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.


House Bunting

House Bunting

Emberiza sahari

The House Bunting, or Emberiza sahari, is a small bird with a discreet plumage, mainly brown with shades of gray and beige. It is well adapted to arid and semi-arid environments, blending perfectly into the landscape. It is primarily found in North Africa, especially in desert and mountainous regions. Known for its melodious song, often heard at dawn, it feeds mainly on seeds but can also consume insects, especially during the breeding season. The House Bunting is a sociable bird, often seen in small groups, and is relatively not very shy, making it accessible for observation.
Yellowhammer

Yellowhammer

Emberiza cia

The yellowhammer is a small passerine, 15–16 cm long, with bright yellow head and breast in males and duller, brown-streaked plumage in females. It inhabits open fields, hedgerows, and edges, feeding on seeds and insects while foraging on the ground. During breeding (April to July), the male sings from a perch or in flight to mark territory and attract the female.
Yellowhammer

Yellowhammer

Emberiza citrinella

The yellowhammer is a small passerine bird found primarily in fields, meadows, and hedgerows across Europe and Asia. It is easily recognized by its bright yellow plumage, brown striped head, and pale yellow belly. This bunting is mainly insectivorous, but it also feeds on seeds and berries. It is often heard singing, especially during the breeding season, where it defends its territory with a clear and distinct song.
Ortolan bunting

Ortolan bunting

Emberiza hortulana

Small passerine 16–17 cm long with streaked olive-brown plumage and a greenish-grey head. Inhabits cereal fields and margins, feeding mainly on seeds, supplemented by insects during breeding. Pairs nest on the ground, hiding nests among crops or low vegetation, and males sing from low perches to defend territory.
Corn bunting

Corn bunting

Emberiza calandra

The corn bunting (Emberiza calandra) is a passerine bird in the family Emberizidae. It is a large, bulky bunting, 16–19 cm long, with heavily streaked buff-brown plumage. Found in open farmland, weedy wastelands and meadows across southern and central Europe, North Africa and Asia, it feeds mainly on seeds, supplemented by insects during the breeding season. During breeding it builds its nest on or near the ground, and the male sings from an exposed perch to attract the female and defend its territory.
Red-whiskered Bulbul

Red-whiskered Bulbul

Pycnonotus jocosus

The Red-whiskered Bulbul, or Pycnonotus jocosus, is a bird with distinctive plumage, recognizable by its pointed black crest and white cheeks adorned with red patches. Its chest is white, contrasting with its brownish belly. This bird is native to Southeast Asia but has been introduced to other parts of the world. It frequents various habitats, from forests to urban gardens. The Red-whiskered Bulbul is a sociable bird, often seen in small groups. Its melodious and varied song is appreciated by bird enthusiasts. Although primarily frugivorous, it also feeds on insects. Its adaptability allows it to thrive in diverse environments.
Montagu's Harrier

Montagu's Harrier

Circus pygargus

Montagu's Harrier is a medium-sized diurnal raptor, easily recognizable by its light gray plumage on the top and white underside, as well as its long, narrow wings and light flight. It primarily inhabits open areas such as grasslands, cultivated fields, and steppe regions, where it hunts small mammals, birds, and insects. This raptor flies low over the ground searching for prey, often gliding or making wide circles. Montagu's Harrier is particularly active during the breeding months, where it can be seen flying in pairs, sometimes forming small colonies. Migratory, it leaves its breeding grounds in Europe to head to North Africa during the winter. While its population is declining in some areas due to habitat loss and intensified agriculture, conservation efforts are underway to stabilize its numbers.
Swamp Harrier

Swamp Harrier

Circus approximans

The Swamp Harrier, or Circus approximans, is a medium-sized diurnal raptor commonly found in the wetlands of Australia and New Zealand. It is characterized by its dark brown plumage with lighter shades on the belly and wings. Adults boast an impressive wingspan of up to 1.2 meters. This opportunistic predator primarily feeds on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. It is often seen gliding over marshes and grasslands, using its keen eyesight to spot prey. Although generally solitary, it can be observed in small groups during migration. Its adaptability to various habitats makes it a resilient species, though wetland destruction may threaten some local populations.
Marsh Harrier

Marsh Harrier

Circus aeruginosus

The Marsh Harrier is a medium-sized raptor, easily recognized by its brownish-green plumage and slender build. It primarily inhabits wetlands, marshes, and reed beds in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. This diurnal bird hunts small mammals, birds, and insects, which it captures by flying low over the reeds or circling slowly. The Marsh Harrier is particularly active in spring and summer during the breeding season. Males and females often fly in tandem, searching for food to feed their young. Migratory, it leaves its breeding grounds in Europe to head to North Africa during the winter. While its population remains relatively stable in some areas, the Marsh Harrier faces threats related to habitat loss and pollution in wetland areas.
Pallid Harrier

