Hong Kong, the city known for its towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and bustling population, is also home to a diverse and fascinating bird population.
Despite its status as an urban metropolis, Hong Kong boasts a surprisingly rich variety of bird species, thanks in part to its location on the coast and its proximity to several large nature reserves.
From the colorful flocks of parrots that dot the city’s parks and gardens to the elegant egrets that wade in its wetlands, the birds of Hong Kong offer both residents and visitors a chance to experience nature in unexpected ways.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the various species of urban birds that call Hong Kong home, exploring their unique characteristics, habitats, and behaviors.
1. Spoon-Billed Sandpiper
The spoon-billed sandpiper is a small wader that has been facing drastic population decline since 1970.
It breeds in the Bering Sea and winters in Southeast Asia, yet its estimated breeding population of 350 to 500 by 2000 reveals how greatly it has suffered from human activities such as overfishing and habitat destruction.
Its scientific name Platalea pygmea was proposed by Carl Linnaeus himself, highlighting just how rare this species really is.
This bird’s unique beak shape allows it to feed on crustaceans, worms, larvae and other invertebrates – however without conservation efforts these birds may soon vanish forever.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Calidris |
| Species | C. pygmaea |
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2. Asian Koel
The Asian koel is a member of the Cuculiformes family, found in India, China and Southeast Asia. It shares its range with two closely related species – black-billed koels and Pacific koels.
This bird exhibits brood parasitism; it lays its eggs in nests of other birds, who then unknowingly become foster parents to their young.
Characterised by long tails and glossy feathers that vary from deep blue to greenish-black depending on region, these birds are known for their loud call which can be heard during both day or night time.
They feed mainly on fruits but also take insects when available.
All in all, the Asian Koel is an interesting species that has adapted itself well over many centuries within different ecosystems across Asia.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Eudynamys |
| Species | E. scolopaceus |
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3. Bulbul
Bulbuls are a medium-sized passerine songbird family native to Africa, the Middle East and tropical Asia up until Japan. They can also be found on some of the Indian Ocean islands.
There are 160 species within 32 genera in this family which includes greenbuls, brownbuls, leafloves and bristlebills.
Bulbul birds have been known for their beautiful singing voices as well as for being very active during mating season when they gather together to create large flocks where potential mates can show off their skills.
The coloration of bulbuls range from dull greys or browns to vibrant yellows with black markings around the head region making them quite attractive creatures indeed.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Parvorder | Sylviida |
| Family | Pycnonotidae Gray, GR, 1840 |
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4. Black Kite
The black kite is one of the most abundant species of diurnal birds of prey in the world, with a global population estimated to be up to 6 million individuals.
It belongs to the family Accipitridae and has medium-sized body size. The wingspan can range from 150 cm – 180cm wide.
They have dark brown feathers on their back and light brown or grey underparts and long forked tails that help it maneuver through.
Its environment while hunting for food like insects, small mammals, reptiles etc., along with scavenging opportunities when available.
Black Kites are found across several continents including Europe, Africa, Asia Minor & Australia where they breed during spring in nests made among trees near wetlands or riversides;
migratory populations move southward away from winter cold temperatures as far east as India & Japan before returning home again next season.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Milvus |
| Species | M. migrans |
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5. Spotted Dove
The Spotted Dove is a common species of pigeon found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It has an elegant, slender body with small head, long tail feathers and spotted wings.
Its coloring ranges from grey to brownish-grey on its upperparts with white underparts that are speckled black or dark grey. The male generally has more prominent spots than the female.
They feed mainly on seeds but will also consume insects when available during breeding season as well as berries, grains and fruits throughout their range.
These birds typically live in pairs or small groups near water sources such as ponds, rivers or streams where they can find food easily while staying safe from predators like cats and hawks.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Spilopelia |
| Species | S. chinensis |
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6. Siberian Crane
The Siberian crane is a majestic white bird of the family Gruidae. It has two distinct breeding populations in Russia, one in eastern and other in western Arctic tundra region.
In flight it can be identified by its black primary feathers which stand out against its otherwise snowy white body.
These graceful birds have an average wingspan of 2 metres and are known to migrate from their wintering grounds at India’s Keoladeo National Park to Siberia during summer months for breeding purposes.
They feed mainly on plants, grains, mollusks as well as small amphibians or fish when available near wetlands.
