Birds are one of the most beloved creatures in Suleja. From the common sparrows to the rarest species, they fascinate us with their beauty and grace. They are found in every corner of the city, from the parks and gardens to the rooftops and balconies.
The sky of Suleja is always filled with cheerful chirps and melodic songs. Birds provide insight into the world of wildlife and remind us of the importance of preserving the environment.
This article introduces you to the different kinds of birds found in Suleja.
24 Birds Watch in Suleja
If you are a bird lover, you might want to visit Suleja, a city in Niger State, Nigeria. Suleja is home to various birds, some of which are rare or endangered.
Here are 24 birds that you can watch in Suleja.
1. White-faced Whistling Duck
The white-faced whistling duck is found in sub-Saharan Africa and much of South America. This duck species is known for its gregarious nature, often congregating in large flocks of up to a thousand birds or more.
These impressive flocks are known to arrive at favored sites at dawn, providing a captivating sight for onlookers. White-faced whistling ducks typically inhabit shallow wetlands, swamps, lakes, lagoons, and flooded grasslands.
Their diet consists of seeds, aquatic plants, and invertebrates. They are also known to forage on land, sometimes even up to several kilometers away from the water. They also breed large numbers, sometimes forming colonies of up to two thousand ducks.
The white-faced whistling duck is an iconic species, often seen in conservation projects or zoos. Its presence is a sign of a healthy ecosystem, indicating that the environment is suitable for the species to thrive.
Its conservation status is of minor Concern, but its population is still monitored to ensure its numbers remain healthy.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Dendrocygna |
| Species | D. viduata |
2. Blue Quail
The blue quail, or African blue quail, is a bird native to Africa. It belongs to the family Phasianidae, which includes a variety of gamebirds, such as pheasants, partridges, and quail.
This quail species is typically found in the sub-Saharan region of Africa, where it inhabits various habitats, from forests to open grasslands. The blue quail is a medium-sized bird measuring 7 and 8 inches long.
It has a distinctive blue-gray color and a black face and throat. Its head and neck are adorned with long, delicate feathers, and its tail is relatively short compared to other quail species. The blue quail’s diet comprises various grains, seeds, and insects.
It is an omnivore and has small rodents and other small animals. It is active daily, foraging for food in small groups or pairs. It has a variety of calls, including a loud, whistling call that can be heard over long distances.
The blue quail is a common species, and its population is stable. However, it is threatened by habitat loss and degradation, as well as by hunting for food. It is considered a game bird in some parts of Africa and is hunted for meat.
It also faces competition from other species, such as the common quail.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Synoicus |
| Species | S. adansonii |
3. Red-eyed Dove
The red-eyed dove is a species of dove native to Sub-Saharan Africa. It is widespread in the region, and its population is stable. Therefore, it has been listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List since 2004.
This means the species is not in immediate danger of extinction, and its populations are secure. The red-eyed dove has grey and white feathers; its most distinctive feature is its bright red eyes.
These eyes help the dove to locate food and potential mates and to identify potential predators. The red-eyed dove feeds mainly on seeds but eats insects, fruits, and other small invertebrates.
This species also lives in various habitats, from open grasslands to dense forests. The red-eyed dove is one of the most widespread and familiar birds in Sub-Saharan Africa, and it is likely to remain abundant and secure in the region for many years to come.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. semitorquata |
4. African Pygmy Goose
The African pygmy goose is a unique species of waterfowl native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is the smallest species of waterfowl in Africa and one of the smallest in the world.
Although these birds have beaks similar to geese, they are more closely related to the dabbling ducks and other species classified as ducks. This species of waterfowl is tiny, ranging from 18 to 20 centimeters in length.
They are primarily grey, with a few white feathers on their wings and tail. The African pygmy goose has a black beak, legs, and a white ring around their eyes. The African pygmy goose is found in wetland habitats such as swamps, marshes, and shallow lakes.
They are primarily herbivorous species, feeding on aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates. They will also feed on insects and other small animals. The African pygmy goose is a social bird, with groups of up to 10 individuals often seen feeding together.
They are also known to mate for life and form strong family bonds. The African pygmy goose is an essential species in its native habitat, providing food for local people and predators and a source of beauty and wonderment.
