Many people travel to the Maldives to lounge in overwater villas and sink into its tropical beaches. Some days are for snorkelling with sea turtles, while others are for a sunset cruise with the family. But if you keep your eyes glued to the waters, there’s a good chance you’re missing the incredible birds in the Maldives.

Why Birdwatching is Making a Comeback

Birdwatching in the Maldives has taken flight over the last couple of years, with younger generations embracing it during their travels. Today, people are excited to spot unique feathered species soaring across the sky, encouraging them to slow down and connect more intimately with nature.

Why Maldives is Ideal for Birdwatching

You might picture the Maldives as tiny dots of sand surrounded by a vast ocean, but for coastal and sea birds, these coral-dotted atolls make the ideal home. 

With over 170 species of birds gliding through the blue sky, you can easily spot them from your sun-drenched overwater villa in Maldives.

7 Birds You Can Spot in the Maldives

The birdwatching experience in Maldives Island offers plenty of enthralling sights, waiting for you around every palm tree. 

If you find yourself on Machchafushi Island, keep an eye out for these 7 beautiful species: 

1. Black-Naped Tern (Dhivehi Raajeh) A graceful seabird with a slender body, long wings, and a distinct black cap, the Dhivehi Raajeh is often seen gliding above the lagoon. You can easily spot them flying low over the water or diving skillfully near the Sunset Jetty to catch small fish.
    
2. Asian Koel (Koholu) Famous for its loud, rhythmic call heard echoing across the island, the Kohulu is often heard before it is seen. While glossy black males and spotted brown females feed mainly on fruits high in the treetops, especially near the gardens, this clever member of the cuckoo family actually lays its eggs in other birds' nests. 
    
3. Grey Heron (Maakana) Meet Maakana, the majestic Grey Heron. With its grey feathers, long neck, and graceful movements, this patient hunter wades calmly near the shore along the beach or near the main pool. It can stand completely still for minutes at a time in shallow water before striking quickly to catch fish or crabs. In fact, some on the island affectionately call him ‘Mr George.’ 
    
4. White-Breasted Waterhen (Kanbili) Kanbili is the lively national bird of the Maldives. With its bright white face and breast, dark body, and yellow legs, this small bird moves quickly through bushes and shallow areas searching for insects and small fish. Look for them in pairs around the pool or in quieter parts of the island. 
    
5. Ringneck Parrot (Sunday) Another fascinating bird to see in the Maldives is our cheerful Ringneck parrot. Featuring bright yellow feathers and a bold red beak, he loves observing guests and showing off his playful personality. You can usually find him at the Watersports Centre, where he loves greeting visitors in the morning with cheerful calls. 
    
6. Roseate Tern (Raajeh Dhivehi) Featuring soft pink tones and long wings, this delicate seabird glides expertly above the lagoon before diving to catch small fish. You’ll usually find them in pairs or small groups making high-pitched calls around the overwater villa roofs as they migrate thousands of kilometres between seasons. 
    
7. Blue-and-Gold Macaw (Ossie) Meet Ossie, the island's colourful resident parrot. With bright blue and golden feathers, Ossie is highly intelligent and social. Located at the Watersports Centre alongside Sunday, Ossie can live up to 50 years and loves interacting with guests through playful whistles, curious head tilts, and mimicking sounds.

Nature-Friendly Places to Stay in the Maldives

Spotting birds in the Maldives is a joyful experience, and Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection offers an unforgettable stay. 

As a Maldives all-inclusive resort, we welcome guests to enjoy everything this island has to offer, from birdwatching and water adventures to world-class dining and revitalising spa treatments.

If you’re looking to admire our captivating, feathered friends or searching for the perfect Maldives resort for kids activities, contact us to book your stay today.