Cairo is a city full of life and beauty, with its bustling streets and majestic buildings. But one of the most amazing things in Cairo is its incredible variety of birds.
From the vibrant and colorful rose-ringed parakeets to the majestic raptors soaring high above the city, Cairo’s birds provide a captivating display of avian life.
From the Nile River to the city’s parks and gardens, birds can be found in abundance, providing a delightful reminder of the beauty of nature. From the majestic Egyptian vulture to the tiny Egyptian sparrow, Cairo’s birds offer a fascinating glimpse into the avian world.
24 Birds Found in Cairo
Cairo is a city full of life and beauty, with its bustling streets and majestic buildings. But one of the most amazing things in Cairo is its incredible variety of birds.
From the vibrant and colorful rose-ringed parakeets to the majestic raptors soaring high above the city, Cairo’s birds provide a captivating display of avian life.
From the Nile River to the city’s parks and gardens, birds can be found in abundance, providing a delightful reminder of the beauty of nature. From the majestic Egyptian vulture to the tiny Egyptian sparrow, Cairo’s birds offer a fascinating glimpse into the avian world.
Here are 24 of the most common and interesting birds that can be found in Cairo.
1. Black-Winged Stilt
The Black-Winged Stilt is a species of long-legged wader belonging to the avocet and stilt family. Its scientific name is H. himantopus, and it is found in a wide range of habitats worldwide.
This species is sometimes called a single, almost cosmopolitan species. The Black-Winged Stilt is a migratory bird with a slender body, long neck, and long legs. Its most distinctive feature is its black wings, often bordered in white.
The Black-Winged Stilt can be found in wetlands, shallow lakes, estuaries, and lagoons. It feeds mainly on small fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. The Black-Winged Stilt is a social species and can often be found in large flocks, particularly during breeding.
It nests in shallow water, and the nest is often built with vegetation such as reeds and grasses.
The Black-Winged Stilt is a vocal species with various calls and songs used for courtship, to announce territory, and to communicate with other birds. The Black-Winged Stilt is a widespread species and is considered to be expected in many parts of the world.
However, its population is declining in certain regions due to habitat destruction and other human-related activities. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the long-term survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
2. Egyptian Goose
The Egyptian Goose is a species of bird belonging to the duck family Anatidae. Native to Africa, it is often kept as an ornamental pet bird due to its attractive coloration and display of plumage.
As a result of its popularity, the species has been introduced to many areas outside its natural range, including Europe, the United States, and other locations.
This introduction has allowed the species to establish itself in these areas, and it is not uncommon to find flocks of Egyptian geese in areas where they were not previously seen.
The species is also considered a pest in some areas due to its habit of eating crops and other items of value. As a result, some areas have taken steps to prevent the spread of the species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Alopochen |
| Species | A. aegyptiaca |
3. Crested Lark
The crested lark is a species found in many parts of the world, from Eurasia to northern Africa. This bird prefers to stay in one place and does not migrate; however, it has been known to wander into Great Britain as a vagrant.
The crested lark is known for its distinctive crest of feathers on its head, which makes it easily recognizable. This lark species is found in various habitats, such as grasslands, farmland, wetlands, and deserts. It feeds on insects, seeds, and small invertebrates.
The crested lark is a relatively common species, though its population has declined in some areas due to human activities, such as agricultural expansion and urbanization.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists this species as Least Concern.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Alaudidae |
| Genus | Galerida |
| Species | G. cristata |
4. Laughing Dove
The laughing dove is a member of the pigeon family and is found in various areas of the world. It is a small bird with distinct markings, including a blue-gray head and breast, reddish-purple wings, and a white patch on the lower back.
It is found in Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and Western Australia. In Western Australia, it was released from Perth Zoo in 1898 and has since established itself in the wild.
In its natural habitat, the laughing dove feeds mainly on seeds and eats some insects and grains. It lives in various habitats, such as scrub, open woodland, and cultivated areas.
It is pretty shy and usually found in pairs or small groups, but it can sometimes be seen in larger flocks. The laughing dove is a monogamous species, and the pair will often build a nest together, a flimsy platform made of twigs and lined with grass.
The female will lay two white eggs hatching after about two weeks, and the young will fledge after another two weeks. The laughing dove is a valuable species, an important food source for many predators, and famous in the pet trade.
Though it is vulnerable to predation and habitat destruction, its population seems stable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Spilopelia |
| Species | S. senegalensis |
5. Bearded Vulture
The bearded vulture is a large bird of prey and the only one of its kind belonging to the genus Gypaetus. It is commonly referred to as the lammergeier or ossifrage.
