Birds are some of the most fascinating and diverse creatures on the planet. With over 10,000 species of birds, they can be found in almost every corner of the world. From the tiniest hummingbird to the giant ostrich, birds come in all shapes and sizes.
They can be brightly or somberly colored; some even have beautiful songs. Birds are a vital part of the ecosystem, helping to disperse seeds and pollinate plants.
They also provide food for humans and other animals and can be great companions for people who keep them as pets. Birds are unique creatures; their presence is a welcome addition to any environment.
17 Birds to Watch in Poni
Poni is a beautiful island in Brunei, home to many unique birds. Whether you are a birdwatcher, a nature lover, or just curious, you will find something to admire in the avian diversity of Poni.
Here are 17 birds that you should watch out for when you visit Poni.
1. Black Stork
The black stork is a species of large wading bird from the family Ciconiidae. It is a relatively large bird, with a wingspan of around 1.5 meters and a body length of up to 1 meter. It is mainly black, with white patches on its wings and tail.
The black stork is a migratory bird, breeding in Europe and wintering in Africa. The black stork was first described in 1758 by the famous Swedish botanist and zoologist Carl Linnaeus in the 10th edition of his book Systema Naturae.
In the book, he gave the scientific name of the species as Ciconia nigra.
Since then, the black stork has been classified as a species of conservation concern in Europe and is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The main threats to the black stork are habitat loss and degradation, agricultural intensification, and climate change.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting the species’ habitats, such as wetlands, and reducing human impacts on the species’ habitat. Other conservation efforts include monitoring of the population, research into the species’ ecology, and reintroduction programs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Ciconiiformes |
| Family | Ciconiidae |
| Genus | Ciconia |
| Species | C. nigra |
2. Crow Pheasant
The greater coucal is a large bird belonging to the Cuculiformes, an order of non-parasitic cuckoos. It is found in the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia, where it has adapted to various habitats, from dry forests to wetlands.
The species is divided into several subspecies, some of which are even considered distinct species. These subspecies have different behaviors and habits, as well as physical characteristics.
The greater coucal is an omnivore, with its diet consisting mainly of insects, small mammals, reptiles, and some fruits and seeds. It is also known to feed on eggs and young of other birds. The greater coucal is typically found in pairs or small flocks, rarely in large numbers.
Its song is a loud, repetitive call, often heard at dusk and dawn. The greater coucal is an important species for maintaining the local ecological balance and an essential food source.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Centropus |
| Species | C. sinensis |
3. Partridge
Partridges are a type of bird belonging to the Phasianidae family and the Perdicinae subfamily. They are medium-sized birds in many parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Over the years, some species of partridges have been introduced to the Americas.
Partridges have a wide native distribution, making them a widespread species in many parts of the world. Partridges are a type of game bird that is often hunted for sport or food. They prefer to live in open fields and woodlands, where they can forage for food and shelter.
Partridges have various identifying features, including short tails, bills, and rounded wings. They also have a distinctive spotted plumage, varying depending on the species. Partridges are omnivorous birds, meaning they feed on plant and animal matter.
They primarily feed on seeds, grains, and insects but may also eat small reptiles and amphibians. Partridges are also known to forage in the company of other birds, such as grouse and pheasants. Partridges are a type of bird that has been around for centuries.
They are popular among hunters and birdwatchers for their wide native distribution and exciting behavior. Partridges are vital to many ecosystems, providing food and shelter for other species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
4. Orange-breasted Green Pigeon
The orange-breasted green pigeon is found across tropical Asia, from the Himalayas to the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
This pigeon species feeds mainly on small fruits, usually seen in pairs or small flocks, foraging quietly and moving slowly on the tree branches.
This pigeon’s distinctive orange breast, which sets it apart from other green pigeons, makes it easy to spot in its natural habitat.
They are generally seen in forests and woodlands and prefer to stay close to the ground and in the cover of trees. These birds are very social creatures, often seen in small groups foraging for food.
They are adept at finding small fruits and seeds on the ground and can even be seen eating fallen fruits from trees.