Pallid Harrier

Circus macrourus

The Pallid Harrier (Circus macrourus) is a slender, medium-sized raptor (40–48 cm long, 95–115 cm wingspan), with slate-grey breeding plumage in males and mottled brown in females. It occupies open landscapes such as steppes, marshes and wet grasslands, gliding low over the ground to hunt micro-mammals, small birds and large insects. Nestling on the ground from May 1 to July 31, it builds a simple scrape nest hidden under vegetation. A long-distance migrant, it winters from the Sahel to the Indian subcontinent. Populations are vulnerable to steppe loss and agricultural disturbance, although recent trends are relatively stable. As a passage migrant in western Europe, it is eagerly sought by birdwatchers during spring and autumn migrations.
Hen Harrier

Hen Harrier

Circus cyaneus

The Northern Harrier is a medium-sized raptor, easily recognizable by its gray and brown plumage, with distinct markings on its wings and a slightly rounded head. This diurnal bird primarily inhabits open areas such as grasslands, cultivated fields, and marshes, mainly in Europe and Asia. The Northern Harrier hunts small mammals, birds, and insects, which it captures by flying low, often making wide circles in search of prey. This raptor is migratory, leaving its breeding grounds in Europe to head to North Africa during the winter. The Northern Harrier is also known for its majestic flight, which makes it easily identifiable. Although its population is declining in some areas due to habitat loss and human disturbances, conservation efforts are underway to help stabilize its populations.
Red-tailed Hawk

Red-tailed Hawk

Buteo jamaicensis

The Red-tailed Hawk, or Buteo jamaicensis, is a widespread diurnal raptor in North America. It is easily recognizable by its distinctive red tail, although juveniles have a duller tail. Its plumage ranges from dark brown to light brown, with a typically paler belly. This opportunistic predator primarily feeds on small mammals but can also capture birds and reptiles. The Red-tailed Hawk is often seen perched on poles or soaring in circles in the sky. It adapts to various habitats, from forests to open grasslands, and is known for its piercing and distinctive call.
Long-legged Buzzard

Long-legged Buzzard

Buteo rufinus

The Long-legged Buzzard, or Buteo rufinus, is a medium to large-sized raptor known for its long wings and relatively short tail. It has a variable plumage ranging from light brown to rufous, with darker markings on the wings and tail. This bird of prey is often seen soaring in circles, using thermal currents to rise. It primarily inhabits open areas such as steppes, semi-deserts, and grasslands, but can also be found in mountainous regions. The Long-legged Buzzard feeds mainly on small mammals, birds, and occasionally reptiles. It is known for its powerful flight and ability to cover long distances during migration.
Rough-legged Buzzard
The Rough-legged Buzzard, or Buteo lagopus, is a medium-sized bird of prey known for its feathered legs, which help it endure cold climates. It features a brown plumage speckled with white, with a white tail barred with black. This raptor is often seen hovering, scanning the ground for prey, mainly rodents. It breeds in arctic and subarctic regions but migrates southward in winter. The Rough-legged Buzzard is a solitary bird, although it can be seen in small groups during migration. It prefers open habitats such as tundras, grasslands, and agricultural areas.
Common Buzzard

Common Buzzard

Buteo buteo

The Common Buzzard is a medium-sized diurnal raptor, easily recognizable by its often spotted and banded brown and white plumage, which gives it a particularly variable appearance from one individual to another. It primarily inhabits open forests, hedgerows, and agricultural landscapes in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The Common Buzzard feeds on small mammals, birds, and occasionally insects, which it hunts on the ground, often perched on a tree or pole, waiting for the right moment to swoop down on its prey. This raptor is known for its characteristic flight, often soaring in the sky in wide circles. The Common Buzzard is also a migratory bird, leaving some of its breeding grounds in Europe to migrate to warmer regions during the winter. While the population of the Common Buzzard is stable in many areas, it can be affected by habitat loss and human persecution.
Eurasian Bittern

Eurasian Bittern

Botaurus stellaris

The Great Bittern is a large, secretive heron, easily recognized by its brown spotted and striped plumage, which allows it to blend perfectly into the reeds and vegetation of wetland areas where it lives. This nocturnal and solitary bird primarily inhabits marshes, ponds, and reed beds in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It feeds mainly on fish, amphibians, and small birds, which it hunts by silently creeping through aquatic plants or standing still to wait for its prey. The Great Bittern is an excellent master of camouflage, using its plumage to conceal itself in its environment, making it difficult to observe. Migratory, it leaves its breeding grounds to travel to Africa during the winter. While it is listed as "Near Threatened" on the IUCN Red List, it remains vulnerable to habitat loss due to wetland drainage and urbanization.
Pinnated bittern

