aibis)

Regarded as sacred in ancient Egyptian culture, the ibis, with its elegantly curved bill, is adept at scouring mudflats and wetlands for invertebrates.

46: Rook (ರೂಕ್ | Rook)

Often found near farmlands, these sociable birds have a distinct featherless face and are known for their collective nature.

47: Bunting (ಬಂಟಿಂಗ್ | Banting)

Petite and filled with melodies, these birds dazzle with their vibrant colors, making them a delight for birdwatchers.

48: Cormorant (ಕೊರಮಂಟ | Koramanta)

Distinguished by their unique pose drying their wings, these birds are adept divers, frequently emerging with a catch from the depths.

49: Curlew (ಕರ್ಲೂ | Karlu)

Roaming wetlands gracefully, their elongated, curved bills are perfect tools for seeking out tiny critters in the mud.

50: Grouse (ಗ್ರೌಸ್ | Grous)

Thriving in cooler landscapes, their speckled feathers offer ideal camouflage amid snowy grounds and heathers.

Also, Read: What’s the meaning of Red Cardinal at window? Is it good fortune?

51: Chiffchaff (ಚಿಫ್-ಚಾಫ್ | Chif-Chaaf)

These agile songbirds are frequently heard before they’re seen, continuously singing their name as they flit between trees.

52: Goldfinch (ಗೋಲ್ಡ್ಫಿಂಚ್ | Goldfinch)

A lively presence in gardens, their striking yellow and red patterns brighten the surroundings as they melodiously sing.

53: Barn Owl (ಗೋಡಿ ಗೂಬೆ | Goḍi Goobe)

Roosting in old barns and abandoned structures, their pale appearance and haunting calls make them unforgettable nighttime figures.

54: Hoopoe (ಹೂಪೂ | Hoopoo)

Distinguished by their striking crests and patterned wings, they’re often spotted using their long bills to search the ground for food.

55: Osprey (ಓಸ್ಪ್ರೇ | Ospre)

A formidable bird of prey, they dive feet-first into water bodies, snatching fish, their face marked by an iconic dark-eyed mask.

56: Chough (ಚೋಫ್ | Chof)

Their glossy black appearance and bright red bills and feet make them a captivating sight, especially against mountainous or cliff backgrounds.

57: Wheatear (ವೀಟೀಯರ್ | Weetiyar)

Often seen in transient phases, their swift tail movements on the ground resemble the gentle lapping of water.

58: House Sparrow (ಮನೆ ಗುಬ್ಬಚ್ಚಿ | Mane Gubbacchi)

A common sight in our neighborhoods, their cheerful tweets bring liveliness to our daily routines.

59: Bulbul (ಬುಲ್ಬುಲ್ | Bulbul)

Often hailed as the East’s melodious singer, their tunes have found their way into many cultural songs and poems.

60: Laughing Dove (ನಗುವಿನ ಪಾರಿವಾಳ | Naguvina Paarivaala)

Small and distinctive, their continuous cooing, reminiscent of laughter, often fills the morning and evening air.

61: Roller (ರೋಲರ್ | Roller)

Dazzling in turquoise and brown, frequently spotted sitting tall on poles.

62: Wood Pigeon (ಕಟ್ಟದ ಪಾರಿವಾಳ | Kattada Paarivaala)

A robust pigeon with iridescent green shades forages in woods for seeds and fruits.

63: Avocet (ಅವೊಸೆಟ್ | Avoset)

Black and white elegance, it uses its upturned bill to fetch insects from shallow waters.

64: Sandgrouse (ಮರಳ ಪಕ್ಷಿ | Marala Pakshi)

Sandgrouse are chubby birds, often seen in groups at waterholes; unique feathered feet aid in water absorption.

65: Pallid Swift (ಪ್ಯಾಲಿಡ್ ಸ್ವಿಫ್ಟ್ | Pyalid Swift)

Recognized by its crescent wings and pale underbelly, often nests in cliffside crannies.

66: Common Grackle (ಸಾಮಾನ್ಯ ಗ್ರ್ಯಾಕಲ್ | Saamaanya Gryaakal)

A shimmering blackbird with keen pale eyes and a sharp tail, often seen foraging on grassy patches.

67: European Bee-Eater (ಯುರೋಪಿಯನ್ ಜೇನುಹಕ್ಕಿ | European Jenuhakki)

A vibrant bird that’s a treat for the eyes, known for its graceful aerial chases of insects.

68: Golden Oriole (ಚಿನ್ನದ ಹಕ್ಕಿ | Chinnada Hakki)

Males flaunt a bright yellow color with dark wings, serenading with melodic tunes.

69: Common Quail (ಸಾಮಾನ್ಯ ಕ್ವೇಲ್ | Saamaanya Kweil)

A chubby bird with a peculiar call often camouflages itself in open fields.

70: Stone-Curlew (ಕಲ್ಲು ಕರಳುಹಕ್ಕಿ | Kallu Karaluhakki)

Renowned for its large yellow eyes and unique cry, it is primarily active during nighttime.

71: White Stork (ಬಿಳಿ ಕೋಕಣ | Bili Kokana)

A grand wader with black wings and bright red bodies known for constructing massive nests.