They are also adept at finding small insects and other invertebrates, which they will eat when food is scarce. The orange-breasted green pigeon is a typical species not considered endangered.
They are widespread and numerous in their natural habitats and play an essential role in the area’s ecosystems. They serve as a food source for various predators and scavengers, and their droppings are vital in helping fertilize the soil.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Treron |
| Species | T. bicinctus |
5. Common Myna
The Common Myna, also known as the Indian Myna, is a bird species belonging to the Sturnidae family. It is native to Asia and is an omnivorous species that can be found in open woodlands.
The Common Myna has a robust territorial instinct, allowing it to adapt well to urban environments. This bird is known for its intelligence and ability to survive in various habitats.
The Common Myna is a medium-sized bird with a grey body, black head, and yellow beak. It has a distinctive vocalization often heard in urban areas and is easily identified by its call. The Common Myna is exceptionally social and is usually seen in pairs or small groups.
They feed on various items, such as fruits, seeds, insects, and even small reptiles. The Common Myna has adapted well to urban environments and is commonly seen in cities.
They are attracted to areas offering food and shelter, such as parks, gardens, and garbage dumps. The Common Myna is also an essential pollinator, feeding on flowers and other nectar-producing plants.
The Common Myna is a widespread and successful species due to its adaptability and intelligence. It is found throughout Asia and is considered a pest by some due to its aggressive behavior.
Despite this, the Common Myna is essential in its natural habitats and part of the ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sturnidae |
| Genus | Acridotheres |
| Species | A. tristis |
6. Coppersmith Barbet
The Coppersmith Barbet is a small bird found in the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia. It is also known as the Crimson-breasted Barbet due to its bright, scarlet forehead and throat.
It is easily identified by its distinctive call, similar to the sound of a coppersmith hammering metal. This bird is common in tropical and subtropical woodlands and feeds mainly on fruits, nuts, and insects.
It typically nests in tree cavities, where both parents take turns incubating eggs and feeding the young. The Coppersmith Barbet is a resilient species whose population is stable across its range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Megalaimidae |
| Genus | Psilopogon |
| Species | P. haemacephalus |
7. Asian Green Bee-eater
The Asian green bee-eater is a small passerine bird belonging to the bee-eater family. It is a resident species. However, it is known to make seasonal movements. This bird is found to be widespread across Asia, from southern Iran to Vietnam, covering the Indian subcontinent.
The bird is also known as the little green bee-eater and green bee-eater in Sri Lanka. It is a colorful bird with a bright green back, blue wings, and a yellow throat. Its diet consists mainly of bees, wasps, and other small insects it catches midair.
Its call is a distinctive ‘pee-pee-pee-pee’ sound, which it frequently makes, especially during the breeding season. The Asian green bee-eater is a social bird often found in small groups. It is an integral part of the ecosystem, helping to control the insect population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Meropidae |
| Genus | Merops |
| Species | M. orientalis |
8. Spotted Dove
The spotted dove is a small, long-tailed pigeon native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is a common resident breeding bird across its native range and has been introduced to many other parts of the world.
In these new locations, the species has adapted to its environment and formed feral populations that have become established. It is a small bird, usually gray, with black spots on its wings and tail.
Its long tail is a distinctive feature that helps to differentiate it from other pigeons. The spotted dove is also known for its musical call, a series of soft cooing sounds.
It is a friendly bird, often seen in pairs or small flocks, and is an integral part of its local ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Spilopelia |
| Species | S. chinensis |
9. Swifts
The swifts are a family of birds known as the Apodidae family. They are swift fliers and can be found soaring through the sky. They are similar in appearance to swallows but unrelated to any of the passerine species.
Swifts are classified in the order Apodiformes, which includes hummingbirds. This order is characterized by its small size and ability to fly at high speeds for long periods. Swifts are known for their aerial acrobatics and their agility in the air.
They can reach incredible speeds and can often be seen chasing after insects in midair. Swifts have many habitats, including open woodlands, mountain slopes, and urban areas.
Despite their small size, swifts are robust birds that can live up to 10 years in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
10. Crested Serpent Eagle
The crested serpent eagle is a raptor residing in tropical Asia’s forests. This majestic bird is medium-sized and is a formidable hunter.
