The Frances's Sparrowhawk, or Accipiter francesiae, is a small raptor endemic to Madagascar. This agile predator is recognizable by its slender silhouette and short, rounded wings, ideal for maneuvering through dense forests. Its plumage is generally gray on top and white with brown streaks underneath, allowing it to blend into its environment. It primarily feeds on small birds, insects, and occasionally small mammals. The Frances's Sparrowhawk is a discreet bird, often difficult to observe due to its shy behavior. It plays a crucial role in controlling the populations of its prey, thus contributing to the ecological balance of its habitat.
The white-headed duck is a small diving duck, 40–45 cm long, with males displaying a white head, slate-grey body and bright blue bill, while females have a brownish head and darker bill. It inhabits freshwater lakes and ponds fringed by dense emergent vegetation, diving to feed mainly on aquatic plants and small invertebrates. Shy and solitary, it typically swims away under water when threatened rather than flying.
The Chestnut-cheeked Starling, scientifically known as Sturnia philippensis, is a medium-sized bird belonging to the Sturnidae family. It is easily identifiable by its silvery-grey plumage and distinctive chestnut cheeks. This bird is primarily arboreal, feeding on fruits, insects, and nectar. It inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, as well as agricultural areas and gardens. Known for its varied and melodious vocalizations, the Chestnut-cheeked Starling is currently classified as "Least Concern" by the IUCN, although deforestation and habitat loss pose potential threats. This sociable bird is often seen in small flocks.
The European starling is a very social bird found across Europe, Asia, and North America. It is easily recognized by its iridescent plumage, which changes color depending on the light. This bird is highly adaptable, living in both urban and rural environments. The European starling is also an excellent imitator, capable of mimicking a variety of sounds, including calls of other birds and human noises. Its ability to form large flocks makes it an ideal subject for group photography.
The Spotless Starling is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 21 to 23 cm in length with a wingspan of 37 to 42 cm. Its plumage is predominantly black with metallic green and purple sheens, distinguishing it from the common starling. It is endemic to the Iberian Peninsula and northwest Africa. This bird is often seen in flocks, especially outside the breeding season. It inhabits various environments, including agricultural areas, urban parks, and open woodlands. Its diet is diverse, consisting of insects, fruits, and seeds. The Spotless Starling is known for its melodious song and ability to mimic other sounds.
The Common Pheasant, or Colchian Pheasant, is a medium to large-sized bird, easily recognizable by its bright colors and silky plumage. The adult male is particularly spectacular, with shiny plumage in shades of green, red, gold, and blue, and a long tail adorned with fine feathers. It measures about 70 cm in length, most of which is its tail, and weighs between 0.8 and 1.5 kg. The female, more discreet, has brown spotted plumage that helps her blend into her surroundings. Native to Asia Minor and the Caucasus region, the Colchian Pheasant has been introduced to many parts of the world for hunting and decoration. It typically inhabits wooded areas, cultivated fields, and grasslands. Its diet is omnivorous, consisting of seeds, berries, insects, and sometimes small vertebrates. The species is mainly active at dawn and dusk. While the Common Pheasant is not threatened, it faces risks such as habitat loss, excessive hunting, and predation by carnivores.
The Golden Pheasant, Chrysolophus pictus, is a stunning bird native to the mountainous forests of China. It is renowned for its vibrant plumage, particularly the male, which displays bright colors such as red, yellow, and blue. Its head is adorned with a golden crest that extends into a golden mantle on its back. Females, on the other hand, are more subdued with brown mottled plumage that allows them to blend into their natural habitat. These birds are primarily terrestrial, feeding on seeds, berries, and insects. Although they are capable of flight, they prefer to run to escape predators.
The Kalij Pheasant, or Lophura leucomelanos, is an elegant bird from the Phasianidae family, native to the forests of South Asia. It is recognizable by its glossy black plumage in males, with metallic sheen, and its distinctive crest. The female, more discreet, has a brown speckled plumage. These birds prefer dense forest habitats, where they feed mainly on seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. They are often seen in small family groups. Although generally suspicious, they can become accustomed to human presence in protected areas. Their call is a sharp, piercing cry, often heard at dawn and dusk.