72: Pied Kingfisher (ಪಂಚವರ್ಣ ಮೀನುಗಾರಿ | Panchavarna Meenugaari)

Distinct black and white pattern of pied kingfisher often hovers above waters before plunging in for a catch.

73: Common Crane (ಸಾಮಾನ್ಯ ಕ್ರೇನ್ | Saamaanya Kreen)

Tall grey birds that gather in big groups, notable for their elaborate dance performances.

74: Secretary Bird (ಕಾರ್ಯದಲ ಹಕ್ಕಿ | Kaaryadala Hakki)

A unique fusion of an eagle and crane often hunts snakes in the grasslands.

75: Bearded Vulture (ಗಡ್ಡದ ಗಿಡುಗ | Gaddada Giduga)

Distinguished by its bare head and bone diet, this enormous vulture is crucial for nature’s balance.

Must Read: Why Won’t My Bird Stop Screaming? Identifying Reasons

76: MacQueen’s Bustard (ಮ್ಯಾಕ್ವೀನ್ಸ್ ಬಸ್ಟರ್ಡ್ | Myakweens Bustard)

One of the heaviest avian flyers, males display a showy courtship dance in the air.

77: Eurasian Spoonbill (ಯುರೋಪಿಯನ್ ಸ್ಪೂನ್ಬಿಲ್ | European Spoonbil)

Owes its name to its unique bill shape and uses it to catch fish while wading.

78: Hooded Crow (ಹುಡುಕಾವಿದ ಕಾಗೆ | Hudukaavida Kaage)

Predominant in the Middle East, this crow is identified by its unique grey hood.

79: Pied Kingfisher (ಪಂಚವರ್ಣ ಮೀನುಗಾರಿ | Panchavarna Meenugaari)

A small black and white bird, recognized by its shrill, dives into the water.

80: Rock Partridge (ಬಂಡೆ ಪಾರ್ಟ್ರಿಡ್ಜ್ | Bande Paartridj)

Masters of camouflage, these birds have distinctive red bills and streaked bodies.

81: White-tailed Lapwing (ಬಿಳಿ ಬಾಲದ ಲ್ಯಾಪ್ವಿಂಗ್ | Bili Baalada Lyapwing)

Recognized for its graceful flight displays over deserts, it showcases a combination of rounded wings and yellow legs that seem to dangle mid-flight.

82: Eurasian Collared Dove (ಯುರೋಪಿಯನ್ ಕೊಳರ್ಡ್ ಡವ್ | European Kolard Dove)

Usually sighted in pairs, its rhythmic tail movements accompany its melodic cooing sounds.

83: African Palm Swift (ಆಫ್ರಿಕನ್ ಪಾಮ್ ಸ್ವಿಫ್ಟ್ | African Paam Swift)

True to its name, this swift often peeks around palm trees, building nests using palm fibers.

84: Yellow Wagtail (ಹಳದಿ ವೇಗ್ಟೇಲ್ | Haladi Wegtail)

A radiant bird that prominently wags its tail, particularly noticeable during its breeding period in spring.

85: Common Swift (ಸಾಮಾನ್ಯ ಸ್ವಿಫ್ಟ್ | Saamaanya Swift)

Sporting a crescent shape and wings resembling sickles, this bird is designed for speed, constantly scouring the sky for insects.

86: White-breasted Kingfisher (ಬಿಳಿ ಎದೆಯ ನೀರುಗಾರಿ | Bili Edeya Neerugaari)

This kingfisher, resplendent in blue and turquoise above with a white underside, is commonly found near water bodies amidst forests.

87: Eurasian Skylark (ಯುರೋಪಿಯನ್ ಸ್ಕೈಲಾರ್ಕ್ | European Skylark)

Renowned for its melodious songs, it flutters high, flying joyfully from the skies.

88: Common Wood Pigeon (ಸಾಮಾನ್ಯ ಕಟ್ಟದ ಪಾರಿವಾಳ | Saamaanya Kattada Paarivaala)

This pigeon displays a distinctive gray shade complemented by white neck spots, echoing its resonating coo across woodlands.

89: European Bee-eater (ಯುರೋಪಿಯನ್ ಜೇನುಹಕ್ಕಿ | European Jenuhakki)

Decorating meadows with its golden plumage, long tail, and aerial dexterity, this bird is an insect predator.

90: Little Grebe (ಚಿಕ್ಕ ಗ್ರೀಬ್ | Chikka Greeb)

A minuscule aquatic bird, its disappearing act followed by reappearing elsewhere makes it seem almost magical.

91: Southern Masked Weaver (ದಕ್ಷಿಣ ಮುಖವಾಡ ವೀವರ್ | Dakshina Mukhavaada Veever)

Male birds stand out with a luminous yellow nape and a black face mask, skillfully constructing intricate nests over water bodies.

92: Eurasian Crag Martin (ಯುರೋಪಿಯನ್ ಕ್ರಾಗ್ ಮಾರ್ಟಿನ್ | European Kraag Maartin)

Residing on cliff sides, its uniquely crafted nests, twittering calls, and its grayish-brown hue make it distinguishable.