It has been traditionally considered an Old World vulture. Still, recent research has revealed that it is closely related to the Egyptian vulture, forming their distinct group within the Accipitridae family of raptors.
The bearded vulture is a potent scavenger, feeding on carrion, bone marrow, and sometimes living prey. Its unique diet and impressive size make it an iconic sight in the skies of mountains and rugged terrain.
It is a solitary bird, living in rocky regions and nesting on cliffs or trees. With its striking plumage and majestic presence, the bearded vulture is a captivating sight and a unique bird species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Gypaetus |
| Species | G. barbatus |
6. Rock Pigeon
The rock dove, rock pigeon, or common pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the Columbidae family. It is one of the world’s most commonly found bird species and is often called a “pigeon.”
The domestic pigeon is a direct descendant of this species and was bred from it. Cultivating domestic pigeons has led to an increased population of feral pigeons in many places worldwide.
This is due to escaped domestic pigeons reproducing in the wild and creating new populations. As a result, feral pigeons can now be found in cities and towns across the globe, usually near human settlements.
This has allowed them to become an integral part of urban life, often seen as a nuisance or a pest.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
7. Red-Crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a large diving duck in many parts of the world. Its scientific name, Netta rufina, is derived from Greek and Latin words. Netta is a Greek word meaning “duck,” while Rufina is a Latin word meaning “golden-red.”
This is likely because of the red crest on the pochard’s head, which is distinctive amongst other ducks. The red-crested pochard is a common duck species found in various habitats, such as marshes, lakes, ponds, and shallow streams.
It is an omnivorous species, feeding on various plants, small fish, and aquatic invertebrates. The red-crested pochard is a distinctive duck, easily identified by its distinct red crest. It is a medium-sized duck with a total body length of 45 to 55 cm.
Males are generally larger than females and have a more pronounced red crest. The wingspan is between 70 and 80 cm. The body is dark brown with a white chest and a black beak.
The distinctive red crest is the most apparent feature of the red-crested pochard and can be seen from a great distance. The red-crested pochard is a strong swimmer and an excellent diver. It can dive to depths of up to 2 meters for food.
The red-crested pochard is also a gregarious species often seen in large flocks. It is a migratory species seen in many parts of the world throughout the year.
Overall, the red-crested pochard is an exciting species of duck, easily identified by its distinctive red crest. Its scientific name, Netta rufina, reflects its distinct features, with Netta being a Greek word for “duck” and Rufina being a Latin word for “golden-red.”
The red-crested pochard can be found in various habitats and is a strong swimmer and excellent diver. It is also a gregarious species, often seen in large flocks.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
8. Steppe Eagle
The Steppe Eagle is a large bird of prey and a member of the Accipitridae family. This family of birds consists of raptors such as hawks, eagles, and vultures.
The Steppe Eagle is further classified as part of the subfamily Aquilinae, also known as the “booted eagles.” Their well-feathered legs quickly identify this subfamily of eagles.
This feathering protects the eagle’s legs from the sharp talons of its prey. In addition, the feathers can help the eagle to stay warm in cold climates. The Steppe Eagle is a powerful predator using its sharp eyesight to spot prey from high in the sky.
The Steppe Eagle can quickly swoop and capture its prey with its muscular wings. It is a fierce and effective hunter who uses agility and strength to survive in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Aquila |
| Species | A. nipalensis |
9. Eurasian Griffon
The Eurasian griffon vulture is a large bird of prey from the Old World. It belongs to the family Accipitridae and is also known as the Griffon vulture.
It is important to note that this species should not be confused with two other species from the same genus, Rüppell’s griffon vulture and Himalayan griffon vulture. The Eurasian griffon vulture can be identified by its size, which is more significant than most other Old World vultures.
It has a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters, and the bird’s overall length can reach up to 1 meter. The body of the Eurasian griffon vulture is covered in dark brown feathers, while its head is mostly bald. Its beak is large and curved, and its eyes are yellow.
The Eurasian griffon vulture is a scavenger and feeds on carrion, such as the remains of dead animals. It can be found in various parts of Europe and Asia and can often be seen soaring in the sky for food.
It is an essential species in the ecosystem, as it helps to clean up dead animal remains. Overall, the Eurasian griffon vulture is an impressive species of bird of prey. It should not be confused with its two cousins, the Rüppell’s griffon vulture and the Himalayan griffon vulture.
