Welcome to Belluno, an area known for its diverse bird population! This region is home to many species of birds, ranging from the majestic Golden Eagle to the diminutive Grey Wagtail. From the upland meadows to the alpine lakes, you can find a variety of birds in Belluno.
This is birdwatchers, with abundant opportunities to view and observe the different species. Whether you are an amateur or a seasoned birder, Belluno provides the perfect setting for a great birding experience.
So come and explore the wonderful world of Belluno’s birds!
24 Birds to Watch in Belluno
If you are a bird lover and you are planning to visit Belluno, Italy, you are in for a treat. Belluno is a province in the Veneto region, located in the Dolomites mountain range. It is home to a rich variety of birds, some of which are rare or endangered.
Here are 24 birds that you can watch in Belluno, and give you some tips on where and when to find them.
1. Grey Heron
The grey heron is a long-legged wading bird of the heron family, Ardeidae, and is widely distributed throughout temperate Europe, Asia, and some parts of Africa.
It is a resident species in much of its range, but some northern populations migrate southwards in autumn for a warmer climate.
This species is particularly adapted to its environment due to its long legs and powerful beak, which it uses to hunt for fish, frogs, crustaceans, and insects. Grey herons are usually found near wetlands, where they can stand in shallow water and catch their prey.
They also often perch on branches or wade in shallow waters. They build large stick nests in trees, usually near water sources, and lay between two and five eggs. The grey heron is a beautiful bird with a long, slim neck and grey feathers.
Its long legs, which can grow up to 40 cm in length, are a distinctive feature. The grey heron is a fascinating species essential to the wetland ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. cinerea |
2. Common Wood Pigeon
The standard wood pigeon is a dove and pigeon species native to the western Palearctic region and is part of the larger Columba genus. This genus includes a variety of closely related species, such as the rock dove.
The wood pigeon is a large species, making it stand out among its relatives. It has a plump body with a broad chest, rounded wings, a white neck patch, and a pinkish-gray head.
Its wings are greyish-brown with white and black markings, and its tail is a darker grey. Its diet consists of grains, fruits, and even some insects, and it can often be seen foraging in fields and gardens.
Wood pigeons typically nest in trees but may also use artificial structures such as buildings and bridges. They are commonly found in rural and urban areas and are considered beneficial species as they help disperse seeds and control insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. palumbus |
3. Common Kestrel
The common kestrel is a bird of prey that belongs to the Falco family, known as Falconidae. It is found in many parts of Europe and is also known as the European, Eurasian, or Old World kestrel.
In the United Kingdom, where it is the only kestrel species found, it is called the “Kestrel.”The kestrel is a small, compact bird of prey that typically has grey-brown upperparts and a pale chest with dark spots.
It has a distinctive long tail and pointed wings, making it easily identifiable. Its diet consists of small mammals, birds, and insects.
It uses its incredible eyesight to locate prey from high in the sky. The kestrel is an agile flyer, capable of making quick turns and hovering in the air with its wings held in a V-shape.
It is an opportunistic hunter, sometimes seen hovering over fields and meadows looking for prey. Kestrels inhabit various habitats, from open woodlands to grasslands and urban areas.
They are also found in mountainous and coastal areas, nesting in cliffs and crevices. The kestrel is an essential species in the United Kingdom, as it is a crucial predator of small mammals and birds.
It is also an important indicator species, helping to monitor the environment’s health. As a result, it is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Genus | Falco |
| Species | F. tinnunculus |
4. Cuculus Canorus
The common cuckoo is a type of bird belonging to the Cuculiformes order, which includes other birds such as the roadrunners, anis, and coucals.
This cuckoo is found in many places in the summer, such as Europe and Asia before it moves south to Africa for winter. This behavior is known as migration, where animals move around from one place to another to find food or a better climate.
The cuckoo’s migration is an instinct used to survive in the wild. The cuckoo is a medium-sized bird, typically grey or brown, with a distinctive call.
This species is a solitary bird usually seen alone, though it may be seen in small flocks during migration.
Its diet consists mainly of insects, which it finds by foraging in meadows and fields. The common cuckoo is a fascinating bird, not only for its distinctive call and beautiful plumage but also for its migratory habits.
