Welcome to Illizi, a region in Algeria that is home to a diverse array of birds. From the majestic Lammergeier to the vibrant bee-eaters, Illizi is a paradise for bird watchers. The region is home to an impressive number of species, including raptors, pigeons, and passerines.
With its diverse habitats, Illizi is a great place to observe birds in their natural habitats. From the excitement of spotting a rare species to the tranquility of a lake filled with ducks, Illizi offers something for everyone.
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, Illizi is sure to delight you. So grab your binoculars and head to Illizi for a memorable bird-watching experience.
1. Black Bellied Plover
The grey plover is a species of shorebird that is found across the globe. It is also known as the black-bellied plover in North America. This species of plover is quite large and it breeds in Arctic regions.
It is a long-distance migrant, meaning it can travel long distances to find suitable habitats. During the non-breeding season, grey plovers can be found on coastlines around the world.
This species of shorebird is highly adaptable and can be found in various habitats including sandy beaches, mudflats, coastal lagoons, and estuaries. During the breeding season, the grey plover nests in Arctic regions and feeds on insects, crustaceans, and mollusks.
It is an important species in Arctic ecosystems as it helps to maintain the balance of the food chain.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Pluvialis |
| Species | P. squatarola |
2. Red-breasted Goose
The red-breasted goose is a unique species of goose found in Eurasia. It is a member of the genus Branta and is easily distinguished by its vibrant coloring. The red-breasted goose is characterized by a bright red breast, a white belly, and black and white wings.
This species is currently listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This means that the species is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild shortly, due to various threats such as habitat loss, overhunting, and disease.
Conservation efforts are needed to ensure that the red-breasted goose does not become extinct. Such efforts could include increasing the protection of the species’ breeding grounds, reducing hunting pressures, and improving public awareness of the species’ plight.
With these measures, it is possible that the red-breasted goose can be saved from extinction and remain a vibrant and important part of the Eurasian avifauna.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Branta |
| Species | B. ruficollis |
3. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck is a medium-sized diving duck found throughout Eurosiberia. It is also known by several other names, including ferruginous pochard, common white-eye, and white-eyed pochard.
The scientific name for the duck, Aythya nyroca, is derived from the ancient Greek word ‘aithuia’ and the Russian word ‘nyrok’, both of which refer to an unidentified type of seabird.
Aithuia was mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle, while nyrok is the Russian term for a duck. The ferruginous duck can be identified by its distinctive rusty-brown plumage and white eye-ring. It is a strong swimmer and is known to dive deep in search of food.
The ferruginous duck can be found in wetlands, shallow lakes, and other water bodies. It feeds on aquatic plants, mollusks, crustaceans, and aquatic insects.
The ferruginous duck is considered to be a species of least concern as its population is stable and not threatened by any major threats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
4. Red-crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a large diving duck native to Eurasia. It is a species of bird that is often found in freshwater lakes, rivers, and wetlands. The scientific name for this duck is derived from two languages.
The first part of the name comes from the Greek language, and is the word “Netta” which translates to “duck”. The second part of the name comes from the Latin language, and is the word “Rufina” which translates to “golden-red”.
This is an appropriate name for the red-crested pochard, as it is characterized by its bright red crest feathers. The body of the duck is a deep black-brown color with some white features, such as a white chin and white stripes running down its sides.
This species of duck is a strong and capable swimmer, diving deep below the water’s surface for food. It is also known for its loud, raucous quack, which can be heard from far away.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
5. Black-winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt is a species of wader bird that belongs to the avocet and stilt family. It is widely distributed across the world and is characterized by its long legs. The scientific name for the species is H. himantopus.
The species is almost cosmopolitan, meaning it can be found in a variety of habitats, from wetland areas to coastal shores. It is an opportunistic feeder and can be seen foraging in shallow water for small aquatic animals such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks.
The black-winged stilt is a generally gregarious bird and can often be seen in large flocks. It is a medium-sized wader, measuring about 35–38 cm in length, and has a wingspan of 56–60 cm. The plumage of the species is mainly black and white, with a red bill and red legs.
It is an important species for conservation efforts, as its population is believed to be declining in some parts of the world due to a variety of factors such as habitat loss and pollution.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
6. Great Bustard
The great bustard is a large bird belonging to the bustard family and is distinct in being the only surviving member of its genus.
It is native to a wide range of habitats, ranging from northern Morocco to temperate Central and East Asia, including grasslands and agricultural fields.
This species is adapted to survive in both dry and wet climates, making it a particularly resilient species. The great bustard nests on the ground and feeds on a wide variety of plants and insects.
It is also an omnivore, supplementing its diet with small mammals, reptiles, and even amphibians.
This species is generally solitary but may gather in flocks during the breeding season. The great bustard is considered vulnerable due to the destruction of its natural habitat.
