Lecce, located in the South of Italy, is home to a variety of birds. It is also known as the “Bird City” for its many species of birds. The city is known for its wide variety of migratory species, making it a great place for birding enthusiasts.
With its temperate climate, diverse habitat, and plenty of food sources, Lecce is an ideal spot for birds. Over 300 species of birds can be seen in the city, including the Lesser Kestrel, the Nightingale, the Grey Heron, and the Eurasian Eagle Owl.
The city is also home to a number of protected species, including the Eurasian Spoonbill, the Red-footed Falcon, and the White-tailed Eagle.
With its vast array of birds, Lecce is the perfect place to explore the beauty of nature and to appreciate the variety of birds that call this place home.
1. Black-Winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt is a species of wader bird that is found throughout the world. It is part of the avocet and stilt family, and is known to have very long legs. This species is also known by its scientific name, H. himantopus.
The black-winged stilt is a single species that is almost cosmopolitan in its distribution, meaning it can be found in many different regions around the world. This species is a popular choice for bird lovers, due to its distinctive appearance and graceful movements.
The black-winged stilt is known for its long, thin red legs and its black wings, which are used for soaring and gliding. It is also known for its vocalizations, which are a mixture of chirps and whistles.
The black-winged stilt is an important species to many different habitats, due to its ability to feed on small aquatic animals, such as insects and crustaceans. It also helps to keep the ecosystem in balance by helping to control the population of these animals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
2. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is the most widespread and largest species of the flamingo family.
Found in many parts of the world, these birds inhabit the Northern and Sub-Saharan regions of Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East, the Levant, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the countries of Southern Europe bordering the Mediterranean Sea.
The greater flamingo is an iconic bird that is highly recognizable due to its bright pink feathers and long legs. It is a social bird that is most often found living in colonies, and they often feed in shallow salty waters and mudflats.
These birds are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter, and they can live up to 40 years in the wild. The greater flamingo is an important part of many ecosystems, and their presence is an indicator of a healthy wetland or lake.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
3. Common Wood Pigeon
The common wood pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the dove and pigeon family. It is native to the western Palearctic which stretches from Europe to Asia.
It is the largest species in its family and belongs to the genus Columba, which contains several similar species such as the rock dove. The common wood pigeon is easily recognisable due to its distinctive grey, white and pink plumage.
Its thick neck and stout bill also make it stand out. It is often found in woodlands, parks and gardens, and is a common sight in urban areas. Its diet consists of a variety of seeds, grains, fruits and buds.
The common wood pigeon is known to be a very social bird, often seen in flocks of up to 30 individuals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. palumbus |
4. Common Shelduck
The common shelduck is a species of waterfowl belonging to the genus Tadorna. It is a widespread bird in the Euro-Siberian region of the Palearctic, occupying temperate climates for nesting and subtropical climates for wintering.
This means that in the winter months, the common shelduck can also be found in the Maghreb, which is a region in North Africa. The common shelduck is a fairly common species with populations throughout the Palearctic region.
It is a fairly large species, with adults measuring up to 57 cm in length, and having a wingspan of up to 90 cm. They are mainly grey-brown in colour, with a white patch on the head, and a white line along the neck.
They have orange-red bill, legs, and feet, making them quite striking. The common shelduck is a social species, often seen in large flocks in suitable wetland habitats.
They mainly feed on vegetable matter such as plants, seeds, and roots, but will also take aquatic insects, molluscs, and other invertebrates. They nest in hollows in the ground, often in close proximity to water.
The female will lay up to 10 eggs in the nest, which she will incubate for up to 28 days before hatching. Both parents will help to raise the young, which will fledge after around 45 days.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Tadorna |
| Species | T. tadorna |
5. Eurasian Collared Dove
The Eurasian collared dove is a small species of dove, native to Europe and Asia. It is easily recognizable by its distinctive black collar on its white neck.
This dove species is distinct from other doves due to its unique behavior, which includes foraging from trees and other elevated areas, rather than from ground level. Although native to Europe and Asia, the Eurasian collared dove has been introduced to many other parts of the world.
