Animal Species Profiles:

Mammals, Birds, Reptiles & More

Explore wildlife from around the world with the species profiles on WildlifePhotographer. Mammals, birds, reptiles… For each species, you’ll find key information such as habitat, observation periods, distribution, and photography tips. Want more details and advanced features? Download the full app for the complete experience.


Boreal chickadee

Boreal chickadee

Poecile montanus

The boreal chickadee is a small passerine, 11–13 cm long, with olive-gray and brown plumage, featuring a dark brown cap, black bib, and white cheeks. It inhabits coniferous and mixed forests across the northern hemisphere, feeding on insects, seeds, and berries gleaned while clinging to branches. During the breeding season, pairs excavate or occupy tree cavities to nest, and the male feeds the female at the nest.
Black Kite

Black Kite

Milvus migrans

The Black Kite is a large bird of prey, measuring about 55 to 60 cm in length, with a wingspan of 150 to 160 cm and weighing between 800 g and 1.5 kg. It is distinguished by its predominantly black plumage with gray and brown shades, and a lighter head, often silvery-gray. This raptor has long, pointed wings, ideal for soaring and maneuvering in the air. The Black Kite is primarily found in Europe, but its range also extends to North Africa and the Middle East. It primarily inhabits open areas such as countryside, sparse forests, and riverbanks, where it feeds on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and also carrion. The Black Kite is an excellent glider, using thermal currents to stay aloft with minimal effort. This bird is also known for its social behavior and can be seen in groups, especially during migration. Although it is not in immediate danger, it faces threats such as habitat loss, poisoning, and collisions with power lines.
Black-headed gull

Black-headed gull

Larus ridibundus

The black-headed gull is a small gull easily recognized by its black head (in summer), white plumage, and light gray wings. It is primarily found in Europe and Asia and is often seen near bodies of water, in harbors, and estuaries. It is omnivorous, feeding on small fish, insects, and sometimes human scraps. This gull is also known for its aerial acrobatics, often seen flying and diving into the water to catch its food.
Black-legged kittiwake

Black-legged kittiwake

Rissa tridactyla

The Black-legged Kittiwake is a medium-sized gull, measuring about 40 to 45 cm in length, with a wingspan of 90 to 110 cm. It is easily recognizable by its white plumage with light gray wings and a black head during the breeding season. What particularly distinguishes this gull is the shape of its tail, which is deeply forked, hence its name "tridactyla." It primarily inhabits coastal regions of the North Atlantic, notably in rocky areas, cliffs, and subarctic islands. The Black-legged Kittiwake feeds mainly on fish, crustaceans, and marine insects. It is often seen flying over the water in search of food or resting on rocks. Although the population of this species is stable, it may be threatened by human disturbances, particularly the disruption of breeding colonies and marine pollution.
Bar-headed Goose

Bar-headed Goose

Anser indicus

The Bar-headed Goose, Anser indicus, is a remarkable bird species known for its ability to fly at high altitudes. It is easily recognizable by its white head adorned with two distinct black bars. These migratory birds travel long distances, crossing the Himalayas to reach their breeding grounds in Central Asia. They often gather in large flocks and are known for their V-formation flight. Their plumage is primarily gray with lighter shades on the belly. They mainly feed on aquatic plants, seeds, and small invertebrates. Their adaptation to various environments, from plains to mountains, demonstrates their resilience and adaptability.
Bearded Reedling

Bearded Reedling

Panurus biarmicus

The Bearded Tit is a small passerine bird primarily found in marshy areas and reed beds of Europe and Asia. It measures about 15 to 20 cm in length and weighs between 15 and 20 g. What particularly distinguishes the Bearded Tit is its plumage in shades of brown and cream, with long black moustaches that give it its name. It is often observed in reed beds and wetlands, where it primarily feeds on seeds, insects, and arthropods. Although it is an excellent climber and stealthy thief, the Bearded Tit is unfortunately threatened by the destruction of its natural habitat and the reduction of reedbed areas. This species is currently listed as "near threatened" by the IUCN.
Black Sicklebill

Black Sicklebill

Epimachus fastuosus

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.
Brown Pelican

Brown Pelican

Pelecanus occidentalis

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.
Bartavelle Partridge

Bartavelle Partridge

Alectoris graeca

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.
Blue-fronted Parrot

Blue-fronted Parrot

Hapalopsittaca amazonina

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.
Black woodpecker

Black woodpecker

Dryocopus martius

The Black Woodpecker is a large bird from the woodpecker family, primarily found in deciduous and mixed forests of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It measures between 45 and 50 cm in length, with a wingspan of 60 to 70 cm, and weighs between 250 and 300 g. Its plumage is entirely black, except for its ivory-colored bill. In females, a red patch adorns the top of the head, while in males, the red patch extends from the top of the head down to the nape. The Black Woodpecker is an excellent climber and a skilled driller, primarily feeding on insect larvae, arthropods, and sometimes small mammals found under tree bark. It prefers mature, well-established forests, where it creates large holes in search of food. While its population remains relatively stable, the Black Woodpecker is sometimes threatened by deforestation and habitat loss.
Bare-necked Umbrellabird

