Baghdad is home to a wide variety of birds, from small passerines to large waterfowl. These birds come from all over the world and can be seen in the city’s parks, gardens, and other public spaces.
Many of these birds are migratory, coming to the city in the winter months and leaving in the spring. Others are permanent residents, providing a delightful display of color and activity during the warmer months.
Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or just an admirer of nature, the Birds of Baghdad offer something for everyone.
1. Mallard
The mallard or wild duck is a species of duck that is found in many areas around the world. It is a dabbling duck, meaning that it feeds on the surface of the water, rather than diving underwater for food.
This species is native to temperate and subtropical regions of the Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa. It has also been introduced to other areas, such as New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa.
The mallard is a very adaptable species and is able to thrive in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, rivers, and lakes. In addition to its ability to live in different habitats, the mallard is also capable of breeding in both temperate and subtropical areas.
This allows it to take advantage of diverse food sources and environmental conditions. The mallard is a popular game bird, so it is often hunted by humans. It is also kept as a pet in some areas, and can even be used to control the insect population in some areas.
Despite the fact that it is hunted, the mallard is still a common species and is not endangered. The mallard is an important part of many ecosystems around the world, providing food and shelter for other species.
Not only does it provide food, but it also helps to regulate the insect population, which can be beneficial to other species. Its presence in so many areas around the world is a testament to its adaptability and resilience.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. platyrhynchos |
2. Eurasian Wigeon
The Eurasian wigeon is a species of dabbling duck that is part of the genus Mareca. It is also known as the European wigeon, widgeon, or simply the wigeon.
This species is native to the Palearctic region which stretches from Europe to Asia, and it is quite common and widespread throughout its range. The Eurasian wigeon is a medium-sized duck, and it is easily recognizable due to its distinctive plumage.
It has a brown head with a white line near the bill, and its wings are grey-brown with white stripes near the tips. Its body is mainly white with a brownish-grey back.
This species feeds on aquatic plants and invertebrates, which it obtains by dabbling or upending in shallow water. The Eurasian wigeon is a sociable species, and it is often seen in large flocks.
During the breeding season, males become very territorial and will aggressively defend their nesting sites. The female will lay up to eight eggs in a nest that is usually situated near water.
The eggs usually hatch after about three weeks, and the young ducklings will soon follow their mother to the water. In conclusion, the Eurasian wigeon is a species of dabbling duck that is native to the Palearctic region.
It is easily recognizable due to its distinctive plumage, and it is often seen in large flocks. During the breeding season, males become very territorial and will aggressively defend their nesting sites.
This species plays an important role in the local ecosystem, and it is important that we all do our part to ensure its continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. penelope |
3. Gadwall
The gadwall is a type of dabbling duck that belongs to the family Anatidae. Anatidae is a large family of waterfowl that includes ducks, geese, and swans. The gadwall is a common bird found throughout the world and is widespread in many habitats.
It typically inhabits wetlands, such as marshes, ponds, lakes, and rivers. It is also found in estuaries, bogs, and grasslands. The gadwall is a medium-sized duck, measuring between 17 and 20 inches in length and weighing 1 to 2 pounds.
It has a grayish-brown body, a white belly, and a light-gray head. The wings are grayish-black with white patches, and the tail and rump are brownish-black.
The male gadwall has a black bill and a blackish-green head, while the female has a mottled gray bill and a yellowish-brown head. The gadwall is an omnivorous bird that feeds on aquatic plants, insects, and small fish.
It prefers to feed in shallow waters, but will also feed on land. It will forage by dabbling in shallow water, tipping up to reach plants, and grazing on land. The gadwall is a social bird that breeds in large colonies.
It typically nests in shallow water, on the ground, or on floating vegetation. The female gadwall lays between 6 and 12 eggs and incubates them for about 25 days. The young gadwall will stay with its parents for about two months before they fledge.
The gadwall is an important species for conservation, as it is a keystone species in many wetland ecosystems. It is also hunted for its meat, feathers, and eggs. The population of the gadwall is stable, but it is still vulnerable to disturbance and habitat degradation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. strepera |
4. Northern Pintail
The pintail, also known as the northern pintail, is a species of duck that is found across a wide geographical area. It breeds in the northern regions of Europe and across the Palearctic and North American regions.