It was introduced to Japan in the 1970s, and has since established itself as a common species in the country. It was also introduced to North America in the 1980s, and the Caribbean islands in the 1990s.
It has successfully established a presence in all of these areas, and is now a permanent part of the local avian populations. The Eurasian collared dove is an adaptable species whose presence can be beneficial to local ecosystems.
It is a seed-eater and can help to disperse seeds of native plants, aiding in their growth. It also helps to control insect populations, making it a beneficial addition to any local environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. decaocto |
6. European Turtle Dove
The European turtle dove is a species of bird belonging to the family Columbidae, which includes both doves and pigeons. The bird has a large breeding range, spanning the south western part of the Palearctic region which includes North Africa.
During the winter months, the European turtle dove migrates south to northern sub-Saharan Africa in order to spend the colder months in a warmer climate. This migration helps the species survive and thrive, as it can make use of the resources available in both regions.
The European turtle dove is a unique species with a distinct range and adaptation to different climates.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. turtur |
7. Common Pochard
The common pochard is a species of duck found in many parts of the world. It is a medium-sized diving duck, meaning it typically dives into the water in search of food. The scientific name for the common pochard is derived from the Greek aithuia and Latin ferina.
Aithuia is an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle. Ferina is derived from ferus, meaning ‘wild’, and is used to describe wild game. This suggests that the common pochard is a wild species, found in the wild rather than in captivity.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. ferina |
8. Red-Crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a species of large diving duck, with a distinctive red crest on its head.
The scientific name for this duck is derived from two different words that describe its physical characteristics: “Netta” is a Greek word meaning “duck” while “rufina” is a Latin word meaning “golden-red”.
This is an apt description of the red-crested pochard’s colouration, which is a golden-red hue on the chest and head. The wings and back are black, while the neck and breast are white.
In addition to its impressive colouration, the red-crested pochard also has a large, curved beak. This species of duck is found in many different places, such as Australia, Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
They are usually found in shallow waters and tend to feed on aquatic vegetation, small fish, and invertebrates. The red-crested pochard is an important species in the duck family, and its scientific name reflects its unique colouration and features.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
9. Rock Dove
The rock dove, rock pigeon, or common pigeon is an avian species belonging to the family Columbidae. It is one of the most widespread birds in the world and is found across numerous continents, including Europe, Asia, and North America.
The bird is also commonly referred to as simply the “pigeon”. It is believed that the domestic pigeon is descended from this species, and that the populations of feral pigeons around the world are a result of escaped domestic pigeons.
Feral pigeons can be found in many urban environments and are considered a nuisance to many due to their habit of nesting and foraging in populated areas. They are highly adaptable and can survive in a wide variety of habitats, from city parks to mountain cliffs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
10. Eurasian Coot
The Eurasian coot is a species of bird that is part of the Rallidae family, which consists of rails and crakes. It is found in many parts of the world including Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and North Africa.
This bird is easily recognizable by its slaty-black body, glossy black head and white bill with a white frontal shield. The Eurasian coot is also commonly known as the common coot or Australian coot. This bird is an omnivore, meaning it eats both plants and animals.
It often feeds on small invertebrates, such as insects, worms and molluscs, as well as aquatic plants. The Eurasian coot is also an avid swimmer, often seen swimming in lakes, ponds and rivers.
In some areas, it is known to build large, floating nests out of vegetation which it uses to protect its eggs from predators. The Eurasian coot is a social bird, often seen in large flocks and congregations.
It is an important part of the ecosystem, providing food for larger predators, such as foxes and raptors. This bird is also an important part of the economy, as it is hunted by humans for its meat and eggs.
All in all, the Eurasian coot is a unique and fascinating species of bird that is found in many parts of the world. Its distinct coloring and behavior make it an important part of the natural environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Fulica |
| Species | F. atra |
11. Common Quail
The common quail, also known as the European quail, is a small game bird that lives and breeds in the western Palearctic region. It is a member of the pheasant family Phasianidae. In the winter, these birds migrate to Africa and southern India.