The Aplomado Falcon, Falco femoralis, is a sleek and slender raptor, recognizable by its distinctive plumage. It features a slate-gray back, a white belly, and a black band across the chest. Its wings are long and pointed, adapted for fast and agile flights. This falcon is primarily found in open grasslands, savannas, and semi-desert areas of Central and South America. A skilled predator, it mainly feeds on small birds, rodents, and insects. Although its habitat is vast, it is sometimes threatened by the loss of its natural environment. Its behavior is generally suspicious, but it can become accustomed to human presence in some areas.
The Kestrel is a small raptor from the falcon family, easily recognizable by its light brown plumage and dark spots that adorn its back. It measures about 30 to 35 cm in length, with a wingspan of 70 to 80 cm, and weighs between 150 and 200 g. The adult male has more colorful plumage, with shades of gray and black bands on the tail, while the female has a duller, brownish plumage. This falcon is common throughout Europe, Asia, and North Africa, where it primarily inhabits fields, meadows, heathlands, and even urban areas. The Kestrel feeds mainly on small mammals, insects, reptiles, and sometimes smaller birds. It is especially known for its hovering flight technique, where it remains suspended in the air by rapidly beating its wings before diving to capture prey. While the species is not currently endangered, it faces threats such as habitat loss, reduced prey populations, and disruption by human activities.
The Lesser Kestrel, or Falco naumanni, is a small diurnal raptor belonging to the Falconidae family. It is distinguished by its modest size, measuring about 30 to 35 cm in length with a wingspan of 60 to 75 cm. Its plumage is characteristic: the male has a rufous back without spots, a grey-blue head, and wings with black tips, while the female displays a duller and more speckled plumage. This falcon primarily feeds on insects but can also hunt small mammals and reptiles. It inhabits open areas such as grasslands, steppes, and agricultural zones. A migratory bird, it breeds in Europe and Central Asia and winters in sub-Saharan Africa. Its population is declining mainly due to habitat loss and pesticide use.
The Merlin is a small raptor, one of the fastest birds, easily recognizable by its compact plumage and vibrant colors. It measures between 28 and 34 cm in length, with a wingspan of 60 to 80 cm, and weighs between 150 and 250 g. The male has a blue-gray plumage on its back, with black wings and a head marked with black bands, while the female is generally larger and duller, with brownish hues. The Merlin is found primarily in Europe, Asia, and North America, where it inhabits a variety of habitats, from open areas such as meadows and agricultural zones to forests. This bird primarily feeds on smaller birds, small mammals, and insects. It hunts in flight, using its impressive speed to capture its prey. It is particularly known for its fast and agile aerial maneuvers. While the species is not endangered, it faces threats such as habitat loss, human disturbance, and the reduction of prey populations.
The gyrfalcon, or Falco rusticolus, is the largest of the falcons, known for its robustness and ability to survive in harsh Arctic environments. Its impressive size, with a wingspan reaching up to 160 cm, and its variable plumage ranging from pure white to dark grey, make it a spectacular bird. It is primarily found in circumpolar regions, nesting on cliffs and isolated mountains. A formidable predator, it mainly hunts medium-sized birds such as ptarmigans and ducks. The gyrfalcon is a symbol of power and majesty in many Nordic cultures. Its population is stable, although locally threatened by climate change and human disturbance.
The Hobby Falcon is a small diurnal raptor, often confused with other falcons due to its similar size, but it is distinguished by its elegant plumage and unique characteristics. It measures about 30 to 40 cm in length, with a wingspan of 70 to 90 cm, and weighs between 150 and 250 g. Its plumage is primarily grayish, with a darker head and back and a lighter belly. Males have a lighter plumage than females, which are generally larger and darker. This falcon primarily inhabits open areas such as meadows, heathlands, and sparse forests, as well as mountains and agricultural zones. It hunts by flying at high speed, capturing small birds, insects, and sometimes small mammals. Its flight is fast and direct, often interrupted by sharp turns and dives to capture its prey. While the species is not endangered, it faces threats such as habitat loss and the reduction of its prey populations.
