Welcome to Antananarivo, the beautiful capital of Madagascar! An ideal place for bird-watching, this city is home to a variety of species of birds.
From the bright and colorful sunbirds to the powerful and majestic eagles, there are many interesting and beautiful birds to be seen in Antananarivo.
With its warm climate, abundant vegetation, and rich variety of habitats, the city provides a perfect environment for a variety of birds. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned bird-watcher, you will be sure to find an abundance of birds to admire and observe.
So come explore the many wonderful birds of Antananarivo.
1. Madagascar Fish Eagle
The Madagascar fish eagle, also known as the Madagascar sea eagle, is an impressive bird of prey that calls the island of Madagascar home. This species is part of the Accipitridae family, which includes a variety of other diurnal raptors such as kites, buzzards, and harriers.
It can only be found in the coastal area of the northwest part of the island. The Madagascar fish eagle is a large bird, with a wingspan of up to 1.7 meters and measuring up to 70 centimeters in length.
This species is mostly dark brown in color, with a white throat, belly, and wings. It has a distinctive yellow eye and a hooked yellow bill. The Madagascar fish eagle mainly feeds on fish, although it will also take small birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
It hunts by either soaring over the ocean, keeping an eye out for potential prey, or standing on a tree branch and watching for movement near the shoreline. The Madagascar fish eagle is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, due to its small population size and the threats it faces from human activities such as fishing and hunting.
Conservation efforts such as habitat protection, improved fishing practices, and other strategies are needed to help protect this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Icthyophaga |
| Species | I. vociferoides |
2. Nightjars and Allies
Nightjars are fascinating birds found in various parts of the world. They belong to the family Caprimulgidae and the order Caprimulgiformes. Nightjars are known for their unique physical characteristics, including their medium size, long wings, and short legs and bills.
Nightjars are nocturnal or crepuscular birds, which means they are most active during the night or at dusk. This behavior is typical of many birds of prey, such as owls, as well as some smaller species like the tawny frogmouth.
The long wings of nightjars may help them glide or swoop silently in the dark, and their short bills and legs help them catch prey. Nightjars have also adapted to their nocturnal lifestyle in other ways.
For example, their eyes are larger than those of other birds, allowing them to take in more light in the dark. They also have excellent hearing, which helps them to find their prey. Nightjars are important parts of many ecosystems.
They help to keep insect populations in check and are important food sources for other animals, such as snakes, hawks, and owls. They are also valued for their beauty and unique appearance, which makes them a popular subject for birdwatchers and photographers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
3. Madagascar Paradise Flycatcher
The Malagasy paradise flycatcher is a species of bird belonging to the family Monarchidae. It is endemic to the islands of Comoros, Madagascar, and Mayotte, found in a variety of habitats ranging from subtropical dry forests to moist lowland forests.
It’s a medium-sized bird, approximately 20 centimeters in length, with a black head, white wings and tail, and a pinkish-red body.
It has a distinctive call which is often heard in its natural habitats. The Malagasy paradise flycatcher is an omnivorous species that feeds mainly on insects, but also eats small fruits and berries.
It is an active bird, often seen flying high above the canopy, searching for food.
It can also be seen perched on branches and singing its distinctive song. The Malagasy paradise flycatcher is an important species in the ecosystems of Comoros, Madagascar, and Mayotte, as it helps to control the populations of insects, such as mosquitoes, which can spread diseases.
It is also an important pollinator, helping to spread the pollen of native plants. Unfortunately, the Malagasy paradise flycatcher is facing a number of threats, including habitat destruction, hunting and trapping, and the introduction of invasive species.
These threats have caused the population of the species to decline significantly in recent years. It is now considered to be vulnerable by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and is protected by law in some areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Monarchidae |
| Genus | Terpsiphone |
| Species | T. mutata |
4. Madagascar Pochard
The Madagascar pochard, also known as the Madagascan pochard, is a rare species of diving duck that belongs to the genus Aythya. This species is considered to be extremely rare and was thought to be extinct in the late 1990s.
However, in 2006, a small population of the species was rediscovered at Lake Matsaborimena near Bemanevika in Madagascar. This discovery was a major breakthrough in conservation efforts and sparked renewed hope that the species can be saved from extinction.
The Madagascar pochard is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 45 cm in length. Its plumage is mainly dark grey with a white chest and a blackish head. The species has a unique feature of a red beak with a white tip, and its legs are also red.
The Madagascar pochard mainly feeds on aquatic plants, invertebrates, and some insects. It has been observed foraging in shallow water near the shore of lakes and ponds. It is also known to dive underwater to feed on small fish.
