100+ Bird Names In Tamil With Translation in English [UPDATED]

Tamil, an age-old and rich language of the Indian subcontinent, is deeply interwoven with history, culture, and tradition. As it spins tales of the land’s vibrant past, it intricately binds the splendors of nature within its poetic verses. With their mesmerizing hues and melodious calls, birds are respected in Tamil literature and folklore.

In Tamil traditions, these feathered beings are more than just creatures of the sky; they often symbolize profound emotions, aspirations, and life lessons. In this article, we will delve into various bird names in Tamil, providing their English translations and shedding light on their significance in the intricacy of Tamil culture.

Also, Read: 100+ Bird Names In Telugu With Translation in English

100+ Bird Names In Tamil

1: Sparrow (சிட்டுக்குருவி | Chittukuruvi)

A small yet spirited bird, the sparrow is commonly found in bustling urban and tranquil areas, charming those around it with its melodious tweets.

2: Peacock (மயில் | Mayil)

Symbolizing magnificence and elegance, the peacock stands out in the avian realm with its radiant feathers and enthralling display.

3: Pigeon (புறா | Pura)

Commonly spotted in city plazas and parks, pigeons display a calm aura, often symbolizing peace and harmony for those who observe them.

4: Crow (காகம் | Kaakam)

Universal and sharp, the crow symbolizes adaptability, marking its territory from urban streets to rural landscapes.

5: Parrot (கிளி | Kili)

Recognized by their striking colors and remarkable ability to imitate, parrots are cherished companions, filling homes with their lively banter.

6: Eagle (பருந்து | Parundu)

Majestically gliding through the skies, the eagle represents sheer strength and precision, descending upon its prey with unerring accuracy.

7: Owl (ஆந்தை | Aandhai)

Covered in nocturnal mystery, the owl, with its eerie calls, has long been linked to folklore and considered a symbol of sagacity.

8: Kingfisher (மீன் கொத்தி | Meen Kothi)

Dazzling near aquatic environments, the kingfisher impresses with its swift and graceful plunge, capturing fish with finesse.

9: Woodpecker (மரம்கொத்தி | Maramkothi)

Recognizable by their unique tap-tapping on tree trunks, woodpeckers contribute significantly to forest health with their characteristic sounds.

10: Crane (கொக்கு | Kokku)

With their elongated size, cranes dance gracefully across marshlands, bewitching spectators with their harmonious courtship rituals.

11: Duck (வாத்து | Vaathu)

Often seen in calm waters, ducks are known for their soft quacks and funny walking style.

12: Swan (அன்னாம் | Annaam)

Swans move smoothly on the water. Their bright white feathers are often linked to love stories.

13: Cuckoo (குயில் | Kuyil)

With the start of spring, the cuckoo’s song fills the forests, making many people happy.

14: Myna (மைனா | Maina)

A typical city bird, the myna is friendly and chatty, making noise in streets and parks.

15: Dove (புறா | Pura)

Doves stand for peace and calm. Their gentle cooing can be heard on quiet mornings.

16: Vulture (கழுகு | Kazhugu)

Vultures, often not liked, help nature by eating dead animals and keeping places clean.

17: Quail (காடை | Kaadai)

Quails are small and hard to spot. They hide in the grass and have a sweet-sounding call.

18: Falcon (வல்லூறு | Valluru)

Falcons are respected birds. They fly fast and are known for catching prey mid-air.

19: Heron (கோகு | Koku)

Heron stands tall at the water’s edge, waiting patiently to catch fish with its long neck.

20: Penguin (பெங்கின் | Pengin)

Penguins live in cold places. They walk cutely on land but swim fast in water.

21: Flamingo (பிளாமிங்கோ | Pilaamingo)

Bright pink birds standing on one leg, flamingos are a striking sight in wetlands.

22: Canary (கேனரி | Kaenari)

Small and colorful, canaries are known for their sweet songs, making them popular pets.

23: Hummingbird (ஓசிப்பறவை | Osipparavai)

Hummingbirds are tiny birds that hover near flowers and move rapidly. Often seen sipping nectar with long beaks.