This species is migratory, and during the winter months, it can be found in areas south of its breeding range, all the way down to the equator.
The pintail is a highly adaptable species and can survive in a variety of habitats, from wetlands and estuaries to cultivated fields and even urban areas. It feeds on a variety of items, such as aquatic insects, crustaceans, mollusks, seeds, and even small fish.
This species is also an important source of food for other animals, including fish, frogs, and birds of prey.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. acuta |
5. Ruddy Shelduck
The ruddy shelduck, also known as the Brahminy duck, is a species of waterfowl that belongs to the Anatidae family. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring between 58 cm and 70 cm in length, and having a wingspan of 110 cm to 135 cm.
It is easily recognizable due to its reddish-brown plumage, which sets it apart from other species of ducks. It has a black head with a white cheek patch and a white ring around its neck.
The head, neck, and breast of the male are all reddish-brown, while the female has a more mottled appearance. The ruddy shelduck is mainly found in South and Central Asia, where it inhabits wetlands, marshes, and lakes.
It feeds on vegetation, insects, molluscs and small crustaceans. It is a gregarious species and can often be seen in flocks.
The ruddy shelduck is an important part of the ecology of the region, providing a food source for predators and helping to maintain the balance of the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Tadorna |
| Species | T. ferruginea |
6. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck is a species of duck that is native to Eurasia and is recognizable by its unique orange-brown color. It is also known by a variety of names, including ferruginous pochard, common white-eye, and white-eyed pochard.
This species of duck typically grows to be a medium size and is a diving duck.
It is believed that the scientific name for this species of duck is derived from Greek origins, with the word “aithuia” being an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle, and the word “nyrok” coming from the Russian name for a duck.
This species of duck is relatively common in its native habitat, and is considered to be a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
7. Rock Dove
The rock dove, rock pigeon, or common pigeon is a species of bird that belongs to the family Columbidae. It is commonly referred to simply as the “pigeon” by most people.
This particular species of bird is the ancestor of the domestic pigeon, which is a popular species of bird kept by people as pets or for racing. Due to the escape of these domestic pigeons, their populations have grown significantly in the wild.
This has resulted in robust populations of feral pigeons in many locations around the world. These feral pigeons are similar to their domestic counterparts in many ways. They look almost the same, have the same coloration, and share many of the same behaviors.
However, feral pigeons are usually more skittish and wary of humans than their domestic counterparts and are not as easily tamed. They can often be seen in urban areas, where they look for food and build nests in places like window ledges, rooftops, and other high areas.
They are also incredibly adaptable to their environment, making them a very successful species of bird.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
8. Little Egret
The little egret is an elegant, white bird belonging to the Ardeidae family of small herons. It has a long, slender black beak, as well as long black legs and, in the western race, distinctive yellow feet.
This bird is an aquatic creature, and it can be seen foraging in shallow water and on land for a variety of small creatures, such as fish, insects, frogs, and crustaceans.
Its long legs and neck help it to wade into the water for food, and it can also be seen on the shoreline, searching for prey. Its diet consists of a wide range of small creatures, making it an important part of the food chain in its environment.
The little egret is a beautiful bird, and it is an important part of its ecosystem, providing both beauty and balance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. garzetta |
9. Eurasian Collared Dove
The Eurasian collared dove is a species of dove that is native to Europe and Asia. This species has a wide range and is known for its ability to adapt to various environments.
It has been introduced to other parts of the world, such as Japan, North America, and various islands in the Caribbean. The Eurasian collared dove is a medium-sized bird, approximately 30-35 cm in length, with a wingspan of 40-50 cm.
Its plumage is generally grayish-brown in color, with a distinctive white collar and black half-collar on the back of its neck. The dove is typically found in open woodlands, agricultural areas, parks, and gardens.
It is capable of surviving in a wide range of habitats, from arid deserts to densely vegetated mountainsides, and is even capable of living in urban areas. This species is highly adaptable and is known to thrive in human-altered landscapes.
