The Peacock is a large bird native to the Indian subcontinent, but it is now found in many parts of the world, often raised for its magnificent feathers. It measures about 2 to 2.5 meters in length, much of which consists of its tail, which can reach up to 1.5 meters in length. The Peacock's feathers are brilliantly colorful, with blue, green, and gold patterns that are displayed during courtship rituals to attract females. Outside of the breeding season, the Peacock is a terrestrial bird, feeding on seeds, fruits, insects, and small reptiles. Although this species is not in immediate danger, it is threatened by habitat loss and hunting in some regions.
The Black Sicklebill, or Epimachus fastuosus, is a bird of the Paradisaeidae family, renowned for its spectacular plumage and elaborate courtship displays. Native to New Guinea, it primarily inhabits montane tropical rainforests. Males are distinguished by their glossy black plumage with metallic sheens and long sickle-shaped tails. They perform complex dances to attract females, who are duller and brown. These birds primarily feed on fruits and insects. Their habitat is threatened by deforestation, leading to a decline in their population. They are currently classified as vulnerable by the IUCN.
The Raggiana Bird-of-paradise, or Paradisaea raggiana, is an iconic bird of the Paradisaeidae family, endemic to Papua New Guinea. It is renowned for its spectacular plumage, especially in males, who display bright red and orange feathers, along with elongated central plumes. These birds are famous for their impressive courtship displays, where males perform complex dances to attract females. They primarily inhabit tropical rainforests, feeding on fruits, insects, and small animals. Their melodious song and complex social behaviors make them a fascinating subject for ornithologists. Although their habitat is threatened by deforestation, they remain relatively common within their range.
The Republican Paradise-flycatcher is a small bird native to the lowland forests of Sulawesi Island in Indonesia. It measures about 20 cm in length, with a long tail that can reach up to 15 cm, and weighs between 25 and 30 g. What distinguishes the Republican Paradise-flycatcher is its bright coloration, with vivid green, blue, and red feathers and a magnificent crest shaped like a veil. The male, in particular, displays extravagant feathers during courtship displays to attract females. This bird primarily feeds on fruits, seeds, and insects. Although the Republican Paradise-flycatcher is not in immediate danger, deforestation and hunting pose potential threats to its natural habitat.
The King Bird-of-paradise, Cicinnurus regius, is a captivating bird from the Paradisaeidae family, native to the tropical forests of New Guinea and surrounding islands. This small bird, measuring about 16 cm, is renowned for its vibrant plumage and spectacular courtship displays. The male sports bright red plumage with metallic green feathers on the chest and two long spiral-shaped tail feathers. The female, more subdued, has brownish plumage. The King Bird-of-paradise is a solitary bird, except during the breeding season when the male performs intricate dances to attract the female. It primarily feeds on fruits and insects. Although its habitat is threatened by deforestation, it is currently classified as "least concern" by the IUCN.
The Brown Pelican is a large seabird native to the American coasts, measuring between 100 and 137 cm in length with a wingspan of 200 to 228 cm. It is characterized by its brown-gray plumage, white head with a yellowish crown during the breeding season, and a long bill with an expandable throat pouch capable of holding up to 11 liters of water. This pelican is known for its dramatic fishing technique: diving from several meters high to catch fish, mainly sardines and anchovies. It inhabits coastal areas, estuaries, mangroves, and sandy beaches, nesting in colonies on islands or isolated areas. Although currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Brown Pelican experienced significant declines in the 20th century due to pesticide pollution, particularly DDT. Conservation efforts have led to population recoveries, but habitat degradation remains a concern.
The American White Pelican, or Pelecanus erythrorhynchos, is a large aquatic bird known for its striking white plumage and bright orange bill. It is primarily found in North America, frequenting lakes, rivers, and wetlands. In flight, its black wings contrast with its white body, creating a majestic silhouette. This gregarious bird feeds mainly on fish, which it captures using its bill's expandable pouch. During the breeding season, it forms colonies on isolated islands. Although its conservation status is currently "least concern," it is sensitive to human disturbances and water pollution.