It is also a threatened species due to hunting, as its meat is considered a delicacy in some parts of the world.
Conservation efforts are being made to protect the species from extinction, with many countries implementing protection measures and setting up reserves to ensure the survival of the great bustard.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Otis |
| Species | O. tarda |
7. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is the most widespread and largest species of the flamingo family, with its range spanning many parts of the Old World.
It is found in Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East, the Levant, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe.
This means that this species can be found in a wide variety of different climates and habitats, from the hot and humid regions of Africa to the deserts of the Middle East.
Its large size and impressive wingspan make it an impressive sight, often seen in large flocks in areas of shallow water.
The greater flamingo is a highly adaptable species, able to adjust to different climates and food sources, making it one of the most successful species of its family.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
8. Red-necked Nightjar
The red-necked nightjar is a species of nightjar found mainly in Europe, but with populations also found in Iberia and North Africa. It is the largest species of nightjar in Europe and is easily distinguishable by its unique red markings on the back of its neck.
During the breeding season, the red-necked nightjar can be found in Iberia and North Africa. However, during the winter months, it migrates to tropical West Africa, where it can find more favorable temperatures and food sources.
The red-necked nightjar is an important species for the ecosystem of Europe, as it helps to keep the insect population in check.
Additionally, the species has also been observed to help spread the seeds of certain plants, thus helping to promote the growth of vegetation in its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | C. ruficollis |
9. European Turtle Dove
The European turtle dove is a type of bird that belongs to the family Columbidae, which includes doves and pigeons. This bird has a wide range of breeding grounds, stretching from North Africa to the southwestern Palearctic region.
During the winter season, the European turtle dove migrates to the northern areas of sub-Saharan Africa to escape the cold temperatures.
This type of bird is known for its unique, soft cooing sound which is often heard during the spring and summer months in its breeding grounds. It is also known for its distinctive black and white patterned feathers and its slim, pointed wings.
The European turtle dove is a graceful and elegant bird that is often seen flying swiftly and gracefully through the sky.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. turtur |
10. Houbara Bustard
The houbara bustard, also referred to as African houbara, is a bird that belongs to the species of bustard, a group of large terrestrial birds. This particular species is native to North Africa, where it resides in arid, dry habitats.
According to the IUCN Red List, the global population of this species has been listed as Vulnerable since 2014. Another population of houbara bustards exists in the Canary Islands and it has been assessed as Near Threatened in 2015.
Due to the arid habitats, the houbara bustard is adapted to the hot climate of North Africa and has adapted special physical features, such as dark feathers and an ability to detect and avoid predators.
However, these adaptations are not enough to protect the species from the threats it faces.
The main threats to the Houbara bustard include illegal hunting and habitat degradation, mainly caused by agricultural expansion and urbanization. The decline in the global population of the Houbara bustard is a major concern as it has a significant impact on the ecosystem of North Africa.
Upon closer inspection, it appears that the population in the Canary Islands is also under threat, which is why it is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
It is therefore important to take appropriate conservation actions to protect the houbara bustard and its habitat so that the population can recover and thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Chlamydotis |
| Species | C. undulata |
11. Barnacle Goose
The barnacle goose belongs to the genus Branta, which is a group of black geese. This group is distinct from other species of geese such as the grey Anser species, because they have mostly black feathers.
The barnacle goose is a species of goose that stands out from the other geese in this genus due to its unique plumage. It has light grey feathers on its wings and head, while the rest of its body is covered with black feathers.
This plumage helps the barnacle goose blend in with its environment, as its black feathers help it blend in with the night sky. The barnacle goose is also a species of migratory bird, which means it flies south for the winter and returns to the north in the spring.
This species can be found in Western Europe and parts of North America. The barnacle goose is a beautiful species of goose that stands out from the other geese in its genus due to its unique plumage and migratory habits.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Branta |
| Species | B. leucopsis |
12. Marbled Teal
The marbled duck, also known as the marbled teal, is a distinct species of duck found in many areas across the world, namely southern Europe, northern Africa, and western and central Asia. This species of duck is characterized by its medium size.
It is also a unique species, as evidenced by its scientific name, Marmaronetta angustirostris. The name is derived from the Greek marmaros, which translates to “marbled”, and Netta, which is a duck.
The Latin portion of the name, angustus, means “narrow” or “small”, while -rostris means “billed”. This reflects the duck’s unique appearance, as its bill is narrower than most other duck species.
The marbled duck also features distinctive marbling on its feathers, which gives it its common name. Thus, the scientific name of this species of duck is very descriptive and accurately reflects its physical characteristics.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Marmaronetta |
| Species | M. angustirostris |
13. White-headed Duck
The white-headed duck is a small diving duck that is approximately 45 cm long. The male of this bird species has a unique appearance, with its white head and black crown, as well as a blue bill and reddish-grey plumage.