24: Ostrich (ஓஸ்ட்ரிச் | Ostrich)

Large birds from Africa can’t fly but run fast on their strong legs.

25: Hawk (பருந்து | Parundu)

Sharp-eyed birds hawks fly high, quickly diving down to catch prey with precision.

Also, Read: Why Do Birds Attack Hawks? Know The Actual Truth!

26: Magpie (மேக்பை | Megpai)

Known for their black and white colors, magpies are curious and often collect shiny things.

27: Raven (ரேவன் | Raevan)

The ravens are bigger than crows, have deep calls, and are often seen in wild places.

28: Partridge (பாட்டிரிஜ் | Paatridge)

Sturdy birds of wild areas, their calls are musical and often heard in rural places.

29: Pelican (பெலிகன் | Pelikan)

With big throat pouches, pelicans catch fish, often seen scooping up meals from water.

30: Finch (஫ிஞ்ச் | Finch)

Miniature, colorful birds and finches brighten gardens and outdoor spaces with sweet songs.

31: Kite (கைட் | Kaid)

Flying gracefully, kites are known for their V-shaped tails, often seen in city skies.

32: Lark (லார்க் | Laark)

Noted for rising flights, larks sing beautifully, inspiring many writers with melodies.

33: Swift (ஸ்வி஫்ட் | Swift)

Quick birds, swifts fly most times, and like nesting on tall city buildings.

34: Nightingale (இரவுப்பாடல் | Iravupaadal)

Known in tales, nightingales sing beautifully, giving music to many silent nights.

35: Cockatoo (காக்காடு | Kaakkaatu)

From Australia, cockatoos have bright crests and are skilled in mimicking various sounds.

36: Albatross (அல்பாட்ராஸ் | Alpaatraas)

Majestic ocean rulers, these birds possess vast wingspans, enabling them to glide gracefully across vast sea expanses.

37: Starling (ஸ்டார்லிங் | Staarling)

Known for breathtaking sky dances, starlings gather in large groups, moving in mesmerizing synchronized patterns.

38: Moorhen (மூர்ஹென் | Moorhen)

Often seen by watersides, moorhens have unique red bills, and a shield on their forehead makes them stand out.

39: Jackdaw (ஜாக்டா | Jaakdaa)

With their silvery heads, Jackdaws are playful from the crow family and often engage in amusing behaviors.

40: Tern (டேர்ன் | Taern)

Sea masters terns dive skillfully, plunging headfirst into waters, capturing fish with unmatched elegance.

41: Robin (ரோபின் | Robin)

With a bright orange chest, robins symbolize winter in many Western traditions and frequently adorn festive greetings.

42: Seagull (கடல் பறவை | Kadal Paravai)

Known for their familiar calls, seagulls thrive by the coast and adapt to urban landscapes.

43: Toucan (டூகான் | Tookaan)

Sporting a large bill, colorful toucans are a visual treat in South American tropical forests.

44: Pheasant (பெசன்ட் | Phezant)

Beautiful ground birds, and pheasants, showcase diverse plumages and have been popular in hunting traditions.

45: Ibis (ஐபிஸ் | Aibis)

Revered in ancient Egypt, ibises used their curved bills to feed in wetlands and mudflats.

46: Rook (ரூக் | Rook)

Common around farms, these social birds have a bare face and are known for living in groups.

47: Bunting (பண்டிங் | Bunting)

Small yet melodious buntings bring joy with their vibrant colors, making them popular among bird enthusiasts.

48: Cormorant (கோர்மோரன்ட் | Kormorant)

Famous for drying outstretched wings, they dive deep, skillfully catching fish from beneath the water’s surface.

49: Curlew (கர்லூ | Karlu)

Easily identified by long, curved bills, they gracefully forage in wetlands, extracting tiny creatures from the mud.

50: Grouse (கிரௌஸ் | Graus)

Preferring colder regions, their patterned feathers help them blend seamlessly into snowy landscapes.

51: Chiffchaff (சிப்சாப் | Chibchaap)

Their repetitive song gives them away. Often heard, these agile birds dart between trees, filling the air with music.

