Birds are a fascinating and diverse group of animals found in Taounate, Morocco. There are over 500 species of birds in the region, ranging from small songbirds to large raptors and from migratory species to those that live in the area year-round.
Taounate is an excellent destination for birdwatchers, offering a variety of habitats and climates home to a vast array of birds. There are numerous woodlands, wetland areas, mountains, and beaches, all home to various species of birds.
Birdwatching is a popular activity in Taounate, with tourists and locals alike flocking to the area to observe and photograph the beautiful birds that call this part of Morocco home.
21 Birds to Watch in Taounate
Taounate is a province in northern Morocco rich in natural beauty and biodiversity. It is bordered by the Rif Mountains to the north and the Middle Atlas Mountains to the south, creating a diverse landscape of forests, valleys, rivers, and lakes.
Here are 21 birds that you should not miss when visiting this fantastic destination.
1. Red-crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a large diving duck native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. It is a beautiful bird with a reddish-golden crest on its head. This duck species is considered an essential indicator of wetland habitat health.
The scientific name of the red-crested pochard is Netta rufina, which is derived from the Greek word “Netta,” meaning “duck,” and the Latin word “Rufina,” meaning “golden-red.” This indicates that the species has a golden-red crest.
The red-crested pochard is an omnivore, eating a variety of aquatic invertebrates, plant material, and small fish. It breeds in freshwater marshes, shallow lakes, and rivers.
The red-crested pochard is an essential species for duck hunters and can be found in large flocks in some parts of the world. Its numbers have been declining due to habitat loss and pollution, so conservation efforts are needed to ensure its future survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
2. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is a species of flamingo that is found in many places throughout the world. It is the most widespread and significant of the flamingo family and is commonly seen in the Old World.
In Africa, they are found in both the Northern and Sub-Saharan regions and the Indian Subcontinent. Additionally, they are seen in the Middle East, the Levant, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe.
The greater flamingo is a majestic bird that stands out among its other flamingo family members due to its large size and beautiful coloration. Its feathers are a light pink, its bill is a brilliant yellow, and its legs are a deep red.
It has a long neck, and its wings span up to five feet when fully extended. In addition to its impressive size, the greater flamingo is highly adaptable and can survive in various habitats, including wetlands, salt marshes, mudflats, lagoons, and shallow lakes.
The greater flamingo is an omnivorous species that primarily feeds on small invertebrates, such as shrimp, mollusks, and other aquatic organisms. They also eat algae and other plant material.
During the breeding season, they may consume more giant insects, such as dragonflies and beetles. The greater flamingo plays an essential role in the ecosystems that it inhabits by keeping the water clean and free of parasites and other organisms.
They also act as pollinators, helping to spread seeds and promote the growth of new plants. Overall, the greater flamingo is a vital species essential to the health of many ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
3. Red-necked Nightjar
The red-necked nightjar is a species of bird found in Europe that is the largest of its kind. It breeds in the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa and migrates south during winter to tropical West Africa.
Its plumage is mainly grey-brown, with a distinctive red band on its neck. The bird is nocturnal and can often be heard calling during the night. Its diet consists mostly of insects, which it catches in flight.
This nightjar species is an integral part of the natural biodiversity of Europe, and its conservation is essential for the region.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | C. ruficollis |
4. Barbary Partridge
The Barbary partridge is a gamebird species belonging to the pheasant family. It is part of the order Galliformes, which includes other types of gamebirds such as quail, grouse, and pheasants.
This species is native to North Africa, specifically the Maghreb region of the continent, and is also found in parts of the Middle East and some parts of Europe. The Barbary partridge has a unique appearance with its brown body and black wings.
Its head is slightly darker than its body, and its tail is tipped in white. These birds are usually found in small flocks, foraging on the ground for food such as seeds, insects, and berries. They are also found in open grassland, shrubland, and cultivated fields.
The Barbary partridge is a popular gamebird for hunters, as they are relatively easy to locate and capture. This species is also an important food source for many people in North Africa and is often hunted for meat.
The Barbary partridge is also an essential species in the region for its ecological role as a seed disperser and predator of insects.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Alectoris |
| Species | A. barbara |
5. Marbled Teal
The marbled duck, also known as the marbled teal, is found in both the Old and New Worlds. It is a medium-sized duck with a body length between 20 and 24 inches.