With its powerful hooked beak, sharp talons, and keen eyesight, the crested serpent eagle is a fierce predator that feeds on various small mammals, reptiles, and even other birds. The crested serpent eagle is easily recognizable due to its distinctive plumage.
Its body is covered in browns and whites patterned with dark streaks and spots. Its wings, tail, and head are adorned with an impressive crest of feathers.
The crested serpent eagle is a solitary bird and can often be seen perched atop a tree surveying its territory. During the breeding season, it will occupy a small nesting territory, which it defends vigorously against other birds of prey.
As deforestation threatens its habitat, the crested serpent eagle’s future is uncertain. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure that this beautiful bird can continue to thrive in the forests of tropical Asia.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Spilornis |
| Species | S. cheela |
11. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck is a species of duck found in Europe and Siberia. It is also known by other names such as ferruginous, common white-eye, and white-eyed pochard. It is a medium-sized diving duck that dives in water when searching for food.
The scientific name of the ferruginous duck is derived from two sources. The first part, Lithuania, is taken from the Greek language and refers to an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle.
The second part, nyrok, is taken from the Russian language and is the name for any duck species. This scientific name is the most widely accepted name for the ferruginous duck and is used to identify it among the scientific community.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
12. Gadwall
The gadwall is a species of duck belonging to the family Anatidae. It is a dabbling duck that feeds on the surface or in shallow water by tipping forward. This species is found in many parts of the world. It is common in Europe, Asia, and North America.
It is widespread in the Midwest and the eastern coast of the United States. It is also found in parts of South America and Africa. The gadwall is a medium-sized duck, measuring 19 inches long and weighing up to two pounds.
Its head and neck are a greyish brown, with a white border around the eyes. Its plumage is primarily brown and white, with a reddish patch along the sides. It has a long, thin bill with a black tip. The gadwall is a social bird, often seen in large flocks.
It feeds on various plant materials, including aquatic plants, grains, and insects. It is also known to eat small fish and crustaceans. During the breeding season, it builds its nest near water, laying up to twelve eggs.
Both parents take part in incubating and caring for the young. The gadwall is an essential species in its ecosystem, providing food for many predators, including mammals, birds, and fish.
It is also popular among birdwatchers due to its attractive plumage and habit of congregating in large flocks.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. strepera |
13. Spot-billed Pelican
The spot-billed pelican, also known as the gray pelican, is a species of bird found in the pelican family. It is native to southern Asia, from south Iran across India, and east to Indonesia.
This species of pelican typically inhabits large inland and coastal bodies of water, such as large lakes. It is a large bird and can be easily distinguished by its colorful bill, adorned with dark spots.
The spot-billed pelican is a gregarious species, often seen in large flocks when breeding or foraging. It feeds mainly on fish but sometimes eats frogs and other small aquatic animals.
Breeding usually occurs during the dry season, and the birds nest in large colonies. The nest is typically a platform of sticks built in a tree or bush near the water. The female lays two to three eggs, which are incubated for 30 days.
Once the chicks have hatched, both parents will feed them for around 4-5 weeks before they are ready to leave the nest. Recently, the spot-billed pelican has become threatened due to habitat loss and overfishing.
As a result, it is now listed as a vulnerable species by the IUCN Red List. Conservation efforts are being made to protect this species and its habitat, such as creating protected areas and regulating fishing activities in areas where the birds are known to inhabit.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Pelecanidae |
| Genus | Pelecanus |
| Species | P. philippensis |
14. Oriole
The Old World orioles are a family of birds that belong to the order of passerines. These birds are found in the Old World, which consists of the continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa, and some of the islands located in the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean.
These birds are generally recognized by their bright colors, with most species having a yellow to orange body and black or brown markings.
They have sharp, curved beaks that they use to catch their prey. The Old World orioles inhabit many habitats, from dense forests to open woodlands. They also live in gardens and parks, where they can find plenty of food and shelter.
They can adapt to different environments, which helps them survive in various climates and terrains. The diet of the Old World orioles consists of insects, fruit, berries, and small animals.
