Chiang Rai is known for its stunning natural beauty, and one of its greatest attractions is its stunning variety of birds.
From the majestic birds of prey soaring high above the rolling hills to the tiny colourful birds flitting through the trees, Chiang Rai is an ornithologist’s dream come true.
With a diverse range of habitats, including jungles, grasslands, and wetlands, the province is home to a wide variety of avian species, from the Great Horned Owl to the Red-breasted Parakeet.
Whether you’re a bird-watcher, a photographer, or simply someone who loves nature, Chiang Rai is sure to have something for you. So come and explore the wonders of this incredible province and its feathered inhabitants!
1. Lesser Whistling Duck
The lesser whistling duck is an impressive species of whistling duck that is found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is sometimes referred to as the Indian whistling duck or lesser whistling teal.
They are nocturnal feeders, which means they feed at night and sleep during the day. During the day, these ducks can be found in large flocks around lakes and wet paddy fields. They are a very social species, often found in large groups.
The lesser whistling duck is a medium-sized bird that has a pale gray-brown head and neck, a paler brown back, and a white breast and belly. Its wings are barred with black and white, and it has a long, black-tipped bill.
They have long legs and short tails that are often tucked away when the duck is at rest. The lesser whistling duck is an omnivore, meaning that it feeds on a variety of food sources. Their diet consists of small fish, aquatic insects, and plant material.
They often travel in large flocks, foraging for food in shallow waters. They typically stay close to their nesting sites, which are usually located in dense vegetation near a water source. The lesser whistling duck is a sociable species, often found in large flocks.
They are known for their unique whistling call, which is used to communicate with one another.
They are also known for their curious behavior, often seen bobbing their heads or stretching their necks in order to get a better view of their surroundings. The lesser whistling duck is an impressive species that is an important part of the ecosystem.
They provide food sources for other animals and help to maintain healthy water sources. It is important to protect their habitat so that they can continue to thrive and provide these important services.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Dendrocygna |
| Species | D. javanica |
2. Lesser Coucal
The lesser coucal is a species of cuckoo that is found in the family Cuculidae. It is widely distributed, with its range overlapping with the ranges of a few other species that are related to it.
The habitat of the lesser coucal is usually marshy land with a combination of grass and tree cover. This environment provides the lesser coucal with a good place to hunt for food, while also providing enough space for it to hide or build its nest.
Additionally, the trees and grass provide shelter from predators, giving the lesser coucal a safe place to live. The mix of grass and trees also provide the lesser coucal with a variety of food sources, ensuring that it has enough to eat.
This type of habitat also provides the lesser coucal with a place to rest and socialize when it is not hunting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Centropus |
| Species | C. bengalensis |
3. Common Emerald Dove
The emerald dove is a species of pigeon native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
It is also known by various other names such as common emerald dove, Asian emerald dove, grey-capped emerald dove, green dove, and green-winged pigeon.
It is a widespread resident breeding species, meaning it is found throughout these regions and reproduces there. The emerald dove is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring 30-35 centimeters in length.
It is easily recognizable by its bright green plumage, which gives it its common name. It also has a distinctive grey cap on its head and a metallic sheen on its wings.
Its tail is long and pointed, and its bill is black. The emerald dove feeds on a variety of seeds, fruits, and other vegetation. It is typically found in open woodlands, grasslands, and scrublands, and is often seen perching on low branches or on the ground.
It is also known to inhabit urban areas, particularly in large cities. The emerald dove is a monogamous species, meaning a single pair will usually mate for life. Breeding usually takes place during the wet season, and the female will lay a clutch of two white eggs.
Both parents will take turns incubating the eggs and caring for the young chicks. Overall, the emerald dove is a beautiful and common bird found throughout the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
It is easily recognized by its bright green plumage, and its ability to adapt to a variety of environments makes it an interesting species to study.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Chalcophaps |
| Species | C. indica |
4. Red-Crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a large diving duck that is found in many parts of the world. It is a distinctive species, with a red crest on its head that is a distinguishing feature.
The scientific name of this species is derived from the Greek word ‘Netta’, meaning ‘duck’, and the Latin word ‘rufina’, which is translated as ‘golden-red’.
This is a clear reference to the red crest on the head of the red-crested pochard. The red-crested pochard is a fully aquatic bird, capable of diving deep into the water to search for food.
It typically feeds on aquatic plants, insects, mollusks, small crustaceans, and other invertebrates. It is an important species in its native range, as it is the primary food source for many predators.