The common quail is known for its distinctive call, which consists of three repeated chirps. This sound is often heard before the bird itself is seen. The bird can be identified by its brown plumage and short bill.
It typically lives in grassland habitats, where it feeds on insects, seeds, and grains. The common quail is a popular species for hunting purposes, as it is relatively easy to catch due to its small size.
It is also kept as a pet in some places, and can be trained to imitate its call. Its call is also used in some cultures as a way to ward off evil spirits.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Coturnix |
| Species | C. coturnix |
12. Great-Crested Grebe
The great crested grebe is a species of water bird that belongs to the grebe family. It is found in many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America.
It is known for its elaborate mating display, which is a series of courtship rituals between the male and female birds. During the display, the male and female birds will face each other and bow their heads, while also raising their wings and tail feathers.
They will then swim around each other in circles, and the male will present the female with a fish. The female then decides whether or not to accept the gift, and if so, the two birds will mate.
The great crested grebe is also known for its elaborate nesting behavior, which includes the construction of a floating platform made of vegetation. The male and female will take turns building the nest, and once it is complete, the female will lay her eggs inside.
The great crested grebe is an important part of the aquatic ecosystem, as it helps to keep the waters clean by eating fish, insects, and other small aquatic creatures.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. cristatus |
13. Common Moorhen
The common moorhen is a species of bird belonging to the rail family. It can be found across many parts of the world. This bird has a variety of other names, such as waterhen or swamp chicken.
The common moorhen is a wetland species, meaning it lives around areas with a lot of vegetation, such as marshes, ponds, and canals. Its favored habitat is characterized by shallow waters, dense vegetation and plenty of food.
The common moorhen will often build its nest close to water or near aquatic vegetation, such as reeds and rushes. The common moorhen is a fairly large bird, with a length of about 28-38 cm and a wingspan of roughly 43-49 cm.
It has a striking plumage, mostly grey-black in color with a red crown and frontal shield, yellow-tipped tail feathers, and a white line down its flanks. The common moorhen is an omnivore, meaning it eats both plant and animal matter.
Its diet consists of mainly insects, seeds, berries, roots, tubers, and small aquatic animals, such as shrimp and mollusks. The common moorhen is a social species and can often be seen in small groups.
During the breeding season, they are highly territorial and will fiercely defend their territories from intruders. The males are especially vocal during this time, making loud calls to advertise their presence.
The common moorhen is an important species in wetland ecosystems, as it helps to keep the water clean by consuming algae and aquatic plants. It also helps to spread water-loving plants by carrying their seeds in its feathers and dropping them in new areas.
The common moorhen is a fairly common species and is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List. It is, however, threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and invasive species. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Gallinula |
| Species | G. chloropus |
14. Common Goldeneye
The common goldeneye is a sea duck belonging to the genus Bucephala, which is Latin for “bull-headed”. This genus is home to two species of goldeneye ducks, the common goldeneye and the Barrow’s goldeneye.
These two species are closely related, but the common goldeneye is the most widespread of the two. This species has a distinctive head shape, with a bulbous forehead and a steeply-sloping crown.
This head shape is the likely origin of the genus name Bucephala, which comes from the Ancient Greek boukephalos, meaning “ox head”. The common goldeneye is a medium-sized sea duck, and is found in freshwater and coastal waters across much of North America and Eurasia.
It is a popular game bird, and is hunted for sport.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Bucephala |
| Species | B. clangula |
15. Whooper Swan
The whooper swan is a majestic bird native to the northern hemisphere. It is the largest species of swan in the region and is easily recognizable due to its large size and loud call.
It is the Eurasian counterpart of the North American trumpeter swan, and is the type species for the genus Cygnus. The whooper swan is a large white bird with an orange-yellow beak and black legs. It has a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters and can weigh up to 16 kilograms.
The swan is a migratory bird, with some populations migrating south for the winter. It feeds mainly on aquatic plants and insects, as well as small fish and frogs. Whooper swans can usually be found in wetlands, lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water.
