Birds of Thailand

A bird paradise in Southeast Asia

Thailand is home to more than a thousand bird species, more than all of Europe. That is thanks to its varied landscapes: cool montane cloud forests in the north, vast rice fields and wetlands in the central plains, and tropical rainforest and mangrove coasts in the south. Between November and March, millions of migrants from Siberia and China join them.

For each species this guide gives a photo, a short description, its habitat, the best season and a map of the places where you are most likely to see it. Click a hotspot on the large map to see which birds live there.

The best places for birdwatching in Thailand

The best months for birdwatching at each site in Thailand.

Tips for birders in Thailand

Best period: November to March, when it is dry and cool and the migrants are present. Start early: birds are most active from sunrise to 9 am. Hire a guide: local guides in Kaeng Krachan and Doi Inthanon know exactly where the rare species are. Useful: binoculars (8x42), the eBird app and the Merlin Bird ID app with the Thailand pack.

Descriptions and hotspot links are based on general field-guide knowledge. Always check recent sightings on eBird Thailand. The Doi Lang location is approximate and is therefore shown as an area.