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.


Grey Partridge

Grey Partridge

Perdix perdix

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.
Red-legged Partridge

Red-legged Partridge

Alectoris rufa

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.
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.
Senegal parrot

Senegal parrot

Poicephalus senegalus

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.
Gabon grey parrot

Gabon grey parrot

Psittacus erithacus

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.
Pesquet's Parrot

Pesquet's Parrot

Psittrichas fulgidus

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.
Rose-ringed parakeet

Rose-ringed parakeet

Psittacula krameri

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.
Crimson Rosella

Crimson Rosella

Platycercus elegans

The Crimson Rosella, or Platycercus elegans, is a vibrant bird native to Australia. It is easily identified by its bright red plumage, contrasted with blue feathers on its wings and tail. Juveniles have a duller, often greenish plumage that transitions to the vivid colors of adults. It primarily inhabits wet forests, woodlands, and urban gardens. Sociable by nature, it often moves in small groups. Its diet is varied, including seeds, fruits, flowers, and insects. Although its habitat is threatened by deforestation, it remains relatively common. Its adaptability to human-modified environments aids its survival.
Red-fronted Parakeet

Red-fronted Parakeet

Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae

The Red-fronted Parakeet, or Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae, is a parrot endemic to New Zealand. This small bird, measuring about 25 cm in length, is easily recognizable by its bright green plumage and distinctive red frontal band. It primarily inhabits forests, shrublands, and coastal islands. Although it is an excellent flyer, it also spends a lot of time on the ground searching for seeds, fruits, and insects. The Kakariki is known for its social and curious behavior, often observed in small groups. Unfortunately, its population has declined due to predation by introduced species and habitat loss.
Night Parrot

Night Parrot

Pezoporus occidentalis

The Night Parrot, or Pezoporus occidentalis, is a rare and elusive bird from Australia, primarily nocturnal and difficult to spot. It is medium-sized, with green plumage speckled with yellow and black, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its arid habitat. Its short, sturdy beak is well-suited for its diet of seeds and grasses. Known for its melodious yet discreet call, this bird's song echoes across the desert plains. It is often solitary or found in small groups, moving mainly on the ground and using its wings for short flights. Its rarity and secretive behavior make it a fascinating subject of study for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts.
Budgerigar

Budgerigar

Melopsittacus undulatus

The budgerigar, Melopsittacus undulatus, is a small, colorful bird native to Australia. It is very popular as a pet due to its sociable nature and ability to mimic sounds. Measuring about 18 cm in length, it has predominantly green plumage with black undulations on its back and wings. Males and females can be distinguished by the color of their cere, blue in males and brown in females. In the wild, they live in large colonies and primarily feed on seeds. Highly adaptable, they can survive in various environments, from grasslands to semi-arid areas.
Australian King Parrot

Australian King Parrot

Alisterus scapularis

The Australian King Parrot, scientifically known as Alisterus scapularis, is a vibrant and captivating bird native to eastern Australia. Males are distinguished by their bright red heads, green backs, and wings adorned with red patches, while females have more subdued colors with green heads. These parrots measure about 42 cm in length and are often seen in pairs or small groups. They inhabit rainforests, woodlands, and urban gardens, feeding primarily on seeds, fruits, and flowers. Their song is melodious yet subtle, and they are known for their curious and sociable behavior towards humans.
Little Spiderhunter

Little Spiderhunter

Arachnothera longirostra

The Little Spiderhunter is a small bird from the Nectariniidae family, predominantly found in Southeast Asia. It is characterized by its long, curved bill, perfect for extracting nectar from flowers. Its plumage is typically olive on the upper parts and paler underneath, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its natural habitat. It primarily inhabits tropical rainforests, forest edges, and occasionally gardens. This bird is often seen flitting from flower to flower, playing a crucial role in pollination. Although generally solitary, it can sometimes be observed in small groups. Its adaptability to various habitats provides resilience against environmental changes.
Little Ringed Plover

Little Ringed Plover

Charadrius dubius

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.
Giles's Screech Owl

Giles's Screech Owl

Megascops gilesi

The Giles's Screech Owl, scientifically known as Megascops gilesi, is a nocturnal bird of prey belonging to the Strigidae family. This small owl is notable for its cryptic plumage, which allows it to blend seamlessly into its wooded surroundings. Its modest size and subtle ear tufts make it a challenging bird to spot. Primarily active at night, it preys on small mammals, insects, and other invertebrates. Its call, a soft and repetitive trill, often echoes through the forests it inhabits. Endemic to certain regions of South America, it resides in subtropical and temperate forests. Although not extensively studied, it is considered a relatively stable species, though deforestation could threaten its habitat in the long term.
Eastern Screech Owl

Eastern Screech Owl

Megascops asio

The Eastern Screech Owl, Megascops asio, is a small owl native to eastern North America. It inhabits forests, parks, and suburban areas, and is known for its excellent camouflage, with plumage ranging from gray to reddish-brown. Measuring about 16 to 25 cm in length with a wingspan of 46 to 61 cm, it primarily feeds on insects, small mammals, and occasionally small birds. Its call, a soft, monotone trill, is often heard at dusk and during the night.
Little Owl Scops
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.
Zino's Petrel

