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.


Cinnamon-crested Spadebill

Cinnamon-crested Spadebill

Hemitriccus cinnamomeus

The Cinnamon-crested Spadebill is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the humid tropical forests of South America, particularly in Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela. This bird is characterized by its cinnamon-brown plumage, which helps it blend into its forest environment. It measures about 10 cm in length and weighs around 8 grams. The Cinnamon-crested Spadebill is insectivorous, feeding mainly on small insects caught in flight. It is often seen alone or in pairs, and its discreet nature makes it difficult to spot. Its song is a soft whistle, often heard before being seen.
Gualaquiza Tyrannulet

Gualaquiza Tyrannulet

Phylloscartes gualaquizae

The Gualaquiza Tyrannulet, or Phylloscartes gualaquizae, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the humid montane forests of Ecuador and Peru. This bird is characterized by its olive-green plumage and distinctive facial markings. Often seen foraging for insects among dense foliage, it is discreet but can be identified by its melodious song. While its population is currently stable, deforestation poses a potential threat to its natural habitat. Preserving these ecosystems is crucial for the survival of this unique species.
Peters's Tyrannulet

Peters's Tyrannulet

Zimmerius petersi

The Peters's Tyrannulet, Zimmerius petersi, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the humid montane forests of South America, particularly in Colombia and Venezuela. This bird is characterized by its olive-green plumage, with lighter shades on the belly and slightly darker wings. Its short, straight bill is adapted to its diet, which mainly consists of insects and small fruits. The song of the Peters's Tyrannulet is a key aspect of its territorial behavior, often heard before the bird is seen. It is usually observed alone or in small groups, actively moving through foliage in search of food.
Chapman's Bristle Tyrant

Chapman's Bristle Tyrant

Pogonotriccus chapmani

The Pogonotriccus chapmani, or Chapman's Bristle Tyrant, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in humid montane forests, often at altitudes between 1200 and 2500 meters. This bird is characterized by its olive-green plumage, slightly darker wings, and pale yellow belly. It is often seen in small groups or pairs, feeding on insects caught in flight or on leaves. Although discreet, its melodious and repetitive song can be heard through the canopy. Chapman's Bristle Tyrant is a wary bird, preferring dense areas where it can easily hide. Its conservation status is not concerning, but deforestation could threaten its habitat in the long term.
Golden-faced Tyrannulet

Golden-faced Tyrannulet

Zimmerius minimus

The Golden-faced Tyrannulet, scientifically known as Zimmerius minimus, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the humid forests of the Andes, where it is distinguished by its characteristic golden face and olive-green plumage. This small bird is often seen feeding on insects and fruits in the canopy. Although discreet, its high-pitched and repetitive song makes it easy to spot. The Golden-faced Tyrannulet plays an important role in the ecosystem by participating in seed dispersal and controlling insect populations. Its presence is an indicator of the health of Andean forests.
Hellmayr's Tyrannulet

Hellmayr's Tyrannulet

Mecocerculus hellmayri

The Hellmayr's Tyrannulet is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in humid montane forests, often at altitudes between 1500 and 3000 meters. This bird features a subtle plumage, mainly olive green with lighter shades on the belly. Known for its distinctive voice, it emits a melodious song that echoes through the dense canopy. Although relatively tolerant, it remains cautious of intruders. Its diet mainly consists of insects, which it captures in flight or by foraging through foliage. The Hellmayr's Tyrannulet plays an important role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations and aiding in seed dispersal.
Restinga Tyrannulet

Restinga Tyrannulet

Phylloscartes kronei

The Restinga Tyrannulet, or Phylloscartes kronei, is a small passerine bird endemic to Brazil, primarily found in the coastal forests of the Restinga region. This discreet bird is characterized by its olive-green plumage and white wing markings. It is often seen foraging for insects in dense foliage, moving nimbly from branch to branch. Although not very shy, it remains difficult to spot due to its dense habitat and small size. Preserving its natural habitat is crucial for its survival, as it is threatened by deforestation and increasing urbanization.
Olive-striped Flycatcher

