Crotone is a city situated in the Italian province of Calabria in the south of the country. It is known for its diverse bird population, including migratory and resident species.
The city’s abundant wetlands attract many of these birds, making Crotone an excellent destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
The city boasts various birds to observe and enjoy, from common species like swans and ducks to rare species like Audouin’s gulls and purple herons.
In addition, Crotone is home to several protected areas, providing an ideal habitat for many of these birds to thrive.
So if you’re looking for a place to observe some of the most beautiful birds in Italy, Crotone is the perfect destination.
24 Birds to Watch in Crotone
Crotone is a city situated in the Italian province of Calabria in the south of the country. It is known for its diverse bird population, including migratory and resident species.
The city’s abundant wetlands attract many of these birds, making Crotone an excellent destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Here are 24 birds that you can watch in Crotone:
1. Black-Crowned Night Heron
The black-crowned night heron, or black-capped night heron, is a medium-sized heron found in many places worldwide. It is commonly referred to as just a night heron in Eurasia. This heron can be found in Europe, Asia, North America, and South America.
It is common in many wetlands, marshes, and other areas with plenty of water. The black-crowned night heron is a stocky and thick-necked bird with a body length of about 45 cm. It has a black crown on its head and a black back, wings, and tail.
Its chest and belly are white, while its legs are yellow. It has a short, thick bill and yellow eyes. The black-crowned night heron feeds mainly on small fish, crustaceans, and insects. It hunts for food in shallow water and at night.
It also scavenges from other animals, such as turtles and other birds. In the breeding season, the black-crowned night heron builds a bulky nest of twigs and sticks in trees, shrubs, or reedbeds. It lays between 2 and 5 eggs, which are incubated for about three weeks before hatching.
The chicks are born with grey feathers and fledge in about 4 to 5 weeks. The black-crowned night heron is a widespread species in many parts of the world. It is a medium-sized heron easily identifiable due to its black crown and white chest.
It feeds mainly on small fish, crustaceans, and insects and builds a bulky nest during breeding.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Nycticorax |
| Species | N. nycticorax |
2. Mallard
The Mallard, also known as the wild duck, is a species of dabbling duck found throughout the temperate and subtropical regions of the Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa.
This highly adaptable species has been introduced to several places outside of its natural range, including New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa.
It is a common sight in parks and other urban areas, as it is a social bird and can quickly adapt to human presence. Mallards are medium-sized ducks, typically measuring around 20 inches long, with a wingspan of 35 inches.
The males are usually bright green and brown with a blue-green head and yellow bill. The females are a lighter brown color with a brownish head and bill. Both sexes have white neck rings and a white chest. Mallards are omnivores, eating a variety of plant and animal matter.
Their diet includes seeds, grains, insects, crustaceans, and small fish. Mallards are highly sociable and usually fly in large flocks. They breed in fresh and saltwater wetlands, preferring shallow areas with abundant vegetation.
The female Mallard builds a nest in vegetation close to water and lays between 8 and 12 eggs, which she will incubate for about 25 days. After hatching, the ducklings will stay with the female for around two months before they can fly.
The Mallard is an essential species in terms of both ecology and economy. They are considered a game species in many areas and provide food for humans and other predators.
They are an essential part of wetland ecosystems, providing nutrients to the water and controlling insect populations. Additionally, Mallards are critical contributors to birdwatching tourism in many places.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. platyrhynchos |
3. Eurasian Collared Dove
The Eurasian collared dove is a species native to Europe and Asia. It is a pretty common species and has adapted well to human habitats. It is known to inhabit both rural and urban environments.
Recently, the Eurasian collared dove has been introduced to other regions outside its native range. It has been seen in Japan, North America, and various Caribbean islands. This species can fly a long distance and is thought to have been spread by humans.
It is believed that the Eurasian collared dove was initially introduced to Japan for hunting purposes and has since spread to other regions. This species is considered invasive in some areas, as it can out-compete native species for food and resources.
Despite this, the Eurasian collared dove is still popular and widely appreciated for its beauty.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. decaocto |
4. Common Wood Pigeon
The standard wood pigeon is an impressive bird species in the dove and pigeon family. It is native to the western Palearctic region, consisting of parts of Europe, North Africa, and Asia.