The Madagascar pochard is listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The main threat to its survival is habitat loss due to the draining of wetlands for agricultural and other developments.
Conservation efforts are being made to protect the species from extinction. These include research into the species’ distribution, habitat, and ecology, as well as establishing protected areas and captive breeding programs.
Overall, the Madagascar pochard is a rare species that is in danger of extinction. Conservation efforts are being made to protect the species and its habitat, and it is hoped that the species will be able to recover and thrive in the future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. innotata |
5. Madagascar Ibis
The Madagascar ibis is a unique bird found on the island of Madagascar. It is a medium-sized ibis, with a brown plumage, and distinctive features that set it apart from other ibises. It has bare red orbital skin, meaning it has no feathers around its eyes and a yellow bill.
Its legs are red, and its wings are white. The most distinctive feature of the Madagascar ibis is its head. It is partially bare and has a dense crest of feathers in shades of green, gloss blue, and white.
This crest of feathers gives the bird a very striking appearance and makes it easy to identify.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Lophotibis |
| Species | L. cristata |
6. Madagascar Nightjar
The Madagascar nightjar is a species of bird belonging to the family Caprimulgidae, which is also known as the nightjar family. This species is found in three distinct areas: Madagascar, Nosy Boraha, and Aldabra.
As its name implies, this bird is active primarily during the night. The Madagascar nightjar can be found in a variety of habitats, including subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests as well as subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
These habitats provide the bird with the necessary food and shelter it needs for survival. The nightjars mainly feed on insects and other small invertebrates, which they hunt by swooping down from the sky.
The Madagascar nightjar is an important species to its native environment, as it helps to keep insect populations in check. It is also an important part of the food chain, as it is preyed upon by larger birds and other predators.
Unfortunately, the population of the Madagascar nightjar is in decline due to habitat destruction and hunting. Conservation efforts are in place in order to protect this species and its natural habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | C. madagascariensis |
7. Madagascar Pond Heron
The Malagasy pond heron is a species of heron from the family Ardeidae. It is native to Madagascar, Réunion, and the Seychelles, and is also known as the Madagascar pond heron or Madagascar squacco heron.
During the breeding season, it can be found in these regions, but during the non-breeding season, it migrates to eastern mainland Africa.
The Malagasy pond heron is a medium-sized heron, usually measuring between 43 and 60 centimeters in length, with a wingspan of around 80 centimeters. It has a greyish-brown back and wings, a white throat and head, and yellowish-brown streaks running along its flanks.
Its legs and feet are yellowish-green. The Malagasy pond heron has a wide diet, consisting of small fish, frogs, aquatic insects, and other invertebrates. It typically hunts in shallow pools or pools of water, standing still and waiting for its prey to come within reach.
Once spotted, it quickly snaps its head and bills forward to capture the prey. The Malagasy pond heron is a solitary species and pairs only during the breeding season to create nests in trees.
They typically lay between three and five eggs, which are incubated for around three weeks. After hatching, the chicks fledge after around five weeks.
The Malagasy pond heron is listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN, but it is threatened by habitat destruction and pollution. It is also hunted for food in some areas. Conservation efforts are being made to protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardeola |
| Species | A. idae |
8. Madagascar Blue Pigeon
The Madagascar blue pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae, which includes other species of pigeons. It is closely related to the Comoros blue pigeon and the Seychelles blue pigeon, which are both species of blue pigeons.
This species is only found in Madagascar, specifically in the northern and eastern regions of the island. Its plumage is a deep blue color, which is quite striking and makes it stand out from the other species of pigeons.
It is a specialized species, meaning that it is adapted to its environment and has certain characteristics that make it well-suited for its habitat. For example, its feet are well-suited for perching on branches and its wings are adapted for long-distance flying.
This species is important to its environment, as it plays a role in pollinating plants and dispersing seeds. It is also an important part of the food chain, as it is a prey species for many predators.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Alectroenas |
| Species | A. madagascariensis |
9. Madagascar Red Owl
The red owl is an uncommon species of owl that belongs to the barn owl family Tytonidae. It is primarily found in Madagascar and is known by various names including the Madagascar red owl, Madagascar grass-owl, and Soumagne’s owl.
This owl species was discovered in 1876, however it was not seen again until 1993 when researchers from the World Wide Fund for Nature rediscovered it. This could be due to the fact that the red owl is a rare species and is primarily found in the forests of Madagascar.
