The Shining Honeycreeper, Cyanerpes nitidus, is a small, vibrant tropical bird, primarily electric blue with black wings and tail. Males display a striking plumage, while females are generally duller, with green and yellow hues. This bird is commonly found in the humid tropical forests of South America, particularly in Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela. It primarily feeds on nectar but also consumes insects and fruits. Its slender, curved beak is perfectly adapted for extracting nectar from flowers. The Shining Honeycreeper is an active and social bird, often seen in small groups or pairs.

The Cyanerpes lucidus, or Shining Honeycreeper, is a small tropical bird with vibrant colors, primarily blue with black wings and a slender, curved beak. This nectarivore primarily feeds on nectar but also consumes fruits and insects. It is found in the humid forests and forest edges of Central America, from southern Mexico to Panama. Males display a striking blue plumage, while females are more subdued in green. Their behavior is generally active and social, often seen in small groups. They play a crucial role in pollinating tropical plants.

The Red-legged Honeycreeper, Cyanerpes cyaneus, is a small, vibrantly colored tropical bird, primarily electric blue with black wings and red legs. It is commonly found in the humid forests and wooded areas of Central and South America. This nectarivore feeds mainly on nectar but also consumes fruits and insects. Males display a striking plumage, while females are generally olive green with bluish hues. The Red-legged Honeycreeper is a social bird, often seen in small groups, and is known for its aerial acrobatics when feeding. Its breeding season varies by region but is generally active year-round in tropical areas.

The Bearded Vulture is a large vulture, easily recognizable by its distinctive head, large wings, and brown and white plumage. It measures about 1.1 to 1.3 meters in length, with a wingspan of 2.6 to 2.8 meters, and weighs between 4.5 and 7.5 kg. Its head is covered with dark feathers, while its wings and back are mainly brown, with lighter feathers on its belly. The Bearded Vulture is unique among vultures for its feeding behavior, as it primarily feeds on bones. It is capable of breaking the hardest bones by dropping them from great heights to shatter them, allowing it to access the bone marrow. It primarily inhabits mountains, notably the Alps, the Pyrenees, and the Himalayas, where it also feeds on carcasses of dead animals, such as chamois or mouflons. Although the species was once endangered, conservation efforts have helped restore its population in certain areas. However, the Bearded Vulture remains vulnerable to human disturbance, habitat loss, and the decline of its natural prey.

The Red-throated Ant-tanager is a medium-sized bird, primarily recognized for its bright red throat in males, while females display more subdued tones. It is mainly found in the tropical and subtropical forests of Central America, favoring dense undergrowth. This bird is often seen in small groups, feeding on insects and fruits. Its song is a soft whistle, often heard at dawn. Although relatively common in its natural habitat, it remains discreet and difficult to spot due to its plumage that blends into the forest environment. Its ability to adapt to various forest habitats makes it a resilient species in the face of deforestation.

The Carmiol's Tanager is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 18 cm in length. It features primarily olive-green plumage, with darker shades on the wings and tail. Its head is marked by a grayish cap, and it has a robust, slightly hooked beak suited for its varied diet. This bird primarily feeds on fruits, insects, and small invertebrates. It is mainly found in the humid forests and wooded areas of Central America, particularly in Costa Rica and Panama. The Carmiol's Tanager is often seen in small groups, actively moving through the canopy in search of food. Although not considered threatened, deforestation poses a potential threat to its natural habitat.

The Common Eider is a medium-sized seabird, easily recognizable by its distinctive plumage and diving behavior. It measures about 40 cm in length, with a wingspan of 65 to 75 cm, and weighs between 500 and 900 g. Its plumage is primarily black and white, with a black head, a wide white band around the neck, and white spots on the wings. The male, during the breeding season, has a bright orange beak and a distinctive white line running from the beak to the back of the head. The Common Eider primarily inhabits the cold waters of the North Atlantic, notably around the coasts of Iceland, Greenland, Canada, and Northern Europe. It is an excellent diver, feeding mainly on small fish, crustaceans, and marine invertebrates, which it captures underwater. The Common Eider migrates southward during the winter. Although the species is not currently endangered, it is vulnerable to marine pollution, climate change, and disturbance of its breeding sites.

