Stands out as one of the most visually stunning birds in the Indian subcontinent. Its vibrant plumage, characterized by a blend of turquoise, blue, orange, and brown, captivates observers and earns it admiration as a symbol of beauty and elegance in nature. The bold streak of electric blue along its wings, especially noticeable in flight, adds to its majestic appearance and makes it a spectacle to behold against the backdrop of the sky. Such striking colors have led to the Indian roller being affectionately known as “Neelkanth,” a name that pays homage to its captivating blue-throated beauty.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Indian roller is also a highly skilled predator, specializing in hunting insects. From its perches atop trees, utility wires, or termite mounds, the roller surveys its surroundings with keen eyesight, ready to launch into action at the slightest movement. With swift and precise aerial maneuvers, it captures flying insects in mid-air, showcasing its exceptional agility and hunting prowess. This behavior not only sustains the roller but also contributes to the ecological balance by helping control insect populations.

The Indian roller is not merely a sight to behold; it also plays a vital ecological role in its habitat. As an insectivorous bird, it helps regulate insect populations, thereby preventing outbreaks of pests and maintaining the health of ecosystems. Furthermore, its presence in the environment serves as an indicator of habitat quality, as healthy populations of rollers are indicative of well-balanced ecosystems.

Despite its beauty and ecological importance, the Indian roller faces various threats in the wild, including habitat loss, degradation, and human-induced disturbances.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Afghanistan

2016

Bangladesh

2016

Bhutan

2016

India

2016

Iran

2016

Iraq

2016

Kuwait

2016

Non-Breeding

Maldives

2016

Non-Breeding

Nepal

2016

Oman

2016

Pakistan

2016

Qatar

2016

Vagrant

Saudi Arabia

2016

Non-Breeding

Sri Lanka

2016

Syria

2016

Non-Breeding

Turkey

2016

Non-Breeding

UAE

2016