Olive-striped Flycatcher

Oncostoma olivaceum

The Olive-striped Flycatcher, or Oncostoma olivaceum, is a small passerine bird in the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the humid tropical forests of Central America, particularly in Costa Rica and Panama. This bird is distinguished by its olive-green plumage, which allows it to blend effectively into its natural environment. It measures about 10 to 12 cm in length and primarily feeds on insects caught in flight. The Olive-striped Flycatcher is often seen in pairs or small groups and is known for its melodious and varied songs. Although its habitat is threatened by deforestation, it is currently classified as of least concern by the IUCN.
Minas Gerais Tyrannulet

Minas Gerais Tyrannulet

Phylloscartes roquettei

The Phylloscartes roquettei, known as the Minas Gerais Tyrannulet, is a small bird endemic to Brazil, primarily found in the dry forests and savannas of the Minas Gerais state. It is characterized by its olive-green plumage and slightly darker wings. This discreet bird is often difficult to spot due to its small size and elusive behavior. It primarily feeds on insects, which it catches in flight or on leaves. The Minas Gerais Tyrannulet is an endangered species, mainly due to deforestation and habitat loss. Conserving its habitats is crucial for its long-term survival.
Parker's Tyrannulet

Parker's Tyrannulet

Phylloscartes parkeri

The Parker's Tyrannulet is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is mainly found in the humid montane forests and wooded areas of northern South America, particularly in Colombia and Peru. This passerine is distinguished by its olive-green plumage and slightly darker wings. It is often identified by its distinctive and melodious song. Although discreet, it plays an essential role in the ecosystem by participating in seed dispersal and insect control. The Parker's Tyrannulet is a diurnal bird, active mainly in the morning and late afternoon. Its population is currently stable, but it could be threatened by deforestation.
White-throated Tyrannulet

White-throated Tyrannulet

Zimmerius albigularis

The Zimmerius albigularis, or White-throated Tyrannulet, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the humid forests and forest edges of Central and South America, notably in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This bird is distinguished by its white throat contrasting with its olive-green plumage. It is often seen foraging for small insects and spiders in dense foliage. Its song is a soft, melodious trill, often heard before being seen. Although relatively discreet, it plays an important role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations.
Planalto Tyrannulet

Planalto Tyrannulet

Phyllomyias fasciatus

The Planalto Tyrannulet is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is mainly found in the humid forests and forest edges of South America, particularly in Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. This bird is characterized by its olive-green back and flanks striped with white and black, providing excellent camouflage in its natural habitat. Its song is a key element for spotting it, as it is often difficult to see due to its small size and discreet behavior. The Planalto Tyrannulet primarily feeds on insects, which it catches in flight or by foraging through foliage.
Paltry Tyrannulet

Paltry Tyrannulet

Zimmerius vilissimus

The Paltry Tyrannulet, Zimmerius vilissimus, is a small passerine bird in the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the humid forests and forest edges of Central America, particularly in Costa Rica and Panama. This small bird measures about 10 to 11 cm in length and is distinguished by its olive-green plumage on the back and pale yellow on the belly. Its short, thick bill is adapted to its diet, which mainly consists of insects and small fruits. The song of the Paltry Tyrannulet is a key aspect of its behavior, often heard before the bird is seen. It is generally solitary or observed in small groups, known for its active and agile behavior, moving quickly through foliage in search of food.
Northern Beardless Tyrannulet
The Northern Beardless Tyrannulet is a small bird from the Tyrannidae family, found mainly in arid and semi-arid regions from the southwestern United States to northern Mexico. It is characterized by its modest size, gray-olive plumage, and lack of a beard, hence its name. This passerine is often seen in low bushes and trees, where it primarily feeds on insects. Its song is a soft, repetitive trill, often heard before the bird is seen. Although discreet, it is quite tolerant of human presence, making it easier to observe.
Olivaceous Flatbill

Olivaceous Flatbill

Pogonotriccus ophthalmicus

The Olivaceous Flatbill, or Pogonotriccus ophthalmicus, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. This bird is characterized by its olive-green plumage and distinctive white facial markings. It primarily inhabits humid forests and forest edges in mountainous regions of South America, particularly in Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador. Its song is a soft, melodious trill, often heard before the bird is seen. The Olivaceous Flatbill is an active insectivore, capturing prey in flight or by foraging through dense foliage. Although relatively discreet, it can be observed in small groups or pairs during the breeding season.
White-lored Tyrannulet