The Red-footed Falcon is a small raptor, particularly recognizable by its delicate plumage and vivid colors. It measures about 30 to 35 cm in length, with a wingspan of 70 to 80 cm, and weighs between 150 and 200 g. The adult male has a distinctive blue-gray plumage, with pointed wings and a lighter head, while the female is browner and slightly larger. The Red-footed Falcon primarily inhabits open areas such as meadows, agricultural fields, and steppes in Eastern Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It primarily preys on insects, small birds, and sometimes reptiles. This falcon is known for its ability to catch prey in flight, performing fast and precise maneuvers. It is particularly active at dusk and in the evening, hence its name "Red-footed" (referring to its late-day hunting). Although the species is not yet endangered, it is threatened by habitat loss and the decline of its prey populations.
The Lanner falcon, Falco biarmicus, is a medium-sized raptor known for its brown-gray plumage with white and rufous tones. It has long, pointed wings and a relatively long tail. This agile predator is often seen in fast flight, primarily hunting birds in open air. It inhabits open regions such as savannas, steppes, and semi-deserts. Its range extends across Africa, southern Europe, and parts of Asia. The Lanner falcon is a social bird, often seen in small groups or pairs. Although a formidable hunter, it is also vulnerable to human disturbances and habitat loss.
The Peregrine Falcon is a medium-sized raptor, known for its impressive speed and exceptional hunting abilities. It measures between 40 and 50 cm in length, with a wingspan of 100 to 120 cm, and weighs between 600 and 1,000 g. Its plumage is typically blue-gray on the back, with a lighter belly and black markings on the head and wings. The Peregrine Falcon is especially famous for its stooping hunting technique, where it can reach speeds exceeding 300 km/h, making it the fastest animal in the world. It primarily feeds on birds, which it catches in flight, but can also hunt small mammals. The Peregrine Falcon lives in a variety of habitats, including cliffs, urban buildings, and coastal areas. It is a widely distributed species, found on every continent except Antarctica. Although it was once threatened by hunting and pesticides, it has now made a recovery thanks to conservation efforts, including the release of young birds and habitat protection programs.
The blackcap is a small passerine bird found primarily in forests, hedgerows, and gardens across Europe and Western Asia. It is easily recognized by its black head in the male (brown in the female) and its gray-olive plumage. This bird is an excellent singer, with a melodious song composed of trills and whistles. It feeds on small insects, berries, and seeds. Very discreet, it often goes unnoticed despite its frequent presence.
The barred warbler is a small bird found primarily in bushes and hedgerows in agricultural areas and open woodlands across Europe and Asia. It is easily recognized by its grey-brown plumage and characteristic dark streaks on its back and wings. This passerine bird is very active, often moving through foliage in search of insects and berries. The barred warbler is also known for its rich and varied song.
The Cyprus Warbler is a small passerine bird endemic to the island of Cyprus. It is characterized by its grey and black plumage, with a black cap and white throat. Males have a distinctive black chest, while females display softer tones. It primarily inhabits Mediterranean scrublands, garrigues, and open shrub areas. Its song is melodious and varied, often heard in spring. It feeds mainly on insects and small invertebrates, which it catches by flitting nimbly among branches. The Cyprus Warbler is territorial, especially during the breeding season, when it vigorously defends its space against intruders.
The garden warbler is a small passerine bird found primarily in hedgerows, gardens, and bushes across Europe and Asia. It is easily recognized by its grey-olive plumage, light belly, and keen eyes. This small bird is especially known for its powerful and melodious song, which it performs during the breeding season. It primarily feeds on insects and berries, which it finds in bushes and trees.
The Sardinian warbler is a small passerine bird found primarily in scrublands, maquis, and Mediterranean regions. It is easily recognized by its light gray plumage, brown back, and pale belly. This bird is primarily insectivorous, feeding on small prey such as insects and spiders, which it captures by rummaging through bushes and vegetation. It is also known for its melodious song and discreet movements in the underbrush.
