Antigua and Barbuda is an island nation in the Caribbean Sea, located east of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The country is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters, but it is also home to an amazing array of birds.
From colorful parrots to majestic frigate birds, Antigua and Barbuda is home to a rich variety of avian species. These birds are a source of joy for locals and visitors alike, and provide an important role in the local ecosystem.
This article will take a closer look at some of the unique birds that can be found in Antigua and Barbuda.
1. Barbuda Warbler
The Barbuda warbler is an amazing species of bird that can only be found on the island of Barbuda in Antigua and Barbuda.
It inhabits tropical dry shrubland near wetland areas, but its natural habitat has been threatened by human-induced changes to the environment such as deforestation and urbanization.
The warbler was once thought to be a subspecies of the Adelaide’s warbler before being recognized as its own distinct species.
Sadly, Hurricane Irma caused severe damage to their habitats in 2017 putting them at risk for extinction if conservation efforts are not taken soon enough.
Despite this unfortunate event, they still remain resilient survivors who continue to fight against all odds for survival.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. subita |
2. Venezuelan Troupial
The Venezuelan troupial (Icterus icterus) is Venezuela’s national bird and can be found in Colombia, Venezuela and some Caribbean islands such as Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, Trinidad and Puerto Rico.
It was previously part of a superspecies known simply as the troupial with the orange-backed troupial and Campo troupial but has since been split off.
The name ‘troupial’ comes from French ‘toupiare’, which means “troop” due to their tendency to gather in flocks outside of breeding season.
They are medium sized birds with males being slightly larger than females – both have black bodies that contrast against a bright yellow head or crest.
Their wingspan averages at around 35cm long making them quite agile flyers when they migrate each year between November to April for warmer climates.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Icterus |
| Species | I. icterus |
3. Tyrant Flycatchers
Tyrant flycatchers are a family of birds found in North and South America, containing over 400 species. These birds come in an array of shapes and sizes, with vibrant plumage to match.
They�re the most diverse avian family across all countries they inhabit except for the United States and Canada.
Their diet consists mainly of insects but also includes small reptiles or amphibians where available.
The behavior varies between each bird; some prefer open areas while others like dense forests as their habitat � many even migrate regularly.
Tyrant Flycatchers have adapted well to human presence thanks to the abundance of food sources that often accompany it � such as backyards, parks etc..
All things considered these incredible creatures are truly amazing.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Parvorder | Tyrannida |
| Family | Tyrannidae Vigors, 1825 |
4. 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 |
5. Antillean Euphonia
The Antillean euphonia is a colorful and beautiful bird species found across the Lesser Antilles, Hispaniola (Dominican Republic and Haiti) and Puerto Rico.
It belongs to Fringillidae family of finches. This small songbird has strong yellow feathers on its head with blue-green upperparts while they have bright orange breasts and bellies.
Their wings are blackish with white tips, giving them an attractive look when flying in flocks through woodlands or forest edges.
They inhabit subtropical or tropical dry forests as well as moist lowland forests including degraded former ones too.
The populations of this species are declining due to deforestation but still remain common throughout their range if habitats can be preserved for their long term future survival.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Subfamily | Euphoniinae |
| Genus | Chlorophonia |
| Species | C. musica |
6. Grebes
Grebes are a type of diving bird found in freshwater habitats around the world. They belong to the order Podicipediformes and have 22 species that exist across six genera.
Some species can also be found in marine environments during their migration or winter season, and some even live flightless lives on stable lakes.
Grebes vary greatly between regions; for example, they range from 4-32 inches long with anywhere from 8-30 ounces of weight depending on which species it is.
Their plumage may be black, browns/grays or whites but usually consist of bright colors such as yellows, blues and greens while underwater they use these feathers to help them streamline through the water quickly.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Neoaves |
| Clade | Mirandornithes |
| Order | Podicipediformes Fürbringer, 1888 |
| Family | Podicipedidae Bonaparte, 1831 |
7. Threskiornithidae
Threskiornithidae is a family of large wading birds which includes 36 species. These birds are traditionally divided into two subfamilies – the ibises and the spoonbills.
However, recent genetic analysis has shown that spoonbills actually belong to Old World ibis group, while New World ibises form an early offshoot from this lineage.
Threskiornithidse members have long curved beaks with serrated edges used for catching fish in shallow water or mudflats, as well as other aquatic invertebrates like crustaceans and mollusks.
They also feed on plant matter such as grains and seeds found close to wetlands areas where they live.