White-lored Tyrannulet

Ornithion inerme

The Ornithion inerme, or white-lored tyrannulet, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the humid tropical forests of Central and South America, where it feeds on insects and small fruits. This small bird, measuring about 10 cm in length, is distinguished by its olive-green plumage and white markings around its eyes. It is often seen in groups, actively moving through the foliage in search of food. Although relatively common in its habitat, it can be difficult to spot due to its small size and discreet behavior.
Southern Scrub-Flycatcher

Southern Scrub-Flycatcher

Sublegatus modestus

The Southern Scrub-Flycatcher, or Sublegatus modestus, is a small passerine bird in the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in wooded areas and savannas of South America, particularly in Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Its plumage is generally dull, with shades of brown and gray, allowing it to blend easily into its surroundings. This small bird is often seen alone or in pairs, feeding on insects it catches in flight. Although discreet, its song is an effective way to spot it. The Southern Scrub-Flycatcher is a diurnal bird, active mainly during the day. It is considered not very shy, making it easier for birdwatchers to observe.
Burmeister's Tyrannulet

Burmeister's Tyrannulet

Phyllomyias burmeisteri

The Burmeister's Tyrannulet, Phyllomyias burmeisteri, is a small bird from the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the subtropical and tropical moist forests of South America, particularly in Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. This bird is characterized by its olive-green plumage on the back and pale yellow on the belly, with slightly darker wings. It is often seen in small groups or pairs, feeding mainly on insects caught in flight or on leaves. The song of the Burmeister's Tyrannulet is a soft, repetitive trill, often heard at dawn. Although its habitat is threatened by deforestation, it is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
White-throated Tyrannulet

White-throated Tyrannulet

Mecocerculus minor

The White-throated Tyrannulet, or Mecocerculus minor, is a small bird from the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the humid montane forests of South America, particularly in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This passerine is characterized by its olive-gray plumage and distinctive white throat, which contrasts with the rest of its body. It is often seen in small groups, actively moving in search of insects and other small invertebrates. Its song is a soft, melodious trill, often heard before being seen. Although relatively common in its habitat, it remains discreet and challenging to observe closely.
Mistletoe Tyrannulet

Mistletoe Tyrannulet

Zimmerius improbus

The Zimmerius improbus, known as the Mistletoe Tyrannulet, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, often near water. This small bird is distinguished by its olive-green plumage and lighter belly, allowing it to blend into its surroundings. It is known for its melodious song and varied vocalizations, often heard before being seen. The Mistletoe Tyrannulet is an active bird, spending most of the day foraging for insects and fruits in the canopy. Although its habitat is threatened by deforestation, it is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Restinga Tyrannulet

Restinga Tyrannulet

Phylloscartes poecilotis

The Restinga Tyrannulet, or Phylloscartes poecilotis, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Tyrannidae family. It is primarily found in the subtropical and tropical moist forests of southeastern Brazil. This bird is characterized by its striped black and white head, olive-green back, and pale yellow belly. It is often seen foraging for insects in dense foliage, moving with agility and speed. Although discreet, its melodious and repetitive song can be heard throughout the canopy. The Restinga Tyrannulet is not very shy, making it easier for birdwatchers to observe.
Stolzmann's Tanager

Stolzmann's Tanager

Urothraupis stolzmanni

The Stolzmann's Tanager is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 15 cm in length. It features predominantly black plumage with bluish sheen and a distinctive white cap. This bird is endemic to the Andes, mainly in Colombia and Ecuador, where it inhabits cloud forests and high-altitude shrublands. It is often seen in small groups, feeding on insects and fruits. Although its habitat is relatively restricted, it is not considered threatened. However, deforestation poses a potential threat to its populations. The Stolzmann's Tanager is an active and vocal bird, often detected by its melodious song and distinctive calls.
Turkey Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Cathartes aura

The Turkey Vulture, or Cathartes aura, is a large scavenging bird of prey native to the Americas, easily identified by its red, featherless head and dark brown plumage. It plays a vital role in the ecosystem by consuming carrion, thus helping to prevent the spread of disease. With an excellent sense of smell, it can detect gases emitted by decaying carcasses. In flight, it is often seen soaring with its wings in a V-shape, using thermal updrafts to conserve energy. Although typically solitary, it can gather in large groups to feed. Its ability to adapt to various habitats, from forests to deserts, makes it a resilient and widespread bird.
Black-headed Lapwing