The red-crested pochard is also a popular species with bird watchers, as it is relatively easy to spot. Its bright red crest makes it stand out in the water, and it is easily identifiable in any habitat.
The red-crested pochard is an important species in its native range, both ecologically and culturally.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
5. Green-Billed Malkoha
The green-billed malkoha is an exotic species of bird found mainly in South Asia, particularly in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Its distinguishing feature is its waxen bluish-black plumage and its long, graduated tail with white tips.
The bill is a prominent feature of the bird, curved in an unusual shape. The green-billed malkoha prefers to inhabit dry scrub and thin forests, where it can find plenty of food to sustain itself.
The bird is a non-parasitic cuckoo, meaning it does not lay its eggs in the nests of other birds. Instead, it builds its own nest and incubates its own eggs.
The green-billed malkoha is an interesting species of bird and its presence in South Asia is an asset to the region’s wildlife.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Phaenicophaeus |
| Species | P. tristis |
6. Spotted Dove
The spotted dove is a species of small pigeon found across much of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It has a distinctive long tail and is a common sight in its native range.
In recent years, it has been introduced to many other parts of the world, and it has been able to establish itself in these new locations, creating a population of feral birds.
The spotted dove is a hardy species and is able to thrive in a variety of different environments, which accounts for its success as an introduced species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Spilopelia |
| Species | S. chinensis |
7. Plaintive Cuckoo
The plaintive cuckoo is a bird that resides in Asia. It belongs to the genus Cacomantis and is a part of the cuckoo family, Cuculidae. This species is native to a large range in Asia, including India, Nepal, China, and Indonesia.
It is often found within forests, woodlands and agricultural areas. This bird has a unique call that is often described as a harsh, plaintive cry. It has a large range of vocalizations, but its most notable call is a repetitive “cu-coo” that can often be heard during the day.
The plaintive cuckoo is a small to medium-sized bird, typically measuring between 12 to 16 inches long. It has a slender body, a long tail, and long legs. Its plumage is usually greyish-brown with white or yellowish markings.
Its diet consists mainly of insects, as well as some fruits and berries.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Cacomantis |
| Species | C. merulinus |
8. Zebra Dove
The zebra dove is a small bird native to Southeast Asia. It is a member of the Columbidae family of doves, which also includes mourning doves and collared doves.
The zebra dove has a predominantly brownish-grey colour, with a white and black barring pattern that gives it its distinctive name. Its tail is long and thin, and its wings are short and rounded.
Its beak is short and straight, and its feet are small and sturdy. The zebra dove’s diet consists mainly of seeds, fruits, and small insects. It is most active in the mornings and evenings, when it can be seen foraging for food on the ground.
Because it is so small, it often hides in low vegetation or on the ground so it can avoid larger predators. The zebra dove is a social species and can often be seen in flocks of up to ten birds.
Breeding pairs tend to remain together for life and will build their nests in the hollows of trees or in other protected areas. The female will lay two eggs at a time, which she will incubate for about two weeks.
Once hatched, the chicks will feed on insect larvae and fruit, and by the age of three weeks, they will be able to fly. The zebra dove is a popular pet due to its quiet and gentle nature.
It is also a symbol of peace and love in many cultures and is a popular bird for tattoo designs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Geopelia |
| Species | G. striata |
9. Thick-Billed Green Pigeon
The thick-billed green pigeon is a species of bird in the Columbidae family. This family is commonly referred to as the pigeon and dove family, and it includes a wide variety of birds in different shapes and sizes.
The thick-billed green pigeon is a medium-sized bird, with a length of approximately 30 centimetres. It has a bright green colour to its feathers, and a thick, black beak.
This bird is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, and it is found in a variety of habitats, such as tropical and subtropical forests, shrubland, and open woodlands. It is a sociable bird, typically found in flocks, and it feeds on a variety of fruits and seeds.
The thick-billed green pigeon is an important part of the local ecology, providing food for a variety of animals, such as raptors, and playing a role in the dispersal of seeds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Treron |
| Species | T. curvirostra |
10. Large-Tailed Nightjar
The large-tailed nightjar is a species of nightjar found in the family Caprimulgidae. It is native to the southern Himalayan foothills, eastern South Asia, Southeast Asia, and northern Australia.
The large-tailed nightjar is a nocturnal bird, and it is most active during the night. Its habitat typically consists of open grasslands, woodlands, and shrublands, making it well-suited to many different environments.
During the day, large-tailed nightjars roost on the ground, blending in with the surrounding vegetation. At night, they come alive and are seen flying around, searching for insects and other small prey. The large-tailed nightjar has a large tail and mottled gray-brown plumage.