It is one of the members of the Columba genus, which also includes closely related species such as the rock dove. The standard wood pigeon is a large bird with an average length of 32 and 37 centimeters.
It has a wingspan of around 65 centimeters and can weigh up to 500 grams. Its characteristic features include its grayish-brown body, white patches on its wings, and a white band at the base of its neck. It is also known for its distinctive deep cooing sound.
The standard wood pigeon feeds on grains, berries, and other plant material, and it is also known to scavenge for food in urban areas. It is an essential species for local ecosystems, as its droppings provide crucial nutrients for other plants.
It is also a famous game bird hunted for sport in some areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. palumbus |
5. Rock Dove
The rock dove, also known as the rock pigeon or common pigeon, is a type of bird in the Columbidae family. It is commonly referred to as the “pigeon.” This species is the ancestor of the domestic pigeon, now found in many parts of the world.
Due to the escape of domesticated pigeons, there has been an increase in the population of feral pigeons worldwide. The rock dove is a small, stout-bodied bird with a short beak and a rounded head.
It is usually gray, although some may have darker or lighter shades. The birds typically live in flocks and can often be seen in open areas such as parks and fields. They are omnivorous and feed on various seeds, berries, and insects.
The rock dove is widely distributed, with populations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. In the United States, the species is often found in coastal areas. The birds typically breed in cliffs and rock ledges and nests in such places.
The rock dove is a friendly bird and can often be seen flying in large flocks. The birds are known for loud, cooing calls, usually heard in urban areas.
Pigeons have also been used in racing and homing competitions, as they can find their way back to a specific location. Overall, the rock dove is an interesting species.
It is the ancestor of the domestic pigeon, and its populations have increased due to the escape of domesticated birds. The species is widely distributed and is often seen in large flocks.
Pigeons are also known for their loud cooing calls and have been used in racing and homing competitions.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
6. Cuckoos
Cuckoos are a type of bird belonging to the Cuculidae family, the only taxon in the order Cuculiformes. This family of birds includes the common or European cuckoo, roadrunners, koels, malkohas, couas, coucals, and anis.
Although these species are all related, the coucals and anis are sometimes grouped into separate families, the Centropodidae and Crotophagidae, respectively.
Each bird species has its unique characteristics and behaviors that set them apart from other cuckoo species. For example, the standard or European cuckoo is considered a migratory species, while the roadrunner and koel are more stationary.
The malkohas are known for their loud and melodious calls, while the couas and coucals are known for their colorful plumages. Finally, the anis are known for their communal breeding habits and ability to fly long distances.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Otidimorphae |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
7. Phasianidae
The Phasianidae family is expansive, consisting of 185 species spread out over 54 genera. It comprises a variety of ground-dwelling birds, including pheasants, partridges, junglefowl, chickens, turkeys, Old World quail, and peafowl.
These species have earned a special place in the hearts of many, as they are some of the most popular game birds around. The pheasants, for instance, are renowned for their unique and colorful plumage and are often sought after by hunters and birdwatchers alike.
Partridges, junglefowl, and quail are popular gamebirds, with their ability to blend into their surroundings, making them challenging to spot. On the other hand, chickens, turkeys, and peafowl are more recognizable for their size and bright colors.
The Phasianidae family of birds is diverse, with each species having unique characteristics. From the colorful and beloved pheasant to the large and majestic peafowl, these birds have earned a special place in the hearts of many.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
8. European Turtle Dove
The European turtle dove is a species of bird belonging to the family Columbidae, which includes doves and pigeons. This dove species can be found in numerous areas of the southwestern Palearctic, from northern Africa to Europe.
During the winter, the European turtle dove migrates to northern sub-Saharan Africa to seek out warmer climates. This dove species is known for its distinct, trilling call, often heard during the early morning or the late evening.
Due to the wide range of its breeding grounds, the European turtle dove is considered a common species. It has also been described as a symbol of peace and love in many cultures. As a result, the European turtle dove is an important species to many people.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. turtur |
9. Rail
Rails are a large family of birds that inhabit a variety of environments, including both land and water. They come in a range of sizes, from minor to medium.
This family of birds is quite diverse and includes some of the most common species, such as crakes, coots, and gallinules.