Unfortunately, human activity threatens this species, with wetland destruction, hunting, and pollution hurting their population.
It is essential that the African pygmy goose is protected and its habitat is preserved to ensure its survival for future generations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Nettapus |
| Species | N. auritus |
5. Black-billed Wood Dove
The black-billed wood dove is a species of pigeon found in Africa, just south of the Sahara Desert. It is a widespread resident breeding bird, meaning it is found in large numbers throughout the area.
The dove is commonly found in deserts, scrublands, and savannahs. It has adapted to build its nests in trees, often acacia trees, and lays two cream-colored eggs in them. The eggs are laid in a stick nest, which helps to protect them from predators.
The dove is an essential species in the African ecosystem, and it plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Turtur |
| Species | T. abyssinicus |
6. Blue-spotted Wood Dove
The blue-spotted wood dove is a species of bird in the family Columbidae. This bird is commonly found in Africa, south of the Sahel region. It is abundant in this region and can be seen in East Africa, although not as frequently.
However, it is uncommon in southern Africa and is not usually seen in this area. The blue-spotted wood dove is a reasonably small bird with a length of around 18 cm. Its upper parts are brownish, with small blue spots on the wings.
Its underparts are typically white, with a pinkish shade, and its tail is black.
It is usually seen in pairs or small groups and is known for its loud and melodious call. This bird is generally found in forests, woodlands, and savannas, feeding on fruits, seeds, and small insects. It nests in hollow trees or dense shrubs and bushes.
The female usually lays two eggs, which both parents incubate. Due to its wide distribution and large population, the blue-spotted wood dove is classified as a species of most minor Concern by the IUCN.
However, its population is threatened by habitat destruction, as well as by hunting and trapping. Therefore, it is essential to protect its natural habitats to maintain its numbers in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Turtur |
| Species | T. afer |
7. Spur-winged Goose
The spur-winged goose is a species of waterbird found in Sub-Saharan Africa. It is a large bird and belongs to the family Anatidae, which also includes geese and shelducks.
This species is one of the largest African waterbirds, reaching up to 80 centimeters in length and up to 4.5 kilograms in weight. Its wingspan can be as comprehensive as 130 centimeters. It is a grayish-brown bird with a white head and neck and distinctive black and white wings.
Its bill is yellowish-orange, with a characteristic spur on each wing, which gives this species its name. The spur-winged goose is a very social bird often found in small flocks. It feeds mainly on aquatic plants and small animals, such as frogs and insects.
It breeds in shallow wetlands, typically in shallow grassy marshes. It nests in shallow water and lays up to eight eggs. The spur-winged goose is an essential species in Sub-Saharan Africa and is hunted for food in some areas.
It is also an important indicator species, as its presence in an environment can indicate good water quality and a healthy wetland habitat.
This species is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, but its populations are declining due to habitat destruction and hunting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Plectropterus |
| Species | P. gambensis |
8. Helmeted Guineafowl
The helmeted guineafowl is a species of bird belonging to the Numididae family and is the only member of its genus, Numida. It is native to Africa, mainly south of the Sahara desert, and has been widely introduced as a domesticated species in other parts of the world.
The West Indies, North America, Colombia, Brazil, Australia, and Europe are some places it has been introduced. The helmeted guineafowl is a ground-dwelling bird usually seen in groups of two to twelve.
It is easily identified by its distinctive helmet-like crest of feathers on its head. It is a vocal bird with a variety of calls and songs.
The guineafowl is an omnivore, feeding on insects, seeds, fruits, and other small animals. Due to its adaptability and hardy nature, the helmeted guineafowl has been domesticated and kept as a pet in many places.
Its popularity has increased due to its beauty and usefulness in the garden, as it helps eliminate pests.
It is also famous for its high-quality meat and is widely used in many dishes. The helmeted guineafowl is an exciting species and makes for an interesting pet.
It is valuable and attractive, making it a popular choice.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Numididae |
| Genus | Numida |
| Species | N. meleagris |
9. Blue-headed Coucal
The blue-headed coucal is an exciting cuckoo species found in tropical central Africa. It is a Cuculidae family member, consisting of birds known for their distinctive calls and behavior.