It is most commonly found in southern Europe, northern Africa, and western and central Asia. The scientific name of the marbled duck is Marmaronetta angustirostris.
Which is derived from the Greek words Marmaris, meaning “marbled,” and Netta, meaning “duck,” as well as the Latin phrase angustus, meaning “narrow or small,” and -rosters, meaning “billed.”
This scientific name reflects the marbled duck’s distinctive patterning and narrow bill. The marbled duck is well adapted to its environment, with webbed feet to help it swim and its feathers providing insulation from cold temperatures.
The marbled duck is a social species and can often be found in flocks of up to hundreds of individuals.
It feeds mainly on aquatic vegetation, insects, mollusks, and small fish. The marbled duck is a beautiful and adaptable duck found in many parts of the Old and New Worlds. Its distinctive marbled patterning and narrow bill make it easily identifiable.
It is an essential species in its habitats, providing food for predators and helping to control aquatic vegetation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Marmaronetta |
| Species | M. angustirostris |
6. Pallid Swift
The pallid swift is a species of swift, which is a type of bird belonging to the Apodidae family. Swifts are characterized by their short legs, which they primarily use to cling to vertical surfaces such as cliffs and buildings.
The genus name for the pallid swift, Apus, is derived from Latin and translates to “swift,” as it was thought by the ancients that swifts had no feet. Similarly, the species name for the pallid swift, pallidum, is derived from Latin and translates to “pale.”
Swifts, including the pallid swift, never settle voluntarily on the ground, making them particularly difficult to observe and study. However, they are known to congregate in large numbers at roosting or nesting sites, allowing for more straightforward observation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Apus |
| Species | A. pallidus |
7. White-headed Duck
The white-headed duck is a small diving duck approximately 45 centimeters long. The male has a distinct white head with a black crown, a blue bill, and reddish-grey plumage. On the other hand, the female has a dark bill and duller coloration.
This duck species prefers to breed in lakes with open water and dense vegetation around the edges. This vegetation shelters the ducks from predators and gives them a place to rest and nest.
The dense vegetation also provides the ducks with food sources such as small fish, aquatic insects, and small invertebrates. Open water also allows the ducks to dive and search for food beneath the surface.
The white-headed duck is well adapted to living in these habitats and is an integral part of the local ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Oxyura |
| Species | O. leucocephala |
8. Spotted Crake
The Spotted Crake is a small waterbird belonging to the Rallidae family. It is native to temperate regions of Europe and Western Asia and is often found in marshy or sedge beds. Its scientific name is derived from Venetian terms for small rails, which is fitting given its size.
During the breeding season, the Spotted Crake looks for a dry spot in marsh vegetation to build a nest and lay its eggs; usually, between 6 to 15 eggs per clutch.
The Spotted Crake is a shy bird, so it prefers to stay hidden in its marshy environment where it can easily blend in with its surroundings.
Despite its small size and reclusive nature, the Spotted Crake is an integral part of the wetland ecosystem, helping to keep it healthy and balanced.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Porzana |
| Species | P. porzana |
9. Garganey
The garganey is an attractive small duck found in many parts of Europe. During its breeding season, it can also be seen in parts of the Palearctic region, encompassing Europe, Asia, and North Africa.
This species is strictly migratory, meaning that as soon as the Northern Hemisphere winter arrives, the entire population of garganeys migrate south to warmer climates.
Most of these birds can be found in Southern Africa, India, Bangladesh, and Australasia during winter, where large flocks are often seen. This species is a dabbling duck, meaning that it feeds in shallow water, where it upends and dives for food.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Spatula |
| Species | S. querquedula |
10. Great Crested Grebe
The great crested grebe is a species of water bird from the family of grebes. It is widely distributed in different parts of the world, particularly in Europe, Asia, and North America.
These birds typically inhabit freshwater habitats such as lakes, rivers, and marshes. The great crested grebe is most notable for its elaborate mating display.
During the breeding season, male and female grebes perform elaborate dances in which they bow, shake, and raise their feathers. This ritual is meant to attract mates and demonstrate their strength and fitness.
The great crested grebe also produces loud calls as part of the courtship display. The great crested grebe is a relatively large bird, with adults ranging from 15-19 inches long. They have a grayish-brown head and neck, white underparts, reddish-brown wings, and back.
The bill is long and pointed, and the eyes are yellow. The great crested grebe feeds mainly on fish and aquatic invertebrates. They are agile swimmers and divers who often hunt underwater and chase prey.