Its wings are broad and rounded, making it well-suited for silent flight. Its song is a loud and distinctive “whirr-whirr”, which is used to attract mates and to mark its territory.
The large-tailed nightjar is a solitary bird but is known to gather in large flocks during migration. The large-tailed nightjar is a species of conservation concern, as its populations have been declining due to habitat destruction and hunting.
It is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List and is protected in many parts of its range. Conservation efforts, such as habitat protection and community awareness, are needed to ensure the survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | C. macrurus |
11. White-Breasted Waterhen
The white-breasted waterhen is a species of bird that is found in many places across South and Southeast Asia. It is a member of the Rallidae family, which is a group of waterbirds commonly referred to as rails and crakes.
This species is characterized by its dark slaty feathers and a stark contrast between its white face, breast, and belly. The white-breasted waterhen has a unique appearance among waterbirds, which allows it to stand out from its more common peers.
Its dark feathers give it a mysterious and almost regal appearance, while the white areas of its body add a touch of brightness that stands out against its darker feathers.
This bird is also known for its long legs and toes, which are used to help it traverse the waters where it lives. The white-breasted waterhen is a highly adaptable species that can exist in a variety of habitats.
It is most often found in shallow wetlands with dense vegetation, but it can also be seen in open water areas and even in urban environments.
This adaptability allows it to thrive even when its natural habitat is disrupted. The white-breasted waterhen is an omnivore and it will consume a variety of foods including insects, small crustaceans, worms, seeds, and even small fish.
This species also has a unique behavior when it comes to feeding.
It is known to jump into the water and submerge itself in order to capture its prey. The white-breasted waterhen is a unique species of bird that has managed to thrive in many different environments across South and Southeast Asia.
Its unique appearance and ability to adapt to various habitats have allowed it to survive and even thrive in areas where other waterbirds may not.
This species is a valuable part of the natural ecosystem and it is important that we continue to protect its habitat so that it can continue to thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Amaurornis |
| Species | A. phoenicurus |
12. Rock Pigeon
The rock dove, also known as the rock pigeon or common pigeon, is a species of bird that belongs to the Columbidae family. It is most commonly referred to as the “pigeon”, and is widely recognized by its distinctive grey and white coloring.
The domesticated pigeon is descended from this species and is commonly seen in urban and suburban areas. The presence of domestic pigeons has allowed for the spread of feral pigeons in many areas around the world.
These feral pigeons are descendants of escaped domestic pigeons and have become a common sight in many cities.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
13. Green Peafowl
The green peafowl is a species of peafowl native to Southeast Asia and Indochina, making it a very unique bird.
It is the national bird of Myanmar and was historically widely distributed throughout the region, but today it is only found in a few isolated regions such as Cambodia and Vietnam.
This is due to deforestation and other environmental changes, which have contributed to the decline of this species. The green peafowl is an important species in the region, as it helps to maintain the balance of the ecosystem and provides food for other animals.
As a result, conservation efforts are being made in order to protect and preserve this species. These efforts include protection of the bird’s habitats, as well as the implementation of sustainable farming practices.
By doing so, we can help to preserve this species for future generations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Pavo |
| Species | P. muticus |
14. Pink-Necked Green Pigeon
The pink-necked green pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the Columbidae family, which includes doves and pigeons. It is a fairly common species in Southeast Asia, ranging from Myanmar and Vietnam southward through Indonesia and the Philippines.
The species is found in a variety of habitats, including tropical forests, mangroves, woodlands, and even urban parks. Its diet consists of fruits, nuts, and seeds, and it also feeds on insects and other small invertebrates.
The pink-necked green pigeon is an important species in the habitats where it is found, as it is a keystone species that helps to maintain the balance of the local ecosystem.
Its presence is indicative of the health of the local environment, as its presence signals that the habitat is suitable for other species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Furthermore, the pink-necked green pigeon acts as a seed disperser, helping to spread the seeds of many different plants and trees. This helps to ensure that the local flora remains healthy and diverse.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Treron |
| Species | T. vernans |
15. Indian Spot-Billed Duck
The Indian spot-billed duck is a unique species of duck that resides in the Indian subcontinent. It is a large dabbling duck that is characterized by its non-migratory behavior, breeding and living in freshwater wetlands in the region.
This duck is so named due to the red spot that can be found near the base of its bill, which is only present in the mainland Indian population.
This spot is thought to be a distinguishing characteristic of the Indian spot-billed duck, which sets it apart from other species of ducks. The Indian spot-billed duck is a fascinating bird that has adapted to living in the freshwater wetlands of the Indian subcontinent.