The Snowy Owl is a large nocturnal raptor, easily recognizable by its pure white plumage, speckled with dark spots on its back and wings. It measures about 55 to 65 cm in length, with a wingspan of 1.3 to 1.5 meters, and weighs between 1.5 and 2.5 kg. Its head is round, with large, piercing yellow eyes and a short, hooked beak. The Snowy Owl primarily inhabits the Arctic regions, notably in Canada, Alaska, Scandinavia, and Russia, where it frequents tundras and snowy landscapes. It primarily feeds on small mammals, such as lemmings, but also hunts birds and occasionally fish. This raptor is an excellent hunter, capable of spotting its prey with its keen vision, even in low light conditions. Although the Snowy Owl is not currently endangered, it is sensitive to climate change and the loss of its natural habitat.

The Common Merganser is a large diving duck measuring between 58 and 71 cm in length, with a wingspan of 82 to 97 cm. The male features a dark green iridescent head, white body, and black back, while the female has a reddish-brown crested head and light gray body. This duck is characterized by its long, slender red bill with serrated edges, ideal for catching slippery fish. It inhabits clear-water rivers and lakes in forested regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. Nesting in tree cavities or cliff crevices, it lays between 6 and 17 eggs per season. Its diet mainly consists of fish, but also includes amphibians, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. Although listed as Least Concern, habitat loss can locally impact its populations.

The Hooded Merganser is a medium-sized duck, easily recognizable by its distinctive crest and vibrant colors. It measures about 40 to 50 cm in length, with a wingspan of 60 to 70 cm, and weighs between 400 and 700 g. The male, during the breeding season, has a black and white head with an impressive crest of white feathers on top. Its plumage is mainly black and white, with shades of brown and green, and it has a short, wide beak adapted for feeding on fish, crustaceans, and aquatic invertebrates. The female, on the other hand, is more subtle, with light brown plumage and a less prominent crest. The Hooded Merganser primarily inhabits North America, particularly in the northeastern United States, where it frequents lakes, rivers, and wetland areas. It is an excellent diver, capable of diving underwater to capture its prey. Although the species is not in immediate danger, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and water pollution.

The Red-breasted Merganser is a slender diving duck, measuring about 52 to 58 cm in length with a wingspan of 67 to 82 cm. The male features a dark green head with a shaggy crest, a white collar, a rusty speckled chest, and a thin red bill. The female has a reddish-brown head with a more subdued crest, a grayish body, and a duller red bill. This duck inhabits coastal waters, estuaries, bays, and large lakes, favoring saline or brackish areas. It primarily feeds on small fish, but also consumes crustaceans, aquatic insects, and amphibians, captured using its serrated bill adapted for fishing. A migratory species, it nests on the ground near water, often concealed under vegetation or in rocky crevices. Although listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Red-breasted Merganser is sensitive to water pollution, coastal habitat destruction, and human disturbances.

The Double-toothed Kite, or Harpagus bidentatus, is a medium-sized raptor found mainly in the tropical forests of Central and South America. It is easily recognizable by its grayish plumage and short, rounded wings, which allow it to maneuver skillfully through dense forest canopies. This bird of prey primarily feeds on reptiles, insects, and occasionally small mammals. Its name comes from the two prominent teeth on its beak, which help it grasp and tear its prey. The Double-toothed Kite is often observed following groups of capuchin monkeys, taking advantage of the commotion they cause to catch frightened prey.

The Harpy Eagle is one of the most powerful and impressive raptors in the world, easily recognizable by its large size and distinctive crest of feathers on its head. It measures between 86 and 107 cm in length, with a wingspan of 2 to 2.3 meters, and weighs between 6 and 10 kg. Its plumage is primarily dark gray and black, with white spots on the wings and belly, and a head adorned with a crest of feathers, giving it an imposing appearance. The Harpy Eagle primarily inhabits the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, notably in Mexico, Panama, Colombia, and Brazil. Carnivorous, it primarily feeds on mammals such as monkeys, sloths, and coatis, which it captures in flight or on trees with its powerful talons. Although the Harpy Eagle is not yet critically endangered, its population is threatened by deforestation, habitat loss, and illegal hunting.

The Heliangelus amethysticollis, or Amethyst-throated Sunangel, is a captivating small bird from the Trochilidae family. This hummingbird is distinguished by its striking violet throat, which beautifully contrasts with its metallic green plumage. It is primarily found in the humid forests of the Andes, at altitudes ranging from 1800 to 3000 meters. Its slender, slightly curved beak is perfectly adapted for feeding on flower nectar, which it gathers with remarkable agility. In addition to its nectarivorous diet, it also consumes small insects to supplement its nutrition. The Amethyst-throated Sunangel is a territorial bird, often observed vigorously defending its territory against other hummingbirds. Its breeding season generally extends from November to March, and the female builds a cup-shaped nest where she lays two eggs.