They can remain submerged for up to 30 seconds at a time. The great crested grebe is a unique and fascinating bird. Its elaborate courtship display is a sight to behold and a reminder of the beauty and complexity of nature.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. cristatus |
11. Black-winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt is a species of bird in the family Recurvirostridae, which includes avocets and stilts. It is widely distributed, with populations in many parts of the world. It is a long-legged wader known for its graceful movements while in flight.
Its scientific name is H. himantopus, and it is sometimes considered a single, almost cosmopolitan species due to its wide distribution. The black-winged stilt typically has black wings, a white head and neck, and a greyish-brown body.
Its legs are long and pinkish, and it has a long, thin bill. Its diet mainly consists of insects, crustaceans, and other small invertebrates, which it obtains by wading through shallow water and mudflats. It also occasionally feeds on plant material.
The black-winged stilt is an essential species in its ecosystems, as it provides food for numerous predators, including birds of prey, foxes, and other mammals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
12. Common Ringed Plover
The common ringed plover (Charadrius hiaticula) is a small shorebird native to Arctic Eurasia. It belongs to the family Charadriidae, which includes other species such as the Kentish plover and the little ringed plover.
The genus Charadrius is derived from the Latin word for a yellowish bird mentioned in the fourth-century Vulgate Bible.
This name is derived from the Ancient Greek word kharadrios, which means “bird found in ravines and river valleys.” The common ringed plover has a grey-brown back and white underside, with a black band around its neck and a black band on its wings.
It is a small plover, measuring only 18-20cm long, with a 30-35cm wingspan. Its diet consists mainly of insects and other invertebrates, which it forages for by walking on the shoreline or in shallow water.
During the breeding season, the common-ringed plover builds a nest on the ground near water and lays 3-4 eggs. The chicks leave the nest soon after hatching and begin to forage for food on their own.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Charadrius |
| Species | C. hiaticula |
13. Little Ringed Plover
The little ringed plover is a small species of plover bird belonging to the genus Charadrius. The name Charadrius is taken from Late Latin and was initially used to refer to a yellowish bird mentioned in the fourth-century Vulgate.
This name can be traced back to the Ancient Greek word kharadrios, which was used to describe a particular bird found in river valleys.
The little ringed plover is just one species of many belonging to the genus Charadrius, and its name is a reminder of the ancient history that has been passed down throughout the centuries.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Charadrius |
| Species | C. dubius |
14. Great Bustard
The great bustard is a species of bird belonging to the bustard family. It is unique in that it is the only living member of the genus Otis.
This species has a wide range of habitats it can breed, including open grasslands, farmland, and various locations in northern Morocco, South and Central Europe, and temperate Central and East Asia.
The great bustard is an omnivorous species that feeds on plant matter and small animals. It can adapt to different environmental conditions, making it successful in various habitats.
They are a threatened species due to human encroachment on their habitats and hunting for their meat. Conservation efforts are being undertaken to help protect the great bustard and ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Otis |
| Species | O. tarda |
15. Great Egret
The great egret is a large waterbird with a wide distribution across the globe. Several other names, including the common egret, large egret, great white egret, and great white heron, also know it.
It is divided into four separate subspecies, which are native to Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe. The great egret has expanded its range even further in recent years, with sightings occurring in more northern parts of Europe.
The great egret has a striking white plumage, which sets it apart from other birds, and a long yellow bill. Its legs are black, and it has a long neck and wingspan.
It has various habitats and is often seen in wetlands, marshes, and ponds. The great egret is an opportunistic feeder whose diet comprises different small aquatic creatures such as fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and insects.
It hunts by standing motionless in the water, waiting for prey to pass by, and then seizing it in its bill. The great egret is a popular, iconic species known for its beauty. It is a protected species in many countries, and its populations are monitored closely.
Despite its wide distribution, its numbers are declining in some parts of the world due to habitat destruction and other human activities.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. alba |
16. Purple Heron
The purple heron is a species of heron belonging to the family Ardeidae that is found across a wide geographical range.
It breeds in many parts of Africa, including Sub-Saharan Africa and the Horn of Africa, as well as in central and southern Europe and parts of the south and eastern Palearctic regions.
This heron species is known for its beautiful plumage, which gives it its name, and is often found near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and streams. The purple heron is a solitary bird and usually nests in tall trees or shrubs near water sources.