Its ability to adapt and survive by taking advantage of seasonal changes is a testament to the resilient nature of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Cuculus |
| Species | C. canorus |
5. Eurasian Collared Dove
The Eurasian collared dove is a species native to the Eurasian region. It is found in Europe and much of Asia and has been introduced to several other parts of the world.
Humans introduced it in Japan, North America, and the Caribbean, and it has since established itself in these areas.
This dove species is notable for its distinctive collar of feathers, which gives it its name, and it is a medium-sized dove species. The Eurasian collared dove typically inhabits open fields, grasslands, and agricultural areas.
It feeds on various food sources, such as grains, seeds, berries, and insects. It is also quite adaptable and can survive in urban and rural areas. The Eurasian collared dove has a high reproductive rate and can adapt to various environmental conditions.
This has allowed it to establish populations in many areas, even where it was not native.
It is also quite tolerant of human disturbance and can be found in parks, gardens, and cities. The Eurasian collared dove is a species introduced to many parts of the world and is now successfully establishing itself in those areas.
It is a species well adapted to various habitats, has a high reproductive rate, and is tolerant of human disturbance. These characteristics have allowed it to become a successful species in many parts of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. decaocto |
6. Crested Tit
The European Crested Tit is a passerine bird belonging to the Paridae family of birds. It is a common resident breeder in coniferous forests across central and northern Europe and in deciduous woodland in France and the Iberian peninsula.
This bird is easily recognizable due to its distinctive black, white, and grey plumage and the crest of feathers on its head. The Crested Tit has a short, stout bill, usually measuring around 1.5 cm in length.
Its wings are short and rounded, and its tail is square-tipped. This species has a greyish-white head and neck and a black back, wings, and tail. The wings are adorned with white spots, and the rump and tail have white edges.
Its most distinctive feature is the crest of feathers on the top of the head, usually black. The Crested Tit is an omnivorous bird, and its diet includes a variety of small insects, berries, conifer seeds, and other vegetable matter.
It is also known to feed on eggs and nestlings of other birds. This species typically breeds between May and July and nests in cavities in trees, usually at a height of around 3-5 m.
The female lays up to 8 eggs, which are incubated for around 14 days before hatching. The Crested Tit is a widespread species and is not considered to be threatened at present. However, its population has declined in some areas due to deforestation and habitat loss.
To help conserve this species, conservationists have recommended protecting its breeding habitats and providing nest boxes to give it alternative nesting sites.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Lophophanes |
| Species | L. cristatus |
7. Corvus Corax
The common raven is an impressive bird. It is a passerine bird, which means it is a member of the order Passeriformes, or perching birds. It is a large bird with a wingspan between 53-69 cm and a body length between 46-66 cm.
The common raven is an all-black bird with a hairy throat, a thick bill, and a long, wedge-shaped tail. The common raven is a widely distributed bird across the Northern Hemisphere.
Its range extends from northern Europe and northern Asia, across North America, and south to northern Mexico. It is the most widely distributed species of the Corvus genus and can be found inhabiting woodlands, tundra, mountains, and urban and agricultural areas.
It is a very adaptable species often found in the company of humans.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Corvus |
| Species | C. corax |
8. Common Quail
The common quail, also known as the European quail, is a small bird that belongs to the pheasant family, Phasianidae. It is a migratory species, which means it moves from one place to another.
During the spring and summer months, it can be found in the western Palearctic regions, and during the winter months, it migrates to Africa and southern India. The common quail is most recognizable by its distinctive call, three repeated chirps.
This call is a warning signal, alerting other quails of potential danger. It is also often heard than seen, as these birds tend to camouflage themselves in their natural surroundings. The quail is considered a game bird hunted for sport and food.
It is also famous for people who raise birds for show due to its attractive coloring and unique call. Overall, the common quail is a fascinating bird species that is beautiful and unique.
Its migratory behavior and characteristic call make it an interesting species to observe and learn about.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Coturnix |
| Species | C. coturnix |
9. Golden Eagle
The golden eagle is a majestic bird of prey found in the Northern Hemisphere. It is the most widespread species of eagle on our planet, and like other species of eagle, it belongs to the Accipitridae family.
With its impressive wingspan, sharp eyesight, and powerful talons, the golden eagle is one of the most recognizable and remarkable birds of prey in the Northern Hemisphere.
Golden eagles have a distinctive plumage, which varies in color from light brown to dark brown, with lighter patches on the wings. They have a large wingspan of up to seven feet, and their powerful eyesight allows them to spot their prey from a great distance.