Zino's Petrel

Pterodroma madeira

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.
Snow Petrel

Snow Petrel

Pagodroma nivea

The Snow Petrel, Pagodroma nivea, is a marine bird iconic to the Antarctic regions. It is distinguished by its entirely white plumage, which allows it to blend into the icy landscapes. Measuring about 30 to 40 cm in length with a wingspan of 75 to 95 cm, it is perfectly adapted to the extreme conditions of its habitat. Its black beak and dark eyes contrast with its immaculate plumage. The Snow Petrel feeds mainly on krill, fish, and squid, which it captures by diving into the icy waters. It nests on rocky cliffs, where it lays a single egg per year. This bird is a symbol of resilience and adaptation to the most hostile environments on our planet.
Fea's Petrel

Fea's Petrel

Pterodroma feae

The Fea's Petrel, or Pterodroma feae, is a rare and elusive seabird belonging to the Procellariidae family. It is mainly found in the Cape Verde and Madeira islands, where it nests on steep and inaccessible cliffs. This petrel is characterized by its gray and white plumage, with a dark head and a black bill. It primarily feeds on fish and squid, which it captures by diving into the ocean. A migratory bird, it travels long distances at sea, often far from the coast. Its flight is agile and graceful, alternating between wing beats and glides. Due to its rarity and limited habitat, it is classified as vulnerable by the IUCN.
White-tailed Tropicbird

White-tailed Tropicbird

Phaethon lepturus

The White-tailed Tropicbird, or Phaethon lepturus, is an elegant and graceful seabird, recognizable by its bright white plumage and long central tail feathers that form a ribbon-like tail. Its bill is a vivid yellow, contrasting with its black eyes and feet. It primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical waters, nesting on isolated islands where it finds refuge in cliffs and rocky crevices. This bird is an excellent glider, using air currents to move effortlessly over the ocean. It feeds mainly on fish and squid, which it captures by diving with precision. Although often solitary at sea, it gathers in colonies for nesting.
Red-billed Tropicbird

Red-billed Tropicbird

Phaethon aethereus

The Red-billed Tropicbird is an elegant seabird, easily identifiable by its striking white plumage, long tail feathers, and vivid red bill. It primarily inhabits tropical and subtropical regions of the Atlantic Ocean, the Red Sea, and the Pacific Ocean. This bird spends most of its time at sea, returning to land only to nest on steep cliffs or isolated islands. It feeds mainly on fish and squid, which it catches by skillfully diving. Although generally solitary, it can be seen in small groups during the breeding season. Its population is stable, but it is vulnerable to human disturbances and introduced predators at its nesting sites.
Phalaropes

Phalaropes

Phalaropus lobatus

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.
Red Phalarope

Red Phalarope

Phalaropus fulicarius

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.
Common Sunbird-Asity

Common Sunbird-Asity

Neodrepanis coruscans

The Common Sunbird-Asity, or Neodrepanis coruscans, is a small bird endemic to Madagascar, known for its vibrant plumage and fascinating behaviors. It primarily inhabits the island's humid tropical forests, where it feeds mainly on nectar, but also on insects and spiders. This small bird features bright yellow plumage with metallic sheens, making it easily identifiable. Males, in particular, display more vivid colors during the breeding season to attract females. Though discreet, the Common Sunbird-Asity plays a crucial role in pollinating local plants. Its population is stable, but deforestation poses a potential threat to its natural habitat.
Sedge Warbler

Sedge Warbler

Acrocephalus schoenobaenus

The Sedge Warbler is a small passerine bird from the Acrocephalidae family, commonly found in marshes and wetlands across Europe and Asia. It is characterized by its brown plumage with black streaks on the back and a lighter underside. Its song is a complex mix of trills and whistles, often delivered from a high perch. A migratory species, it winters in sub-Saharan Africa. It feeds mainly on insects and spiders, which it catches in dense vegetation. During the breeding season, the male builds several nests to attract a female. The final nest is often located in reeds or low bushes, well hidden to protect the eggs and young from predators.
Rufous Piha

Rufous Piha

Lipaugus unirufus

The Lipaugus unirufus, commonly known as the Rufous Piha, is a bird from the Cotingidae family. It is primarily found in the humid tropical forests of Central and South America. This bird is notable for its uniformly rufous plumage, which allows it to blend into its natural habitat. It measures about 25 to 28 cm in length and feeds mainly on fruits and insects. The Rufous Piha is often difficult to spot due to its discreet behavior and melodious song that echoes through the canopy. Although not considered threatened, deforestation poses a potential threat to its habitat.
White-backed woodpecker

White-backed woodpecker

Dendrocopos leucotos

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.
Red-breasted Sapsucker

Red-breasted Sapsucker

Sphyrapicus ruber

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.
Pale-crested Woodpecker
The Pale-crested Woodpecker, scientifically known as Celeus lugubris, is a medium-sized bird belonging to the Picidae family. It is easily identifiable by its distinctive pale crest and reddish-brown plumage. This woodpecker is primarily found in the tropical and subtropical forests of South America, particularly in Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay. It feeds mainly on insects, which it extracts by drumming on tree trunks with its strong beak. The Pale-crested Woodpecker is a diurnal bird, active mainly during the day. Although it is relatively not very shy, it remains cautious and prefers dense wooded areas where it can easily hide. Its population is currently stable, but it could be threatened by deforestation.