Due to loss of habitat and hunting these elegant cranes are listed as critically endangered species with less than 3200 individuals remaining worldwide today making them highly vulnerable to extinction if necessary conservation measures aren’t taken soon enough.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Leucogeranus Bonaparte, 1855 |
| Species | L. leucogeranus |
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7. Shorebirds
Shorebirds, a diverse group of birds in the Charadriiformes order, are found near water on every continent except Antarctica.
These small to medium-sized birds feed mainly on invertebrates and other small animals but can also be pelagic seabirds or inhabit deserts.
Shorebirds use their long bills to probe mudflats for food like worms and mollusks while some species plunge into the ocean’s depths in search of crustaceans such as crabs and shrimp.
They have strong legs equipped with webbed feet which allow them to move quickly when searching for prey across wetlands, sandbars, beaches and swamps.
Their feathers make them well adapted to life by land or sea due to its hydrophobic nature which helps reduce drag during swimming or flying through windy conditions making it easier for shorebirds survive tough environments around the world.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Infraclass | Neognathae |
| Clade | Neoaves |
| Clade | Gruimorphae |
| Order | Charadriiformes Huxley, 1867 |
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8. Oriental Magpie-Robin
The Oriental magpie-robin is a beautiful passerine bird found across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia.
It can be easily identified by its black and white plumage, long tail that it holds upright while perched or foraging on the ground.
They are known to sing melodiously which makes them popular as cage birds in many countries.
These birds feed mainly on insects but also consume fruits, berries and nectar from flowers during certain times of the year.
Their population numbers have been declining due to destruction of their natural habitats like deforestation.
However, conservation efforts have seen some success in recent years with more areas being set aside for protection and preservation.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Muscicapidae |
| Genus | Copsychus |
| Species | C. saularis |
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9. White-Bellied Sea Eagle
The White-bellied sea eagle is an impressive large bird of prey that belongs to the Accipitridae family.
It was first described by Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1788 and it is closely related to Sanford’s sea eagle found in the Solomon Islands.
The adult white-bellied sea eagles have a stunning appearance with their white heads, dark brown bodies, and long wings which span up to 1.8 meters across.
They can be seen soaring above coastal areas searching for fish, reptiles or small birds as they hunt for food.
These majestic creatures are also known for being incredibly vocal when nesting – making loud cackling noises at dawn and dusk near riverside forests.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Haliaeetus |
| Species | H. leucogaster |
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10. Common Tailorbird
The Common Tailorbird is a songbird found across tropical Asia, popular for its unique nests made of leaves “sewn” together.
It was immortalized by Rudyard Kipling in his Jungle Book as Darzee and can often be seen in urban gardens.
Though shy birds that are usually hidden within vegetation, their loud calls give away their presence.
They are distinctive with a brownish plumage on the upperparts and paler gray underparts; white throats speckled black mark them out from other similar species.
They feed mainly on insects such as spiders, caterpillars and grasshoppers but will also eat fruit when available.
Breeding season begins around March or April with males singing to claim territories before beginning to weave intricate leafy structures for nesting sites – an amazing feat.
All in all these delightful little birds make wonderful additions to any garden setting – just remember not to get too close.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cisticolidae |
| Genus | Orthotomus |
| Species | O. sutorius |
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11. Black-Faced Spoonbill
The Black-faced Spoonbill is a rare and endangered species of wading bird, found in eastern Asia.
It has unique physical characteristics like its dorso-ventrally flattened bill which it uses to feed by touch.
They are large birds with white feathers, black face, neck and wings and yellow crowns on their heads.
These solitary birds spend most of the year near coastal wetlands or along tidal mudflats where they search for food such as fish, crustaceans and molluscs using their long beaks to dig into the sand or water vegetation.
Conservation efforts such as creating safe habitats have helped this species survive despite its rarity but more needs to be done if we hope to save them from extinction.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Platalea |
| Species | P. minor |
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12. Old World Flycatchers
The Old World Flycatcher is a family of small passerine birds, native to Europe, Africa and Asia. They are mainly insectivorous arboreal birds that feed on insects they catch in the air or trees.
Their wingspan ranges from 5-11 inches long with males usually being slightly larger than females.
The coloration of these birds can range greatly depending on species but typically have dull greyish brown upperparts and pale undersides which help them blend into their environment for hunting purposes.
Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica) and Northern Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe) are two exceptions as they can be found in North America too.
These charming little creatures make fun additions to birdwatching lists all over the world because of their vibrant colors and interesting behaviors.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Muscicapoidea |
| Family | Muscicapidae Fleming J., 1822 |
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13. Little Egret
The Little Egret is a small white heron with sleek black beak, long black legs and in some cases yellow feet.