It is a strong swimmer and an adept forager, feeding on small invertebrates and plant matter found in the water or on the banks of the wetlands. It can be found in a variety of habitats, from wetlands to small ponds to even the edges of rice fields.
The Indian spot-billed duck is a hardy bird and is capable of surviving in a variety of conditions. The Indian spot-billed duck is an important part of the Indian subcontinent’s ecosystem and has an important role in maintaining the balance of its environment.
It is an important source of food for many species of animals, and its presence helps keep the waters clean and free from pollution.
The Indian spot-billed duck is also a popular bird among birdwatchers, as its striking red spot is a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other species of ducks.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. poecilorhyncha |
16. Chestnut-Winged Cuckoo
The chestnut-winged cuckoo is a species of cuckoo found in Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia. This species has a distinctive appearance with dark glossy upperparts, a black head with a long crest, and chestnut wings.
The long graduated glossy black tail, rufous throat, dusky underside, and narrow white nuchal half collar further distinguish this species from other cuckoo species. The chestnut-winged cuckoo is considered to be a medium-sized cuckoo with an overall length of 22 to 24 cm.
This species is typically shy and will often be heard before it is seen. Its most recognizable call is a loud “Kuk-kuk-kuk” which is repeated several times in succession. This species is a solitary bird and is usually seen alone or in pairs.
It is found in open forests, along forest edges, in tall grasslands, and even in gardens. This species is omnivorous and feeds mainly on insects but will also consume berries and other fruits.
Overall, the chestnut-winged cuckoo is a striking species with unique features that make it easily identifiable. It is a solitary bird that can be found in a variety of habitats in Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia.
Its distinct call is also a useful way to identify this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Clamator |
| Species | C. coromandus |
17. Red-Collared Dove
The red-collared dove, also known as the red turtle dove, is a small pigeon that is native to the tropics of Asia.
It is characterized by its distinct appearance, with the male having a blue-grey head and a red-brown body, while the female is much more plain, having pale brown plumage similar to that of the larger Eurasian collared dove.
The red-collared dove is a resident breeding bird, meaning that it is found in the same location all year round and reproduces there. It has adapted to its environment, making it an ideal species for study and research.
It is also a popular bird for people to observe in its natural habitat, as its distinct colors make it easy to spot. Overall, the red-collared dove is an attractive and interesting bird, making it an enjoyable species to observe and learn about.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. tranquebarica |
18. Green-Legged Partridge
The green-legged partridge is a species of bird found within the family Phasianidae. The species is native to Indochina, which includes parts of Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and southernmost China. It is also known as the scaly-breasted partridge or green-legged hill partridge.
The Vietnam partridge is a subspecies of the green-legged partridge and is found within the same geographic region. It is believed to be closely related to the green-legged partridge though it is not yet clear if it is a distinct species.
The Vietnam partridge is mostly found in southern Vietnam and is distinguished from the green-legged partridge by its smaller size and more mottled coloration. The green-legged partridge is found in forests, where it feeds on insects, seeds, fruits, and other vegetation.
It is considered to be of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources due to its wide distribution and stable population. The species is known to be quite shy, so it is difficult to observe in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Tropicoperdix |
| Species | T. chloropus |
19. Square-Tailed Drongo-Cuckoo
The square-tailed drongo-cuckoo is a species of cuckoo that has a physical resemblance to a black drongo. It was previously identified as S. lugubris, and included the subspecies dicruroides.
However, this subspecies is now treated as a separate species known as the fork-tailed drongo-cuckoo.
The square-tailed drongo-cuckoo is classified as a separate species due to its distinctive physical characteristics, including a square-tipped tail and a white patch on the lower back. It is found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, as well as in South-East Asia.
The species is known for its loud, harsh call, which is used to attract mates and warn off predators. It feeds primarily on insects, small reptiles, and fruit.
The square-tailed drongo-cuckoo is a colorful species with a wide range and is an important part of the ecosystem of many tropical and subtropical regions.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Surniculus |
| Species | S. lugubris |
20. Violet Cuckoo
The violet cuckoo is a species of cuckoo that is found in the family Cuculidae, which is part of the taxonomic order Cuculiformes. This species is most commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia, and can sometimes range into Australia.
The violet cuckoo is a medium-sized bird, typically reaching a length of around 8–9 inches. It is a bright, vibrant purple colour, with a white chin and throat, and a black beak and legs. The wings are usually a dark grey colour, and the tail is long and pointed.