It feeds mainly on fish, frogs, and other aquatic prey. Its long neck and sharp beak make it well adapted for catching its prey and bringing it to its nest for consumption.
It is a migratory species, and its range expands during the winter months when it can be seen in both the northern and southern Hemispheres.
The purple heron is an essential species for conservation, as it is a critical indicator of wetland health and can help identify areas of importance for wetland conservation. It is also a favorite among birdwatchers due to its attractive plumage and wide range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. purpurea |
17. Squacco Heron
The Squacco heron is a small heron native to the Old World. It has an average length of 44-47 cm, with a body length of 20-23 cm and a wingspan of 80-92 cm.
This heron species can be found in southern Europe and the Greater Middle East, where it breeds. The Squacco heron is grey-brown with a witcolorffish head, neck, and a dak-streaked crown. It has a white line above its eye, and the legs and feet are yellowish-green.
During the breeding season, the Squacco heron sports a chestnut-colored patch on its lower neck and chest. This heron species is a solitary bird usually found near water. It feeds on various small fish, aquatic insects, frogs, and crustaceans.
A wading bird that hunts for food by standing still in the water or strolling. The Squacco heron is an essential species for the local ecosystems in which it lives.
Its diet of small fish and insects helps keep the water clean and the populations of fish and other aquatic creatures balanced. It is also an essential food source for different birds, mammals, and reptiles in the area.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardeola |
| Species | A. ralloides |
18. Houbara Bustard
The houbara bustard, also known as the African houbara, is a small bird species native to North Africa. It is found in arid habitats, such as deserts and dry grasslands, and is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
This means its population is declining and at risk of extinction shortly. In addition, a population of houbara bustards in the Canary Islands was assessed as Near Threatened in 2015.
This means that the population in this area is not as threatened as North Africa’s, but it is still declining and needs to be monitored. Conservation efforts are required to protect this species and help increase its population.
This includes habitat protection, anti-poaching laws, and education about the importance of preserving these birds. Without these efforts, the houbara bustard may soon become extinct.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Chlamydotis |
| Species | C. undulata |
19. Little Bustard
The little bustard is a bird species belonging to the bustard family, a group of large terrestrial birds.
It is the only member of the genus Tetrax, derived from Ancient Greek, and refers to a gamebird mentioned by several authors, including the Athenian playwright Aristophanes.
The little bustard is a large bird inhabits dry open habitats such as grasslands and steppes and feeds on seeds, insects, and other small animals.
It is typically found in parts of Europe, North Africa, and Asia, although it is becoming increasingly rare in some areas due to habitat loss and hunting pressure.
This species is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, with conservation efforts underway to help protect its future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Tetrax |
| Species | T. tetrax |
20. Bulwer’s Petrel
Bulwer’s petrel is a seabird species belonging to the Procellariidae family. It is a small petrel with approximately 40-45 cm wingspan. The species can be found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans.
It feeds on krill, small fish, and squid and frequently visits offshore waters. The species was first identified and named after the English naturalist James Bulwer, who documented the bird during his travels in the 19th century.
Bulwer’s petrel is a relatively common species classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. It is a migratory species, and in some cases, individuals can travel up to 1,500 km in search of food.
The species is typically found in small flocks and will come ashore to nest in burrows or rocky crevices.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Procellariiformes |
| Family | Procellariidae |
| Genus | Bulweria |
| Species | B. bulwerii |
21. Glossy Ibis
The glossy ibis is a species of water bird that belongs to the order Pelecaniformes and the family of Threskiornithidae, which includes ibises and spoonbills. Its distinctive bill shape is easily identifiable, resembling a sickle.
The scientific name of this species is derived from Greek and Latin, with ‘pleads’ and ‘falcis’ meaning “sickle”. This directly references the bill’s curved shape, an identifying feature of the glossy ibis.
The curved bill also serves a purpose as it allows the bird to pick up food, such as aquatic insects, crustaceans, and small fish, from the water’s surface. This species of ibis is found worldwide in wetlands and estuaries, in both freshwater and saltwater habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Plegadis |
| Species | P. falcinellus |
Conclusion
Birds in Taounate are an essential part of the local ecosystem and culture. They bring color and life to the landscape, and their songs and calls are a source of joy for many people.
From majestic birds of prey to small finches, various species can be found in Taounate, each with its unique story.
Protecting these birds and their habitats is essential to maintaining a healthy and balanced ecosystem that will benefit all living things.