It is known to feed on grains, seeds, fruits, and insects. The Eurasian collared dove is considered an important species in many parts of the world, as it helps to maintain local ecosystems by providing food sources for other species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. decaocto |
10. Common Shelduck
The common shelduck is a species of waterfowl belonging to the Tadorna genus. It is a widely distributed species found in the Euro-Siberian region of the Palearctic, which covers most of Europe and northern Asia.
Its breeding season takes place in temperate regions while its wintering grounds are in subtropical areas. During the winter, the common shelduck can also be encountered in the Maghreb region, an area spanning from Morocco to Tunisia.
The common shelduck is a relatively common species, having a large population size, and can be found in habitats such as wetlands, marshes, estuaries, and coastal lagoons.
It feeds on crustaceans, insects, molluscs, aquatic plants, and seeds found in shallow waters, and can be seen in pairs or small groups.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Tadorna |
| Species | T. tadorna |
11. Greater White-fronted Goose
The greater white-fronted goose is a species of goose that is closely related to the lesser white-fronted goose. It is named due to the patch of white feathers that border the base of its bill, which is the reason for its Latin name, albifrons, which means “white forehead”.
This type of goose is found in the northern hemisphere and during the winter months, they migrate south to find more suitable habitats. They generally inhabit open tundra, marshes, and grasslands and feed mainly on vegetation such as grasses, grains, and aquatic plants.
They are also known to feed on insects, mollusks, and crustaceans. These geese are known to form large flocks during the winter months and can often be seen in large numbers flying in formation over large bodies of water.
They are a popular game bird and have become an iconic symbol of the northern wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anser |
| Species | A. albifrons |
12. Common Sandpiper
The common sandpiper is a small wading bird that is found in the Palearctic region. It belongs to the genus Actitis, which also includes the American spotted sandpiper. The two species are parapatric, meaning that they are geographically separated but their ranges may overlap.
This may lead to situations in which stray birds of either species will find themselves in the territory of the other species, and in some cases, they will pair up and hybridize.
Hybridization between the two species is not uncommon, although it is not clear to what extent it affects the populations of either species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Actitis |
| Species | A. hypoleucos |
13. Purple Heron
The Purple Heron is a species of heron that is found in many different parts of the world. It can be found in the African continent, parts of Europe, and certain areas of the Palearctic.
The Purple Heron is a wide-ranging species that is capable of surviving in various different climates and habitats. In Africa, the Purple Heron is found in many different areas including parts of the Sahara Desert, the savannas, and tropical forests.
In Europe, it is found in parts of central and southern Europe, such as Spain, Portugal, France, and Italy. In the Palearctic, it is found in areas in the south and east, including parts of Russia, Mongolia, and China.
The Purple Heron is an adaptable species that is capable of breeding in such diverse and widely dispersed areas. In the places where it breeds, it is usually found around wetlands and marshes, where it can find a plentiful food source.
Its diet consists of small fish, amphibians, reptiles, and insects, which it can catch by wading in shallow waters and striking at its prey. The Purple Heron is an important species to many different ecosystems throughout the world.
It plays an important role in regulating the populations of its prey, thus helping to maintain a healthy balance within the environment. It is also a popular bird among birdwatchers, who can often be seen observing it in its natural habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. purpurea |
14. Common Moorhen
The common moorhen is a species of bird belonging to the rail family. It is found in a wide range of habitats in the Old World, including well-vegetated wetlands. These areas include marshes, ponds, and canals.
The common moorhen is also known as the waterhen or swamp chicken.The common moorhen is well adapted to living in wetland habitats, and is an omnivore, feasting on plants, insects, and small animals.
Its strong legs and webbed feet make it well-suited for life in the water, and it is an excellent swimmer and diver.
The common moorhen is easily identified by its dark grey and black plumage, and its bright red bill and frontal shield. The common moorhen is a social bird and usually lives in groups of up to 20 individuals. It is territorial and will defend its territory against intruders.
It has a loud, distinctive call, which can be heard from a great distance. The common moorhen is a valuable part of wetland ecosystems, helping to control insect populations and controlling the growth of aquatic plants.
