Birds Species Count by Country (Updated List 2025)

Birds are among the most captivating creatures on Earth, symbolizing freedom, beauty, and resilience. With their extraordinary ability to inhabit diverse ecosystems, from dense rainforests to arid deserts, birds contribute significantly to biodiversity and ecological balance. Their presence is essential for pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control, making them vital for the health of ecosystems worldwide.

This article explores the countries with the richest bird diversity, based on the total number of bird species recorded in each nation. These rankings offer a glimpse into the ecological richness and unique habitats that make these regions havens for birdlife.

Top 10 Countries with Most Bird Species

1. Colombia: 1,917
2. Peru: 1,892
3. Brazil: 1,864
4. Indonesia: 1,791
5. Ecuador: 1,684
6. Bolivia: 1,446
7. Venezuela: 1,420
8. China: 1,330
9. India: 1,271
10. DR Congo: 1,155

Colombia, with an astonishing 1,917 bird species, tops the list as the most avian-rich country. Its diverse ecosystems, from the Andes mountains to the Amazon rainforest, provide habitats for iconic species like the Andean Condor and the vibrant Quetzal. Peru follows closely, boasting 1,892 bird species, including the Marvelous Spatuletail and the Andean Cock-of-the-rock, both endemic to the region.

Brazil ranks third with 1,864 species, supported by its sprawling Amazon basin and diverse landscapes. Iconic birds like Toucans and Macaws are a testament to its avian wealth. Indonesia’s archipelagic geography contributes to its rank, with 1,791 bird species, including many endemics like the Bali Myna and the Javan Hawk-Eagle.

Ecuador and Bolivia, with 1,684 and 1,446 species respectively, are prime examples of how tropical climates and varied habitats foster bird diversity. Venezuela, China, and India also feature prominently on the list, showcasing their vast and unique ecosystems. The Democratic Republic of Congo completes the top 10, with its lush rainforests harboring over 1,155 bird species.

Birds Species Count by Country (Full List)

The Importance of Bird Conservation

Birds are vital indicators of environmental health and play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance. However, habitat destruction, climate change, and illegal hunting pose significant threats to global bird populations. Countries with high bird diversity must prioritize conservation initiatives to protect their unique avian heritage.

Birds and Ecotourism

Bird diversity also plays a significant role in promoting ecotourism. Countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Brazil attract birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts from around the world, boosting local economies and raising awareness about conservation.

Source

• Countries with the highest biodiversity – World Rainforests