This bird is found in various wet habitats, such as swamps, river banks, and forest edges, as it prefers moist locations. Its blue head is a distinguishing feature among its species, making it easier to identify in its natural environment.
The blue-headed coucal is a fascinating species of cuckoo that has adapted to the wet environments of tropical central Africa.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Centropus |
| Species | C. monachus |
10. Fulvous Whistling Duck
The Fulvous Whistling Duck is a species of whistling duck found in many areas of the world. It is native to Mexico and South America, the West Indies, the southern United States, sub-Saharan Africa, and the Indian subcontinent.
This duck species is known for its distinctive whistling call that can be heard from up to half a mile away.
The Fulvous Whistling Duck is also known as the Fulvous Tree Duck due to its preference for tree nesting. The Fulvous Whistling Duck has a mottled brown plumage, a pale belly, and a white stripe around its neck. It has a long, curved bill and a red eye ring.
They are usually found in groups in wetlands such as marshes, ponds, swamps, and lakes.
They are omnivorous and feed on various seeds, insects, and aquatic plants. This duck species is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, but its population is decreasing due to habitat loss and hunting.
To help conserve this species, protecting their habitats and reducing hunting is essential.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Dendrocygna |
| Species | D. bicolor |
11. Garganey
The garganey is a small dabbling duck native to Europe and the Palearctic region. It is strictly migratory, meaning that every year, it migrates to warmer climates during the winter of the Northern Hemisphere.
The migratory pattern of the garganey takes it to southern Africa, India, Bangladesh, and Australasia, where large flocks of the ducks can be seen. The garganey finds more favorable conditions in these regions than in its native habitats in Europe and the Palearctic.
The ducks can feed more efficiently in warmer climates and are also able to avoid the cold temperatures of the winter season. The garganey returns to its original breeding grounds in Europe and the Palearctic in spring.
This annual migration is essential for the survival of the species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Spatula |
| Species | S. querquedula |
12. Tambourine Dove
The tambourine dove is a species of pigeon native to Africa. It is a widespread resident breeding bird found in various habitats, such as woodlands and other thickly vegetated areas.
This species is found south of the Sahara Desert in countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania. The tambourine dove is a medium-sized bird, roughly 20 cm in length. Its plumage is mainly gray, with reddish-brown wings and tail.
The head and neck are dark gray, with a white stripe on the front of the neck. The beak is dark gray, and the eyes are orange-yellow. Its legs and feet are reddish-brown. This species has a loud and distinctive call, described as an audible “tambourine” sound.
This is the source of its name and its Latin name, Turtur tambourina. The tambourine dove is an omnivorous species, feeding on various plant matter such as fruits, grains, flowers, and small insects.
The tambourine dove is generally a sedentary bird, though it may move to different areas for food. It nests in tree cavities, rock crevices, and dense foliage. Breeding occurs during the wet season, with two to four eggs in a nest.
Both the male and female take turns incubating the eggs. The young hatch after about two weeks and are independent after another two weeks. The tambourine dove is a common species in its range and is not considered threatened.
Its populations are stable and listed as the Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Turtur |
| Species | T. tympanistria |
13. Fiery-necked Nightjar
The fiery-necked nightjar is a bird species in the Caprimulgidae family, found throughout Africa south of the equator. It is easily identified by its distinct and often heard call, which is rendered as “good-lord-deliver-us.”
This call is typically heard in the twilight hours of the evening and is usually repeated several times. The .” ery-necked nightjar is a medium-sized bird, with its plumage ranging from an olive-grey to a dark-brown color.
Its wingspan is around 35-42 cm, and its body measures 16-19 cm from head to tail. Its head is adorned with a distinctive flame-colored throat and breast patch, which gives this bird its name.
In terms of its diet, the fiery-necked nightjar has a wide range of prey, which includes insects, spiders, and various species of small mammals. It is mainly found in dry, open woodlands and scrubby savannas, where it mostly perches on low branches.
It is most active at night and often hunts using its excellent night vision. The fiery-necked nightjar is an integral part of African ecosystems. It helps to control insect populations, and its distinctive call can also be used to attract mates.
Its presence is also essential to the locals, who use the bird’s feathers in traditional ceremonies and rituals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | C. pectoralis |
14. Black-winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt is a type of wading bird that belongs to the avocet and stilt family of birds. It is found in many different areas worldwide and is known for having very long legs. The scientific name for this bird is H.