It also serves as an important food source for predators such as owls, snakes, and foxes.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Gallinula |
| Species | G. chloropus |
15. Black-crowned Night-heron
The black-crowned night heron is a common bird species found in many parts of the world. It is medium-sized, with a wingspan that ranges from 35-50 inches. Its name is derived from its distinctive black-crowned head and the fact that it is most active in the evening and night.
It is also known as a black-capped night heron in Eurasia. The black-crowned night heron is a migratory species and has been observed on every continent except Antarctica. In Europe, it is usually found near wetlands or in coastal areas.
In Asia, it is mainly found in eastern Russia and India. In North and South America, it is found in coastal regions and in the Caribbean. The night heron is a solitary bird; it is rarely seen in large flocks.
Its habitat consists of shallow freshwater lakes, marshes, wet meadows, rivers, and estuaries. It feeds on fishes, amphibians, crustaceans, small reptiles, and other aquatic invertebrates. The black-crowned night heron is a protected species, and its numbers are stable.
Its conservation status is listed as “least concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Nycticorax |
| Species | N. nycticorax |
16. Mute Swan
The mute swan is a large bird belonging to the waterfowl family Anatidae. It is an iconic species of the northern hemisphere, found in many parts of Europe, Siberia, and even the far north of Africa.
It is one of the largest members of the Anatidae family, featuring striking white plumage and a long, curved neck. The mute swan is a powerful and graceful swimmer, able to use its wings to propel itself through the water.
It is also an excellent flyer, able to achieve speeds of up to 60 mph when migrating. The diet of the mute swan consists of aquatic vegetation, insects, and small fish. They can also feed on grain and grain-based products when available.
The mute swan is an important species in many areas of Europe, where it is protected by law. It has a long and storied history, featuring prominently in many legends and stories.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. olor |
17. Common Pochard
The common pochard is a medium-sized diving duck that is found throughout the world. Its scientific name comes from two sources: Greek aithuia, an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle, and Latin ferina, which translates to “wild game”.
The Latin root of ferina, ferus, means “wild”. This name reflects the wild nature of the common pochard, which is a wild animal. The common pochard is an interesting species because it can dive deep underwater in order to search for food.
Its diet consists of aquatic animals such as small fish, snails, and aquatic insects. It is also known to feed on plant material from the bottom of the water.
The common pochard is a migratory species, meaning it moves around to different habitats during different times of the year. The common pochard is a species that is both interesting and important.
It is an important part of the food web, as it provides a food source for other animals. It is also an important part of the environment, as it helps to keep the water clean by consuming aquatic organisms that would otherwise pollute the water.
The common pochard is a species that needs to be protected and preserved in order to ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. ferina |
18. Lesser White-fronted Goose
The lesser white-fronted goose is a species of goose that is closely related to the larger white-fronted goose. It is native to the northernmost parts of the Palearctic ecozone, which includes Europe, Asia, and North Africa.
However, it is a relatively scarce breeder in Europe, with only a few breeding pairs in the wild.
In an effort to increase the population of the lesser white-fronted goose in the region, a reintroduction program has been launched in Fennoscandia, the region encompassing the Scandinavian Peninsula, Finland, and Karelia.
This program involves releasing captive-bred birds into the wild and providing protection to existing wild populations.
It is hoped that this reintroduction effort will help to ensure that the lesser white-fronted goose remains part of the European landscape for many years to come.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anser |
| Species | A. erythropus |
19. Tufted Duck
The tufted duck, also known as the tufted pochard, is a species of small diving duck that is native to northern Eurasia. It is estimated to have a population of around one million individuals.
The scientific name of the species is derived from Ancient Greek, where the word ‘aithuia’ referred to an unidentified seabird, as referenced in the works of authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle.
The term ‘fuligo’ is Latin for ‘soot’, while ‘gula’ is Latin for ‘throat’, likely referring to the sooty-black feathers on the throat of the tufted duck. The tufted duck is a relatively small species, measuring between 41 and 48 cm in length.
The upperparts are generally brownish black, while the flanks and underparts are brown. The male of the species has a distinctive tuft of black feathers on the head, while the female has a less prominent tuft.
The tufted duck has a diet of aquatic plants, insects, and crustaceans. It is found in freshwater and coastal habitats, such as lakes, marshes, and shallow seas.
