The lesser adjutant (Leptoptilos javanicus) is a large stork standing 110–120 cm tall with a 210 cm wingspan, exhibiting black upperparts and wings contrasted by a white belly and tail-underparts, and a bare pale gray head and neck. It inhabits coastal and inland wetlands of Southeast Asia, including mangroves, estuaries, flooded rice fields, and riparian forests. Feeding on amphibians, large invertebrates, and carrion, it forages by wading and probing with its long bill. Colonial breeder, it performs bill-clattering and neck-arching displays during nesting (February 1–May 31). Pairs lay 2–4 eggs, incubated 28–30 days, with chicks hatching March 1–June 30.

The African marabou is a large wading bird native to sub-Saharan Africa, easily recognized by its bare head, long neck, and mostly white plumage with black shades. It primarily lives in open areas near bodies of water, where it feeds on fish, dead animals, and waste. While it is not threatened, it is often associated with urban environments and can be seen in dumps. It is a solitary bird with a rather slow and discreet approach.

The Sora, or Porzana carolina, is a small waterbird belonging to the Rallidae family. It is easily identifiable by its olive-brown plumage with white stripes on the flanks and a bright yellow bill. This bird primarily inhabits marshes and wetlands in North America, where it feeds on seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. A migratory species, it winters in the warmer regions of the southern United States and Central America. The Sora is a secretive bird, often heard rather than seen, thanks to its distinctive call. Its ability to slip through dense vegetation makes it difficult to spot.

The Bank Myna, or Acridotheres ginginianus, is a medium-sized bird belonging to the Sturnidae family. It is primarily found in the Indian subcontinent, where it frequents open areas, cultivated fields, and villages. Its plumage is generally gray with metallic sheen, and it features black patches on its head and wings. This bird is known for its sociability and adaptability to various environments, making it common in human-inhabited areas. The Bank Myna primarily feeds on insects, fruits, and seeds. It is often observed in groups, which helps it protect against predators.

The Crested Myna, or Acridotheres cristatellus, is a medium-sized bird, about 25 cm long. It is characterized by its glossy black plumage, striking yellow eyes, and a distinctive crest on its head. Native to Asia, it is often found in urban and rural areas, easily adapting to human-altered environments. An omnivore, it feeds on insects, fruits, and seeds. Its song is varied, including whistles and imitations of other birds. The Crested Myna is a social bird, often seen in small groups. Although primarily sedentary, it may make short movements to find food.

The Common Myna, or Acridotheres tristis, is a medium-sized bird easily recognized by its brown body, black head, and white wing patches. Native to South Asia, it has spread to many parts of the world, sometimes becoming invasive. This bird is highly adaptable, thriving in both urban and rural environments. It is omnivorous, feeding on fruits, insects, and food scraps. The Common Myna is known for its intelligence and ability to mimic sounds, including human speech. It forms monogamous pairs and is often seen in noisy groups.

The Grey-headed Kingfisher is a medium-sized bird, easily recognized by its grey head and colorful plumage. It measures about 25 cm in length and weighs between 50 and 70 g. Its back is typically metallic blue, with a contrasting white belly, and its wings are bright blue with touches of green and orange. This kingfisher is distinguished by its wide, straight bill, suited for hunting. It primarily lives in wooded areas and along the shores of rivers and lakes, where it feeds mainly on fish, aquatic insects, and small amphibians. The Grey-headed Kingfisher hunts by diving from a perch or electrical wire, capturing its prey with great precision. These birds are solitary, although some form pairs during the breeding season. It is widely distributed in Southeast Asia, particularly in India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. While its population remains relatively stable, the Grey-headed Kingfisher can be threatened by habitat destruction, water pollution, and poaching.

The Smyrna Kingfisher is a colorful, medium-sized bird found primarily in Southeast Asia and surrounding regions. It measures about 25 to 30 cm in length and weighs between 40 and 70 g. This kingfisher is distinguished by its brilliant plumage and vibrant colors: a metallic blue back, an orange-red head, and a white belly. Its bill is long, straight, and pointed, perfect for catching prey such as fish, aquatic insects, and small reptiles. The Smyrna Kingfisher typically lives near bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and marshes, where it can dive to catch its food. It is often observed alone or in pairs during the breeding season when it builds a nest in tree cavities or rocks. Although its population remains relatively stable in some areas, it faces threats such as habitat destruction and water pollution.