The red owl is an endemic species to the island of Madagascar, which means it is not found in any other parts of the world. Its distinct features such as red-orange feathers and yellow eyes make it easily identifiable.
The red owl is a nocturnal hunter that mainly feeds on small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Despite its rarity, the red owl is listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN due to its stable population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Tytonidae |
| Genus | Tyto |
| Species | T. soumagnei |
10. Velvet Asity
The velvet asity is a species of bird that belongs to the Philepittidae family. It is only found in Madagascar, an island located off the coast of Africa. Its habitat is mainly subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
This type of forest is characterized by its high levels of humidity and rainfall. As a result, the velvet asity finds plenty of food and shelter in these lush habitats. The bird generally feeds on insects, fruits, and nectar.
Additionally, these forests provide the bird with protection from predators and other threats. Therefore, the velvet asity is able to thrive in its natural habitat in Madagascar.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Philepittidae |
| Genus | Philepitta |
| Species | P. castanea |
11. Blue Vanga
The Madagascar blue vanga is a species of bird belonging to the family Vangidae. It is native to the island of Madagascar, where it inhabits two distinct types of habitats.
These habitats include subtropical or tropical dry forests and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. The Madagascar blue vanga is an important part of Madagascar’s native ecosystem, as it helps to maintain the balance of the region’s biodiversity.
It is an omnivorous species, feeding on both invertebrates and fruits. The bird is also known to be quite vocal, making various calls and songs throughout the day.
The Madagascar blue vanga is also a threatened species, due to habitat destruction and deforestation caused by humans. As a result, conservation efforts are being made to protect the species and ensure that it remains part of the island’s natural beauty.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Vangidae |
| Genus | Cyanolanius |
| Species | C. madagascarinus |
12. Common Sunbird-asity
The Common Sunbird-asity, also known as the Sunbird Asity, is a species of bird that is part of the Philepittidae family. This species is only found in Madagascar and is not found anywhere else in the world.
The natural habitat of this bird is in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. This means that the environment is warm and humid, and is covered in a dense layer of trees.
The Common Sunbird-asity lives and breeds in these forests, usually around the edges of the forest and in clearings. The bird feeds on nectar, insects, and other small creatures which it finds among the trees and shrubs.
The Common Sunbird-asity is a small bird, with a bright yellow-green breast and a black back. It has a short, black bill and long tail feathers. This species is important to the ecosystem of Madagascar and plays an important role in pollination.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Philepittidae |
| Genus | Neodrepanis |
| Species | N. coruscans |
13. Rufous-headed Ground Roller
The rufous-headed ground roller is a species of bird that is part of the ground roller family, Brachypteraciidae. This species is unique to Madagascar, meaning it is only found on the island of Madagascar.
Currently, there are five known species of ground rollers, four of which are found in eastern and central highland humid forests. This species of ground roller is especially adapted to living in forests, as they have a unique ability to catch their prey by rolling on the ground.
Furthermore, these birds are known to inhabit areas with dense vegetation, tall trees, and dense understory. They also rely on the protection of the tall trees and understory of the highland humid forests to provide them with shelter.
The rufous-headed ground roller is an important part of the Madagascar ecosystem, and it is important to protect its habitat and ensure its continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Brachypteraciidae |
| Genus | Atelornis |
| Species | A. crossleyi |
14. Crested Drongo
The crested drongo is a type of passerine bird belonging to the family Dicruridae. It is characterized by its black plumage with a bluish-green sheen, a distinct crest on the forehead, and a forked tail. There are two distinct subspecies of the crested drongo. D. f.
forficatus is endemic to Madagascar, while the D. f. option is found on the Comoro Islands and is larger in size. The crested drongo is a medium-sized bird, ranging from 11-14 inches in length and weighing between 1.5-2.5 ounces.
It is mainly found in tropical rainforests, woodlands, and savannas. It has a broad diet, feeding on insects, small vertebrates, and fruits.
It also has a distinctive call that is used to communicate with other drongos. The drongo is an active bird, often seen soaring through the sky in search of food. It is known to be quite territorial and will defend its nest from intruders.
It is also known to be a cooperative breeder, with several birds of the same species helping to care for the young. In conclusion, the crested drongo is a distinctive and interesting bird species.
It is found in tropical regions and is characterized by its black plumage, bluish-green sheen, distinctive crest, and forked tail. There are two distinct subspecies of the crested drongo, each inhabiting a different region.
