National Birds of All Countries Check

National birds of a country symbolize what the country represents. They also add to the diversity of Avifauna and reflect the cultural heritage of that nation. Choosing a national bird is a crucial process since it becomes the country’s symbol. Birds are chosen depending on uniqueness, historical importance, and abundance. The country officials even create strict laws to protect their national birds and it is illegal to harm them in any sort of way.

Here we will take a look at different countries and learn about their national birds. This section is also important for students preparing for GK section of competitive exams.

1. India – Peacock

The Indian Peafowl, commonly known as the Indian peacock is a really colorful bird that is indigenous to India and synonymous with the identity of India. It is also found in various parts across the world. Peacocks are extraordinarily beautiful and are usually found in low-altitude regions and prefer to live near water bodies. They are distinct to Indian history and are often found in mythical stories and folklore.

2. Malaysia – Rhinoceros Hornbill

The Rhinoceros hornbill is one of the largest species of hornbill that reside in the rainforests of Asia. They nest in hollow cavities and live on treetops up to 70m in height. Hornbills can grow up to 50 inches and have shiny black feathers and white-colored tails. Their beak is bright orange and has a hollow horn-like structure called casque on the top of their beak. This is where the birds acquired their name from.

3. New Zealand – Kiwi

Kiwis are indigenous to New Zealand and are the smallest ratites including emus, ostriches, cassowaries, and rheas. They are brownish-grey in color and have a slightly long, narrow beak. Kiwis are flightless birds and are closely related to the extinct elephant birds. The name kiwi was conferred by the Australian soldiers during the first world war. Today, steps are taken for their protection as they are nearly extinct.

4. Denmark – Mute Swan

The mute swan was chosen as the national bird of Denmark, not because of national history but due to the popularity it gained after “The Ugly Duckling”. The mute swan acquired its name for being relatively quieter than other species of swan. Its body is pure white, with an orange beak and black border.

5. Iraq and Pakistan – Chukar

This gamebird is native to the middle east and southern Asia. They were named Chukar because of their chicken-like cackling sounds. They typically reside near mountains and rocky cliffs and usually feed on the ground. They are greyish brown in color with zebra-like lines down their wings and have an orange beak with a black border.

6. Canada – Canada Jay

Canada jay was selected as the national bird of Canada as it won the popular vote. They also go by the names camp robber, grey jay, and whisky jack. They are light grey in the front and dark grey in the back with a white head with a grey spot, black eyes, and a grey beak. They are characterized by their loud screaming and chattering calls.

7. Australia – Emu

The second-largest living bird right after the ostrich is a member of the ratite family. Emus are significant to the Australians as they appear in various cultural stories narrated by the indigenous communities. These large dark grey birds appear on Australia’s coat of arms and the 50-cent coins.

8. Germany – Golden Eagle

Being one of the most popular birds in the northern hemisphere, it symbolizes bravery, strength, and triumph. Eagles have been used as a symbol in Germany for many years. The golden eagle has a majestic appearance and is dark brown in color. Their wings can spread up to 7 feet. They have a golden color on their crown which explains their name.

9. Japan – Green Pheasant

In 1947, the green pheasant was declared the national bird of Japan, or kiji, as the Japanese people call it. They have been a significant part of cultural and mythical stories in Japan. The male has dark green feathers on the breast, a bluish hood, a pale grey tail, and red wattle. The females are not as brightly colored to stay safe while looking after the eggs.

10. United States – Bald Eagle

Since 1882, the bald eagle has been appearing in many official documents of the government. The most pictured bird in America even appears on flags and dollar bills. The bald eagle has a white head and tail with a dark brown plumage. It has a yellow beak and fierce yellow eyes. It can spread its wings up to 7 feet and has pretty sharp talons.

List of other countries and their national birds