Additionally, some rail species are extremely rare or even endangered due to various threats such as habitat loss, overhunting, and pollution. Many species of rails are ground-dwelling or semi-amphibious birds, meaning they can inhabit both land and water.
They typically feed on small invertebrates, plants, and seeds and are found in various habitats, from wetlands to grasslands. They are also strong flyers, and some species migrate seasonally.
Rails are essential to many ecosystems, and their role in regulating the environment should not be underestimated. Unfortunately, many species of rails are under threat due to human activities such as pollution, habitat destruction, and overhunting.
Conservation efforts are needed to protect these birds and their habitats to ensure their survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
10. Eurasian Teal
The Eurasian teal (Anas crecca) is a small dabbling duck across much of Europe and Asia. It is a migratory bird, breeding in temperate Eurosiberia and migrating south during the winter.
This species is also known as the common teal or the Eurasian green-winged teal and is often referred to as the “teal” due to its wide distribution. The Eurasian teal is a reasonably common bird easily identified by its bright green head and chestnut brown body.
They are social birds and can often be seen in large flocks, especially in winter. They feed mainly on aquatic vegetation, insect larvae, and small fish, which they find by dabbling in shallow water.
The Eurasian teal is an essential species for hunters and conservationists alike. It is an important game bird, and its presence indicates healthy wetlands.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. crecca |
11. Common Quail
The common quail, or European quail, is a small bird that belongs to the Phasianidae family, a group of ground-nesting game birds.
This species is found throughout the western Palearctic, breeds in the warmer months, and migrates to Africa and southern India during the winter. Although they can be hard to spot, the common quail is easily identified by its distinctive call of three repeated chirps.
This species is more often heard in the wild than seen, making it a unique and intriguing bird. Common quails are tiny and have a mottled brown coloration. They live alone or in pairs and are usually seen foraging on the ground for food.
Their diet consists of seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. Their habitats typically include grasslands, forests, and shrublands. The common quail is an essential species in many ecosystems, mainly due to its role as a prey species.
They are a popular food source for many predators, including foxes, owls, and other raptors. They also help to disperse seeds and maintain healthy vegetation in their habitats.
Overall, the common quail is an ecologically important species that is interesting to observe and plays an integral role in the ecosystems in which it lives.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Coturnix |
| Species | C. coturnix |
12. Great Cormorant
The great cormorant is a species of seabird that is found across the Northern Hemisphere, Australia, New Zealand, and India. It is also known by different names depending on the region. In New Zealand, it is referred to as the black shag or kawau.
In the Northern Hemisphere, it is called the great black cormorant. In Australia, it is known as the black cormorant; in India, it is called the large cormorant. The great cormorant is a member of the cormorant family, which includes other species of long-necked seabirds.
They are typically found in coastal areas, as they prefer to fish in the shallow waters near shore. The great cormorant has a mainly black plumage, with a white patch on its throat and a yellow or green patch on its face.
It has webbed feet to help with swimming and a hooked bill for catching fish. The great cormorant can be found in various habitats, including lakes, rivers, estuaries, and the open ocean.
It often forms large colonies and can be seen perched on rocks or trees near the shore or flying in the air.
As a predatory bird, they feed primarily on fish but will also eat other aquatic creatures such as eels, crabs, and mollusks. The great cormorant is a widespread species in many parts of the world.
It is an essential member of the marine ecosystem and helps to maintain balance in the food web.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Phalacrocorax |
| Species | P. carbo |
13. Gadwall
The gadwall is a species of duck that belongs to the family Anatidae. This species is found in many parts of the world, primarily temperate regions.
It is one of the world’s most widespread and abundant species of dabbling ducks. The gadwall is a medium-sized duck measuring 45-60 centimeters in length. It has a grey-brown body, white undersides, and a white head with a black crown.
Its wings have a distinctive white patch, and its bill is yellow with a black tip. The gadwall prefers wetlands and ponds, where it feeds on aquatic vegetation, small crustaceans, and insects. It also eats grain, berries, and other plant matter.
The gadwall is usually seen in small groups or pairs and is quite vocal, producing a range of honking and grunting noises. The gadwall is a migratory species seen in many parts of the world during winter.
During the summer, it is found breeding in northern regions and then migrating south in the winter. Overall, the gadwall is a prevalent species of duck, and it is found in many parts of the world.