It can be found near aquatic areas where it feeds on molluscs, amphibians and insects while also occasionally feeding of land creatures such as lizards or rodents.
Breeding seasonally they make platform nests of sticks being built either by themselves or in colonies alongside other water birds.
They are widely distributed across the world from Europe to Africa, Asia to Australia making them an easily recognisable bird species often seen at waterside locations searching for their next meal.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. garzetta |
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14. Eurasian Wryneck
The Eurasian Wryneck is a species of woodpecker found in temperate regions of Europe and Asia. They breed during the summer months, but migrate south to tropical Africa or southern Asia for winter.
These birds are quite adaptable when it comes to their habitat, as they can be seen in open countryside, woodland, orchards and gardens alike.
To identify them you should look out for their distinctive brownish-grey feathers with black bars on the wings and tail; males also have red markings around their neck too.
Their diet consists mainly of insects which they find by probing into loose bark on trees or digging through soil with its sharp bill.
All in all an amazing bird that deserves more attention.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Jynx |
| Species | J. torquilla |
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15. Starling
Starlings are small to medium-sized birds belonging to the Sturnidae family. They have a unique iridescent plumage, making them popularly known as glossy starlings in Africa and mynas in Asia.
Starlings inhabit Europe, Asia and Africa; some species even migrate between continents for food or better climates.
These birds form large flocks of up to thousands at a time during their migration periods, creating spectacular visual displays while they soar through the sky.
Besides being beautiful creatures, starlings can also imitate sounds such as human speech – an impressive feat that has been documented by many ornithologists over the years.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Suborder | Passeri |
| Family | Sturnidae Rafinesque, 1815 |
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16. Spoonbills
Spoonbills are large wading birds belonging to the genus Platalea. Characterized by their long legs and distinctive spoon-shaped beaks, these birds can be found all over the world except Antarctica.
The name of this genus derives from Ancient Greek meaning “broad”, referring to their bill’s shape.
There are six species of Spoonbill recognized – though they usually form a single group, sometimes it is divided into three genera.
These graceful creatures feed mainly on small aquatic organisms such as insects and fish which they catch with an open-mouth technique while sweeping through shallow waters in search for food.
They typically breed near water bodies during springtime when there’s plenty of food available around them.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Subfamily | Plataleinae |
| Genus | Platalea Linnaeus, 1758 |
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17. Great Stone-Curlew
The Great Stone-Curlew, also known as the great thick-knee, is a large wader found in tropical southern Asia. It stands out with its long yellow legs and brownish plumage.
This bird was first described by French naturalist Georges Cuvier in 1829 who gave it the scientific name Oedicnemus recurvirostris, with Nepal being its type locality.
The species prefers to inhabit open country like steppes or grasslands where they hunt for prey on foot during night time while keeping watch from high perches during daybreak.
They are monogamous birds that breed between April – June and form strong pair bonds throughout their lifetime.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Burhinidae |
| Genus | Esacus |
| Species | E. recurvirostris |
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18. Red-Whiskered Bulbul
The Red-whiskered Bulbul is a passerine bird native to tropical Asia. It has an unmistakable black head, white cheek patch, and red whiskers on each side of its beak.
This brightly colored bulbul feeds mainly on fruits but also eats small insects from time to time.
The birds are known for their loud call which consists of three or four notes in succession and can often be heard emanating from treetops or other high perches where it likes to sit conspicuously.
Introductions have been made in many parts of the world outside its original range, with populations establishing themselves successfully in various locations including Hawaii and Florida within the United States.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Pycnonotidae |
| Genus | Pycnonotus |
| Species | P. jocosus |
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19. Oriental Pratincole
The Oriental Pratincole is a wader, belonging to the pratincole family Glareolidae. It has many names such as grasshopper-bird or swallow-plover, and its genus name comes from Latin glarea meaning ‘gravel’ due to their typical nesting habitats in gravel areas.
The species maldivarum refers to the type locality near Maldive Islands, where it was caught alive at sea.
This bird mainly feeds on terrestrial insects which gives it an advantage over other birds of prey that feed on marine animals only.
Its diet consists mostly of locusts as well as crickets and beetles among others; they hunt by either running fast or hovering above dry land before diving down for food items when spotted below them.