They typically form strong pair bonds and are known to mate for life. The whooper swan is a protected species in many countries, with populations increasing in recent years.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. cygnus |
16. Gray Partridge
The grey partridge, also known by many other names such as the gray-legged partridge, English partridge, Hungarian partridge, or hun, is a species of gamebird from the family Phasianidae. This family is in the order Galliformes, which is made up of gallinaceous birds.
The scientific name of the grey partridge is derived from Latin, meaning ‘partridge’, which in turn is derived from Ancient Greek perdix. The grey partridge is commonly found across Europe and Asia, and is well-known for its distinctive grey coloration and loud call.
It is a popular gamebird due to its attractive plumage and tendency to inhabit open fields.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Perdix |
| Species | P. perdix |
17. Red-Breasted Merganser
The red-breasted merganser is a species of duck that is found across many parts of the Northern Hemisphere. The male of the species is particularly notable for its distinctive feature: a red breast, which gives the species its common name.
This red breast is only visible in the breeding plumage of the male, and it is this feature that makes the species so easily recognizable.
During the non-breeding season, the red breast of the male will be less visible, and the overall appearance of the species will be more muted in color.
The red-breasted merganser is also known for its long, slender bill, which is used to hunt for a wide variety of fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic prey. The species can also be found in a wide variety of habitats, from coastal areas to inland lakes and rivers.
All in all, the red-breasted merganser is an iconic species of duck, easily recognizable by its bright red breast and long bill.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergus |
| Species | M. serrator |
18. Great Cormorant
The great cormorant is a species of seabird found in many parts of the world. It is commonly known as the black shag or kawau in New Zealand, the great black cormorant in the Northern Hemisphere, the black cormorant in Australia, and the large cormorant in India.
This species of cormorant is found in both marine and freshwater habitats, and it is highly adaptable to its environment. The great cormorant is a large bird, typically having a wingspan of up to four feet.
Its feathers are black or dark grey, and its long, hooked bill is used for catching fish.
It has a distinctive, hunch-backed appearance, with its long, hooked neck, and its wings are held close to its body when it is swimming. The great cormorant is an important part of the marine food chain, and it is a highly efficient predator.
It feeds mainly on small fish such as herring, mackerel, and sardines, but it will also eat crustaceans, mollusks, and other invertebrates.
It is an incredibly powerful swimmer, and it is capable of diving to depths of up to 30 meters in search of food. The great cormorant is a highly social bird, and it may form colonies of up to several hundred birds.
It typically nests in large colonies on cliffs or in large trees, and it is known to breed in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
The great cormorant is generally a long-lived species, with many individuals living for up to 20 years. Overall, the great cormorant is an important and widespread species of seabird, and it is a highly adaptable species that is found in many parts of the world.
It is an important part of the marine food chain, and it is an important species for maintaining the health of many aquatic ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Phalacrocorax |
| Species | P. carbo |
19. Little Egret
The little egret is a species of small heron in the family Ardeidae. It is a white bird with a black beak that is slender and long black legs. The western race of the little egret has a distinguishing feature of yellow feet.
This aquatic bird feeds in shallow water and on land, consuming a variety of small creatures such as insects, crustaceans, mollusks, and amphibians. The little egret is a graceful bird that is often seen standing in the shallow waters looking for food.
Its long black legs stand out against its white feathers, and its yellow feet are a unique feature of the western race of this species. The little egret is a beautiful bird that is a joy to watch as it feeds in its natural habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. garzetta |
20. Ardea Alba
The great egret is a large, widely-distributed species of egret that is known by many names, such as the common egret, large egret, great white egret, or great white heron. It is found in many parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe.
In recent times, the species has been spreading to more northern areas of Europe, indicating a wider range of habitats that can support the great egret. The great egret is a majestic bird, often seen standing in shallow waters, with its long neck and legs, and pure white feathers.
It feeds mainly on fish, frogs, and other aquatic creatures, and can be seen wading through the shallow waters in search of prey.