This diverse diet makes them important scavengers in their ecosystems, helping maintain healthy populations of native wildlife by controlling insect numbers and dispersing energy-rich seeds throughout wetland habitats.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Suborder | Ardei |
| Family | Threskiornithidae Richmond, 1917 |
8. Mimid
Mimid birds are a diverse family of passerines found in the New World. They have an impressive vocal range and many species excel at mimicking other bird songs, as well as noises from their environment.
Mimids can be identified by their flat heads with short crest feathers, long tails, large eyes and strong legs for hopping between branches.
These birds typically inhabit open woodlands or scrubland areas where they feed on insects such as beetles, caterpillars and grasshoppers.
Some species also supplement their diet with fruits or grains when available. While most do not migrate far during winter months some may undertake longer migrations to warmer climates if necessary to survive cold weather spells.
The wide variety of sounds these talented singers produce make them one of nature’s great musical performers.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Muscicapoidea |
| Family | Mimidae Bonaparte, 1853 |
9. Tanagers
The Tanagers are a beautiful and diverse family of birds native to the Neotropical region. They boast an impressive array of colors, including blues, greens, yellows and reds.
The most common type is the fruit-eating tanager that can be found in tropical forests across Latin America. With nearly 240 species worldwide, they represent almost 4% of all avian species.
These vibrant birds have adapted well to their environment due to their strong bills used for cracking open hard fruits as well as sharp claws for gripping branches while feeding or perching.
As with many other bird families there is natural variation among populations making each one unique in its own way; something that makes them even more special.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Emberizoidea |
| Family | Thraupidae Cabanis, 1847 |
10. Plovers
Plovers are a family of around 64-68 species of ground-dwelling birds, commonly found in open country such as fields, meadows and tundras.
They have short bills with webbed feet to help them forage through mud or shallow water.
Plover plumage is usually mottled brown though some species may have brighter colors on the head and wings.
These birds feed mainly on insects but can also eat small crustaceans and worms.
Plovers breed during springtime when they dig holes in sandy or pebbled beaches to lay their eggs which hatch after about 3 weeks incubation period.
They use distraction display behaviour by pretending an injury to the predators away from their nests if needed for protecting their young ones.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae Leach, 1820 |
11. West Indian Whistling Duck
The West Indian whistling duck is a beautiful species of bird native to the Caribbean. This duck has an unmistakable call, as its name implies it can whistle.
It also has black bill and legs with grey-brown feathers that help camouflage it in its environment.
The primary breeding range of this species includes the Bahamas, Cuba, Cayman Islands, Antigua and Barbuda Jamaica, Hispaniola and Puerto Rico where they live mainly in shallow freshwater wetlands such as ponds or swamps.
Besides their distinctive whistles these birds are able to communicate through various other calls including grunts , honks and quacks.
They feed on aquatic plants but may occasionally eat small invertebrates like insects too.
Despite being hunted for food by humans these ducks still remain widespread throughout their habitats due to successful conservation efforts put into place over recent years making them a symbol of hope for many wildlife enthusiasts around the world today.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Dendrocygna |
| Species | D. arborea |
12. Carib Grackle
The Carib grackle is a tropical blackbird found in the Lesser Antilles and northern South America. It has eight subspecies, with the most widespread being Q. l. lugubris which can be found on Trinidad and much of mainland South America.
This particular subspecies was introduced to Puerto Rico during the 19th century where it now thrives due to its adaptability and tolerance towards human activity such as living near grazing animals or around farms.
Its diet consists mainly of small invertebrates, fruits, seeds and grains – all readily available in populated areas making it ideal for urban environments too.
They are also known for their beautiful songs used by males during breeding season to attract females but unfortunately this doesn’t last long as they generally only mate once throughout life before moving onto find another partner shortly after nesting season ends.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Quiscalus |
| Species | Q. lugubris |
13. Caribbean Elaenia
The Caribbean elaenia is a species of small bird that can be found in the West Indies and parts of Central America.
It is part of the Tyrannidae family and inhabits tropical dry broadleaf forests, subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, as well as heavily degraded former forest areas.
In 1760, French zoologist Mathurin Jacques Brisson provided an extensive description on this species which has helped us gain further knowledge about it today.
The Caribbean elaenia typically measures around 6-9 inches long with predominantly olive green feathers with yellowish edges to some wings and tails.
They have white throats but lack any distinctive markings on their chest unlike many other birds from its family.