Their sharp talons and strong beak make them excellent hunters, capable of taking down large prey such as rabbits, hares, and ground squirrels. Golden eagles are found in various habitats, including grasslands, deserts, mountains, and urban areas.
They are also migratory birds, often traveling long distances to find food and suitable nesting sites. Despite their impressive size and strength, golden eagles are still vulnerable to human activities such as habitat destruction, hunting, and poisoning.
As a result, their population has declined in some areas, and conservation efforts are necessary to ensure their survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Aquila |
| Species | A. chrysaetos |
10. European Robin
The European robin is a small bird native to Great Britain and Ireland. It is a member of the chat subfamily of the Old World flycatcher family, commonly known as the “robin” or “robin redbreast.”
It is an insectivorous passerine that mainly consumes insects as its primary food source. The robin has bright orange-red feathers on its chest, which is why it is sometimes called the “robin redbreast.”
It has a distinctive black face and a brown back, which, together with its bright chest, makes it a very recognizable bird. The robin inhabits gardens, hedgerows, woodlands, and other areas with a plentiful supply of insects.
It is usually seen foraging on the ground but will also feed in trees and shrubs. It is an amiable bird and can often be found in large flocks in the winter months.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Muscicapidae |
| Genus | Erithacus |
| Species | E. rubecula |
11. Great Spotted Woodpecker
The great spotted woodpecker is a medium-sized bird easily recognizable due to its unique black and white plumage and red patch on the lower belly. Males of the species are also distinguished by red markings on their necks or heads.
This species of woodpecker is widespread across the Palearctic region, a biogeographic region that stretches from North Africa to Russia and is characterized by its temperate climate. It is also found in parts of North Africa, making it a truly global bird.
This bird is commonly found in woodlands and forests, where it spends its days searching for food by chiseling away at the bark of trees. It mainly feeds on insects, larvae, and other invertebrates it finds beneath the bark.
Its large, strong bill allows it to drill into the bark and extract its prey. The great spotted woodpecker is an iconic species, and its presence in the forests of the Palearctic region is an integral part of the region’s biodiversity.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dendrocopos |
| Species | D. major |
12. Eurasian Coot
The Eurasian coot, also known as the common coot or Australian coot, is a bird species that belongs to the Rallidae family, which consists of rails and crakes. It is a widespread species found in Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and a few parts of North Africa.
It has a black body with a slight grey tinge, a head that is glossy black, and a bill that is white with a white frontal shield. The Eurasian coot has many unique characteristics, making it easily distinguishable from other species.
It has a high-pitched call, often heard during the breeding season, and they have an upright posture when swimming. They are also known to migrate vast distances to reach their breeding grounds.
The Eurasian coot is an essential species in its ecosystem, as it is a food source for many predators, and its presence helps maintain aquatic vegetation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Fulica |
| Species | F. atra |
13. Common Merganser
The common merganser, also known as the goosander, is a duck found in rivers and lakes in many parts of the world. It ranges from Europe, Asia, and North America and is found in areas with many trees and other vegetation.
This species of duck is relatively large and primarily feeds on fish. Its diet consists mainly of these aquatic animals. The common merganser is an exciting bird when it comes to nesting.
Instead of building its nest in the ground or a shrub, it prefers to nest in holes in trees. This behavior is typical among many species of ducks, as they find more safety in the trees away from predators. The common merganser is no exception.
It builds its nest in tree hollows or even in abandoned nests of birds such as woodpeckers. The common merganser can keep its eggs safe and away from potential danger by nesting in trees.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergus |
| Species | M. merganser |
14. Common Buzzard
The common buzzard is a raptor from the family Accipitridae and the genus BButeo. It is a medium-to-large bird of prey with a wide distribution worldwide. It is a versatile species, being able to inhabit a variety of habitats, from lowlands to high mountains.
It is mainly seen soaring in the air, taking advantage of its large wingspan, and can be seen hunting for small prey animals. The common buzzard is a mighty hunter that can catch its prey with its powerful talons.
It is also known to be an opportunistic scavenger, taking advantage of already-dead animals. It is a solitary species that can be seen perched on trees or the ground, observing its surroundings.