The Sardinian Warbler, Sylvia melanocephala, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Sylviidae family. It is easily identified by the male's black cap, contrasting with its grey body and white underparts. The female has a brownish cap. This bird is mainly sedentary and is found in the Mediterranean basin, where it inhabits scrublands, garrigues, and bushy areas. The Sardinian Warbler is an active bird, often seen moving quickly through dense vegetation in search of insects and berries. Its song is a rapid, repetitive trill, often heard in spring. Although relatively discreet, it can be observed year-round in its natural habitat.
The alpine warbler is a small passerine of 12–13 cm with olive-brown, faintly streaked plumage and buff flanks. It inhabits alpine heath, subalpine meadows and open coniferous woodland. It feeds mainly on insects and spiders captured in vegetation. During breeding, males sing in flight or from elevated perches to attract females.
The Dartford Warbler, Sylvia undata, is a small passerine bird with slate-grey plumage and a reddish throat. It is mainly found in Mediterranean regions, frequenting scrublands and heathlands. This bird is sedentary, although some populations may undertake short altitudinal migrations. The Dartford Warbler is known for its melodious and complex song, often delivered from a high perch. It primarily feeds on insects but can also consume berries. The breeding season extends from spring to summer, with nests built low in dense vegetation. Although its conservation status is concerning due to habitat loss, it remains relatively common within its range.
The Andean flamingo is a rare species of flamingo that inhabits saline and alkaline lagoons of the high Andes plateaus, primarily in Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia. It is distinguished by its white plumage and pale pink hues, as well as its graceful silhouette. This species is threatened by habitat loss and human disturbance and is listed as a protected species. It primarily feeds on algae and small crustaceans found in saline waters.
The Lesser Flamingo, Phoeniconaias minor, is a graceful and slender bird, primarily found in the alkaline lakes of East Africa and some regions of India. It is distinguished by its pale pink plumage, long and thin legs, and a dark red, curved beak. This flamingo is the smallest of its kind, standing about 80 to 90 cm tall. It lives in large colonies, often consisting of thousands of individuals, which helps protect it from predators. Its diet mainly consists of blue-green algae and small crustaceans, which it filters with its specialized beak. The Lesser Flamingo is a migratory bird, moving according to seasonal water level changes.
The Greater Flamingo is a large bird with distinctive plumage, easily recognizable by its vivid colors and graceful silhouette. It stands about 1.4 to 1.7 meters tall and weighs between 2.5 and 4 kg. Its plumage is primarily pale pink, with more intense shades on the wings, and its long legs and neck give it a majestic posture. The Flamingo's beak is curved downward, allowing it to filter water and feed primarily on plankton, small shrimp, and algae. This bird primarily inhabits wetlands, saline lagoons, and salt marshes, where it often gathers in large colonies. Flamingos feed by dipping their heads into the water while walking in shallow waters, using their beaks to filter food. While the species is not threatened, it faces risks related to habitat loss, pollution, and human disturbance.
The red-footed booby is a remarkable seabird, easily recognized by its red feet and its white and brown plumage. It primarily lives on tropical islands in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, where it nests on cliffs or trees near water. It feeds mainly on fish, which it catches by diving from heights. It is a social species living in colonies, but it faces threats due to habitat loss and human disturbances.
The Northern Gannet is a large seabird, easily recognized by its brilliant white plumage and large black-tipped wings. It measures about 85 cm in length, with a wingspan of 170 to 180 cm, and weighs between 2.5 and 3.5 kg. Its long, pointed beak, along with its pale yellowish head, makes it a formidable predator in its marine environment. The Northern Gannet primarily inhabits the rocky coasts of the North Atlantic, where it nests in impressive colonies, often situated on steep cliffs. This bird is an excellent diver, catching its prey by plunging dramatically from heights of up to 30 meters, reaching speeds in excess of 100 km/h. Its diet mainly consists of fish, which it catches either in flight or by diving underwater. While the species is not endangered, it faces risks such as marine pollution, declining fish populations, and disturbances to its nesting sites.