Birds are an integral part of our natural world, adding color, beauty, and sound to our surroundings. Gujarat, a state in western India, is home to a rich diversity of bird species, from common backyard birds to rare and exotic species found in the forests and wetlands.
The Gujarati language, spoken by the people of Gujarat, has a unique and fascinating vocabulary for bird names. Like many other Indian languages, Gujarati has its own set of names for different bird species, some of which have interesting etymologies and cultural significance.
For instance, the Indian Peafowl, the national bird of India, is called ‘Mor’ in Gujarati, while the Spotted Dove, a common bird in urban areas, is called ‘Chabuk’ due to its distinctive cooing sound. The majestic Sarus Crane, the tallest flying bird in the world, is called ‘Kunj’ in Gujarati, and the colorful Rose-ringed Parakeet is called ‘Tota’.
Learning the birds name in Gujarati not only adds to our knowledge of the natural world but also allows us to connect with the local culture and heritage. Whether you are a bird enthusiast, a traveler visiting Gujarat, or simply curious about the Gujarati language, exploring the fascinating world of birds name in Gujarati is sure to be an enriching experience.
Popular birds name in Gujarati
There are many bird species found in Gujarat, and the Gujarati language has unique names for each of them. Here are some popular birds name in Gujarati:
1. Indian Peafowl – Mor
Indian Peafowl, commonly known as the peacock, is a large and colorful bird native to the Indian subcontinent. The male peafowl, which is known for its striking appearance, has a long and iridescent blue-green tail that can be spread out into a beautiful fan-like shape during courtship displays. The female peafowl, on the other hand, is smaller and less showy, with a brownish-gray body and shorter tail feathers.
In Gujarati, the Indian Peafowl is called ‘Mor’. The name ‘Mor’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Mayura’, which means peacock. The peacock is an important cultural symbol in India and is associated with beauty, grace, and pride.
2. Spotted Dove – Chabuk
The Spotted Dove, also known as the Indian Turtle Dove, is a small and common bird found in urban and rural areas of India. The bird has a brownish-gray body with white spots on its wings and a distinctive cooing call. The Spotted Dove is a popular bird among birdwatchers and is known for its peaceful and unassuming demeanor.
In Gujarati, the Spotted Dove is called ‘Chabuk’. The name ‘Chabuk’ is derived from the Gujarati word for whip, which refers to the sound of the bird’s call that is said to resemble the sound of a whip being cracked.
3. Common Myna – Maina
The Common Myna and the House Sparrow are two more bird species found in Gujarat and their names in Gujarati are Maina and Goraiyo, respectively. The Common Myna is a medium-sized bird with a brown body and black head and neck. It is a vocal bird with a loud, distinctive call and is often found in urban areas, feeding on insects, fruits, and seeds. The Common Myna is considered a pest in some areas due to its tendency to nest in cavities and displace native bird species.
In Gujarati, the Common Myna is called ‘Maina’. The name ‘Maina’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Madana’, which means intoxicated or infatuated. The Common Myna is known for its lively and active behavior, and its melodious songs are often heard in gardens and parks.
4. House Sparrow – Goraiyo
The House Sparrow is a small bird with a brownish-gray body and black bib on its throat. It is a social bird that is often found in flocks, feeding on seeds and insects. The House Sparrow is commonly found in urban and suburban areas, but its population has declined in recent years due to habitat loss and pollution.
In Gujarati, the House Sparrow is called ‘Goraiyo’. The name ‘Goraiyo’ is derived from the Gujarati word for a small brown bird. The House Sparrow is an important bird in Indian culture and is believed to be a symbol of good luck and fertility. In fact, it is customary in some parts of India to place a pair of House Sparrows in a newlywed couple’s bedroom to bring them good luck and happiness.
5. Common Kingfisher – Machchhuari
The Common Kingfisher and the Black Kite are two more bird species found in Gujarat, and their names in Gujarati are Machchhuari and Chhel, respectively.
The Common Kingfisher is a small, colorful bird with bright blue and orange feathers. It is commonly found near water bodies like rivers, lakes, and ponds, where it feeds on small fish and insects. The Common Kingfisher is known for its impressive hunting skills, diving into the water to catch fish with incredible speed and accuracy.