They have long wings combined with powerful flight muscles aid these birds during escape flights when pursued by predators like hawks or eagles since they are not very good fighters in aerial combat situations compared to other raptorsScientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Glareolidae |
| Genus | Glareola |
| Species | G. maldivarum |
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20. Red-Throated Loon
The Red-throated Loon is a migratory bird found in the northern hemisphere, with its breeding grounds primarily located in Arctic regions and wintering spots near coastal waters.
With an average length of 55 – 67 cm (22 – 26 inches), it’s the smallest member of the loon or diver family.
Its namesake comes from its bright red throat patch which contrasts against its white underside and grey back.
This species has adapted to life on icy seas; they are strong swimmers with powerful wings for long flights over open water when migrating seasonally.
Their diet consists mostly of fish but can also include crustaceans, molluscs, amphibians and insects depending on availability.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gaviiformes |
| Family | Gaviidae |
| Genus | Gavia |
| Species | G. stellata |
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21. Greater Painted-Snipe
The Greater Painted-snipe is a medium-sized, plump wading bird found in marshes throughout Africa, South Asia and Southeast Asia.
It has distinctive features that make it stand out from its peers: a long reddish brown bill slightly curved at the tip with an eye patch of white or pinkish coloration; rounded wings speckled with buff spots; and a short tail.
The breast of this species has extensive white plumage which extends up around the top of its folded wing.
With its unique appearance, this avian beauty stands out among other birds in wetland habitats.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Rostratulidae |
| Genus | Rostratula |
| Species | R. benghalensis |
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22. Falcons And Caracaras
Falcons and caracaras are birds of prey that belong to the family Falconidae. They have impressive sharp talons, hooked beaks and keen eyesight which makes them excellent hunters.
Falcons can reach speeds up to 200 mph when diving for their prey while caracaras use a combination of running and flying to hunt small mammals such as rabbits or rats.
Both falcons and caracaras live in various areas around the world from grasslands, deserts, forests, wetlands or even urban areas where they nest on cliffs or tall buildings.
The diet mainly consists insects but also includes larger animals like reptiles or other birds which they catch by surprise with fast dives out of the sky.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae Leach, 1820 |
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23. Chinese Penduline Tit
The Chinese penduline tit is a small bird belonging to the family Remizidae and was first described by Robert Swinhoe in 1870. It is found in China, Japan, North Korea, South Korea and Russia inhabiting open fields and wetlands.
This species has sharp bill tips which it uses for its characteristic of making pendulous nests usually from plant fibers or spider webs woven together.
The Chinese penduline tit belongs to ten different species within the family Remizidae that are similar but distinct from true tits due to their nesting behavior as well as other physical characteristics such as size differences between males and females .
Although they may be difficult to spot with their camouflaged colors blending into grassland environments , once spotted this distinctive bird can be easily identified by its unique nest building abilities.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Remizidae |
| Genus | Remiz |
| Species | R. consobrinus |
24. Japanese Waxwing
The Japanese Waxwing is a small passerine bird found in the East Palaearctic. It has an overall pinkish-brown plumage, and measures around 18 cm long. During summer it primarily feeds on fruits and berries but also eats insects to supplement its diet.
The nest is built by constructing cup of twigs lined with grass or moss on trees for breeding purposes.
In winter, they migrate southward from Japan following food sources such as mulberries, cherries and other berry-bearing trees across China into Southeast Asia where temperatures are more temperate than their native homeland.
This unique species continues to fascinate both ornithologists and birdwatchers alike due to its captivating colouration, distinctive call notes and migratory behaviour patterns.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Bombycillidae |
| Genus | Bombycilla |
| Species | B. japonica |
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25. Daurian Redstart
The Daurian redstart is a small passerine bird that inhabits temperate Asia. It was first described by Peter Simon Pallas in 1776 and has an average length of 14-15 cm with weights ranging from 11-20 g.
As typical for the species, males and females are strongly sexually dimorphic; male breeding birds have grey crowns, napes, lighter foreheads and crown sides.
The back feathers are brownish black while their underparts display bright orange colouring on chest and belly area, as well as white outer tail feathers, tipped in black or reddish brown.
Female Breeding individuals feature more muted colors – light gray heads to dull yellow chests alongside dark barred wings and tails also having contrasting white tips at the end of them.