Its diet is broad, including insects, small vertebrates, and fruits, and it is an active and territorial bird.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Dicruridae |
| Genus | Dicrurus |
| Species | D. forficatus |
15. Madagascar Serpent Eagle
Source: oiseaux.net
The Madagascar serpent eagle is a species of bird of prey that is found only in the island country of Madagascar. It is part of the family Accipitridae and is placed in the monotypic genus Eutriorchis.
Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, which are also known as rainforests. These forests are home to many species of animals and plants and provide important benefits for people by helping regulate the climate and cycle nutrient-rich soil.
Unfortunately, these rainforests are being destroyed by human activity, such as deforestation, which is having a devastating effect on the habitat of the Madagascar serpent eagle and other species.
This destruction of habitat is the biggest threat to the survival of the species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Eutriorchis |
| Species | E. astur |
16. Madagascar Green Pigeon
The Madagascar green pigeon is a species of bird in the Columbidae family. It is native to Madagascar, Comoros, and Mayotte. In some cases, it is classified as two different species: the Madagascan green pigeon and the Comoros green pigeon.
The Comoros green pigeon, also known as the taxon griveaudi, is often considered to be a subspecies of the Madagascar green pigeon. However, some authorities consider it to be a distinct species. The Madagascar green pigeon is a fairly small bird with a length of around 27 cm.
It is mostly olive green in color, with a darker green back and yellowish-green underparts. The wings are grayish-brown and the tail is black. The head is darker than the body, and the bill is pinkish-red.
The Madagascar green pigeon is primarily a seed-eater, but it also eats small insects. The Madagascar green pigeon is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and savannahs.
It prefers open areas with trees and shrubs, and will often forage in gardens or agricultural fields.
It is usually seen in pairs or small groups and is a shy and wary bird. The Madagascar green pigeon is listed as a species of least concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Although it is fairly common in its range, its population is declining due to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts are needed to protect this species and ensure its continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Treron |
| Species | T. australis |
17. Madagascar Plover
The Madagascar plover is a species of small shorebird that is native to western Madagascar. It is also known as the black-banded plover and is part of the family Charadriidae.
This species of plover can be found inhabiting the shores of lagoons, coastal grasslands, and salt marshes. Breeding usually takes place in salt marshes, however, they tend to nest in open grasslands and dry mudflats that are located around alkaline lakes.
The Madagascar plover is a monogamous species, meaning that they will mate with the same partner for life, and usually raise their offspring together.
This species of plover is an important part of the Madagascar ecosystem, as they help to keep the shoreline and wetlands healthy and clean.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Charadrius |
| Species | C. thoracicus |
18. Sickle-billed Vanga
The sickle-billed vanga is a unique species of bird that belongs to the vanga family, which is found only in Madagascar. It is the only species in the genus Falculea and is endemic to Madagascar, meaning it is not found anywhere else in the world.
This bird is usually spotted in tropical dry forests and shrublands, as these are its natural habitats. It has a distinctively shaped bill that is curved like a sickle, hence its name. The sickle-billed vanga is a medium-sized bird with black and blue plumage.
It lives in groups and is usually found perched on tree branches in its natural habitat. This species is omnivorous and feeds on insects, fruits, and small vertebrates. It is a shy and timid bird that is rarely seen in the wild.
Unfortunately, due to the destruction of its natural habitats, the population of the sickle-billed vanga has been in decline. Conservation efforts are being put in place to protect this species from extinction.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Vangidae |
| Genus | Falculea |
| Species | F. palliata |
19. Madagascar Magpie-robin
The Madagascar magpie-robin is an ornithological species found only on the island of Madagascar. It is a member of the Old World flycatcher family, Muscicapidae, and is classified as a chat.
The Madagascar magpie-robin is a small bird with a black head, white throat and breast, and a greyish-brown back. Its wings are black with white spots, and its tail has black and white stripes.
The Madagascar magpie-robin is a highly social bird, often seen in small groups of up to six individuals. It feeds on invertebrates, such as insects and spiders, which it captures from the ground or in low shrubs.
It sings a melodic song with a variety of whistles and trills and is considered a common species throughout Madagascar. The species is currently not threatened, but its population is declining due to habitat destruction and degradation.
Conservation efforts are needed to protect the Madagascar magpie-robin and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Muscicapidae |
| Genus | Copsychus |
| Species | C. albospecularis |
20. Collared Nightjar
The collared nightjar is a species of nightjar that belongs to the Caprimulgidae family. This species is only found in Madagascar, which is an island off the east coast of Africa.
Its natural habitats are in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical mangrove forests.