The diet of the violet cuckoo consists of insects, small lizards, and other small animals. It is a vocal species that produces a variety of sounds, including a loud, harsh call. The violet cuckoo is a solitary species, typically living alone or in pairs.
They often make their nests in dense vegetation where they can remain hidden from potential predators. Although they are not considered threatened, they are still vulnerable to human activity, such as habitat destruction and illegal hunting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Chrysococcyx |
| Species | C. xanthorhynchus |
21. Mountain Imperial Pigeon
The mountain imperial pigeon is a species of bird that belongs to the family of pigeons and doves. It is native to southeastern Asia and has a wide range across the region.
It is also known as the maroon-backed imperial pigeon or Hodgson’s imperial pigeon. The mountain imperial pigeon has a distinctive plumage. The head, neck, and breasts are white, while the rest of the body is maroon-colored. The wings have dark feathers and a white-tipped tail.
It has a unique and loud call, with a cooing sound that is similar to other pigeons. These birds are usually found in forests and woodlands, but they can also inhabit open country and agricultural areas. They feed on fruits, berries, buds, and seeds.
The mountain imperial pigeon is known to form large flocks when foraging for food. The mountain imperial pigeon is not considered to be threatened, but their population is declining due to habitat destruction, hunting, and illegal trapping for the pet trade.
Therefore, it is important to protect their habitats and to create conservation measures to ensure the survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Ducula |
| Species | D. badia |
22. Great Eared Nightjar
The Great Eared Nightjar is a species of bird in the family of Caprimulgidae. This bird has a large body size and is found in parts of South Asia and Southeast Asia. Its wings are long and barred with brown and white stripes, while its tail is also striped in the same way.
The most distinctive feature of the Great Eared Nightjar is its long ear-tufts, which are often laid back against its head. These tufts can be up to two inches long and give the bird a very distinct appearance. The nightjar also has a long, curved bill used for catching insects.
The Great Eared Nightjar prefers to live in open woodlands, deciduous forests and savannas, where it can find plenty of insects to feed on. It is mostly nocturnal, preferring to hunt at night, and has a distinctive call of a low hooting sound.
Unfortunately, the population of this species is declining due to habitat destruction and fragmentation, and it is now listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Lyncornis |
| Species | L. macrotis |
23. Garganey
The garganey is a small dabbling duck that is found in many parts of Europe and the Palearctic region.
Due to its migratory nature, its entire population migrates to southern Africa, India, Bangladesh, and Australasia during the winter of the Northern Hemisphere, where it congregates in large flocks.
This species is strictly migratory, meaning that it does not remain in any given area for an extended period of time. Instead, it moves from one area to another depending on the season.
During the winter, the garganey is typically found in southern Africa, India, Bangladesh, and Australasia. In these areas, the duck congregates in large flocks, likely in search of food and shelter.
During the summer, the garganey moves back to Europe and the Palearctic region, where it breeds and nests. The migratory pattern of the garganey helps to ensure its survival, as it allows the duck to take advantage of different areas and resources during different seasons.
This strategy is common among birds and is an important adaptation that helps them to survive in changing climates and environments.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Spatula |
| Species | S. querquedula |
24. Red Junglefowl
The red junglefowl is a species of bird that belongs to the Phasianidae family, which is the same family that pheasants, partridges, and chickens belong to. It is native to a large area of Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia and is one of the earliest domesticated birds.
This species is also known as the bankiva or bankiva fowl and is distinguished by its bright red and orange plumage. It has a long crest of feathers on the top of its head and a long tail.
The red junglefowl is a ground foraging species, and its diet consists mainly of insects, seeds, and other small animals. This species is also known to feed on fruit and small reptiles.
It is mainly solitary and territorial, and usually only comes together with other junglefowl to breed. The males are particularly territorial and can become aggressive when other males enter their area.
The red junglefowl is an important species in its range, as it is the ancestor of the domesticated chicken. It is also an important prey species to many predators, such as cats, snakes, and birds of prey.
However, it is threatened by habitat destruction and loss of suitable breeding grounds due to human activities. This species is now considered to be vulnerable to extinction, and conservation efforts are needed to ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Gallus |
| Species | G. gallus |
Conclusion
The birds of Chiang Rai are a diverse and beautiful array of species.
From the majestic national bird of Thailand, the Siamese Fireback, to the more common Black Drongo and Racket-tailed Treepie, the avian population of Chiang Rai is incredibly varied.
These birds make up an integral part of the region’s ecology, and their presence is an important part of the local culture and tourism. With the proper protection and conservation efforts, the birds of Chiang Rai can be appreciated for many years to come.