93: Greater Hoopoe Lark (ಮಹಾ ಹೂಪೂ ಲಾರ್ಕ್ | Maha Hoopoo Laark)

A giant lark adapted to desert life, its sharp bill and vivid black, white, and cinnamon plumage complemented by a crest are notable.

94: Cinereous Bunting (ಬೋಧಿತ ಬಂಟಿಂಗ್ | Boodhita Bunting)

Often seen singing atop poles, this bunting has a streaked brown body with distinct pale facial stripes.

95: Shining Sunbird (ಹೊಳೆಯುತ್ತಿರುವ ಸನ್‌ಬರ್ಡ್ | Holeyuttiruva Sunbird)

The male’s dazzling purple breast and vibrant colors complement its swift movements between flowers, aiding in pollination.

96: Red-billed Chough (ಕೆಂಪು ಕೊಕ್ಕರಿಸಿದ ಚೌಘ್ | Kempu Kokkarisida Chough)

With a lustrous blue-black body contrasted by its red bill and legs, this bird, adept at aerial displays, can be found in mountainous and coastal zones.

97: Purple Sunbird (ನೆರಳು ಸನ್‌ಬರ್ಡ್ | Neralu Sunbird)

The male’s gleaming purple and green hues stand out as it energetically feeds on nectar, moving from one flower to another.

98: Yellow-vented Bulbul (ಹಳದಿ ವಾಯುನಿರ್ಗಮನ ಬುಲ್ಬುಲ್ | Haladi Vaayunirgaman Bulbul)

Recognizable by its vibrant yellow tail, this energetic and vocal bird has successfully adapted to city life.

99: Spur-winged Lapwing (ಕಂಠಿಯುತ್ತಿರುವ ಲ್ಯಾಪ್ವಿಂಗ್ | Kanthiyuttiruva Lyapwing)

With its contrasting facial features, the distinctive rattle its wings make during flight is an identifying trait.

100: Common Kingfisher (ಸಾಮಾನ್ಯ ನೀರುಗಾರಿ | Saamaanya Neerugaari)

Spotting fish with piercing eyes, this vibrant bird plunges into the water to capture its prey.

How To Say Bird In “Kanadda?”

In Kannada, the word for ‘bird’ is “ಹಕ್ಕಿ” (Hakki).

The term “ಹಕ್ಕಿ” (Hakki) represents the wide variety of bird species that hold cultural, literary, and historical importance in the Kannada-speaking community, often symbolizing freedom, beauty, and wisdom.

Two Kannada Proverbs with the Word ‘Bird’

• “ಹಕ್ಕಿ ಹಾಸಿಗೆ ಗಾಳಿ ಹೊಡೆಯುವುದಿಲ್ಲ.” (Hakki haasige gaali hoḍeyuvudilla) – This proverb emphasizes the importance of not causing harm or trouble in a place or situation where one is welcomed or respected.
• “ಹಕ್ಕಿಯ ಸಂಗಡ ನೀವು ಹಕ್ಕಿಗಳ ಹಾಡನ್ನು ಕಲಿಯುತ್ತೀರಿ.” (Hakkiya saṅgaḍa nīvu hakkigaḷa hāḍannu kaliyuttīri) – This proverb suggests that being in the company of experienced or skilled individuals can help you acquire their knowledge or abilities, much like a fledgling bird learning to fly from its companions.

Birds of Prey in Kannada Lore

In Kannada culture, birds like eagles, hawks, and falcons are admired for their strength and courage. Their Kannada names reflect majesty and power.

Birds like nightingales, bulbuls, and larks are celebrated for their sweet songs and symbolize love in Kannada poetry. Their names evoke musicality.

Kannada Idioms Featuring Birds”

Kannada has many idioms and expressions using bird names that provide cultural insights. Exploring these linguistic gems can be fascinating.

Birds of the Karnataka Region’s Landscapes

Unique birds in Karnataka’s landscapes, such as the Indian roller, Malabar trogon, and Brahminy kite, highlight the regional avifauna.

Mystical Birds of Kannada Folklore

Kannada folk tales feature mythical birds like the Gandaberunda, a two-headed bird that can make for captivating reading.

Bird Symbolism in Ancient Kannada Civilizations

Birds were integral in ancient Kannada civilizations as symbols, messengers, and more. Tracing their significance is insightful.

Kannada Bird Names with Onomatopoeic Origins

Some Kannada bird names, like “ಹುದುಗುದು” (Hudugudu) for a lark, evocatively mimic bird calls. These onomatopoeic names are unique to Kannada.

Similar Read: 100+ Bird Names In Arabic With Translation in English [UPDATED]

Similar Read: 100+ Bird Names In Urdu With Translation in English [UPDATED]

Similar Read: 100+ Bird Names In Hindi With Translation in English [UPDATED]

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, we have explored 100 Bird Names In the Kannada language. Birds, like languages, connect cultures and civilizations; our shared responsibility is to cherish and preserve them for future generations.

Next Read:

• 100+ Bird Names In Marathi With Translation in English
• 100+ Bird Names In Sanskrit With Translation in English