52: Goldfinch (கோல்ட்ஃபின்ச் | Goldfinch)

Brightening gardens, and striking colors add beauty, and their delightful songs offer a melody to nature’s orchestra.

53: Barn Owl (பரான் ஆந்தை | Parān Ānthai)

Found in old structures, their ghostly appearance and echoing calls make them iconic figures of the night.

54: Hoopoe (ஹூபோ | Hoopoo)

Their unique crests and patterned wings stand out as they use long bills to forage for ground food.

55: Osprey (ஒஸ்ப்ரே | Ospre)

Powerful birds of prey, dive into water, grasping fish precisely, identifiable by their striking eye masks.

56: Chough (சௌஃ | Chough)

Glossy blackbirds, the choughs with their vibrant red bills and feet, are a striking contrast against cliff and mountain backgrounds.

57: Wheatear (வீட்டியார் | Veettiyar)

Distinctive birds, the wheatears can often be seen making swift tail movements on the ground, evoking the gentle lapping of waves.

58: House Sparrow (வீடு சிட்டுக்குருவி | Veedu Chittukkuruvi)

Ubiquitous birds, house sparrows with their characteristic chirps, have become integral to our urban and suburban soundscapes.

59: Bulbul (புல்புல் | Pulbul)

Predominantly found in the East, bulbuls are renowned for their melodic songs, having inspired countless poems and musical renditions.

60: Laughing Dove (சிரிக்கும் புறா | Sirikkum Pura)

The continuous, laughter-like coos of the petite laughing dove are a distinctive, melodic presence during the serene dawn and dusk.

61: Roller (ரோலர் | Roller)

With their stunning mix of turquoise and brown, these birds can often be spotted perched prominently, surveying their surroundings.

62: Wood Pigeon (காட்டு புறா | Kaattu Pura)

These robust pigeons, with hints of iridescence, forage diligently in woodlands, seeking out a variety of seeds and fruits.

63: Avocet (அவொசெட் | Avocet)

Strikingly elegant in black and white, avocados employ their uniquely upturned bills to sift through shallow waters for insects.

64: Sandgrouse (மணல் கோழி | Manal Kozhi)

Chubby birds of the desert, and sandgrouse gather at waterholes, their specialized feathers aiding in absorbing and transporting water.

65: Pallid Swift (வானம் பறவை | Vaanam Paravai)

With crescent wings and a lighter belly, these birds can nest in crannies, especially along cliff sides.

66: Common Grackle (பொது கிராக்கிள் | Podhu Grackil)

Distinguished by their shimmering black appearance, grackles possess keen pale eyes and frequent grassy terrains for their foraging sessions.

67: European Bee-Eater (ஐரோபிய தேனீச்சல் பறவை | Eirobiya Thenichal Paravai)

Vibrantly colored, these birds mesmerize with their graceful, acrobatic flights, adeptly chasing down and consuming airborne insects.

68: Golden Oriole (பொன் ஓரியோல் | Pon Oriol)

The males, with their bright yellow hue contrasted with black wings, are auditory delights, frequently serenading with melodious calls.

69: Common Quail (பொது காடை | Podhu Kadai)

Camouflaged in open fields, these rotund birds are distinct for their unique calls that echo across their habitats.

70: Stone-Curlew (கல் குருவி | Kal Kuruvi)

With large, mesmerizing yellow eyes, these birds are primarily nocturnal, their distinct cries carrying through the night.

71: White Stork (வெள்ளை கோக்கு | Vellai Kokku)

These tall birds, with contrasting black wings, are often seen gracefully roaming, known for constructing monumental treetop nests.

72: Pied Kingfisher (கரும் வெள்ளை மீன்கோத்தி | Karum Vellai Meenkotthi)

Hovering above waters, they suddenly plunge to catch prey, their black and white plumage making them easily recognizable.

73: Common Crane (பொது குரான் | Podhu Kraan)

Towering and grey, these birds are remarkable for their collective migrations, and their dance displays are a spectacle.

74: Secretary Bird (செயலாளர் பறவை | Seyalalar Paravai)

Eagle and crane combined, this bird’s long legs help it hunt ground-based prey, especially snakes, in African savannahs.