This beautiful creature can often be seen perched atop tree branches near open areas such as riversides or meadows where it searches for food like insects which make up most of its diet along with some berries occasionally being eaten tooScientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Muscicapidae |
| Genus | Phoenicurus |
| Species | P. auroreus |
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26. Glossy Ibis
The Glossy Ibis is a water bird that belongs to the family Threskiornithidae. It has an unique bill in the shape of a sickle, which gave it its scientific name – Plegadis falcinellus.
It can be found widely across Europe, Asia and Africa, with scattered nesting sites in warm regions.
Its feathers are black-brown on top and chestnut brown from below; their wings have glossy greenish-purple sheen when seen from afar.
They mainly feed on small insects like grasshoppers, spiders or earthworms as well as crustaceans or amphibians caught while wading through shallow waters.
During breeding season they also consume plant material such as rice grains or corn kernels provided by humans near habitat areas where they nest.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Plegadis |
| Species | P. falcinellus |
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27. Buttonquail
Buttonquails are small, terrestrial birds belonging to the family Turnicidae. They can be found in warm grasslands of Asia, Africa, Europe and Australia.
There are 18 species found across two genera; most being placed under the genus Turnix with a single species known as Ortyxelos.
These birds share a superficial resemblance to quail from Phasianidae but lack any close relation.
Buttonquails avoid flying and instead prefer running on their short legs for navigational purposes.
In terms of physicality they have drab colouring which comprises mostly browns or greys whilst sporting distinctive white patches around their eyes making them easy to identify within dense foliage areas where they usually hide away during times of danger or distress.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Turnicidae GR Gray, 1840 |
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28. Black-Winged Kite
The Black-winged Kite is a small, diurnal bird of prey in the Accipitridae family. It can be found throughout Palearctic and Afrotropical regions.
This species stands out from other birds of prey due to its unique ability to hover over open grasslands like kestrels do.
Its wings are black with white patches on them while its body has gray feathers, giving it a distinct look from the rest of the accipiters.
The underside is mostly white with some barring near the tail area that helps distinguish this species from others.
They feed mainly on insects but will also eat rodents, lizards and even snakes if they come across one.
Because these birds hunt during daylight hours, their diet changes as time passes by – making them quite adaptive hunters.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Elanus |
| Species | E. caeruleus |
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29. Dalmatian Pelican
The Dalmatian pelican is an impressive bird, the largest of its family and one of the largest freshwater birds in the world.
Its wingspan rivals even those of albatrosses and it flies gracefully with other members in synchrony.
It has a wide range across Central Eurasia stretching from Mediterranean to India and Southeast Asia, as well as parts of Russia.
This large species has white feathers which are generally lightly tinged with grey or yellow around their head; they have long beaks that can reach up to 40cm in length.
Their unique physical characteristics make them stand out among other waterbirds – so if you ever get lucky enough to spot one while exploring nature, take some time to appreciate this majestic creature.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Pelecanidae |
| Genus | Pelecanus |
| Species | P. crispus |
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30. Drongos
Drongos are an Old World tropical family of passerine birds belonging to the Dicruridae genus.
They have short legs, forked tails and a distinctive upright stance when perched.
Depending on the species they may be mostly black or dark grey in colour with some having elaborate tail decorations.
Drongos feed mainly on insects and small birds – catching them both in flight and from the ground.
They also sometimes eat fruit, nectar and even carcasses.
The drongo’s unique adaptations make it one of nature’s most successful hunters; able to survive almost anywhere in their natural range across Africa, Asia & Australia.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Corvoidea |
| Family | Dicruridae Vigors, 1825 |
| Genus | Dicrurus Vieillot, 1816 |
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31. Black-Crowned Night Heron
The Black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) is a medium-sized bird found in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia and North and South America.
It has black crowns on its head with white feathers underneath. Its wings are greyish brown while its underparts are mostly white.
This species can be seen foraging near shallow water or along coastlines during dusk or dawn as it hunts small fish, amphibians and crustaceans.
They also feed on insects such as grasshoppers and beetles which they find in meadows close to freshwater bodies like lakes or ponds where they breed during springtime making nests using twigs lined with reeds and leaves near these waterside habitats.
In Australasia, this species hybridizes with the nankeen night heron that inhabits those areas instead; however both populations remain distinct from each other despite their overlap range regions.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Nycticorax |
| Species | N. nycticorax |
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32. Bridled Tern
The Bridled Tern is a medium-sized seabird of the family Laridae, found in tropical oceans. It has an impressive wingspan of 77–81 cm and measures 30–32 cm in length – similar to that of the Common Tern.