The Woodland Kingfisher, Halcyon senegalensis, is a colorful and fascinating bird widely distributed in sub-Saharan Africa. This medium-sized bird, measuring about 23 cm in length, is easily recognizable by its bright blue plumage, black wings, and white belly. Its robust, bright red bill is adapted to its varied diet, mainly consisting of insects, small reptiles, and occasionally fish. The Woodland Kingfisher prefers wooded habitats, savannas, and areas near water, where it can easily find its food. Although often solitary, it can be seen in pairs during the breeding season. Its distinctive call, a rapid and repetitive trill, is often heard at dawn and dusk.

The Striped Kingfisher, or Halcyon chelicuti, is a medium-sized bird, about 20 cm long. It is characterized by its brown plumage with white streaks on the belly and a head adorned with black and white bands. Its beak is robust and slightly hooked, perfect for catching prey. Found mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, it inhabits savannas, open forests, and wooded areas. It feeds primarily on insects, small reptiles, and occasionally fish. Although often solitary, it can be seen in pairs during the breeding season. Its song is a melodious trill, often heard at dawn and dusk.

The Ruddy Kingfisher, or Halcyon coromanda, is a medium-sized bird known for its striking purple plumage and robust red bill. It primarily inhabits the tropical and subtropical forests of Southeast Asia, where it feeds on small fish, insects, and crustaceans. This bird is often seen near water bodies, using its keen eyesight to spot prey. Although generally discreet, its melodious call can be heard at dawn and dusk. The Ruddy Kingfisher is a migratory bird, moving to warmer regions during winter months. Its population is stable, but it remains vulnerable to deforestation.

The Melidora macrorrhina, commonly known as the Hook-billed Kingfisher, is a fascinating bird native to the tropical forests of New Guinea. This kingfisher is distinguished by its unique, wide, and flattened bill, which allows it to effectively capture aquatic prey. It sports a vibrant plumage with shades of blue, green, and white, giving it an elegant appearance. This bird prefers dense, humid habitats where it can hide among the foliage while watching for prey. Although primarily solitary, it is sometimes observed in small family groups. Its discreet presence and suspicious behavior make it difficult to spot, but it is a true gem for birdwatchers and passionate photographers.

The Belted Kingfisher is a medium-sized aquatic bird, easily recognized by its bright plumage and vivid colors. It measures about 28 cm in length and weighs between 100 and 150 g. Its back is a brilliant metallic blue, while its belly is white with orange patches on the chest. It has a long, straight, pointed bill, suited for catching fish and other aquatic prey. The Belted Kingfisher is an excellent diver, often perching on branches or electrical wires above the water before diving at high speed to catch its prey. It primarily lives in rivers, lakes, marshes, and coastal areas of North America, from southern Canada to Mexico. These birds are solitary and defend their territory by emitting sharp calls. While its population remains relatively stable, it is threatened by habitat loss due to water pollution and wetland destruction.

The European Kingfisher is a small aquatic bird, easily recognized by its vivid plumage and bright colors. It measures about 17 to 19 cm in length and weighs between 30 and 40 g. Its back is a brilliant metallic blue, while its belly is a bright orange. Its bill is long, straight, and pointed, perfectly suited for catching fish and aquatic insects. This kingfisher primarily lives along rivers, lakes, and canals in Europe, where it perches on branches or rocks near the water. When hunting, it dives quickly in a headfirst plunge to capture its prey, often using its excellent vision to locate fish underwater. The European Kingfisher is a solitary bird, defending its territory by emitting a sharp call. While it is relatively common in many parts of Europe, it can be threatened by water pollution and habitat destruction.

The Giant Kingfisher is the largest of the kingfisher species, measuring between 40 and 45 cm in length and weighing between 200 and 300 g. It has a distinctive plumage, with a metallic blue back, a gray head, and a white belly. Its bill is particularly long and powerful, suited for capturing large aquatic prey, such as fish, reptiles, and even crustaceans. This kingfisher primarily inhabits the banks of rivers and lakes in sub-Saharan Africa, India, Sri Lanka, and southern China, where it often hunts from branches or rocks above the water. Although it is primarily solitary in its hunting activities, it can sometimes be seen in pairs or families during the breeding season. The Giant Kingfisher is an excellent diver but is also known for its ability to catch prey while flying over the water and striking with its bill at great speed. While the species is widely distributed, it faces threats related to habitat loss and water pollution.