In Gujarati, the Common Kingfisher is called ‘Machchhuari’. The name ‘Machchhuari’ is derived from the Gujarati word for a fish-eating bird. The Common Kingfisher is considered a symbol of prosperity and good luck in some cultures and is also revered for its beauty and grace.
6. Black Kite – Chhel
The Black Kite is a medium-sized bird of prey with a distinctive forked tail and a brownish-black body. It is commonly found in urban and rural areas of India, scavenging for food and preying on small animals like rodents and insects. The Black Kite is known for its agility and intelligence, often seen flying in circles and hovering in the air to locate its prey.
In Gujarati, the Black Kite is called ‘Chhel’. The name ‘Chhel’ is derived from the Gujarati word for a kite, a popular bird-shaped toy that is flown during festivals in India. The Black Kite is also considered a symbol of freedom and strength in some cultures, and its image is often used in traditional Indian art and mythology.
7. Rose-ringed Parakeet – Tota
The Rose-ringed Parakeet and the Oriental Magpie-Robin are two more bird species found in Gujarat, and their names in Gujarati are Tota and Dhundi, respectively.
The Rose-ringed Parakeet is a colorful bird with a green body and a distinctive red ring around its neck. It is commonly found in urban and rural areas of India, feeding on fruits, seeds, and grains. The Rose-ringed Parakeet is known for its loud and raucous calls, and its ability to mimic human speech.
In Gujarati, the Rose-ringed Parakeet is called ‘Tota’. The name ‘Tota’ is derived from the Hindi word for a parrot, a name given to many species of parrots in India. The Rose-ringed Parakeet is a popular pet bird in India and is also considered a symbol of love and devotion in some cultures.
8. Oriental Magpie-Robin – Dhundi
The Oriental Magpie-Robin is a small bird with a black and white plumage and a distinctive long tail. It is commonly found in urban and rural areas of India, feeding on insects and small animals. The Oriental Magpie-Robin is known for its melodious songs and is often heard singing in gardens and parks.
In Gujarati, the Oriental Magpie-Robin is called ‘Dhundi’. The name ‘Dhundi’ is derived from the Gujarati word for a small bird with a long tail. The Oriental Magpie-Robin is also considered a symbol of love and fidelity in some cultures, and its image is often used in traditional Indian art and literature.
9. Laughing Dove – Phattudi
The Laughing Dove and the Indian Robin are two more bird species found in Gujarat, and their names in Gujarati are Phattudi and Jhirgit, respectively.
The Laughing Dove is a small bird with a beige body and a distinctive pinkish-brown patch on its neck. It is commonly found in urban and rural areas of India, feeding on seeds and grains. The Laughing Dove is known for its soft and gentle cooing sound, which is often heard in gardens and parks.
In Gujarati, the Laughing Dove is called ‘Phattudi’. The name ‘Phattudi’ is derived from the Gujarati word for a bird with a soft voice. The Laughing Dove is also considered a symbol of peace and tranquility in some cultures.
10. Indian Robin – Jhirgit
The Indian Robin is a small bird with a brownish-gray body and a distinctive orange breast. It is commonly found in urban and rural areas of India, feeding on insects and small animals. The Indian Robin is known for its sweet and melodious songs and is often heard singing in gardens and parks.
In Gujarati, the Indian Robin is called ‘Jhirgit’. The name ‘Jhirgit’ is derived from the Gujarati word for a bird with a sweet voice. The Indian Robin is also considered a symbol of joy and happiness in some cultures, and its image is often used in traditional Indian art and literature.