Its scientific name originates from Ancient Greek; Onux meaning “claw” or “nail”, and Prion, which translates as “saw”. The specific anaethetus means ‘senseless’ or ‘stupid’.
These birds are elegant flyers with greyish brown upperparts and white underparts when they take off into flight, while their head appears black on top but turns to white below the eyes with a thin line between them.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Genus | Onychoprion |
| Species | O. anaethetus |
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33. Yellow-Crested Cockatoo
The Yellow-crested Cockatoo is a beautiful and striking bird that can be found in East Timor and the Sula Islands of Indonesia.
It has white plumage, bluish-white bare orbital skin, grey feet, a black bill and an impressive retractile yellow or orange crest.
These birds stand at around 34 cm long which makes them medium sized amongst cockatoos.
They prefer to live in wooded areas as well as cultivated land but are unfortunately endangered due to habitat loss from deforestation along with illegal trapping for pet trade purposes.
They have been listed under CITES Appendix I since 1981 meaning all activities involving international commercial trading of these birds must cease immediately if they are ever going to make a full recovery within their natural habitats again.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Cacatuidae |
| Genus | Cacatua |
| Subgenus | Cacatua |
| Species | C. sulphurea |
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34. White-Tailed Tropicbird
The White-tailed Tropicbird is a beautiful seabird that lives in the tropical waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
It is the smallest member of its order Phaethontiformes, measuring only 28 inches from head to tail.
Its wingspan can reach up to 45 inches wide. The bird has white plumage with black markings on its wings and tail feathers.
It also has an unmistakable long streamer which trails out behind them when they are in flight – a characteristic feature for all tropicbirds.
They nest mainly on remote islands throughout their range but have recently begun nesting on Little Tobago as well.
These birds feed primarily off flying fish or squid near the ocean’s surface during daylight hours before returning back home at nightfall.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phaethontiformes |
| Family | Phaethontidae |
| Genus | Phaethon |
| Species | P. lepturus |
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35. Bulwer’s Petrel
Bulwer’s petrel is a small seabird in the Procellariidae family which can be found across tropical and subtropical regions of the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans.
It was named after English naturalist James Bulwer who first described it in 1828 along with Jardine and Selby.
The bird has dark greyish plumage on its back while the underside is typically white or pale grey.
Its wings are short but broad making them ideal for soaring high above large bodies of water looking for food such as squid, fish, crustaceans and insects.
They use their long pointed bill to catch prey from both surface-skimming dives or underwater plunges up to 15 meters deep.
These birds nest burrows dug into soil cliffs where they lay just one egg each year which takes about 55 days to hatch.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Procellariiformes |
| Family | Procellariidae |
| Genus | Bulweria |
| Species | B. bulwerii |
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36. Amur Falcon
The Amur falcon is a beautiful bird of the falcon family, native to Siberia and parts of Northern China. Its plumage features dark sooty grey on its upperparts, with rufous thighs and vent.
In flight, it stands out with white wing linings contrasting against its dark wings feathers.
Each year it migrates in large flocks across India before flying over the Arabian Sea towards East Africa for wintering purposes.
It has been observed that these birds can fly up to 1000 miles per day during their long-distance migration.
This species have adapted well to human presence as they often use manmade structures such as transmission towers for roosting or nesting sites near villages like paddy fields where there’s an abundance of food sources like dragonflies and grasshoppers.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Genus | Falco |
| Species | F. amurensis |
37. Brown Shrike
The Brown Shrike is a beautiful bird belonging to the shrike family, found mainly in Asia. It has a distinctive crest which gives it its Latin name ‘cristatus’.
They feed on insects and small vertebrates like lizards and mice, hence they are also called ‘butcher birds’.
These birds have brown upperparts with rufous wings, tail tipped white along with black mask through the eyes giving them an impressive look.
Despite their predatory nature these birds still remain quite popular amongst birdwatchers due to their vibrant colors and wide-ranging habitats across much of South East Asia making them easy targets for photography enthusiasts too.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Laniidae |
| Genus | Lanius |
| Species | L. cristatus |
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38. Ancient Murrelet
The Ancient Murrelet is a small seabird in the Auk family. This species has an unmistakable appearance, with its grey shawl-like back and white underparts.
It can also be identified by its call which resembles that of a common guillemot. The origin of their name remains uncertain but it may come from this distinctive sound they make when communicating with others.
They are found mainly around the coastal waters of North Pacific Ocean, particularly off parts of Alaska and Canada where food sources abound for them to feed on such as fish, molluscs and planktonic crustaceans.