The common buzzard is a valuable indicator species, as its presence reflects the health of its environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. buteo |
15. Herons
Herons are a type of bird that inhabit both freshwater and coastal environments. They are in the family Ardeidae, and there are currently 72 recognized species of herons. Some species of herons are referred to as either egrets or bitterns instead of the more general term heron.
Herons have long necks and legs that make them easily identifiable. They are usually gray or white, but some species can have brown or black feathers.
Herons feed on fish, amphibians, small reptiles, and insects, and their long beaks help them easily catch prey. Herons are often found in wetlands and near bodies of water, where they use their long legs to wade through the shallow water in search of food.
They can also be found in woodlands, grasslands, and even deserts. Herons are essential to the environment because they help keep populations of prey species in check. They also provide food for predators, such as hawks, owls, and eagles.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
16. Alpine Chough
The Alpine chough, also known as the yellow-billed chough, is a member of the crow family and is the only species in its genus, Pyrrhocorax. It has two distinct subspecies, which breed in mountainous regions across various geographical locations.
It is in Spain, southern Europe, North Africa, Central Asia, and Nepal. It is believed that the Alpine chough may nest at higher altitudes than any other bird. The Alpine chough is a medium-sized bird with a black body, yellow legs, and beak.
It has a distinctive call, described as loud and ringing. Its diet mainly consists of insects, grains, and fruit, but it has also been known to scavenge for food.
Both subspecies are highly social birds, often seen in large flocks. The Alpine chough is an essential species for mountain ecology. It plays a vital role in the nutrient cycle, carrying seeds and dispersing them throughout the landscape.
Its presence on mountainsides also provides essential habitat for other species, such as the Wallcreeper and the Alpine accentor. The Alpine chough is a species of conservation concern due to its restricted range and declining population.
Various factors, including habitat destruction, climate change, and human disturbance threaten it. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this species, including habitat protection and monitoring of population trends.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Pyrrhocorax |
| Species | P. graculus |
17. Cormorants
Phalacrocoracidae is a family of aquatic birds that includes about 40 species, such as cormorants and shags. These birds live in and around bodies of water and have adapted to be excellent swimmers and divers.
Over the years, many different classifications of the Phalacrocoracidae family have been proposed. Still, in 2021, the International Ornithologists’ Union (IOU) conducted a consensus taxonomy and determined that the family consists of seven genera.
This taxonomy is based on several factors, such as physical characteristics, geographic range, and genetic relationships. The seven genera are Leucocarbo, Microcarbo, Phalacrocorax, Stictocarbo, Nycticorax, Hydrocorax, and Phalacrocoracinae.
Each of these genera includes several species of cormorants and shags, and the classification of these birds into these genera helps scientists better understand the evolutionary history and relationships of these birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
18. Eurasian Blue Tit
The Eurasian blue tit is a small passerine bird that belongs to the tit family, Paridae. It is a widespread bird throughout Europe, Asia, and North Africa and can even be found in some parts of the United Kingdom.
The bird has a distinctive blue and yellow plumage, with a bright blue head, yellow underside, grey wings, back, and tail.
It is also easily recognizable due to its small size, typically 12–14 centimeters long. The diet of the Eurasian blue tit consists mainly of insects, such as caterpillars, spiders, and beetles, though some may also supplement their diet with seeds or berries.
Their varied habitat ranges from deciduous woodlands to open parks or gardens.
They are particularly fond of nesting in holes in trees, nesting boxes, and birdhouses. The Eurasian blue tit is a very social bird, forming flocks of up to 100 individuals and engaging in play and chasing behavior.
During the breeding season, they can be seen in pairs, building their nests together and engaging in courtship displays.
Overall, the Eurasian blue tit is a very familiar and well-loved bird, with its distinctive coloration and small size making it a recognizable sight across much of Europe, Asia, and North Africa.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Cyanistes |
| Species | C. caeruleus |
19. Willow Tit
The willow tit is a small bird species belonging to the Paridae family, also known as the tit family. It is a common sight across the Palearctic region, which includes Europe, and is a resident breeder in temperate and subarctic regions.
The plumage of this species is grey-brown with an off-white hue, with a black cap and bib. This species is a widespread bird in various habitats, such as marshes, wetlands, and coniferous woods.
They are ground-feeding birds, meaning they scavenge for food on the ground rather than in the air. They are also known to have an affinity for sunflower seeds. The willow tit is an essential indicator species used to measure the health of wetland and woodland habitats.