The Collared Kingfisher is a small colorful bird, measuring about 15 to 18 cm in length, and weighing between 20 and 30 g. It is distinguished by its head adorned with a characteristic crest made of bright blue feathers, and its brilliant plumage which combines shades of metallic blue and bright orange. Its back is cobalt blue and its belly is orange, with a striking contrast between the two. This kingfisher primarily inhabits wetlands in sub-Saharan Africa, often near rivers, marshes, and lakes, where it primarily hunts fish and aquatic insects. It is often seen diving from a perch to catch its prey, using its pointed and powerful bill to grab it with great precision. While it is generally a solitary bird, it can sometimes be seen in pairs during the breeding season. Although the population of the Collared Kingfisher is relatively stable, it faces threats such as habitat loss and water pollution.

The Malachite Kingfisher, Alcedo cristata, is a small, vibrantly colored bird found primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. It is easily recognized by its distinctive crest and bright plumage, which features shades of blue, orange, and white. This kingfisher frequents the banks of rivers, lakes, and marshes, where it primarily hunts fish and aquatic insects. It is often seen perched on a branch or reed, patiently watching for prey before diving with precision to catch it. Despite its small size, it is an efficient and agile predator. Its breeding season varies by region, but it is generally monogamous and territorial during this time.

The Pied Kingfisher is a medium-sized aquatic bird, measuring about 25 cm in length and weighing between 80 and 120 g. It is easily recognized by its distinctive black and white plumage, with a black head, white back, and wings that are also black and white. Its belly is generally white, and it has a long, straight, pointed bill, perfectly suited for catching fish and aquatic insects. This kingfisher primarily inhabits coastal areas, rivers, lakes, and marshes in sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and southern Asia. It primarily feeds on small fish, but can also catch insects, crustaceans, and small frogs. The Pied Kingfisher is an excellent diver, often seen diving into the water at high speed from a perch to catch its prey. While often observed alone or in small groups, it can sometimes be seen in pairs during the breeding season. While it is widely distributed, it can be threatened by water pollution and habitat loss.

The Purple Kingfisher is a small aquatic bird distinguished by its vibrant plumage and bright colors. It measures about 16 to 17 cm in length and weighs between 30 and 40 g. Its plumage is an intense blue with purple hues and bright orange tones on the belly. This kingfisher has a long, straight, pointed bill, perfectly suited for catching fish and aquatic insects. It primarily inhabits the humid regions and tropical forests of Southeast Asia, especially in areas along rivers and marshes. The Purple Kingfisher often hunts by perching on branches or rocks near the water, diving quickly to catch its prey. While generally solitary, it sometimes forms pairs during the breeding season. Although the species is relatively widespread, it faces threats such as deforestation and pollution of waterways.

The Green Kingfisher is a small, vibrant aquatic bird, measuring about 25 cm in length and weighing between 50 and 100 g. It is distinguished by its bright green plumage on its back, with a white chest and belly, sometimes tinged with orange. Its bill is long, pointed, and straight, ideal for catching fish and aquatic insects. This kingfisher primarily inhabits North and Central America, especially along rivers, lakes, and marshes. It hunts by diving directly into the water from an elevated perch, such as a tree or electrical wire, to capture its prey. The Green Kingfisher is a territorial bird, often observed alone or in small groups during the breeding season. While it is widely distributed, it faces threats such as water pollution, habitat loss, and human disturbance.

The Alpine Swift is a large swift measuring between 20 and 23 cm in length, with a wingspan of 51 to 58 cm. It has a white belly and throat, separated by a brown pectoral band, and a brown-gray back. It is often confused with the Common Swift, but it is larger and more robust. A migratory species, it winters in tropical Africa and returns to Europe between March and April. It primarily nests in inaccessible rock cavities but can also occupy urban sites. It feeds exclusively on insects captured in flight, often at high altitudes. It is monogamous, and pair bonds can last over ten years. In Switzerland, it is present from late March to late October. A protected species, it is considered potentially threatened due to the loss of its natural nesting sites.