The tufted duck is an important species to the local ecosystems of its range, as it helps to maintain the water quality of its habitats by consuming algae and other aquatic plants.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. fuligula |
20. White-headed Duck
The white-headed duck is a small diving duck that is about 45 cm long. The male has a white head, black crown, blue bill, and reddish-grey plumage. The female, on the other hand, has a dark bill and duller coloring overall.
During the breeding season, the white-headed duck prefers lakes with open water and dense vegetation growing at the edges. This vegetation provides a safe environment for the duck to lay its eggs and protect them from predators.
The white-headed duck is also a strong swimmer and can dive deep into the water to find food. The duck is an important part of the ecosystem, and it is protected in many countries.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Oxyura |
| Species | O. leucocephala |
21. Long-legged Buzzard
The long-legged buzzard is a bird of prey found in many parts of Eurasia and North Africa. This species has a wide range, stretching from Southeastern Europe to East Africa and even into the northern part of the Indian subcontinent.
It is a member of the genus Buteo and is one of the larger birds within this genus. The long-legged buzzard has an impressive wingspan and is capable of soaring and gliding for long periods of time. It is known to hunt for small mammals, reptiles, insects, and other birds.
This species of buzzard is an important part of the local ecosystem, filling an important role as a top predator.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. rufinus |
22. Marbled Teal
The marbled duck, also known as the marbled teal, is a species of duck found in various regions across the world. It is a medium-sized species, ranging from southern Europe to northern Africa, and further to western and central Asia.
Its scientific name, Marmaronetta angustirostris, is derived from a combination of Greek and Latin words. The Greek word ‘marmaros’ means ‘marbled’, and ‘netta’ is a duck. The Latin word ‘angustus’ means ‘narrow or small’, and ‘-rostris’ means ‘billed’.
The scientific name is an accurate description of the marbled duck’s features – its plumage is marbled in appearance, and it has a narrow bill.
The marbled duck is an important species for hunters and birdwatchers alike, and its conservation status is listed as ‘Least Concern’ by the IUCN.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Marmaronetta |
| Species | M. angustirostris |
23. Pin-tailed Sandgrouse
The Pin-tailed Sandgrouse is a species of bird belonging to the sandgrouse family. These birds are of medium-large size with a small head and neck, closely resembling that of a pigeon.
Their body is quite robust and compact, and they have long pointed wings that are white on the underside. The bird can be recognized by its long tail and its fast, direct flight.
Pin-tailed Sandgrouse often travels in flocks to watering holes at dawn, making a loud call of ‘kattar-kattar’ as they go.
Pin-tailed Sandgrouse is well-adapted to their environment, with strong wings that allow them to move quickly and reach their destination, and a sturdy body that can withstand the rigours of flight.
They are also highly social, often traveling in large groups and making their presence known with the loud ‘kattar-kattar’ call. This call also serves to alert other sandgrouse of the flock’s presence, so that they can join in the journey to the watering holes.
The Pin-tailed Sandgrouse is a fascinating species of bird, and its presence in the sandgrouse family is a testament to its adaptability and strength.
Its ability to fly quickly and in large groups, and its loud call add to its appeal, making it a species that is both interesting to observe and important to the ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pterocliformes |
| Family | Pteroclidae |
| Genus | Pterocles |
| Species | P. alchata |
24. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a type of water bird belonging to the Grebe family. Its scientific name is derived from Ancient Greek and Latin terms, with the genus name Takhus coming from the Greek words takhus meaning “fast” and bapto meaning “to sink under”.
The species name ruficollis is derived from Latin Rufus meaning “red” and Modern Latin collis meaning “necked”. This is then derived from the Latin collum meaning “neck”. The little grebe is a unique bird with its scientific name reflecting its physical characteristics.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
Conclusion
Birds in Baghdad are a vital part of the city’s natural environment, providing essential ecosystem services and contributing to the city’s biodiversity.
They are also a beautiful sight in the city’s skyline, providing a glimpse of nature in an otherwise heavily urbanized landscape.
Despite the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, pollution, and other threats, the birds of Baghdad are resilient and continue to thrive in this ever-changing city.