These birds form large breeding colonies during springtime so they can protect themselves against predators more effectively while raising their young ones until independence comes at 6 weeks old.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Alcidae |
| Genus | Synthliboramphus |
| Species | S. antiquus |
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39. Von Schrenck’s Bittern
Von Schrenck’s bittern is a small bird of the subfamily Botaurinae, named after 19th-century Russian naturalist Leopold von Schrenck.
The male has chestnut feathers on its upper body and buff colouring below, while the female and juvenile are uniformly chestnut with white speckles above and white streaks below.
When flying it shows two distinctive pale stripes running down each wing from shoulder to tip.
This species primarily inhabits wetlands in eastern Asia such as marshes, shallow lakes or river edges where it feeds mainly on fish but also frogs, insects and crustaceans when available.
It nests near water among reeds standing tall enough that they can hide within them for protection against predators like hawks or crows.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ixobrychus |
| Species | I. eurhythmus |
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40. Velvet-Fronted Nuthatch
The Velvet-fronted Nuthatch is a small passerine bird native to southern Asia. It has strong, clawed toes which help it easily climb up and down tree trunks and move on the underside of branches.
Its diet consists mainly of insects found in bark crevices that they can access with their long beaks.
These birds are usually seen alone or in pairs but sometimes join mixed flocks with other species such as woodpeckers and barbets during migration season.
They have black heads, grey wings , white bellies and blueish backs. Their bright chestnut crowns make them stand out from other nuthatches living around the same area.
The Velvet-Fronted Nuthatch is an interesting bird to observe for its unique behaviour when foraging; often hanging upside down like a bat.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. frontalis |
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41. Eurasian Tree Sparrow
The Eurasian tree sparrow is a passerine bird in the sparrow family, easily recognizable by its chestnut crown and nape as well as black cheek patches.
Both males and females have similar plumage, while young birds appear duller than adults.
This species has an extensive range covering most of temperate Eurasia and Southeast Asia where it goes by the name ‘tree sparrow’.
It has also been introduced to other countries outside these regions. The bird feeds on grains, fruits and insects with preference for open areas near human settlements such as farmland or villages.
They are social creatures that can be found in small flocks all year round but do not migrate long distances like some species of their kind.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passeridae |
| Genus | Passer |
| Species | P. montanus |
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42. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, belongs to the grebe family and is a small water bird. It gets its genus name from the Ancient Greek words for ‘fast’ and ‘to sink under’.
The specific name ruficollis means ‘red-necked’ in Latin. With a length of 23 to 29 centimetres, it is the smallest member of the grebe family.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
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43. Old World Babbler
The Old World babbler bird is a passerine bird characterized by soft and fluffy plumage, with diverse size and coloration.
They are commonly found in tropical regions, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent.
The Old World babblers are one of two groups known as babblers, with the other being the Australasian babblers.
These birds have a unique appearance and create a charming atmosphere with their soft, mellow sound.
They live in a wide range of environments from forests to gardens and thrive on insects and fruits.
Old World babblers are typically social birds that often travel in groups, with some even engaging in communal living.
Despite their somewhat small size, these birds are beloved among birdwatchers, and many people enjoy observing them in their natural habitats.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Sylvioidea |
| Family | Timaliidae Vigors & Horsfield, 1827 |
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44. Collared Scops Owl
The Collared scops owl bird is a resident breeder in South Asia, primarily found in countries such as northern India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
It is a partially migratory bird, with some of its species wintering in Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and India.
The owl is known for its unique collar-like feather pattern around its neck, which distinguishes it from other owl species.
It prefers to dwell in forested areas and feeds on insects, small rodents, and other small prey.
The Collared scops owl is relatively small in size, with a height of around 25 cm and a wingspan of 60 to 70 cm.
Despite being found in several countries, this bird’s population has declined due to habitat loss and deforestation, making it a vulnerable species in the region.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Strigidae |
| Genus | Otus |
| Species | O. lettia |
45. Great Barbet
The Great Barbet is a bird species that is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It mainly resides in forests situated up to 3,000 meters above sea level.
This bird has an attractive and colorful appearance and is a common sight in the region. Its scientific name was suggested as Bucco virens in 1783 by Pieter Boddaert.
Despite being listed as Least Concern on IUCN’s Red List, these birds still face threats from habitat loss and hunting.