List of 50 birds name in Gujarati and English
Bird watching is one of the most popular hobbies in the world. There are over 10,000 species of birds across the globe. Gujarat, in particular, is home to a diverse range of bird species due to its geographical location and climate. If you’re planning on visiting or living in Gujarat, it’s helpful to know some common bird names in both Gujarati and English. Here’s a list of 50 birds you may come across while exploring Gujarat:
| No | Gujarati Name | English Name |
| 1 | Mor | Indian Peafowl |
| 2 | Chabuk | Spotted Dove |
| 3 | Maina | Common Myna |
| 4 | Goraiyo | House Sparrow |
| 5 | Machchhuari | Common Kingfisher |
| 6 | Chhel | Black Kite |
| 7 | Tota | Rose-ringed Parakeet |
| 8 | Dhundi | Oriental Magpie-Robin |
| 9 | Phattudi | Laughing Dove |
| 10 | Jhirgit | Indian Robin |
| 11 | Gugaliya | Barn Owl |
| 12 | Hargila | Gray Heron |
| 13 | Vagad | Great Egret |
| 14 | Huns | Bar-headed Goose |
| 15 | Ghughara | Eurasian Golden Oriole |
| 16 | Titodi | Eurasian Collared Dove |
| 17 | Kagar | Indian Crow |
| 18 | Vihadi | White-rumped Vulture |
| 19 | Koyal | Asian Koel |
| 20 | Vakha | Common Babbler |
| 21 | Morali | Red-vented Bulbul |
| 22 | Kokila | Asian Emerald Dove |
| 23 | Rangilo | Indian Pitta |
| 24 | Bhatuk | Plain Prinia |
| 25 | Kabutar | Rock Pigeon |
| 26 | Saurashtri Gugaro | Yellow-throated Sparrow |
| 27 | Titir | Yellow-billed Babbler |
| 28 | Gulabi Titvi | Rosy Starling |
| 29 | Kadambari | Purple Sunbird |
| 30 | Rupalu | Purple-rumped Sunbird |
| 31 | Phulvari | Purple Heron |
| 32 | Amrutdhara | Common Sandpiper |
| 33 | Sova | Eurasian Sparrowhawk |
| 34 | Gauraiya | Scaly-breasted Munia |
| 35 | Kalij Pheasant | Kalij Pheasant |
| 36 | Shyama | Black Francolin |
| 37 | Titar | Eurasian Partridge |
| 38 | Kaduva | Black-headed Ibis |
| 39 | Kanera | White-throated Kingfisher |
| 40 | Shikra | Shikra |
| 41 | Vadal | Pied Myna |
| 42 | Jambua | Indian Grey Hornbill |
| 43 | Dhel | Ashy-crowned Sparrow-Lark |
| 44 | Khokhali | Crested Bunting |
| 45 | Kokhali | Indian Robin |
| 46 | Kagdo | Indian Roller |
| 47 | Godha | Indian Swiftlet |
| 48 | Darshavari | Red-crested Pochard |
| 49 | Kaliyo | Indian Cormorant |
| 50 | Varna | Jungle Babbler |
Importance of Knowing Bird Names in Gujarati
Knowing the birds name in Gujarati can be invaluable for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Gujarat is home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a popular destination for birding. Being able to identify and name these birds not only enhances one’s experience but also helps in conservation efforts. Knowing birds name in Gujarati, or any local language, is important for several reasons:
Cultural and Linguistic Preservation:
Birds name in Gujarati are part of the local cultural heritage and language. Knowing these names helps preserve and promote the Gujarati language and its unique vocabulary related to birds. It contributes to the overall preservation of indigenous knowledge and traditions.
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Communication and Connection:
When you know the bird names in Gujarati, you can communicate and connect with local communities more effectively. It allows you to engage in conversations about birds, share experiences, and learn from their traditional knowledge about bird behavior, habitats, and conservation efforts.
Environmental Awareness:
Knowing birds name in Gujarati enhances your environmental awareness and understanding. Birds play crucial roles in ecosystems as pollinators, seed dispersers, and indicators of environmental health. Identifying and recognizing birds in their natural habitats helps you appreciate and understand their ecological significance, contributing to conservation efforts.
Birdwatching and Wildlife Observation:
If you are interested in birdwatching or wildlife observation in Gujarat or any Gujarati-speaking region, knowing the birds name in Gujarati is essential. It enables you to identify and document the birds you encounter accurately, enhancing your birdwatching experience and contributing to citizen science initiatives and conservation databases.