This bird feeds primarily on insects such as grasshoppers collected from trees or bushes while also consuming fruit when available during certain times of year.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Elaenia |
| Species | E. martinica |
14. Skuas
Skuas are a group of predatory seabirds with seven species, all belonging to the genus Stercorarius.
They are also known as “Jaegers” in North America and their name originates from the Faroese word for Great Skua – skúgvur.
These birds typically inhabit coastal areas or open oceans where they feed on fish, krill and other marine creatures.
Skuas can be distinguished by their pointed wings which help them fly long distances while hunting food.
Their distinctive colouration varies depending on age and habitat but generally includes greyish brown upperparts and white underparts with black streaks along its belly area.
The overall size ranges from 24-40 cm making these one of the larger sea bird species.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Suborder | Lari |
| Family | Stercorariidae Gray, 1871 |
| Genus | Stercorarius Brisson, 1760 |
15. Green-Throated Carib
The Green-throated Carib is a species of hummingbird found in Puerto Rico and most of the Lesser Antilles. It was described by Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus in 1758.
The bird has distinctive green throat feathers, with iridescent blue on its back and wings. Its tail feathers are blackish brown at the base and white towards the tip, forming two distinct bands across their length.
This beautiful creature usually feeds on nectar from flowers or small insects such as spiders, bees and ants that it catches while flying through foliage.
Despite being fairly common throughout its range, this delightful little bird faces some threats due to habitat loss caused by human activity like agriculture or development projects taking place in areas where they live naturally.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Eulampis |
| Species | E. holosericeus |
16. Purple-Throated Carib
The Purple-throated Carib is a species of hummingbird found in the Lesser Antilles islands. It has stunning purple feathers along its throat, making it quite easy to identify amongst other birds.
This bird is usually seen alone or in pairs and can be found near forests and gardens where they feed on nectar from flowers.
The Purple-throated Carib also feeds on insects which helps keep insect populations under control around their habitat areas.
They are known as strong fliers that have been spotted both north and south of the Caribbean Islands showing just how far this resilient species can travel.
Overall, this vibrant little bird adds beautiful colour to any garden with its mesmerising plumage while providing an essential service at controlling bug numbers too.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Eulampis |
| Species | E. jugularis |
17. Red-Billed Tropicbird
The Red-billed Tropicbird is a beautiful seabird found in tropical oceans. It has mainly white plumage, with black markings on its wings and back, along with a black mask and red bill.
These birds have distinctive long tail streamers that are twice their body length which they use to help them soar above the ocean surface while searching for food.
They primarily feed off squid, fish and crustaceans that inhabit coral reefs or deep sea areas where they can dive up to 30 meters below the water’s surface.
The Red-billed Tropicbird was once thought of as an omen of bad luck but now it serves as a reminder of how delicate our marine ecosystems are when faced with human activity such as overfishing.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phaethontiformes |
| Family | Phaethontidae |
| Genus | Phaethon |
| Species | P. aethereus |
18. Pearly-Eyed Thrasher
The Pearly-eyed Thrush is a unique and beautiful bird native to the Caribbean islands. It has stunning pearly eyes, with white patches on its wings and tail.
This thrasher measures up to 28-30 cm in length, making it the largest species of Mimidae family found in this area.
With an isolated subspecies living on Bonaire island, these birds have adapted well to their environment over time.
They feed mainly on insects found around them, but will also eat fruits or berries when available for extra nourishment.
These birds are often seen singing together as part of group displays at dawn or dusk – one more reason why they are so special.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Margarops P.L. Sclater, 1859 |
| Species | M. fuscatus |
19. Bridled Quail-Dove
The Bridled Quail-Dove is a species of bird in the Columbidae family, found from Saint Lucia to Puerto Rico. It is monotypic, and it has been suggested that it forms a superspecies with Key West Quail-Doves.
Its mean weight varies between islands; generally being quite small at 93–128 g (3.3–4.5 oz).
They have distinctly barred heads and greyish white underparts with some dark barring on their backs, wings and tails – giving them an overall ‘bridled’ look for which they are named after.
In addition to this striking appearance they make deep cooing sounds whilst perched or hunting for food on the ground – particularly during breeding season when males compete against each other by singing different variations of their call simultaneously.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Geotrygon |
| Species | G. mystacea |
20. Brown Trembler
The Brown Trembler (Cinclocerthia Ruficauda) is a species of bird in the Mimidae family, which includes mockingbirds and thrashers. It can be found on seven Caribbean islands: Saba, St.
Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, Dominica and St. Vincent. This bird has an olive-brown back with white underparts and unique tail feathers that quiver when perched or flying low over vegetation – hence its name.
The International Ornithological Committee recognizes nine subspecies due to slight variations between each island population; however further research is needed as some taxonomists believe there are more distinct populations within this species’ range.
Despite limited information about their ecology we do know they primarily feed on fruit from shrubs such as lignum vitae trees while foraging near ground level among tall grasses in open areas like pastures or coastal scrubland habitats.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Cinclocerthia |
| Species | C. ruficauda |
21. Scaly-Breasted Thrasher
The Scaly-breasted Thrasher is a species of bird in the family Mimidae, found throughout much of the Lesser Antilles.
It has five subspecies and is approximately 23 cm long with greyish brown upperparts and black wings marked with white spots.
Its underparts are reddish orange to yellow buff, finely scaled or scalloped with darker edges, giving it its name.
This thrasher feeds mainly on insects but also eats fruits and berries as well as small lizards.
The male performs elaborate courtship displays which include soaring flights high into the air followed by singing from perches at the tops of trees or shrubs during breeding season between February – May period each year .
It typically nests low down in thickets near water sources such as rivers or streams using twigs bound together with spider web silk for nesting material , laying 2 to 3 eggs at one time.
The Scaly-breasted Thrashers are overall common birds that inhabit various habitats including mangroves, rainforests and dry scrublands across their range making them an important part of local ecosystems within their range.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Allenia Cory, 1891 |
| Species | A. fusca |
22. Black-Faced Grassquit
The Black-faced grassquit is a small bird belonging to the tanager family, genetically related to Darwin’s finches. It breeds mainly in the West Indies and along certain parts of Colombia and Venezuela.
The Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus first formally described it back in 1766 as part of his twelfth edition work on species classification.
This type of bird has a black head with white spots around its eyes, grey wings and tail feathers; its body is brownish orange or yellow with darker shades towards the belly area.
Its diet consists mostly of seeds from grasses but may also include other insects for additional nutrition during breeding season.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Thraupidae |
| Genus | Melanospiza |
| Species | M. bicolor |
23. Guadeloupe Woodpecker
The Guadeloupe woodpecker, also known as Tapeur, is a species of bird found only in the Lesser Antilles.
It has an entirely black plumage with red to purple reflections on its stomach that make it stand out from other birds.
This medium-sized forest woodpecker lives primarily in tropical rainforest areas and feeds mainly on insects like ants and beetles but will occasionally eat fruit or nectar too.
The male is slightly larger than the female and can be distinguished by its longer bill which helps them forage more efficiently.
They build their nests at moderate heights inside cavities created in dead trees or branches using mud, mosses, lichens and feathers for insulation purposes.
All these features makes this unique bird a valuable part of our ecosystem.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Melanerpes |
| Species | M. herminieri |
Also Featured In: Native Birds Of Guadeloupe Island,
24. Zenaida Dove
The Zenaida dove is a species of doves and pigeons found mainly in the Caribbean, but also parts of Mexico, Central America and South America.
With its distinct dark coloring, short rounded tail and an average length of 28-30 cm (11-12 inches), it stands out from other bird families.
It’s recognized as the national bird for Anguilla where locals refer to it as ‘turtle dove’. They are seen flying around open grasslands or roosting on tree branches close by populated areas.
These birds feed mostly on seeds that they pick off the ground while walking through fields.
The Zenaida Dove breeds all year round producing two broods during spring and summer months with both male and female taking turns incubating eggs over a span of 14 days before hatching into chicks.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Zenaida |
| Species | Z. aurita |
25. Scaly-Naped Pigeon
The scaly-naped pigeon is a large bird belonging to the family Columbidae. It has slate grey plumage with maroon coloured feathers around its neck, giving it the common name of red-necked pigeon.
The species originates from throughout the Caribbean and can reach 14–16 inches in length.
Its scientific name is derived from its unique feature: small scales on its nape which form an attractive pattern when viewed up close.
This makes them easily distinguishable from other birds within their range as they are one of few that have this characteristic.
They feed mainly on fruit but also consume seeds, insects and even carrion depending on availability at any given time of year or location.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Patagioenas |
| Species | P. squamosa |
26. Lesser Antillean Flycatcher
The Lesser Antillean flycatcher is a species of bird found in the Caribbean region. It belongs to the family Tyrannidae and inhabits subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
This small songbird has long wings, rounded heads, and short bills with distinct dark markings on its upperparts. Its diet consists mostly of insects which it catches by flying around branches and foliage looking for prey.