The Dalmatian Pelican is a large aquatic bird primarily found in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. It measures about 1.5 to 1.8 meters in length, with a wingspan of 2.3 to 2.5 meters, and weighs between 7 and 15 kg. What distinguishes the Dalmatian Pelican is its white plumage, sometimes tinged with yellow or pink, as well as its distinctive crest and long curved bill. It also has a pouch under its bill that allows it to capture fish. The Dalmatian Pelican primarily feeds on fish, which it catches by diving into the water or filtering with its bill. It is typically found near lakes, rivers, and wetlands. While the population of the Dalmatian Pelican is stable in some regions, it is still threatened by habitat loss, water pollution, and human disturbance.
The Pink-backed Pelican, or Pelecanus rufescens, is a medium-sized waterbird known for its greyish plumage and slightly pinkish back. It has a long bill with a distinctive gular pouch used for catching fish. Its wings are broad and powerful, suited for gliding flight. Found mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, it inhabits lakes, rivers, and marshes. Sociable by nature, it often lives in colonies. Its breeding season varies by region, typically nesting in trees or on islets. Its diet consists mainly of fish, which it often hunts in groups.
The Crested Guan is a large forest bird, measuring between 76 and 91 cm in length and weighing up to 2.4 kg. It has dark olive-brown plumage with white spots on the neck and chest, a rufous rump and belly, and a bushy crest on its head. Its throat features a large red wattle, and the skin around the eye is bluish-gray. Social in nature, it lives in pairs or family groups of 6 to 12 individuals, feeding on fruits and young leaves in the trees. It builds its nest in trees, where the female lays two or three white eggs. Although classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and hunting.
The Barbary Partridge is a terrestrial bird native to the mountains of North Africa and Western Asia. It measures about 30 cm in height and weighs between 300 and 500 g. Its plumage is characterized by brown and gray tones, with a distinctive "V"-shaped pattern on the chest. The Barbary Partridge primarily inhabits rocky, dry mountain habitats, where it feeds on seeds, roots, berries, and small insects. It is an excellent runner and, although capable of flying, prefers to move by running through the underbrush. This species is threatened in some regions due to excessive hunting and habitat loss, and it is protected in several countries.
The chukar partridge is a medium-sized bird (30–35 cm), with grey-brown plumage barred with black and white, featuring a glossy black cap and eye-stripe. Native to arid regions of Asia and introduced in North America, it inhabits rocky slopes, scrublands and fallow fields, feeding on seeds, leaves, and insects. During the breeding season (March 1 to July 31), the male performs formal courtship displays and defends his territory with calls and rapid chases.
The Grey Partridge is a plump galliform bird, measuring 28–32 cm in length with a wingspan of about 45 cm. It is identified by its mottled brown-grey plumage and a distinctive dark horseshoe-shaped patch on the belly. Males and females are very similar, though the belly patch is usually more defined in males. Found in open farmland, grasslands, fallows, and cultivated fields across Europe and temperate Asia. It is ground-dwelling and sedentary, preferring to run rather than fly when disturbed. Its diet includes seeds, leaves, shoots, and insects, which are vital for chicks. The species is in decline in some areas due to agricultural intensification, habitat loss, and pesticide use.
The Red-legged Partridge is a medium-sized galliform bird, about 33 cm in length. It features a reddish-brown back, bluish-grey chest, and flanks striped with black and white. Its white throat is bordered by a black horseshoe-shaped collar, and it has red legs and beak. Native to southwestern Europe, it inhabits dry open areas, scrubby hills, farmlands, and fallow fields. Non-migratory and ground-dwelling, it prefers running to flying when disturbed. Its diet mainly consists of seeds, young shoots, and insects, the latter being crucial for chicks. Although listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Red-legged Partridge is declining in some areas due to habitat loss, overhunting, and hybridization with introduced farm-reared birds.