Himantopus refers to a single species that is almost cosmopolitan in range. This species can be found in many different habitats, from wetlands to coastal areas, often in large flocks.
The black-winged stilt is a graceful bird known for its habit of standing on one foot for long periods. They feed mainly on aquatic insects, worms, and small crustaceans and eat some plant material.
They nest in shallow water or wetland vegetation and have a wide variety of calls. The black-winged stilt is a beautiful bird integral to many wetland ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
15. Black-throated Coucal
The black-throated coucal is a cuckoo species found in West Africa. It typically inhabits dense second growth near the edges of forests and grassy swamps.
There is a specific subspecies of the black-throated coucal, found in northern and central Zaire, sometimes considered a separate species known as Neumann’s coucal.
This species is easily distinguished by its black throat and light brown coloration. It is a relatively large species, reaching lengths of up to 45 cm, and is often found in pairs or small groups.
It feeds mainly on insects, small reptiles, and occasionally small mammals. Its call is a loud, rolling, hooting sound often heard in its natural habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Centropus |
| Species | C. leucogaster |
16. Pennant-winged Nightjar
The pennant-winged nightjar is a bird species found throughout much of Africa, ranging from Nigeria in the north to northern South Africa in the south. This species of nightjar is an intra-African migrant, meaning that it migrates within the continent.
During the breeding season, the pennant-winged nightjar displays remarkable sexual dimorphism, with males and females having different physical characteristics, such as plumage color.
In the male, the feathers of the wings and tail are a deep black color, while in the female, they are a lighter grey-brown. Additionally, the male has a crest on its head and a white patch on the wing, which are absent in the female.
These plumage differences help the two sexes to differentiate from each other, aiding in reproduction.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | C. vexillarius |
17. Blue-headed Wood Dove
The blue-headed wood dove is a unique wood dove species with a distinct appearance. It has a medium-sized body that is rufous-brown in color and has a bluish-grey head. The wings have iridescent green patches that add to its attractive appearance.
The bill is reddish, the iris is dark brown, and the feet are dark red. Both the male and female blue-headed wood doves have similar features. The young birds are not as brightly colored as the adults, but they still have the same features.
The blue-headed wood dove is a beautiful and impressive bird in many parts of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Turtur |
| Species | T. brehmeri |
18. Hartlaub’s Duck
Hartlaub’s duck is a unique species found in the African forests. It is a dark chestnut, which sets it apart from other types of ducks.
Initially, it was classified as part of the paraphyletic “perching duck” assemblage, a group of ducks with similar characteristics. However, it was later reclassified to the dabbling duck assemblage because it has some similarities with other ducks in this group.
Despite this, Hartlaub’s duck stands out from the rest of the dabbling ducks due to its unique characteristics and features. It is given its genus known as Pteronetta to recognize this distinction better.
This monotypic genus is the only species in its genus, which further emphasizes the significance of Hartlaub’s duck.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Pteronetta |
| Species | P. hartlaubii |
19. African Emerald Cuckoo
The African emerald cuckoo is a species of bird that is native to the continent of Africa. It is a small, slender bird, typically measuring between 7.5 and 9 inches. The African emerald cuckoo has a glossy green body, bright yellow beak, and feet.
Its wings are usually brownish or greyish. The African emerald cuckoo is found in woodlands and savannas, feeding on insects, spiders, and other small animals.
This species is usually found in pairs or small flocks, although larger flocks are occasionally spotted. The African emerald cuckoo is an essential species in Africa, as it helps control the insect population that can damage crops and spread disease.
This species is also a famous sight for birdwatchers, as its bright colors and distinctive call make it stand out among other birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Chrysococcyx |
| Species | C. cupreus |
20. Red-chested Cuckoo
The red-chested cuckoo is a species of bird from the family Cuculidae, commonly found in Africa south of the Sahara Desert. It is a medium-sized bird with distinctive red markings on its chest.
It is known by the Afrikaans name “Piet-my-vrou,” which translates to “My Wife’s Peter” and is derived from the bird’s call. The call is described as a two-no” whistle, with the second note slightly higher pitched than the first.