The Grey Heron is a large wading bird, easily recognizable by its slender silhouette, long neck, and large legs. It stands about 90 cm tall, with a wingspan of 1.5 to 1.9 meters, and weighs between 1.5 and 2 kg. Its plumage is primarily gray, with white markings on the belly and underside of the wings, and a white head adorned with distinctive black feathers. It has a long, pointed yellow beak, adapted for capturing its prey, primarily fish, amphibians, insects, and occasionally small mammals. The Grey Heron inhabits wetlands, marshes, rivers, and lakes across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is an excellent hunter, patiently waiting by the water's edge to capture its prey with its beak. Although the species is not endangered, it can be vulnerable to water pollution, habitat loss, and human disturbance.

The capped heron, or Pilherodius pileatus, is an elegant and distinctive bird, recognizable by its black head contrasting with its white body and long blue bill. It primarily inhabits the humid tropical forests of Central and South America, often near slow-moving rivers and swamps. This solitary bird is often seen fishing, using its patient hunting technique to catch fish and small invertebrates. Its breeding season varies by region but is generally associated with the rainy season when food is abundant. Although its conservation status is currently stable, deforestation and habitat loss pose potential threats to its populations.

The Indian pond heron is a small heron of about 45 cm, with buff-brown plumage and white flight feathers visible in flight. It inhabits freshwater wetlands, rice paddies and riverbanks, standing motionless before striking fish, amphibians and insects with a quick bill thrust. During breeding, it builds a stick nest in waterside shrubs and the male performs courtship displays by raising neck feathers.

The Whistling Heron, Syrigma sibilatrix, is an elegant and distinctive bird, recognizable by its pastel-colored plumage and long, graceful neck. It features a blue-gray head with a black crown, while its body displays shades of beige and pink. This heron is often found in wetlands, marshes, and flooded grasslands of South America, where it primarily feeds on small fish, insects, and crustaceans. Its name comes from its characteristic call, a melodious whistle that echoes through its natural habitat. Although generally solitary, it can be seen in small groups during the breeding season.

The Cattle Egret is a small heron with primarily white plumage, featuring touches of yellow on the neck and head during the breeding season. It measures about 55 to 60 cm in length, with a wingspan of 90 to 100 cm, and weighs between 300 and 500 g. This heron is notable for its social behavior, often seen in the company of large herds of cattle or near farm animals, hence its name "cattle egret." It takes advantage of the presence of these animals to hunt insects, worms, and other small animals disturbed by the movement of livestock. The Cattle Egret primarily inhabits Africa, Asia, and parts of Europe, such as the Mediterranean. It feeds mainly on small invertebrates, insects, and occasionally small fish, and is particularly efficient in agricultural and wetland areas. Although the species is widely spread, it may be vulnerable to habitat loss and changes in farming practices.

The White-bellied Heron, Ardea insignis, is a rare and majestic bird primarily found in the Himalayan regions. It is distinguished by its grey-blue plumage and white belly, contrasting with its long neck and slender legs. Standing up to 127 cm tall, it is one of the largest herons in the world. Preferring high-altitude rivers and lakes, it is often solitary and discreet, making it difficult to observe. Its population is declining, mainly due to habitat loss and human disturbance. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure its survival, as it is classified as critically endangered by the IUCN.

The Purple Heron is a large wading bird, easily recognizable by its colorful plumage, ranging from purple to reddish, with shades of brown and blue. It measures about 80 to 100 cm in length, with a wingspan of 1.3 to 1.5 meters, and weighs between 600 and 1,200 g. Its beak is long, thin, and pointed, with a yellowish-green color, while its legs are long and gray. During the breeding season, the Purple Heron sports decorative plumes on its head and neck. It primarily inhabits wetlands, marshes, rivers, and lakes across Europe, Africa, and Asia, where it feeds on fish, crustaceans, small mammals, and occasionally insects. It primarily hunts at night or during twilight, using its great agility to capture prey in the water. Although the species is not immediately endangered, it is vulnerable to habitat loss, water pollution, and human disturbance.