The Asian Palm Swift, Cypsiurus balasiensis, is a small, elegant bird commonly found in the tropical regions of South and Southeast Asia. It is easily recognizable by its brownish-grey plumage and forked tail. This swift is particularly adapted to life in open areas, often near palm trees, where it builds its nest using plant materials glued with its saliva. It primarily feeds on insects caught in flight, showcasing remarkable agility. Its swift and graceful flight is a fascinating sight. Although often in motion, it can be seen resting on tree branches or power lines.

The Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift, or Panyptila cayennensis, is a fascinating bird primarily inhabiting the tropical regions of Central and South America. This small bird, about 14 cm long, is easily recognizable by its forked tail and black and white plumage. It is often observed in fast and graceful flight, capturing insects in mid-air. Its natural habitat includes tropical forests, forest edges, and sometimes urban areas. Although it is often on the move, it nests in tree cavities or artificial structures. The Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift is a social bird, often seen in groups, and its ability to fly at high speeds allows it to easily escape predators.

The Common Swift, Apus apus, is a migratory bird known for spending most of its life in flight. With a wingspan of 40 to 44 cm, it is easily recognizable by its crescent-shaped silhouette and dark plumage. Common Swifts are masters of the sky, capable of traveling thousands of kilometers without landing. They feed on insects caught in flight. Their high-pitched call is often heard before they are seen. These birds nest in crevices of buildings or cliffs, and their annual return is a herald of summer.

The Pale Swift is a migratory bird species that is mainly found in southern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. This small bird is easily recognizable by its grayish color and sleek body, perfectly adapted for speed and maneuverability in flight. It spends most of its life in flight, only landing to breed. It feeds primarily on insects that it catches while flying, often at high speed. The Pale Swift is an open-sky bird, frequently seen at high altitudes near mountains or soaring over urban areas in search of food.

The Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica, is a small migratory bird known for its rapid and agile flight. It is often seen in urban areas, nesting in chimneys and similar structures. Its plumage is primarily dark brown, making it difficult to spot when flying high in the sky. These birds are insectivores, feeding mainly on small flying insects caught in mid-air. Their high-pitched call is often heard before they are seen. Chimney Swifts are social birds, frequently observed in large groups, especially during migration. They play a crucial role in controlling insect populations, thus contributing to ecological balance.

The Brown Honeyeater, or Lichmera indistincta, is a small bird native to Australia and New Guinea. Its plumage is generally olive-brown with lighter underparts. This bird is particularly appreciated for its melodious and varied song. It inhabits a range of environments, from tropical forests to urban areas, and primarily feeds on nectar, although it also consumes insects and fruits. Its slender, curved bill is perfectly adapted for extracting nectar from flowers. The Brown Honeyeater plays a crucial role in the pollination of native plants. It is often seen in small groups but can also be solitary.

The Wattled Honeyeater, or Foulehaio carunculatus, is a medium-sized bird belonging to the Meliphagidae family. It is primarily found in the South Pacific islands, notably in Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. This bird is distinguished by its olive-green plumage and characteristic red wattles around its head. It mainly inhabits tropical rainforests but can also be seen in gardens and wooded areas. The Wattled Honeyeater primarily feeds on nectar but also consumes insects and fruits. Its song is a mix of whistles and chirps, often heard at dawn and dusk.

The Ornate Melidectes, or Melidectes torquatus, is a bird endemic to New Guinea. It is characterized by its olive-brown plumage with a distinctive white collar around its neck. This bird measures about 20 to 25 cm in length and has a slightly curved beak, adapted to its diet mainly consisting of nectar and insects. It primarily inhabits tropical rainforests and mountainous areas, playing a crucial role in plant pollination. Although generally suspicious, it can become accustomed to human presence in protected areas. Its population is stable, but deforestation poses a potential threat to its natural habitat.

The Western Wattlebird, or Anthochaera lunulata, is a bird endemic to Australia, primarily found in wooded regions and open forests. It is distinguished by its brown-grey plumage with white crescent-shaped markings on the chest, hence its name. This bird is known for its loud and varied song, often heard before being seen. It primarily feeds on nectar but also consumes insects and fruits. The Western Wattlebird is a sociable bird, often observed in small groups. It plays a crucial role in pollinating local plants. Although generally tolerant of humans, it can become territorial during the breeding season.