It plays a vital role in the environment and is an exciting species to observe in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Gyps |
| Species | G. fulvus |
10. Lappet-Faced Vulture
The lappet-faced vulture, known as Nubian vulture, is a large, Old World vulture belonging to the bird order Accipitriformes. This order includes birds such as eagles, kites, vultures, and hawks.
Lappet-faced vultures are particularly unique, as they are the only member of the genus Torgos. These large birds have a wingspan of up to 9 feet, with black, grey, and white mottled plumage.
Their unique facial features are easily recognizable, with the large, fleshy lappets hanging from their heads’ sides. They have a bald head with a white skin patch on their nape.
The beak is yellow and relatively short for a vulture. Lappet-faced vultures can be found throughout Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East, usually inhabiting open grasslands and savannas.
They prefer to stay close to herds of grazing animals, as they are scavengers, feeding mainly on the carcasses of ungulates.
They also supplement their diet with insects, small reptiles, and eggs. Lappet-faced vultures are monogamous, with a pair typically remaining together for life. They build large nests together, usually in trees or on cliffs.
The female usually lays a single egg, which is incubated for about 45 days. The chicks are cared for by both parents until they reach maturity. The lappet-faced vulture is an Old World vulture belonging to the bird order Accipitriformes.
It is the only member of the genus Torgos and has unique facial features, including lappets and a bald head. These birds inhabit open grasslands and savannas, feeding mainly on the carcasses of ungulates and other small animals.
They are monogamous, typically stay together for life, and build large nests in trees or on cliffs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Torgos |
| Species | T. tracheliotos |
11. Senegal Coucal
The Senegal coucal is a bird belonging to the Cuculiformes order, comprising various species, such as roadrunners, anis, and hoatzin.
This particular species is medium-sized and can be found in habitats like lightly wooded country and savannah in central and southern Africa. The Senegal coucal has a distinctive look, which makes it easily distinguishable from other birds in the order.
It has dark plumage scattered with white spots, a long, curved bill, and reddish eyes.
It has unique locomotion, which allows it to move through dense vegetation and gives it the ability to catch prey with its beak. The Senegal coucal is an omnivorous bird which eats plants and animals.
Its diet consists mainly of insects, small reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals. It also feeds on fruits, seeds, and berries, which it finds in its habitat. The Senegal coucal is a solitary bird that usually nests in trees.
It builds a cup-shaped nest out of twigs, bark, and leaves lined with feathers or other materials.
The female lays two to three glossy white eggs, which both parents incubate. The Senegal coucal is an interesting bird species that plays a vital role in its natural habitat.
It helps control insect populations, scavenges for carrion, and disperses seeds and fruits. This species is considered to be of least Concern by the IUCN, but it does face threats from human activities such as deforestation and habitat destruction.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Centropus |
| Species | C. senegalensis |
12. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck is a medium-sized diving duck found in Eurosiberia. It has a few different names, such as ferruginous pochard, common white-eye, or white-eyed pochard. The scientific name for this duck is Aythya nyroca, derived from two sources.
The first part of the name, Aythya, is derived from the Greek word “Lithuania,” which writers from Hesychius to Aristotle used to refer to an unidentified seabird.
The second part of the name, Lyrica, is deLyricafrom the Russian word “nyrok,” which is you,”d to describe a duck. This scientific name helps identify the duck and gives us insight into its origin and the language used to describe it.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
13. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is the most widespread and significant species of the family.
This species is native to many parts of the Old World, including Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East, the Levant, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe.
These areas provide the greater flamingo with various habitats, such as coastal mudflats, saltwater lagoons, and alkaline lakes.
The greater flamingo is well adapted to living in these habitats and is often found in large flocks, foraging for food such as algae, crustaceans, and small aquatic invertebrates. The greater flamingo is a unique and beautiful bird with its colorful plumage and long legs.
They are a conservation-dependent species, and their populations have declined due to the loss of habitat caused by human activities.
Although greater flamingos are still found in many parts of the world, conservation efforts are needed to ensure they can continue thriving in their native habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
14. Crab-Plover
The crab-plover is a unique bird species related to waders yet different enough to be in its own family. It belongs to the family Dromadidae, which is separate from the wider family.
The crab-plover is a medium-sized bird, typically between 25 and 30 cm long, with a long, thin bill. Its body is mainly greyish brown, with white or pale grey patches on its head, neck, and back. Its wings are relatively short and rounded.
The crab-plover is a ground-dwelling bird found mainly in coastal areas of the Indian Ocean, parts of the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of East Africa. It feeds primarily on crabs and eats worms and other small invertebrates.