In comparison, the female of this species has a dark bill and rather duller coloration. When it comes to breeding, the white-headed duck is known to inhabit lakes with open water and dense vegetation along the shoreline.
This vegetation provides an ideal habitat for this species, as it provides them with cover and shelter, as well as a suitable place to nest and raise their young.
Additionally, the vegetation also provides the birds with a source of food in the form of insects and small invertebrates that live there.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Oxyura |
| Species | O. leucocephala |
14. Alpine Swift
The alpine swift is a species of bird belonging to the swift family, which is known for its aerial acrobatics. They are found in Africa, southern Europe, and Asia, and generally breed in higher altitudes, from southern Europe to the Himalayas.
Alpine swifts, like their common swift relatives, are migratory birds, and the population in southern Europe migrates further south to southern Africa during the winter months.
The alpine swift is a fast flyer, and although it prefers to nest in high-altitude areas, it can be seen in lower terrain during migration periods. They are known to feed on insects flying in the air, such as mosquitoes and midges, which they capture while in flight.
The alpine swift is an important species, as it is an indicator of the health of the mountain environment, and its presence or absence can provide important clues to changes in the ecology of the area.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Tachymarptis |
| Species | T. melba |
15. Demoiselle Crane
The demoiselle crane is a species of crane found in a large area spanning from the Black Sea to Mongolia and Northeast China. This species of crane is known to be migratory, meaning it travels in search of food and better nesting grounds.
The demoiselle crane is typically found in central Eurosiberia, though there is also a small breeding population in Turkey. These cranes have a unique diet, consisting of insects, reptiles, amphibians, small rodents, and plants.
They prefer to forage in shallow wetlands such as marshes and shallow lakes and usually feed in the morning or late afternoon. The demoiselle crane is also known for its impressive courtship dance where the male will display his wings and feathers to attract the female.
This dance is a key part of the species’ mating ritual. During the breeding season, pairs of demoiselle cranes will bond and build a nest, where they will then lay eggs. The demoiselle crane is an important species in the area, as its presence can be a sign of a healthy wetland.
Unfortunately, this species is at risk due to habitat destruction and illegal hunting. Conservation efforts, such as habitat protection and hunting restrictions, are essential for the protection of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Grus |
| Species | G. virgo |
16. Great Spotted Cuckoo
The great spotted cuckoo is a unique type of bird belonging to the Cuculiformes, or cuckoo family. This family includes the roadrunner, anis, and coucal. The great spotted cuckoo is found across a wide range of habitats in Africa and the Mediterranean Basin.
It is a type of brood parasite, meaning that it lays its eggs in the nests of other birds, particularly the Eurasian magpie. This allows the cuckoo to increase its chances of survival without having to expend a lot of energy in building a nest and raising its young.
The cuckoo’s eggs are disguised to look similar to the eggs of the host bird, so the host bird will accept them and raise them as if they were its own. This behavior has been observed in many types of birds, but the great spotted cuckoo is one of the most well-known examples.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Clamator |
| Species | C. glandarius |
17. Pin-tailed Sandgrouse
The Pin-Tailed Sandgrouse is a species of bird in the Sandgrouse family. It is a medium to large bird, with a small, pigeon-like head and neck and a robust, compact body. It has distinctive long, pointed wings, which are white beneath, as well as a long tail.
It is a fast and direct flyer, and flocks of the bird are often seen flying towards watering holes at dawn. Its call is a loud and distinctive “kattar-kattar”. The Pin-Tailed Sandgrouse is a hardy bird and is adapted to living in arid regions.
It can travel long distances in search of food and water and can survive on very little. The birds usually travel in flocks, which helps them to find food and water more quickly and efficiently.
During the dry season, the birds can conserve their energy and reduce their need for water by using their wings as a surface to absorb the heat from the sun. The Pin-Tailed Sandgrouse is an important migratory species and can be found in parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe.
It is a significant food source for many predators, particularly birds of prey. It is also an important species for game hunters, as it is a popular game bird.
The Pin-Tailed Sandgrouse is an important part of the ecosystem, and its conservation is essential to the health of the planet. To protect the species, it is important to protect its habitat and ensure that adequate food and water sources are available.
It is also important to reduce the impact of human activities on the bird’s habitat, such as hunting and land development.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pterocliformes |
| Family | Pteroclidae |
| Genus | Pterocles |
| Species | P. alchata |
Conclusion
Birds in Illizi are a vital part of the local ecosystem. They provide a range of essential services, from pollination to pest control, and their presence is vital to the health of the environment.
Additionally, the presence of birds in Illizi is also an important part of the local culture and identity. Therefore, it is important to protect and conserve bird populations in Illizi to ensure the health of the environment and the preservation of local culture.