Bare-necked Umbrellabird

Cephalopterus glabricollis

The Cephalopterus glabricollis, commonly known as the Bare-necked Umbrellabird, is a fascinating bird from the Cotingidae family. It is primarily found in the humid forests of Costa Rica and Panama. This bird is notable for its large size and glossy black plumage. Males feature a spectacular crest and a bare neck that turns bright red during the breeding season. They produce deep, resonant sounds to attract females. The females, more discreet, have less striking plumage. The Bare-necked Umbrellabird is an arboreal bird, spending most of its time in the canopy searching for fruits, its main diet. Unfortunately, it is threatened by deforestation, which reduces its natural habitat.
Balearic Shearwater

Balearic Shearwater

Puffinus mauretanicus

The Balearic Shearwater, Puffinus mauretanicus, is a seabird endemic to the Balearic Islands. It is characterized by its dark brown plumage on top and lighter underneath, with long, narrow wings adapted for gliding over waves. Measuring about 30 to 40 cm in length with a wingspan of 75 to 90 cm, it is perfectly adapted to life at sea. This bird primarily feeds on fish and cephalopods, which it captures by diving underwater. Unfortunately, the Balearic Shearwater is critically endangered due to predation by introduced species, marine pollution, and overfishing, which reduces its food resources.
Bald eagle

Bald eagle

Haliaeetus leucocephalus

The Bald Eagle is a large raptor primarily found in North America, near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. It measures about 70 to 90 cm in length, with a wingspan of 1.8 to 2.3 meters, and weighs between 3 and 6 kg. Its plumage is primarily dark brown with characteristic white head and tail. The Bald Eagle is an excellent hunter, primarily feeding on fish, small mammals, and birds, which it captures by diving or snatching its prey with powerful talons. Although its population once faced a significant decline and was threatened, particularly due to pollution and hunting, the Bald Eagle is now a protected species, and its population has greatly recovered.
Blue-bellied Roller

Blue-bellied Roller

Coracias cyanogaster

The Blue-bellied Roller is a fascinating bird known for its vibrant plumage and dynamic behaviors. It features a bright blue belly contrasting with brown and black wings and head. This bird is often seen in the savannas and open forests of West and Central Africa. It primarily feeds on insects but also consumes small reptiles and fruits. The Blue-bellied Roller is a social bird, often seen in small groups or pairs. It is known for its impressive aerial acrobatics, especially during the breeding season. Although its habitat is threatened by deforestation, it remains relatively common within its range.
Black redstart

Black redstart

Phoenicurus ochruros

The black redstart is a small passerine bird found primarily in urban areas, gardens, rocky habitats, and steep slopes across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. It is distinguished by its dark gray plumage, light belly, and orange-red tail. This small bird is especially known for its lively behavior and ability to adapt to human environments. It primarily feeds on insects and berries, which it finds in urban spaces or wooded areas.
Black Grouse

Black Grouse

Lyrurus tetrix

The Western Capercaillie, or Lyre Grouse, is a large bird primarily found in the coniferous forests and wooded areas of Eastern and Northern Europe, notably in Scandinavia, Russia, and Poland. It typically measures about 40 to 50 cm in length and weighs between 500 and 800 g. Its plumage is mainly brown and black, with white markings and red hues on the chest. The Lyre Grouse is particularly famous for the spectacular courtship dance of the male, who spreads his feathers in a lyre shape to attract a female. It primarily inhabits dense forest habitats and feeds on berries, seeds, young shoots, and insects. While its population remains relatively stable in some areas, the Lyre Grouse is threatened by habitat loss, deforestation, and human disturbances.
Baglafecht Weaver

Baglafecht Weaver

Ploceus baglafecht

The Baglafecht Weaver is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 15 cm in length. It is easily recognizable by its bright yellow plumage, contrasting with a black head and brownish wings. Both males and females have similar colors, though males are generally more vibrant. This bird primarily feeds on seeds but also consumes insects, especially during the breeding season. It is found in various habitats, including forests, savannas, and agricultural areas. The Baglafecht Weaver is known for its complex nests, often hanging from tree branches. It is social and often lives in colonies, making it fascinating to observe.
Black-eared wheatear

Black-eared wheatear

Oenanthe hispanica

The black-eared wheatear is a small passerine, 14–15 cm long, with contrasting plumage: pale grey crown and back, black wings and tail, white throat and a black eye stripe. It inhabits steppes, rocky slopes, scrub and open plains in southern Europe and Western Asia, feeding on insects and spiders on the ground or during low flights. During breeding (April to July), the male performs aerial displays and sings from a perch to attract the female and defend its territory.
Black-headed trogon

Black-headed trogon

Trogon melanocephalus

The Black-headed Trogon is a colorful bird found primarily in the tropical and subtropical forests of Central and South America, notably in Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Panama. It typically measures about 25 to 30 cm in length and weighs between 90 and 120 g. Its plumage is especially vibrant, with a black head contrasting with a brightly colored body, primarily green and red. The Black-headed Trogon primarily feeds on fruits, berries, and small insects. It is often observed in dense forests, where it enjoys perching on tree branches. While its population remains relatively stable, it is sometimes threatened by deforestation and the loss of its natural habitat.
Baird's Trogon

Baird's Trogon

Trogon bairdii

The Baird's Trogon is a fascinating bird, endemic to the humid tropical forests of Central America, particularly in Costa Rica and Panama. This trogon is distinguished by its striking plumage, with a metallic green back, bright red chest, and white belly. It is often observed silently perched in the canopy, feeding mainly on insects and fruits. Although discreet, its melodious song echoes through the forest, signaling its presence. Unfortunately, deforestation threatens its habitat, making it vulnerable. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure its survival. This bird is a symbol of the biodiversity of tropical forests and an indicator of the health of these ecosystems.