It nests on the ground in a shallow scrape lined with vegetation and other materials. It forages for food by running along the shoreline, probing the surface with its bill. The crab-plover is a highly social bird and often forms large flocks.
It is a vocal species with various calls, including a loud, melodic whistle. The crab-plover is listed as near threatened by the IUCN due to habitat loss and disturbance from human activity.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Dromadidae |
| Genus | Dromas |
| Species | D. ardeola |
15. Mallard
The mallard, or wild duck, is a species of dabbling duck widely distributed across the temperate and subtropical Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa.
It is a common sight in many parts of the world, with its distinctive greenish-brown plumage and yellow bill, and it is a famous game bird for hunters.
The mallard has also been introduced to many other regions, including New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa.
It is thought that these introductions have been successful due to the mallard’s adaptability to a wide variety of habitats. This has enabled it to thrive in these new locations and has become a common sight in many of these areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. platyrhynchos |
16. Black-Headed Gull
The black-headed gull is a species of gull found in many parts of the Palearctic, which is the region that includes Europe and coastal eastern Canada.
Most black-headed gulls are migratory, meaning they travel south to warmer climates during winter. However, some birds remain in the milder westernmost areas of Europe year-round.
The black-headed gull is a small gull species with a wingspan between 40 and 45 centimeters. They are primarily black, with a white head and breast. They feed on insects, crustaceans, mollusks, small fish, and other animals.
They often congregate in large flocks along the shorelines to feed. They are also known to gather in large flocks to breed, usually laying a few eggs in a nest made from grass and twigs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Genus | Chroicocephalus |
| Species | C. ridibundus |
17. Black Bellied Plover
The grey plover is a species of plover found in both the Arctic regions and many coastal areas worldwide. It is also referred to as the black-bellied plover in North America.
The plover is a large bird with a cosmopolitan distribution, meaning it can be seen in many different geographical regions.
During the breeding season, the bird can be found in the Arctic, but during the rest of the year, it follows a pattern of long-distance migration, which takes it to coastal areas worldwide.
This migration pattern enables the plover to find suitable habitats to survive and thrive in.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Pluvialis |
| Species | P. squatarola |
18. Eurasian Collared Dove
The Eurasian collared dove is a species native to Europe and Asia. It is non-native to other parts of the world but was introduced to Japan, North America, and the Caribbean Islands.
This species has experienced great success since its introduction, leading to a drastic increase in population size. As a result, it has been classified as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List since 2014.
This designation means that the species is not considered in any immediate danger of extinction. The Eurasian collared dove has thrived in various habitats, including urban areas.
Its ability to adapt to different environments and its widespread global distribution are two significant factors contributing to its success.
The species has a wide range of dietary preferences, allowing it to take advantage of food sources that may not be available to other species.
It also benefits from human interaction, as many people enjoy providing supplemental food and water sources for their local dove populations. The Eurasian collared dove is an important species that significantly influences its local environment.
It helps to disperse seeds and pollinate plants, which can improve the health of the surrounding ecosystem. It is also an important food source for many other animals, such as birds of prey, and can help to maintain the balance of an area’s food web.
As the species continues to expand its range, it is essential to ensure its population remains healthy and sustainable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. decaocto |
19. White-Eyed Gull
The white-eyed gull is a small seabird endemic to the Red Sea. It is closely related to the sooty gull, and both are classified under the genus Larus.
According to the IUCN, the species is listed as Least Concern, as only minimal human pressure and oil pollution threaten its population. Gulls are known to have a wide range of habitats, but the white-eyed gull has traditionally been observed in the Red Sea.
The IUCN has stated that the species is not yet in danger of extinction, but conservation efforts must be taken to ensure it does not become threatened.
Protecting the species’ natural habitat and reducing oil pollution in the Red Sea is essential for survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Genus | Ichthyaetus |
| Species | I. leucophthalmus |
20. Sooty Gull
The sooty gull is a bird of the Laridae, more commonly referred to as the Aden gull or Hemprich’s gull. This gull species is found mainly in the Indian and western Pacific oceans.
It is a medium-sized gull with a grey-black back, wings, white head, neck, and underparts. The bill is short and yellow, and the legs are yellow-green. Its diet consists mainly of fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic organisms.
It is a social species that often hunt in flocks. Breeding colonies are usually located on islands or rocky coasts, and the species typically nest in trees or on cliffs.
The sooty gull is an essential species in its range, as it helps to maintain marine ecosystems by regulating the population of prey species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Genus | Ichthyaetus |
| Species | I. hemprichii |
21. Common Pochard
The Common Pochard is a medium-sized bird in many parts of the world. Its scientific name is derived from the ancient Greek language. The first part of the name, “Lithuania,” comes from the language of Hesychius and Aristotle, two early Greek authors.