They also feed on nectar, which they obtain from the flowers of trees and shrubs. They are usually found in pairs or small groups, and their vocalizations are loud and complex. The Old World orioles have a few predators, such as hawks, owls, and cats.
They are also vulnerable to the effects of human activities, such as habitat destruction and pollution. As a result, their numbers are declining in many parts of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Oriolidae |
15. Red-vented Bulbul
The red-vented bulbul is a species of songbird belonging to the bulbul family of passerines. It is native to the Indian subcontinent, including Sri Lanka, and is also found in parts of Burma, Bhutan, and Nepal.
This species is a resident breeder, meaning it breeds in the area where it lives instead of migrating seasonally.
It is widespread across its range, but its population is declining in some areas due to habitat loss and other factors. The red-vented bulbul is a medium-sized songbird, growing to approximately 10 cm long.
It has a distinctive black head and white throat, with a red or orange patch on its lower belly. Its wings are brown-black with white markings, and its tail feathers are tipped with white.
Its diet consists mainly of fruits, berries, and insects, which it forages in trees and shrubs. The red-vented bulbul is considered a socially monogamous species, meaning that they form pairs and mate for life.
During the breeding season, the male and female will build their nest in a tree or shrub, and the female will typically lay 2-4 eggs.
The chicks are altricial, meaning they are born blind and helpless, and require both parents to care for them during their first few weeks of life. Overall, the red-vented bulbul is an essential species in the Indian subcontinent, playing a vital role in the ecosystem.
It is essential to work to protect the species and its habitat to ensure its continued survival in the region.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Pycnonotidae |
| Genus | Pycnonotus |
| Species | P. cafer |
16. Rose-ringed Parakeet
The rose-ringed parakeet is a common species of parrot found in tropical regions of the world. It is native to Africa, the Middle East, and India. It is also known as the ring-necked parakeet due to the distinctive black ring that encircles its neck.
This species is considered medium-sized, with an average length of about 30 cm. They are found in various habitats, from deserts to rainforests and mangroves. The rose-ringed parakeet belongs to the genus Psittacula of the family Psittacidae.
This family, also known as the true parrots, contains some of the most iconic birds in the world, such as the macaws, cockatoos, and lorikeets. The Psittacula genus is composed of several species of parrots, many of which are ring-necked.
These birds are characterized by their bright colors and long, pointed tails. The rose-ringed parakeet is a popular pet due to its intelligence, trainability, and ability to mimic human speech.
It is also a famous aviary bird, due to its ability to live in large groups and its hardiness.
It is an important part of the ecosystem, as it is a seed dispersal agent and pollinator. In conclusion, the rose-ringed parakeet is a species of parrot found in tropical regions of the world.
It is a part of the Psittacula genus of the Psittacidae family and is characterized by its distinctive black ring. It is a popular pet and aviary bird because of its intelligence, trainability, and ability to live in large groups.
It is also an important part of the ecosystem, as it is a seed dispersal agent and pollinator.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Psittaculidae |
| Genus | Psittacula |
| Species | P. krameri |
17. White-browed Bulbul
The white-browed bulbul is a small passerine bird belonging to the bulbul family. It is native to the Indian subcontinent, Sri Lanka, and peninsular India. Its upper parts are covered with an olive-brown color, while the underparts are pale whitish.
It has a distinctive pale supercilium or eyebrow stretching across its forehead and a bright yellow vent region. It is mainly found in forest habitats and is a resident breeder. The white-browed bulbul is a social species often found in small flocks.
It primarily feeds on fruit, berries, and insects.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Pycnonotidae |
| Genus | Pycnonotus |
| Species | P. luteolus |
Conclusion
Birds are essential to the world’s ecosystems and serve many vital purposes. They help to pollinate plants, disperse seeds, create habitats, provide food for other animals, and much more. Birds also provide a source of beauty and pleasure for humans.
With a diverse range of species and habitats, birds are an essential part of Poni’s natural environment.
Protecting and conserving birds and their habitats is essential to ensure that Poni’s ecosystems remain healthy and vibrant for generations to come.