The Great Barbet’s wide distribution across its natural range allows it to survive and continue to thrive, making it an important part of the region’s ecosystem.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Megalaimidae |
| Genus | Psilopogon |
| Species | P. virens |
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46. Mountain Tailorbird
The mountain tailorbird is a small songbird that can be found in various countries in Asia including Bangladesh, India, and Indonesia.
Formerly part of the “Old World warbler” group, it is now classified under the genus Phyllergates and the family Cettiidae.
Its natural habitats are moist lowland forests in subtropical or tropical regions. This bird is known for its distinctive and complex songs.
Despite being widespread across its range, there is limited information available on its population status and conservation needs.
The mountain tailorbird is a fascinating species that adds to the rich biodiversity of the Asian continent.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cettiidae |
| Genus | Phyllergates |
| Species | P. cucullatus |
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47. Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird
Mrs. Gould’s sunbird is a brightly colored bird species found in forests and shrublands across Southeast Asia and the southern foothills of the Himalayas.
It was named after British bird artist Elizabeth Gould by Irish zoologist Nicholas Vigors in 1831. The species is closely related to other sunbird species and four subspecies have been described.
With its vivid colors and distinctive plumage, Mrs. Gould’s sunbird stands out among other bird species.
Its small size and agile flight allow it to flit easily among the trees in search of nectar and insects.
Despite its beauty, the species faces threats from habitat loss and fragmentation.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect its habitats and preserve the future of this stunning bird.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Nectariniidae |
| Genus | Aethopyga |
| Species | A. gouldiae |
48. Asian Brown Flycatcher
The Asian brown flycatcher is a small bird belonging to the flycatcher family Muscicapidae. Its name comes from the Latin words for “fly” and “catch.” This bird is found in Japan, eastern Siberia, and the Himalayas, and feeds primarily on insects.
Its scientific name, Muscicapa dauurica, refers to the Dauria region of south-eastern Siberia where it is found.
Known for its distinctive brown coloring, this bird is a favorite of birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Despite its small size, the Asian brown flycatcher is an important part of the ecosystem, helping to control insect populations and contributing to biodiversity.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Muscicapidae |
| Genus | Muscicapa |
| Species | M. dauurica |
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49. Chinese Grassbird
The Chinese grassbird is a bird species that belongs to the family Pellorneidae. It was previously categorized under Sylviidae and Timaliidae.
The bird is commonly found in freshwater swamps and along the banks of rivers in lowland areas of southeastern China, Bangladesh, southeastern Myanmar, south-central Thailand, Cambodia, and the northern parts of Laos and Vietnam.
Chinese grassbirds are often seen in tall emergent vegetation, where they tend to forage for insects and small invertebrates.
These birds are known for their distinct striped plumage, which helps them blend into their surroundings.
As with many bird species in the region, the Chinese grassbird is threatened by habitat loss due to land development and agriculture.
Conservation efforts are being made to protect their natural habitats and populations.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Pellorneidae |
| Genus | Graminicola |
| Species | G. striatus |
50. Plain Flowerpecker
The Plain flowerpecker bird belongs to the Dicaeidae family and was first identified by Robert Swinhoe in 1870. Its small size, about 9 cm long, makes it difficult to differentiate between male and female birds.
This species can be found in the central Himalayas and extends through western Indonesia to Taiwan. It is also found in northeastern India and neighboring countries such as Myanmar, Laos, and southern China.
It is known for its plain appearance, with no distinctive markings, and is often spotted near flowers.
The Plain flowerpecker feeds on nectar and insects found in flowers and is an important pollinator.
Their contribution to pollination makes them essential to their ecosystem. The survival of these tiny birds is vital for the health and sustainability of their habitats.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Dicaeidae |
| Genus | Dicaeum |
| Species | D. minullum |
51. Indochinese Yuhina
The Indochinese yuhina, also known as the chestnut-collared yuhina, belongs to the Zosteropidae family of birds. It was discovered by Robert Swinhoe in the year 1870.
The bird is found in the Indochina region and has distinctive chestnut markings on its collar. It is a small bird with greyish-brown plumage and has a short, straight beak.
They can be found in pairs or small groups and are known for their acrobatic displays while foraging for insects. They prefer to live in dense forests with thick canopies and are generally not migratory birds.
The Indochinese yuhina is considered a vulnerable species due to the loss of its natural habitat and hunting for the pet trade. Conservation efforts are being made to protect the species and its habitat.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Zosteropidae |
| Genus | Staphida |
| Species | S. torqueola |