The Striated Heron, or Butorides striata, is a small heron with predominantly grey-green plumage, a black cap, and yellow legs. It is often seen in wetlands, mangroves, and along rivers. This heron is an opportunistic feeder, primarily consuming fish, insects, and small crustaceans. It employs a unique hunting technique, remaining still before quickly striking its prey. Although generally solitary, it can sometimes be seen in small groups. Its ability to adapt to various aquatic habitats allows it to inhabit a wide range of geographical regions, from tropical to temperate areas.

The Short-eared Owl is a small nocturnal raptor, easily recognizable by its pale yellowish plumage and large, piercing yellow eyes. It measures about 34 to 40 cm in length, with a wingspan of 80 to 95 cm, and weighs between 180 and 400 g. Its face is disc-shaped, like that of other owls, and its plumage, which is cream or brown, is speckled with dark spots that provide excellent camouflage in the grasslands and marshes where it resides. The Short-eared Owl primarily inhabits open areas, such as marshes, grasslands, and farmland, across Europe, Asia, and North America. It mainly hunts small mammals, such as voles and mice, as well as birds and insects. This raptor is an excellent nocturnal hunter, using its very sensitive ears and sharp vision to locate prey in the dark. Although the species is not immediately endangered, it is vulnerable to habitat loss, water pollution, and human disturbance.

The Long-eared Owl is a medium-sized nocturnal raptor, easily recognizable by its large tufts of feathers shaped like "ears" on its head. It measures about 35 to 40 cm in length, with a wingspan of 85 to 100 cm, and weighs between 250 and 400 g. Its plumage is generally gray or brown with dark banded patterns, allowing it to blend perfectly in wooded and open forest areas. It has large yellow eyes and a disc-shaped face, like other owls, which helps it capture sound in the dark. The Long-eared Owl primarily inhabits forests, woodlands, and heathlands across Europe, Asia, and North Africa, where it primarily feeds on small mammals, such as voles, mice, and occasionally birds. It generally hunts at dusk, using its sharp vision and keen hearing to detect its prey. While the species is not endangered, it is vulnerable to deforestation and habitat loss.

The Striped Owl, or Asio clamator, is a medium-sized nocturnal raptor known for its prominent ear tufts and brown and white streaked plumage. It primarily inhabits wooded areas and savannas in Central and South America. This owl is an opportunistic hunter, feeding mainly on small mammals, birds, and insects. Its flight is silent, allowing it to surprise its prey. Although primarily nocturnal, it can be seen at dawn or dusk. The Striped Owl is a solitary bird, except during the breeding season when it forms pairs.

The Ethiopian Swallow is a small, graceful bird, identifiable by its metallic blue back and white underparts. It has a forked tail typical of swallows. This species is mainly found in sub-Saharan Africa, frequenting open areas, villages, and towns. It is often seen in flight, hunting insects for food. The Ethiopian Swallow is a partial migrant, moving according to seasons and food availability. It builds a cup-shaped nest with mud, often under building eaves. Its population is stable, and it is not considered threatened.

The house martin is a small migratory bird found mainly in urban and rural areas across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is easily recognized by its metallic blue back and its white throat and belly. This swallow builds its nest under roofs, on window ledges, and on building cornices. It primarily feeds on insects, which it catches mid-flight, often chasing swarms of insects at high speed.

The sand martin is a small migratory passerine bird found primarily along rivers, lakes, and wetland areas in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is easily recognized by its brown-olive plumage on the back and white on the belly, as well as its social behavior when it gathers in colonies to nest. This small bird primarily feeds on insects, which it captures in flight during its passes over the water.

The Eurasian Crag Martin, or Ptyonoprogne rupestris, is a medium-sized bird belonging to the Hirundinidae family. It is identifiable by its uniform brown-grey plumage, slightly lighter on the belly, and its square tail edged with white spots. This species is often found in mountainous and rocky regions of Southern Europe and Central Asia. It builds its cup-shaped nest under rocky overhangs or bridges, using mud and grass. The Eurasian Crag Martin is an agile insectivore, catching its prey in flight. It is a partial migrant, with some populations moving south in winter. Although its habitat is specific, it adapts well to human structures, contributing to its stable population.

The barn swallow is a small migratory bird found primarily in Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is easily recognizable by its metallic blue back, pointed wings, and deeply forked tail. This bird is often seen flying at high speeds, hunting insects which it catches mid-flight. The barn swallow builds its nest under roofs, in barns, or buildings, and undertakes an impressive long migration each year.