They are also a popular bird species among birdwatchers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Poecile |
| Species | P. montanus |
20. Goldcrest
The goldcrest is a tiny bird belonging to the kinglet family of passerines. The bird has a distinctive crest of golden feathers, giving it its English and scientific names.
The English name, “goldcrest,” directly references the bird’s eye-catching crest. The scientific name, R. regulus, also refers to the bird’s crest as it is derived from the Latin word “regulus,” which means “king” or “knight.”
The bird has also been called “king of the birds” in European folklore because of its striking crest. This name may also have been influenced by its scientific name.
The goldcrest is a remarkable bird whose golden crest feathers make it stand out from the crowd.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Regulidae |
| Genus | Regulus |
| Species | R. regulus |
21. Black Woodpecker
The black woodpecker is a distinctive species of bird found across the northern Palearctic region. It is a large bird, measuring up to 28 cm in length, and has characteristic black and white plumage.
It is the sole representative of its genus in the region, meaning it is the only bird in the area. This woodpecker species is primarily found in mature forests, so it is essential to preserve these habitats for the species to thrive.
In recent years, the range of the black woodpecker has been increasing. It is thought that this could be due to better conservation of mature forests and the increasing availability of suitable habitats.
In addition, the species has also been observed in more urban areas, where it can find suitable nesting sites and food sources. This range expansion is a positive sign for the species and is a testament to the success of conservation efforts in the Palearctic region.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dryocopus |
| Species | D. martius |
22. European Green Woodpecker
The European green woodpecker is a beautiful bird with a vibrant green-colored feathered body and a bright red crown adorning its head. It also has a black mustache stripe that helps to distinguish it from other woodpeckers in the area.
Male European green woodpeckers have a red center to the mustache stripe, which is absent in the females. This physical characteristic is an easy way to tell the difference between the males and females of the species.
The European green woodpecker is a large bird and is a common sight in many parts of Europe. It is usually found in woodland areas where it feeds on ants and other insects. It is also known to feast on nuts, fruits, and other plant matter.
The European green woodpecker plays an essential role in the European ecosystem as it helps control insect pest populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Picus |
| Species | P. viridis |
23. Eurasian Sparrowhawk
The Eurasian sparrowhawk is a predatory bird that belongs to the Accipitridae family. It is also known as the northern sparrowhawk or simply the sparrowhawk. This bird can be easily distinguished by its physical features.
Adult male Eurasian sparrowhawks have a bluish-grey color on their upper parts and orange-barred undersides. On the other hand, females and juveniles have brown plumage with brown barring below. This bird of prey is usually found in Europe, northern Africa, and parts of Asia.
It is a relatively small bird, measuring 29–35 cm in length, and has a wingspan of 68–85 cm. It feeds mainly on small birds, mammals, lizards, and insects.
The Eurasian sparrowhawk is an agile and fast hunter capable of chasing prey through dense vegetation and catching birds in flight.
The Eurasian sparrowhawk is an integral part of the ecosystem, controlling the populations of its prey and helping to ensure its balance. It is also a famous bird of prey among falconers, who use them for hunting and entertainment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Accipiter |
| Species | A. nisus |
24. White-Headed Duck
The white-headed duck is a small diving duck measuring approximately 45 cm long. The male has a distinctive white head adorned with a dark black crown and a vibrant blue bill. Its plumage is a reddish-grey color.
The female’s bill is dark, and its color is duller than the male’s. This species of duck breeds in lakes that provide open water with dense vegetation along the margins.
This habitat is necessary for the ducks to hide from predators while providing plenty of food. The vegetation around the lake’s edge also shelters them from the elements and enables them to build their nests.
The white-headed duck is a crucial species threatened due to the loss of wetland habitats. It is essential to protect these habitats to ensure this species’ survival.
Conservation efforts should focus on protecting and restoring wetland habitats to ensure the white-headed duck’s continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Oxyura |
| Species | O. leucocephala |
Conclusion
Birds are an essential part of Belluno’s ecology. They provide crucial services such as pollination, seed dispersal, pest control, and food for other animals.
They provide a great source of recreation for people, as well as helping to keep the environment healthy. By preserving and protecting the habitats of birds, we can ensure that they will continue to be a part of the Belluno landscape for many years to come.