Pinnated bittern

Botaurus pinnatus

A nocturnal and secretive marsh heron, this bulky bird with cryptic buff-brown plumage hides among reeds to feed on insects, fish and small vertebrates from ambush. When moving, it crouches with neck erect and emits deep booms at dusk during the breeding season.
Cockatoo

Cockatoo

Cacatua

Cockatoos are exuberant and colorful birds, known for their spectacular crests and fascinating social behavior. These birds are native to Australia, New Guinea, and neighboring islands. Their plumage, often white with brightly colored accents on the crest or tail, makes them particularly attractive. They are also famous for their intelligence and ability to mimic sounds, including human speech, making them popular as pets. Cockatoos live mainly in forests, savannas, and coastal areas. They are social birds that form often noisy groups, spending their days searching for food, perching, and interacting with other members of their group. Although some species of cockatoos are protected due to habitat loss and poaching, they remain an iconic symbol of exotic birds.
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo

Sulphur-crested Cockatoo

Cacatua galerita

The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, or Cacatua galerita, is a striking bird native to Australia and New Guinea. Easily identified by its vibrant yellow crest, it sports a pure white plumage. Measuring about 45 to 50 cm in length, it has a strong beak and piercing black eyes. Social and intelligent, it lives in flocks that can number in the hundreds. Its loud, harsh call is often heard in forests, savannas, and even urban areas. Opportunistic in nature, it feeds on seeds, fruits, and occasionally insects. While admired for its beauty and intelligence, it can be a pest in agricultural areas.
Quail

Quail

Coturnix coturnix

The Common Quail is a small, ground-dwelling bird, easily recognizable by its striped brown plumage and small size. It primarily inhabits fields, meadows, and open agricultural areas, where it blends perfectly into the vegetation. This bird is mostly terrestrial, spending much of its time running through tall grasses rather than flying. When it does take flight, it is usually quick and short, a strategy to escape predators. The Common Quail is migratory, leaving its breeding grounds in Europe and Asia to travel to Africa during the winter. Its population is declining in some areas due to habitat loss, intensified agriculture, and hunting. Despite these threats, conservation efforts have been implemented to stabilize local populations.
Oriental Pied Hornbill

Oriental Pied Hornbill

Anthracoceros albirostris

The Oriental Pied Hornbill, Anthracoceros albirostris, is a captivating bird native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. Easily identifiable by its large, white beak topped with a distinctive black casque, it measures between 60 and 90 cm. Its striking black and white plumage adds to its allure. These birds live in family groups and are known for their complex social behavior. They primarily feed on fruits but also consume insects and small animals. Their resonant calls often echo through the canopy. The Oriental Pied Hornbill plays a crucial role in seed dispersal, thus contributing to the health of forest ecosystems.
Red-billed Hornbill

Red-billed Hornbill

Tockus erythrorhynchus

The Tockus erythrorhynchus, or red-billed hornbill, is an African bird known for its long, curved red bill. It measures about 42 to 50 cm in length and weighs between 120 and 170 grams. Its plumage is mainly gray with white spots on the wings and a black tail. This bird is often seen in small groups or pairs, feeding primarily on insects, small reptiles, and fruits. It is known for its social behavior and loud calls. The red-billed hornbill is a diurnal bird that prefers savannas, open woodlands, and shrublands. It plays an important role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations.
Yellow-billed hornbill

Yellow-billed hornbill

Tockus flavirostris

The Yellow-casqued Hornbill is a characteristic bird of the open forests and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa. It is easily recognizable by its large curved bill, adorned with a bright yellow casque that gives it a distinctive appearance. Despite its massive size, the bill is lightweight and hollow, allowing this bird to fly with agility despite its size. Its plumage is primarily black and white, with yellow accents around the bill and casque. The Yellow-casqued Hornbill is primarily frugivorous, feeding on fruits, berries, and insects found in trees. It is often seen in pairs or small groups, moving from branch to branch and emitting loud and distinct calls. While it is relatively widespread in its habitat, it may be threatened by deforestation and habitat loss due to agricultural expansion.
Great hornbill

Great hornbill

Buceros bicornis

The great hornbill (Buceros bicornis) is a large forest bird (95–120 cm long, weighing 2–3.4 kg) known for its massive yellow bill topped by a hollow casque. It inhabits humid tropical and gallery forests from India to Vietnam, at elevations from sea level to 1500 m. Primarily frugivorous, it feeds on figs and various fruits, supplementing its diet with small vertebrates and insects. Monogamous and territorial, pairs remain together year-round. During the breeding season (01.01–31.05), the male and female engage in loud duets and casque-butting displays. After pairing, the female seals herself within a tree cavity and incubates 1–2 eggs for 38–40 days, receiving food through a narrow slit provided by the male.
Rhinoceros Hornbill