Black-headed Lapwing

Vanellus tectus

The Black-headed Lapwing, Vanellus tectus, is an elegant and distinctive bird, easily recognizable by its black head contrasting with its grey and white body. It also sports a black crest on its head and broad wings with black and white patterns. This bird is primarily found in the dry savannas and open grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa. It is often seen in small groups, feeding on insects and small invertebrates. The Black-headed Lapwing is known for its piercing calls and territorial behavior, especially during the breeding season. Although its habitat is threatened by agricultural expansion, it is currently classified as of least concern by the IUCN.
Crowned Lapwing

Crowned Lapwing

Vanellus coronatus

The crowned lapwing, or Vanellus coronatus, is an elegant and distinctive bird, easily recognizable by its black crown bordered with white on its head. It primarily inhabits the savannas and open grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa. This medium-sized bird, measuring about 30 cm in length, has a brown-grey plumage with white wings and tail, contrasting with its bright red legs. The crowned lapwing is often seen in small groups, feeding on insects and small invertebrates. Its behavior is generally tolerant towards humans, but it can become suspicious if approached too closely to its nest. It is known for its loud calls, especially when defending its territory.
Pied Lapwing

Pied Lapwing

Hoploxypterus cayanus

The Pied Lapwing, or Hoploxypterus cayanus, is an elegant and distinctive bird primarily found in South America. It is characterized by its striking black and white plumage, with a black head, grey back, and white belly. Its long red legs and black bill add to its unique appearance. This bird prefers open habitats such as riverbanks, sandy beaches, and marshes. It is often seen in small groups or pairs, feeding on insects and small invertebrates. Although generally discreet, the Pied Lapwing can become noisy and aggressive when defending its territory or young. Its ability to adapt to various environments allows it to thrive in regions ranging from sea level to moderate altitudes.
Northern Lapwing

Northern Lapwing

Vanellus vanellus

The Northern Lapwing is a medium-sized bird found primarily in grasslands, fields, and wetlands across Europe, Western Asia, and the Middle East. It typically measures about 28 to 32 cm in length and weighs between 150 and 200 g. Its plumage is primarily black and white, with a distinctive crest on its head and a white belly. The Northern Lapwing is a ground-dwelling bird that primarily feeds on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates found in the soil. It is also known for its ground nesting behaviors, often in colonies. While its population remains stable in some areas, the Northern Lapwing is threatened by habitat loss due to intensive agriculture and land degradation.
Sociable Lapwing

Sociable Lapwing

Vanellus gregarius

The Sociable Lapwing, Vanellus gregarius, is a medium-sized migratory bird belonging to the Charadriidae family. It is distinguished by its elegant plumage, with a brown back, white belly, and a head adorned with black and white patterns. The wings are long and pointed, adapted for its long migratory flights. This bird primarily inhabits steppes and open grasslands, where it feeds on insects, seeds, and small invertebrates. Unfortunately, the Sociable Lapwing is critically endangered, mainly due to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure the survival of this unique and fascinating species.
Southern Lapwing

Southern Lapwing

Vanellus chilensis

The Southern Lapwing, or Vanellus chilensis, is a striking bird from the Charadriidae family, easily identified by its grey and white plumage, black wings, and distinctive call. It is commonly found in open grasslands, wetlands, and agricultural fields across South America. This bird is notably territorial, often defending its space against intruders, including humans. It primarily feeds on insects, worms, and small invertebrates by pecking at the ground. The Southern Lapwing is also known for its distraction displays, feigning injury to lure predators away from its nest.
Vasa Parrot

Vasa Parrot

Coracopsis vasa

The Coracopsis vasa, commonly known as the Vasa Parrot, is a parrot endemic to Madagascar. It is notable for its blackish plumage, which turns brownish during the breeding season. This medium-sized parrot, measuring about 50 cm, has a strong beak and a relatively long tail. Its call is harsh and distinctive, often heard in the dry and humid forests of the island. The Vasa is a social bird, frequently observed in noisy groups. It primarily feeds on seeds, fruits, and flowers. Its ability to adapt to various habitats, from forests to savannas, makes it a resilient species. However, deforestation and capture for the pet trade threaten its population.