The great egret is also an important species for its role in helping to keep ecosystems balanced by controlling pests. The great egret is currently listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, which means that its population is stable.
However, the species is threatened by human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and hunting. It is important to protect and conserve this species, so that it can continue to be part of our natural world for generations to come.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. alba |
21. Lesser Flamingo
The lesser flamingo is a species of flamingo that is commonly found in sub-Saharan Africa and western India.
This species of flamingo is also occasionally observed in northern regions, but these sightings are usually considered to be rare occurrences of vagrants.This species can be identified by its pink feathers, which are a little darker than those of the greater flamingo.
They have a long neck and long legs and can measure up to three feet tall. Their diet consists of small aquatic animals like brine shrimp and blue-green algae, which are both sources of the carotenoid pigment that gives the flamingos their pink coloring.
The lesser flamingo is considered a threatened species due to a variety of factors, including habitat destruction, egg harvesting, and predation by feral cats and dogs.
Flamingos also have to contend with the effects of climate change, which can alter their migration patterns and food availability.
To help ensure the species’ continued survival, conservation efforts have been established to protect their habitats and to promote sustainable practices.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoeniconaias |
| Species | P. minor |
22. Marbled Teal
The marbled duck, also known as the marbled teal, is a common species of duck found throughout various regions of the world. It is medium in size, and its scientific name, Marmaronetta angustirostris, is derived from both Greek and Latin.
In Greek, marmaros translates to “marbled” and netta to “duck”. In Latin, angustus means “narrow” or “small” and -rostris is used to describe the bill or beak.The marbled duck is typically gray, black, and white in color and is characterized by its marbled feathers.
It is found in many parts of Europe, northern Africa, and western and central Asia. It is a semi-aquatic species, and it prefers to inhabit wetlands and other bodies of water.
It feeds on both plant material and small aquatic animals such as insects and snails. The marbled duck is considered to be of least concern on the IUCN Red List, however, it is still vulnerable to habitat destruction and other human activities.
Conservation measures are being taken to protect this species, and its population is slowly increasing.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Marmaronetta |
| Species | M. angustirostris |
23. Grey Plover
The grey plover is a large bird that is found in Arctic regions for breeding. It is also known as the black-bellied plover in North America.
It is a long-distance migrant, meaning that it travels great distances when migrating, and has a virtually global coastal distribution during times when breeding is not taking place.
This species of bird is found in many places around the world, due to its migratory habits, and is a common sight in coastal regions. Its ability to travel great distances and inhabit a wide variety of habitats makes it especially well-adapted for life in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Pluvialis |
| Species | P. squatarola |
24. Purple Heron
The purple heron is a species of wading bird that belongs to the heron family, Ardeidae. This bird is widely distributed across many different regions, with its range stretching from Africa to Europe, and from southern Asia to the eastern part of the continent.
Its scientific name, Ardea purpureus, is derived from Latin, with ardea referring to heron, and purpureus meaning ‘coloured purple’.
This bird is known to breed in the regions of Africa, central and southern Europe, and southern and eastern Asia. The purple heron is a medium-sized bird that is typically found around wetlands, rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water.
Its plumage is a deep shade of purple, with a white throat and undertail coverts. Its long neck and slim body make it a distinctive species, and its long legs are adapted for wading in shallow water. The purple heron is mainly a solitary bird, typically seen alone or in pairs.
It feeds on small fish, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates. It usually hunts from a perch, standing motionless before diving into the water to catch its prey.The purple heron is an important species in many parts of the world.
Its presence is often seen as an indicator of a healthy wetland system. It plays an important role in controlling the populations of its prey, and it is a valuable asset to the local ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. purpurea |
Conclusion
Lecce is an ideal location for birdwatching.
The region is home to a variety of species, both resident and migratory, offering birdwatchers a unique opportunity to observe and identify birds in their natural environment.
With its beautiful landscapes, interesting habitats, and abundant wildlife, Lecce is sure to be a rewarding destination for birders.