The Hapalopsittaca amazonina, known as the Blue-fronted Parrot, is a fascinating bird native to the humid forests of South America. This medium-sized parrot features vibrant green plumage with a distinctive blue patch on its forehead. Its strong, hooked beak is adapted for cracking nuts and seeds, which make up the bulk of its diet. Social by nature, it often lives in noisy flocks, moving through the canopy in search of food. Although its habitat is threatened by deforestation, it remains relatively common in some areas. Its ability to mimic sounds also makes it a favorite among exotic bird enthusiasts.
The Gabon grey parrot is an iconic species known for its exceptional intelligence and ability to mimic human sounds. Native to the tropical forests of Central Africa, primarily from Gabon and the Republic of Congo, this parrot has a grey plumage and a distinctive red head. It is a social bird that primarily feeds on fruits, seeds, and nuts. Unfortunately, the species is threatened by deforestation and illegal wildlife trade.
The Pesquet's Parrot, also known as the vulturine parrot, is a unique species native to the rainforests of New Guinea. It is easily recognizable by its striking black and red plumage and its bald head, an adaptation for feeding on fruits without soiling its feathers. This parrot is primarily frugivorous, feeding on figs and other fruits. Its natural habitat includes lowland and montane forests, where it lives in small groups or pairs. Despite its impressive appearance, the Pesquet's Parrot is relatively discreet and difficult to spot in the wild. Its population is declining due to deforestation and illegal trade.
The Senegal parrot is a small parrot that lives in the savannas and forests of West Africa, particularly in Senegal, Guinea, and Mali. It is easily recognizable by its bright green plumage, gray head, and red cheeks. This parrot is primarily frugivorous but also feeds on seeds and nuts. It is a social and active companion, living in small groups. While not threatened, it is sometimes captured for the exotic bird trade.
Psittacula krameri, the rose-ringed parakeet, is a parrot 38–40 cm in length with bright green plumage, a distinctive pink neck ring in adult males, and a red–orange bill. Native to South Asia, it occupies parks, orchards, agricultural lands, and urban environments, feeding on seeds, fruits, and flowers. Social and vocal, it nests in tree cavities and may switch mates within the same breeding season.
The Little Ringed Plover is a small migratory bird primarily found in wetlands, sandy beaches, and riverbanks in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It measures about 18 cm in length and weighs between 30 and 50 g. Its plumage is gray-brown on the back, with white underparts and a distinctive black ring around the neck and eyes. The Little Ringed Plover primarily feeds on small invertebrates, mollusks, and insects found by foraging in sand and along water edges. This bird is an excellent runner and flies very quickly. While its population remains relatively stable, the Little Ringed Plover is threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and human disturbances during its breeding season.
The Northern Pygmy Owl is a small nocturnal owl found primarily in North America, from southern Canada to Mexico. It measures about 20 to 25 cm in length, with a wingspan of 50 to 60 cm, and weighs between 70 and 100 g. Its plumage is mainly gray-brown, with spots and streaks that help it blend perfectly into foliage and tree trunks. The Northern Pygmy Owl primarily feeds on small mammals, insects, and reptiles that it hunts during the night. It is an excellent hunter, using its keen eyesight and sharp hearing to locate its prey in the darkness. While this species is not currently threatened, it can be affected by deforestation and the loss of its natural habitat.
The Scops Owl is a small owl native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It measures about 22 cm in length and weighs between 100 and 150 g. Its plumage is primarily gray-brown, with patterns of spots and streaks that help it blend into foliage and tree trunks. It has tufts of feathers on its head, giving it a distinctive appearance. The Scops Owl is a nocturnal bird, primarily feeding on small mammals, insects, and occasionally small birds that it hunts at night. It is often seen perched on tree branches or utility poles. While this species is not in immediate danger, it is sometimes affected by habitat loss and human disturbances.