75: Bearded Vulture (தாடி கழுகு | Thaadi Kazhugu)

A unique vulture, its diet consists mainly of bones. With a striking appearance, it plays a vital ecological role.

76: MacQueen’s Bustard (மெக்வீன்ஸ் கோழி | Megveens Kozhi)

Heavy in flight, these birds are seen during their airborne romance displays, captivating onlookers with their dance.

77: Eurasian Spoonbill (ஐரோபிய ஸ்பூன்பில் | Eirobiya Spoonbil)

Named for their unique bill, these birds elegantly wade through waters, sifting for fish using their spoon-like bills.

78: Hooded Crow (கூவி காகம் | Koovi Kaagam)

Found majorly in the Middle East, this crow stands out due to its distinctive grey hood over its black body.

79: Pied Kingfisher (கரும் வெள்ளை மீன்கோத்தி | Karum Vellai Meenkotthi)

Distinct for its shrill, this black and white bird impresses with its dives, swiftly plunging into waters for fish.

80: Rock Partridge (கல் காடை | Kal Kadai)

Masters at blending in, these birds boast striking red bills and beautifully streaked bodies, making them a marvel to spot.

81: White-tailed Lapwing (வெள்ளை வால் லாப்விங் | Vellai Vaal Lapwing)

Acknowledged for its elegant aerial performances over deserts, this bird displays a mix of rounded wings and striking yellow legs that seem to float during its flight.

82: Eurasian Collared Dove (ஐரோபிய கழுத்து புறா | Airobia Kazhuthu Pura)

Often found in twos, this bird is known for its rhythmic tail motions that complement its harmonic coos.

83: African Palm Swift (ஆப்ரிக்கன் பால்ம் ஸ்விப்ட் | African Paalm Swift)

Living up to its name, this swift frequently flies around palm trees, crafting its nest from palm fibers.

84: Yellow Wagtail (மஞ்சள் வேக்டைல் | Manjal Wegtail)

This bright bird stands out with its characteristic tail wagging, most evident during its spring breeding season.

85: Common Swift (பொது ஸ்விப்ட் | Podhu Swift)

With its crescent-like form and scythe-like wings, this bird epitomizes speed, tirelessly sweeping the skies for its insect prey.

86: White-breasted Kingfisher (வெள்ளை மார்பு மீன்கோத்தி | Vellai Maarbu Meenkotthi)

Clad in hues of blue and turquoise on top and a white underbelly, this kingfisher is frequently seen around forest water sources.

87: Eurasian Skylark (ஐரோபிய ஸ்கைலார்க் | Airobia Skylark)

Celebrated for its enchanting melodies, this bird soars jubilantly, serenading the skies.

88: Common Wood Pigeon (பொது மரம் புறா | Podhu Maram Pura)

Distinguished by its unique gray shade and white patches on the neck, this pigeon’s deep cooing resounds through the forests.

89: European Bee-eater (ஐரோபிய ஜேனுக்காட்டி | Airobia Jaenukaatti)

Decorating the grasslands with its golden feathers, elongated tail, and graceful flight, this bird primarily preys on insects.

90: Little Grebe (சிறிய கிரீப் | Siria Greeb)

This diminutive waterfowl is known for its captivating vanishing acts, only to reappear at another location, mystifying onlookers.

91: Southern Masked Weaver (தெற்கு முகக்கவசம் வீவர் | Therku Mukakavasam Veever)

The male of the species captivates with a radiant yellow back of the neck and a striking black facial mask, masterfully weaving complex nests above water.

92: Eurasian Crag Martin (ஐரோபிய கிராக் மார்டின் | Airobia Kraag Maartin)

Inhabiting cliff terrains, its uniquely shaped nests, chirpy calls, and grayish-brown plumage distinguish it.

93: Greater Hoopoe Lark (பெரிய ஹூபூ லார்க் | Periya Hoopoo Laark)

A large lark tailored for desert living, its pointed beak and striking combination of black, white, and cinnamon feathers, crowned with a crest, are remarkable.

94: Cinereous Bunting (சாம்பல் பந்திங் | Saambal Bunting)

Frequently perched atop poles serenading the surroundings, this bunting boasts a streaked brown body accentuated by distinctive pale face stripes.