It is a hardy species that can adapt to various conditions and be seen in many places during different times of the year.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. strepera |
14. Ardea Alba
The great egret is a large bird species with four subspecies that can be found on multiple continents around the world. It is also known as the common egret, large egret, great white egret, or great white heron.
The species can be found in wetlands, along rivers, and near lakes in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe. In recent times, the great egret has been spreading to more northern areas of Europe, increasing the overall range of this species.
The great egret is impressive, with its long neck, wingspan, and striking white plumage. A solitary bird often feeds on fish and other aquatic creatures.
The great egret is an essential species for the health of many wetlands and is a symbol of worldwide conservation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. alba |
15. Common Pochard
The common pochard is a medium-sized diving duck belonging to the Aythya family of ducks. The scientific name of the common pochard, Aythya ferina, is derived from two sources.
The first part of the name, Aythya, is derived from the Greek Lithuania, an unidentified seabird mentioned by ancient authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle. The second part of the name, ferina, is derived from the Latin word ferina, meaning “wild game.”
This part of the name comes from the Latin fetus, meaning “wild.” This accurately describes the nature of the common pochard, a wild bird found in many parts of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. ferina |
16. Water Rail
The water rail is a bird belonging to the rail family, found in various wetlands across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. These wetlands must be well-vegetated to provide the water rail with a suitable habitat.
Populations in northern and eastern Europe are migratory, meaning they will move to different areas depending on the season. However, there are also populations of water rails that are permanent residents in the warmer climates of their breeding range.
These birds will remain in their breeding range all year round rather than moving to different areas to take advantage of seasonal changes. Overall, the water rail is a widespread species, though it is pretty sensitive to environmental and habitat changes.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Rallus |
| Species | R. aquaticus |
17. Cranes
Cranes are a family of birds in the group Gruiformes, known for their large size and long limbs and necks. There are 15 species of cranes, divided into three genera: Antigone, Balearica, and Grus.
Cranes differ from similar-looking herons in that they fly with their necks outstretched, not pulled back. This makes them more easily recognizable in the sky. Their long legs and necks give them a graceful, majestic look when in flight.
They are often seen foraging for food on the ground, using their long bills to probe in the soil. Cranes are also known for their courtship dances, which involve a lot of jumping and wing-flapping.
These displays can serve to strengthen the bond between mates, as well as attract potential partners. Cranes are an essential part of the natural world, as they help to control insect and rodent populations, disperse seeds, and provide crucial nutrients for other animals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
18. Mute Swan
The mute swan is a species of swan that belongs to the Anatidae family of waterfowl. It is native to many of Eurasia and the northernmost parts of Africa. This species of swan is easily identified by its all-white plumage and long, graceful neck.
The mute swan is also known for its loud honking sound, which gives it its name. They inhabit various habitats, including rivers, lakes, ponds, marshes, and coastal areas. They are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, insects, and small fish.
They nest on the ground or floating structures and usually have four to eight eggs. The mute swan is a relatively long-lived species; some have been known to live up to 25 years in the wild.
Despite its name, the mute swan is not mute; it makes various honking and grunting sounds, which can be heard from some distance away.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. olor |
19. Greylag Goose
The Greylag Goose is a large goose species belonging to the Anatidae family of waterfowl. It is also the type species of the genus Anser.
This species of large goose is easily identifiable due to its mottled and barred grey and white plumage, as well as its orange beak and pink legs. The coloration of the Greylag Goose helps it blend in and hide in its natural habitat.
Its plumage acts as camouflage, helping to protect the goose from potential predators. The Greylag Goose is also known for its loud honk, which can be heard from up to three kilometers away and is a vital characteristic of this species.
The Greylag Goose is found throughout Eurasia, from the British Isles to Siberia, and is a common species of waterfowl. It is a migratory species and will travel great distances for food and suitable habitat.
The Greylag Goose is an integral part of many ecosystems, and its presence helps to maintain the balance of the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anser |
| Species | A. anser |
20. Common Crane
The Common Crane, also known as the Eurasian Crane, is a species of bird that is part of the family Gruidae, commonly known as cranes. It is a medium-sized species, generally slightly larger than a goose but significantly smaller than the larger crane species.
It is the only crane species common throughout much of Europe, although two other species are found in the far eastern part of the continent: the Demoiselle Crane and the Siberian Crane.