Rhinoceros Hornbill

Buceros rhinoceros

The Rhinoceros Hornbill, or Buceros rhinoceros, is an impressive bird known for its size and distinctive appearance. It is easily recognizable by its prominent horn-shaped casque, which gives it its name. This casque, although large, is hollow and lightweight. The bird's plumage is primarily black, with white feathers on the tail and white markings on the wings. Its eyes are surrounded by brightly colored bare skin, often red or orange. The Rhinoceros Hornbill inhabits the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia, Thailand, and Sumatra. It plays a crucial role in its ecosystem as a seed disperser, aiding in forest regeneration.
Gadwall

Gadwall

Mareca strepera

The Gadwall is a medium-sized dabbling duck, measuring between 46 and 56 cm in length with a wingspan of 78 to 90 cm. The male has finely patterned gray plumage with a distinctive white wing patch visible in flight, a black rump, and a dark bill. The female is mottled brown with an orange-edged dark bill. This species inhabits wetlands such as marshes, ponds, lakes, and flooded meadows rich in aquatic vegetation. It feeds mainly on leaves, stems, and seeds of aquatic plants, but also consumes aquatic invertebrates, especially during the breeding season. The Gadwall is a partial migrant, breeding in Eurasia and North America, and wintering in more southern regions. Although listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, it is sensitive to wetland degradation and pollution.
Mandarin duck

Mandarin duck

Aix galericulata

The Mandarin Duck is a spectacular waterfowl, easily recognizable by its vibrant and colorful plumage, particularly in the male. The male displays an impressive mix of bright colors, including orange, blue, and green, with a distinctive crest on the head and feathers on the sides of the neck that resemble scales. The female, more subdued, has brown plumage with subtle white accents around the eyes and bill. Native to East Asia, the Mandarin Duck is now widely distributed in Europe and North America, often seen in parks and gardens around bodies of water. This duck prefers calm waters in lakes, ponds, and rivers, where it feeds mainly on seeds, fruits, insects, and small crustaceans. Although the Mandarin Duck is not considered endangered, its natural habitat can be threatened by pollution and the loss of wetland areas.
Northern pintail
The Northern Pintail is a migratory species of duck, easily recognizable by its slender body and long neck, which gives it an elegant and distinctive silhouette. The male during the breeding season has a colorful plumage, with a green head, brown body, and long bill. The female, on the other hand, has more subdued plumage, brown speckled, adapted for camouflage. This duck primarily inhabits wetland areas, such as marshes, ponds, and rivers, where it feeds on aquatic vegetation, seeds, and insects. The Northern Pintail is a long-distance migrant, leaving its breeding grounds in Europe and Asia to head to Africa or the Middle East during the winter. Although still fairly widespread, the species is threatened by the loss of its natural habitat due to wetland drainage and intensified agriculture.
Eurasian wigeon

Eurasian wigeon

Mareca penelope

The Eurasian Wigeon is an elegant waterfowl, easily recognizable by its distinctive plumage and characteristic whistle. The male, during the breeding season, has colorful plumage with a dark green head, light brown body, and a white stripe running across its neck. The female is more subdued, with speckled brown plumage, adapted for camouflage. This duck gets its name from the whistling sound it makes during its movements and social interactions. The Eurasian Wigeon primarily inhabits wetlands, such as lakes, ponds, and marshes, where it feeds on aquatic plants, seeds, and insects. It is a long-distance migratory bird, leaving its breeding grounds in Europe to travel to warmer regions in Africa or the Middle East during the winter. While its population remains generally stable, it faces threats related to habitat loss and water pollution.
Northern Shoveler

Northern Shoveler

Spatula clypeata

The Northern Shoveler is a medium-sized dabbling duck, measuring between 44 and 56 cm in length with a wingspan of 70 to 85 cm. The breeding male features an iridescent dark green head, white chest, chestnut flanks, and a large spatula-shaped bill. The female has mottled brown plumage and a similarly shaped bill. This species inhabits shallow wetlands, such as marshes, ponds, and floodplain meadows rich in aquatic vegetation. It feeds by filtering water with its specialized bill, consuming primarily plankton, aquatic insects, crustaceans, mollusks, and seeds. Migratory, the Northern Shoveler breeds in Europe and Asia, wintering in Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. Although listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, it is sensitive to wetland degradation.