95: Shining Sunbird (காந்தளிரு சன்பேர்ட் | Kaanthalliru Sunbert)

The male dazzles with a shimmering purple chest and brilliant hues, darting swiftly among flowers, assisting in pollination.

96: Red-billed Chough (செவ்வாய் சௌக் | Sevvaay Chough)

Featuring a glossy blue-black coat offset by its crimson bill and feet, this agile flier is native to mountainous and coastal areas.

97: Purple Sunbird (ஊதா சன்பேர்ட் | Oodha Sunbert)

The male’s radiant purple and green shades make it stand out as it flits energetically, sipping nectar from flower to flower.

98: Yellow-vented Bulbul (மஞ்சள் காற்றுத்தொழில் புல்புல் | Manjal Kaatru Tholil Bulbul)

Identified by its bright yellow tail, this lively and vocal bird has seamlessly integrated into urban settings.

99: Spur-winged Lapwing (கொண்டையுள்ள லாப்விங் | Kondaiyulla Lapwing)

It is characterized by its contrasting facial features, the unique rattling sound its wings produce during flight serves as an identification marker.

100: Common Kingfisher (பொது மீன்கோத்தி | Podhu Meenkotthi)

With keen eyesight, this vibrant bird dives into water bodies to snag its fishy meals.

How To Say Bird In “Tamil?”

In Tamil, the word for ‘bird’ is “பறவை” (Paravai).

The term “பறவை” (Paravai) encompasses the myriad bird species that have significant cultural, literary, and historical connotations in the Tamil-speaking community, symbolizing freedom, grace, and intellect.

Two Tamil Proverbs with the Word ‘Bird’

1. “பறவை கூவினால் அது வீடு காண முடியும்.” (Paravai koovinaal athu veedu kaan mudiyum) – This proverb translates to “A bird can find its home by its call,” emphasizing the power of identity and communication.
2. “பறவைக்கு பற அறிந்தவன் விண்.” (Paravaikku para arinthavan vin) – This saying translates to “The sky is known to the bird that flies,” highlighting the value of experience.

Birds of Prey in Tamil Lore

In Tamil culture, birds like eagles, hawks, and falcons are revered for their might and courage. Their Tamil names mirror this aura of grandeur and strength.

Birds like koels, mynahs, and larks are celebrated for their musical calls. They often symbolize love and yearning in Tamil poetry. Their names in Tamil resonate with musicality.

Tamil Idioms Featuring Birds

Tamil boasts numerous idioms and phrases using bird names, reflecting deep cultural and linguistic nuances. Delving into these linguistic treasures can be a delightful experience.

Birds of the Tamil Nadu Region’s Landscapes

Distinctive birds native to Tamil Nadu’s varied landscapes, such as the Indian peafowl, Malabar hornbill, and Black kite, exemplify the local avifauna.

Mystical Birds of Tamil Folklore

Tamil folklore is enriched with tales of mythical birds like Anka, a bird that can change its form. Such tales make for enthralling stories.

Bird Symbolism in Ancient Tamil Civilizations

Birds played crucial roles in ancient Tamil civilizations, representing symbols, omens, and more. Investigating their importance offers enlightening perspectives.

Tamil Bird Names with Onomatopoeic Origins

Several Tamil bird names, like “குயில்” (Kuyil) for a koel, beautifully capture bird calls. These onomatopoeic names are particular to Tamil and resonate deeply with the language’s phonetic richness.

Similar Read: 100+ Bird Names In Kannada With Translation in English

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

Conclusion

From the echoing call of the குயில் (Kuyil) to the majestic flight of the falcon, the realm of birds has woven itself intricately into the fabric of Tamil culture, language, and lore. The idioms, proverbs, and folklore that feature these avian wonders provide a glimpse into the natural beauty of Tamil Nadu.

It also highlights how the Tamil-speaking community reveres and relates to these winged creatures. As symbols of freedom, messengers of love, or bearers of cultural tales, birds reflect the Tamil heritage’s soul, reminding us that nature and culture, though distinct, are inevitably intertwined.

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