The Common Crane is found in many habitats, from wetlands to grasslands and mountains. It is also found in various human-modified habitats, such as agricultural fields, parks, and pastures.
The Common Crane is a migratory species, with most of the population wintering in Africa’s Sahel region and Sudan.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Grus |
| Species | G. grus |
21. Common Moorhen
The common moorhen is a species of bird belonging to the rail family, found in many parts of the Old World. It is also referred to as the waterhen or swamp chicken.
This bird species can be seen in wetland areas such as marshes, ponds, and canals surrounded by vegetation. The common moorhen is a distinctive bird with a body that is primarily black with white feathers along its wings and tail.
Its bill is yellow, with a red frontal shield on its forehead. It has a slim, long-bodied shape, making it well-suited for life in the wetlands. The common moorhen is an omnivore which eats plant and animal matter.
It feeds mainly on small invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks but will also eat vegetation such as grasses and seeds.
It forages along the edges of the water, often standing on one foot while searching for food. The common moorhen is a social bird, living in small family groups of up to six individuals. They are vocal birds, making a range of calls and whistles to communicate with each other.
They also use elaborate displays, such as stretching their necks and raising their wings to communicate. The common moorhen is a hardy bird that is well adapted to life in the wetlands.
Its ability to adapt to changing conditions makes it a species capable of surviving in various habitats. Its presence in wetlands helps maintain biodiversity, as it feeds on different food sources.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Gallinula |
| Species | G. chloropus |
22. Common Merganser
The Common Merganser, or the Goosander, is a large sea duck found in rivers and lakes across Europe, Asia, and North America. This duck species prefers to inhabit areas with plenty of trees and other vegetation.
Common Mergansers feed mainly on fish, which they catch in the water. They nest in holes they create in trees, high up in the branches. These holes are usually found in dead or decaying trees, where the merganser can make its nest without being disturbed.
Common Mergansers are essential to the ecosystem, as they help to keep the fish population in check. Additionally, by nesting in trees, they help to spread seeds and promote healthy forest growth.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergus |
| Species | M. merganser |
23. Cattle Egret
The cattle egret is a species of heron found across the globe in areas of tropical, subtropical, and warm-temperate climates.
It is the only species in the Bubulcus genus, although some experts suggest that its two subspecies, the western and eastern cattle egret, should be considered an entire species.
The two subspecies display enough differences to be considered separate species. The cattle egret is a relatively small heron with long legs and a wingspan of approximately 60 cm.
Its plumage is predominantly white, with yellow or orange bills, legs, and feet. However, the eastern cattle egret has a slightly darker coloring, with yellowish-brown plumage on its wings and tail.
The cattle egret feeds on various small aquatic animals, including insects, amphibians, and small fish. It typically forages in shallow water or on grassland, making it an adaptable species.
The cattle egret is a successful species with a large and growing population in many parts of the world. It is not considered to be threatened and is often seen in association with cattle and other large animals, hence its name.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Bubulcus |
| Species | B. ibis |
24. Squacco Heron
The Squacco Heron is a small species of heron, measuring between 44 and 47 cm in length and having a wingspan of 80 to 92 cm. Its body is relatively small, measuring between 20-23 cm.
This heron is native to the Old World, which includes Europe and the Middle East, and breeds in these regions. The Squacco Heron is found in various habitats, including wetlands, rivers, lakes, and mudflats. It prefers shallow water with plenty of vegetation for cover.
During the breeding season, the Squacco Heron feeds on small fish, amphibians, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. It is also known to eat small birds, reptiles, and rodents.
The Squacco Heron is an essential wetland species and a key indicator for the health of wetland ecosystems. Its presence is vital to maintaining a healthy balance of wildlife in these areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardeola |
| Species | A. ralloides |
Conclusion
Crotone offers a captivating array of avian wonders, attracting birdwatchers from far and wide. With its diverse habitats ranging from coastal areas to forests and wetlands, this region provides a rich tapestry for birdlife to flourish.
The 24 species highlighted represent only a fraction of the diverse avifauna that call Crotone home. From the majestic sight of the Eurasian eagle owl to the delicate charm of the European bee-eater, each bird adds a unique dimension to the region’s natural heritage.