The red-chested cuckoo is an integral part of the African birdlife and is often seen in fields and open grasslands. It feeds mainly on insects and takes small fruits and berries.
It is a solitary bird that is often seen perched atop trees or telephone wires, scanning the ground for potential food. Red is usually unique in African culture and is celebrated by humans and animals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Cuculus |
| Species | C. solitarius |
21. White-rumped Swift
The white-rumped swift is a species of swift, a type of bird. It is unrelated to the house martin, a type of passerine bird. Despite their similar appearance, the two species evolved separately.
This is known as convergent evolution, meaning they have similar lifestyles and behaviors that have led them to evolve similarly. This convergence has made them look the same, but their relationship is only in their lifestyle, not their genetic makeup.
The swift and the martin have different diets, nesting habits, and behaviors, so although they look alike, they are not closely related.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Apus |
| Species | A. caffer |
22. Yellow-billed Stork
The yellow-billed stork is a unique species of sizeable wading bird found in many areas of Africa and Madagascar. It is a member of the Ciconiidae family, which includes a variety of storks, ibises, and herons.
This stork species is also called the wood stork or wood ibis due to its habitat preferences of wetland and wooded areas. It is a widespread species in many regions south of the Sahara Desert.
Additionally, it is also found on the island of Madagascar. The yellow-billed stork is a large bird, measuring up to 5 feet in height and having a wingspan of up to 6 feet. It has a black head and neck, white underparts, and a distinctive yellow bill.
Its legs are black, and its long neck can be seen in silhouette during flight. It has a slow, silent flight, with its wings held V-shaped. The yellow-billed stork is primarily a solitary bird, though it can sometimes be seen in small groups.
It feeds mainly on small aquatic animals like fish, frogs, and insects. Its diet can also include lizards, snakes, and small mammals.
It will often hunt by standing motionless in shallow water, waiting for prey to come within range of its bill. This species has an extensive range and is not considered to be threatened. Its population is believed to be stable and not in danger of extinction.
Conservation efforts are still necessary to ensure its continued survival, as its habitat is being increasingly threatened by human activities such as land clearance and drainage.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Ciconiiformes |
| Family | Ciconiidae |
| Genus | Mycteria |
| Species | M. ibis |
23. Purple Heron
The purple heron is an impressive species of heron that has an extensive range. It is known for breeding in several areas, including Africa, central and southern Europe, and south and eastern Palearctic.
This species is a migratory bird, and its breeding grounds can vary depending on the season.
It can be found in Africa and Europe during the summer months, while in winter, it prefers southern and eastern Palearctic regions. The purple heron is a beautiful bird with its distinctive deep purple plumage.
It is usually found near wetlands, lakes, and rivers, searching for food. It is a carnivorous bird, and its diet consists of fish, amphibians, and even small mammals and birds. The purple heron is a solitary species, and it usually nests alone.
Its nests are typically constructed in trees or shrubs near water bodies. During the breeding season, the female lays two to four eggs, which both parents incubate.
After hatching, the chicks are cared for by both parents until they can fly and hunt independently. The purple heron is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
However, it is still vulnerable to habitat destruction and human disturbance. Therefore, it is essential to protect its breeding grounds and ensure it can find a safe place to nest and hunt.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. purpurea |
24. African Collared Dove
The African collared dove is found in arid regions such as the Sahel, northern parts of the Horn of Africa, and southwestern Arabia.
Despite its preference for dry habitats, the African collared dove is usually seen near water sources, such as ponds, rivers, or lakes. The bird is relatively small, generally measuring around 26 cm in length.
Its body is gray-brown with a distinctive black-and-white pattern along its neck and face. It has a long, pointed tail and a short, squared-off wingspan. The African-collared dove is a social bird often seen in pairs or small groups.
They feed mainly on seeds and grains, as well as small insects. The dove is a widespread species among birdwatchers, as they are relatively easy to spot in their preferred habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. roseogrisea |
Conclusion
Birds are an essential part of the Suleja ecosystem, providing various ecological services and playing a vital role in the local economy.
They are also essential to the culture of Suleja, with traditional songs and stories about them.
With the help of local communities and conservation organizations, the birds of Suleja can continue bringing beauty and life to the area for many generations.