The Zino's Petrel, or Pterodroma madeira, is a rare seabird endemic to the island of Madeira. It is medium-sized, measuring about 32 cm in length with an 80 cm wingspan. Its plumage is mainly gray on top and white underneath, with long, slender wings. This bird is known for its graceful and agile flights over the ocean. It nests in burrows dug into the steep cliffs and mountainous slopes of the island. The Zino's Petrel is a nocturnal bird, making it difficult to observe. Unfortunately, it is critically endangered due to predation by introduced species and habitat loss.
The Red-necked Phalarope is a small wader bird primarily found in marshes, salt lakes, and estuaries in North America, Europe, and Asia. It measures about 20 cm in length and weighs between 30 and 50 g. What distinguishes it is its brightly colored plumage, with red and gray tones, and its fine, pointed bill, which allows it to capture insects and small crustaceans from the water. The Red-necked Phalarope is an excellent swimmer and spends much of its time spinning on the water to capture its food. While its population is not currently in danger, it is vulnerable to habitat loss, pollution, and human disturbance, especially during the breeding season.
The Red Phalarope is a medium-sized aquatic bird, measuring about 20 to 22 cm in length with a wingspan of 40 to 46 cm. It is distinguished by its bright breeding plumage, featuring a gray back, white head, and reddish chest. Outside the breeding season, its plumage becomes duller, with gray and white tones. This bird is known for its reversed breeding roles, where females are more colorful and court males. It primarily feeds on small aquatic invertebrates, which it captures by swimming in circles to create whirlpools that bring food to the surface.
The white-backed woodpecker is a medium-sized forest woodpecker of 22–25 cm, with black and white plumage featuring a broad white back and red crown in males. It inhabits old deciduous and mixed forests rich in dead wood, feeding on insects and larvae excavated from bark. During breeding, it excavates a nest cavity in an old tree and the male drums to attract the female and defend territory.
The Red-breasted Sapsucker, or Sphyrapicus ruber, is a medium-sized bird belonging to the woodpecker family. It is easily recognizable by its bright red head, black and white back, and pale yellow belly. This bird is primarily found along the west coast of North America, inhabiting coniferous and mixed forests. It mainly feeds on tree sap, which it extracts by drilling holes in the bark, but it also consumes insects and fruits. The Red-breasted Sapsucker is a partial migrant, moving southward in winter. It is known for its distinctive drumming, used for communication and territory marking.
The Grey-headed Woodpecker is a bird belonging to the woodpecker family, primarily found in Eastern Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. It measures about 25 to 30 cm in length, with a wingspan of 40 to 45 cm, and weighs between 80 and 120 g. Its plumage is mainly gray, with a black and white head, and a red nape in males. It is distinguished by its sharp call and its ability to drill into tree trunks in search of larvae and insects, which are its primary food source. The Grey-headed Woodpecker lives in mixed forests and wooded areas, often nesting in dead or decaying trees. Although it is not considered threatened, the Grey-headed Woodpecker is vulnerable to deforestation and habitat loss.
The Hairy Woodpecker, or Picoides villosus, is a medium-sized bird easily recognized by its distinctive black and white plumage. It features a white stripe down its back and wings speckled with white. Males have a small red patch on the back of their heads. This bird is widespread across North America, primarily inhabiting deciduous and coniferous forests. It feeds mainly on insects, which it dislodges by hammering tree trunks with its powerful beak. The Hairy Woodpecker is often mistaken for the Downy Woodpecker but is generally larger with a longer bill. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling pest insect populations.
The Magellanic Woodpecker, or Campephilus magellanicus, is a large black and white woodpecker, easily identified by the male's bright red crest. It primarily inhabits the temperate forests of Patagonia, in Argentina and Chile. This forest bird feeds mainly on wood-boring insects, which it finds by drilling into dead or diseased trees. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling pest insect populations and creating cavities that provide shelter for other species. Although its habitat is relatively stable, it is vulnerable to deforestation and forest fragmentation.