The Lesser Antillean flycatcher also builds its nest near tree trunks using twigs, leaves, feathers, grasses and bark strips as materials for construction.
Despite being widely distributed across several islands in the Caribbean Sea this species is considered vulnerable due largely to habitat destruction caused by human activities such as logging and urbanization throughout their range area.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Myiarchus |
| Species | M. oberi |
27. Black-Whiskered Vireo
The black-whiskered vireo is a small passerine bird, found in the southern United States, West Indies and northern South America.
It breeds mainly in open deciduous wooded areas but has been known to be an occasional vagrant to Costa Rica.
This species migrates partially north during its winter season from Greater Antilles up towards northern parts of South America.
The male can easily be identified by his distinctive black whiskers on either side of its face while females are generally duller with white streaks along their wings and back.
They make nests at mid tree levels usually out of twigs, grasses or strips of bark which they line with finer materials like feathers or fur for insulation purposes.
All in all these birds are delightful additions to any habitat where they inhabit.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Vireonidae |
| Genus | Vireo |
| Species | V. altiloquus |
28. Lesser Antillean Bullfinch
The Lesser Antillean Bullfinch is a species of bird found throughout the Caribbean islands. It has greenish-brown feathers, white cheeks and wings with black spots, and red-orange legs.
Its natural habitats include forests, mangroves and shrublands. This small finch feeds mainly on fruits but also eats insects such as caterpillars and moths in addition to nectar from flowers.
They are often seen foraging near flowering trees during the breeding season when they build nests made out of grasses or plant fibers lined with soft downy feathers for their young ones to rest in comfortably.
These birds have adapted well to human presence so can be easily spotted around gardens within cities where they come looking for food scraps left by people.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Thraupidae |
| Genus | Loxigilla |
| Species | L. noctis |
29. White-Crowned Pigeon
The White-crowned Pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the Columbidae family, widely found in the Caribbean. In the first half of the 18th century it was described as such.
This pigeon has been immortalized by artist John James Audubon through his watercolor painting featured in Birds of America published during early 19th century.
These birds primarily feed on fruits and seeds and have white crowns that make them easily recognizable even from afar.
The beauty of these birds makes them popular amongst birdwatchers all over the world who flock to observe their behavior while they eat or nest.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Patagioenas |
| Species | P. leucocephala |
30. Gray Kingbird
The Gray Kingbird is a species of tyrant flycatcher found in tall trees and shrubs, including the edges of savannas and marshes. It has gray feathers on its back with white underparts and blackish wings.
Its head is dark gray-brown or olive, while its tail is tipped with white. The Gray Kingbird builds flimsy cup nests from twigs in tree branches for their eggs to incubate safely until they hatch into chicks.
They feed mainly on insects such as moths, grasshoppers, beetles, crickets and caterpillars that can be caught midair when it swoops down from above like other kingbirds do.
This bird’s call consists of loud chirps which are often heard during mating season – making them an easily identifiable species within areas where they live.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Tyrannus |
| Species | T. dominicensis |
31. Stilt Sandpiper
The Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) is a small shorebird with ancient Greek origins. It has grey-coloured feathers, and its scientific name is derived from the terms “strap foot” or “thong foot”.
This bird bears some resemblance to smaller calidrid sandpipers, also known as ‘stints’. Through recent DNA sequence information, it was found that this species of birds are closely related to other wading shorebirds such as curlews and godwits.
They can usually be seen along the edges of rivers and creeks in shallow waters where they feed on aquatic insects like beetles, flies, mayflies etc., which makes them an important part of their ecosystem’s food chain.
The stilt sandpiper population appears to have been stable over time but further research needs to be done in order for us to understand more about this unique species.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Calidris |
| Species | C. himantopus |
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 |
33. Caribbean Martin
The Caribbean martin is a large swallow that can be found throughout the Caribbean, except on Cuba and Isla de la Juventud.
It has at various times been thought to be related to the purple martin but more recently it has been recognised as its own species – Progne dominicensis.
This species is closely related to both the Cuban martin (P. cryptoleuca) and South American martins (S. chirica).
The adult birds have predominantly white underparts with grey-brown upper parts and black wings.
Their tail feathers are forked in shape making them very distinctive when flying through their habitats of open woodlands, savannas or mangroves near bodies of water such as lakes or rivers where they feed mainly on insects like dragonflies or termites.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Progne |
| Species | P. dominicensis |