These forests have warm temperatures with plenty of humidity, which is ideal for the collared nightjar. The collared nightjar is a small bird with a black and white patterned body, a white face, and a white collar around its neck.
Its wings are gray with black spots and its tail is long and black. Its feet are yellow and it has a long, thin beak, which it uses to catch insects while it is flying.
The collared nightjar is an active bird, hunting for food during the night and resting during the day. The collared nightjar plays an important role in its ecosystem, helping to control insect populations and provide food for other animals.
It is also an important species for conservation, as it is endemic to Madagascar and is threatened by habitat loss. As a result, conservation efforts are being made to ensure that this species is not lost and can continue to thrive in its natural environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Gactornis |
| Species | G. enarratus |
21. Pitta-like Ground Roller
The pitta-like ground roller is a type of bird that is part of the Brachypteraciidae family. It is only found in Madagascar and is the only species of its kind, meaning that it has no subspecies. This species was first identified in 1834 by Frédéric de Lafresnaye.
It has a unique appearance that is similar to a pitta, hence the name. The species is a medium-sized, brown bird with a white throat and a black bill.
It is usually seen flying low to the ground, and it is also known for its loud, harsh call. This ground roller has an important role in the ecosystem of Madagascar. It is a predator that feeds on a range of insects, including grasshoppers, beetles, and moths.
This helps keep the population of these insects in balance, which in turn helps maintain a healthy environment.
Additionally, the ground roller is an important food source for other animals such as owls and hawks. The ground roller is endangered due to habitat destruction and fragmentation. This species is also threatened by hunting and capture for the pet trade.
Because of its unique beauty and rarity, it is highly sought after by collectors.
Conservation efforts are in place to protect this species, and its population is slowly increasing. Overall, the pitta-like ground roller is a unique species that is endemic to Madagascar and is important for the environment.
It faces a great deal of threat and is in need of protection. Fortunately, there are conservation efforts in place to ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Brachypteraciidae |
| Genus | Atelornis |
| Species | A. pittoides |
22. Madagascar Scops Owl
The Madagascar scops owl is a species of owl in the family Strigidae. It is found throughout the island nation of Madagascar, and until recently, was classified separately from the Torotoroka scops owl.
Recently, though, researchers have determined that the two species are actually the same, and so the Madagascar scops owl is now classified as a single species.
This means that the Madagascar scops owl can be found in various habitats throughout Madagascar, including rainforests. The species is typically grayish-brown in color and is relatively small, with a wingspan of approximately 25 centimeters.
Its diet consists mainly of insects, though it is also known to hunt small rodents. It breeds during the rainy season, typically laying a clutch of two to three eggs in a nest made in a tree hollow.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Strigidae |
| Genus | Otus |
| Species | O. rutilus |
23. Red-fronted Coua
The red-fronted coua is a type of bird found only in Madagascar. It belongs to the family of birds known as Cuculidae, which includes cuckoos. These birds are often found in tropical and subtropical lowland forests, which are areas that are moist and have dense vegetation.
They are well adapted to this environment, as they can use the trees to roost, build nests, and find food. The red-fronted coua is a beautiful bird that has a bright red forehead and a grey body.
They are mainly found in the western part of the island, but can also be seen in other areas of Madagascar. They feed mainly on insects, but will also eat fruits and seeds.
They are an important part of the local ecosystem, as they help to control insect populations and disperse the seeds of plants.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Coua |
| Species | C. reynaudii |
24. Madagascar Pygmy Kingfisher
The Madagascar pygmy kingfisher is a unique species of bird that is found exclusively on the African island of Madagascar. It is a member of the family Alcedinidae, which consists of small, brightly-colored kingfishers.
The Madagascar pygmy kingfisher is particularly small, with an average length of just 8 inches. This species of bird is endemic to Madagascar, meaning that it is not found anywhere else in the world.
It is typically found in the dry deciduous forests of western Madagascar, where it spends most of its time foraging for food in the trees. The pygmy kingfisher has a predominantly green body with a bright blue face and a reddish-orange beak.
This species has become increasingly threatened due to the destruction of these forests, making it an important species to protect and conserve.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Genus | Corythornis |
| Species | C. madagascariensis |
Conclusion
Birds are an important part of the environment in Antananarivo, providing a source of food, entertainment, and beauty for the local people. They play a vital role in the city’s ecosystem, and their presence is an important part of the city’s culture.
While the number of birds in Antananarivo is declining due to habitat loss and poaching, conservation efforts are underway to protect them and ensure they remain a part of the city’s landscape for years to come.