Education and Research:
In educational settings, knowing birds name in Gujarati can be valuable for teaching children about local biodiversity and nature. It fosters an appreciation for local fauna and encourages curiosity and exploration. Additionally, for researchers studying birds in Gujarat, knowing the local names facilitates collaboration with local communities, data collection, and sharing of research findings in accessible formats.
Conservation and Advocacy:
Understanding birds name in Gujarati supports conservation and advocacy efforts. By involving local communities and communicating in their language, you can raise awareness about the importance of conserving bird habitats, mitigating threats, and promoting sustainable practices. Localized communication is often more effective in engaging people and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for their natural surroundings.
How Gujarati Bird Names Are Derived
Gujarati bird names are typically derived from a combination of Sanskrit, Persian, and local dialects. The names are often descriptive, reflecting the bird’s appearance, behavior, or habitat.
For example, the Indian Peafowl, known as “Mor” in Gujarati, gets its name from the Sanskrit word “Mayura,” which means peacock. Similarly, the Laughing Dove, known as “Phattudi,” gets its name from the Gujarati word for a bird with a soft voice.
Some bird names in Gujarati are derived from Persian or Arabic. For instance, the House Sparrow, known as “Goraiyo,” is derived from the Persian word “Goriz,” which means sparrow. The Eurasian Golden Oriole, known as “Ghughara,” gets its name from the Arabic word “Ghughar,” which means the sound of the oriole’s song.
In some cases, birds name in Gujarati are derived from local dialects. For example, the White-throated Kingfisher, known as “Kanera,” gets its name from the local dialect of the Saurashtra region, where the bird is commonly found.
Overall, Gujarati bird names are a fascinating reflection of the region’s diverse cultural and linguistic heritage. They provide insight into how people have interacted with and observed these beautiful creatures over centuries.
Birds as symbols in Gujarati folklore and culture
Birds play an important role in Gujarati folklore and culture and are often used as symbols to convey various meanings and messages. Here are a few examples:
Peacock: The Indian Peafowl, or “Mor,” is a beloved bird in Gujarat, and is often associated with royalty and beauty. In Hindu mythology, the peacock is the mount of the god Kartikeya and is also associated with the goddess Saraswati. The peacock is also a symbol of prosperity and good luck.
Sparrow: The House Sparrow, or “Goraiyo,” is a common bird in Gujarat, and is often seen around homes and gardens. In Gujarati folklore, the sparrow is a symbol of love and devotion and is often used in romantic poetry and songs.
Owl: The Barn Owl, or “Gugaliya,” is a nocturnal bird that is often associated with wisdom and knowledge. In Gujarati folklore, the owl is seen as a messenger of the gods and is believed to bring good news and blessings.
Eagle: The Black Kite, or “Chhel,” is a powerful bird that is often associated with strength and courage. In Gujarati folklore, the eagle is a symbol of freedom and independence and is often used in patriotic songs and poetry.
Dove: The Spotted Dove, or “Chabuk,” is a gentle bird that is often associated with peace and harmony. In Gujarati culture, the dove is a symbol of love and friendship and is often given as a gift to express these emotions.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, birds have an important place in Gujarati culture and language, with many of their names derived from a mix of Sanskrit, Persian, and local dialects. The diverse range of bird species found in Gujarat, from the magnificent Indian Peafowl to the humble House Sparrow, have been celebrated and immortalized in folklore, literature, and art for centuries.
These birds have been used as symbols to represent various qualities and values, such as beauty, love, wisdom, strength, and peace, connecting people to the natural world and enriching the cultural heritage of the region. Knowing the names of birds in Gujarati can deepen our understanding and appreciation of this rich cultural tradition.
FAQs
How can I learn bird names in Gujarati?
You can learn birds names in Gujarati by referring to bird field guides, and online resources, or by interacting with local communities and birdwatching groups.
Are there any regional variations in bird names within Gujarat?
Yes, there can be regional variations in bird names within Gujarat due to the diversity of languages and dialects spoken in the state. Some bird names may vary depending on the local cultural and ecological context.
Who is the largest bird in India?
The Sarus Crane (Grus antigone) is the largest bird species found in India. It is known for its impressive height and wingspan, making it the largest flying bird in India.