The second part of the name, “ferina,” is Latin for “wild game,” coming from the Latin word “ferus” meaning “wild.” The Common Pochard is an aquatic bird that dives into the water to find food. It is a species of diving duck and is a type of wildfowl.
It is mainly found near large bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. The Common Pochard is an integral part of the ecosystem and is a valuable species to protect.
It is an important food source for many predators, and it helps maintain the balance of nature. The Common Pochard is a species of bird that has been around for many centuries, and its scientific name is a testament to its historical importance.
Its scientific name combines the ancient Greek and Latin languages, highlighting the importance of the species in the past. The Common Pochard is an important species to conserve, and its scientific name reflects its rich history.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. ferina |
22. Common Shelduck
The common shelduck is a species in the shelduck genus, Tadorna, widely distributed across the Euro-Siberian region of the Palearctic. This waterfowl species breeds mainly in temperate climates and migrates to subtropical areas during winter.
In addition, it can also be found in the Maghreb, which is located in the northwest of Africa. The common shelduck is most often found near bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands, providing them with a plentiful food supply.
The adults have a dark-brown coloration on the head and body, with a white patch at the base of the neck. The wings have black, white, and brown stripes, and the bill and legs are yellow.
The common shelduck is generally a friendly species, often forming flocks of hundreds of individuals. The males often display elaborate courtship behavior involving loud calls and posturing.
Each pair of shelducks builds a nest, usually placed in a hollow on the ground or a crevice or hole in a tree. The female lays up to twelve eggs, which are incubated for about a month before hatching.
Overall, the common shelduck is a widespread species across the Euro-Siberian region of the Palearctic. It is an interesting species, with its colorful plumage and elaborate courtship displays.
In addition, its wide-ranging migration patterns make it an interesting species to study, and its presence in the Maghreb is a testament to its adaptability to different climates and habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Tadorna |
| Species | T. tadorna |
23. Eurasian Wigeon
The Eurasian wigeon, also known as the European wigeon, widgeon, or simply wigeon, is a species of dabbling duck in the genus Mareca. This species is native to the Palearctic region, which includes parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa.
It is a prevalent species within its range. The Eurasian wigeon is a medium-sized waterfowl with a body length of about 20 to 24 inches. It has a distinctive white forehead, a gray crown, and a pink and orange bill.
The wings and tail are black and white, and the chest is covered in a gray-and-white striped pattern. The male and female Eurasian wigeon are similar in appearance. This species is typically found in shallow wetlands like ponds, marshes, and lakes.
It is omnivorous, meaning it feeds on both aquatic plants and insects. It is a migratory species and can be found in flocks during the winter months. The Eurasian wigeon is vital for waterfowl hunting.
It is also popular among birders and wildlife photographers, as it is a relatively easy species to observe. It is also a widespread species in aviculture, as it is easy to breed and can be kept in captivity.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. penelope |
24. Gadwall
The gadwall is a species of duck that belongs to the Anatidae family. This family of birds includes swans, geese, and ducks and is divided into three subfamilies: Anserinae, Anatinae, and Oxyurinae.
The gadwall is a dabbling duck, which means it uses its bill to filter food from the water’s surface rather than diving to the bottom.
It is a widespread species found on many continents and in many habitats, including wetlands, marshes, rivers, lakes, and urban areas. The gadwall is a medium-sized duck with a length of around 18 inches and a wingspan of about 28 inches.
It is easily distinguishable from other ducks due to its striking plumage. The male gadwall has a grey body with white patches on its wings, while the female has a brown body with darker patches. Both sexes have yellow bills and distinctive white stripes on their faces.
The gadwall feeds mainly on aquatic plants, mollusks, and insects, which it finds by dabbling in shallow water. It breeds during the spring and summer months, and the female builds a nest on the ground near a body of water.
The gadwall is an essential species in many ecosystems. It helps keep aquatic environments healthy by feeding on small insects and other organisms that can harm fish and marine life.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. strepera |
Conclusion
The diverse array of bird species found in Cairo reflects the city’s rich ecological tapestry and its significance as a habitat for avian life.
From the majestic Egyptian vulture to the colorful hoopoe, each bird contributes to the city’s biodiversity and serves as a testament to the importance of conservation efforts in urban environments.
Understanding and protecting these feathered inhabitants not only enriches Cairo’s natural landscape but also provides invaluable opportunities for research, education, and eco-tourism.