Foggia is a city in the Apulia region of southeastern Italy. It is home to various birds, making it an ideal destination for birdwatchers. From the majestic eagles and hawks to the colorful finches and warblers, Foggia is home to hundreds of species of birds.
The city is also a popular spot for bird migrations, as many species of birds pass through the area on their way to and from their winter and summer homes.
With its vast wetlands and lush forests, Foggia is a paradise for birders looking to glimpse some of the most stunning birds in the world.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned birdwatcher, Foggia is a great place to observe and appreciate the beauty of these feathered creatures.
16 Birds Found in Foggia
Foggia is a city in the southern Italian region of Puglia, known for its rich history, culture, and cuisine. But did you know that Foggia is also home to a diverse and colorful variety of birds?
Here are 16 of the most common and exciting birds you can spot in Foggia and its surroundings.
1. Grey Heron
The Grey Heron is a species of wading bird that belongs to the Ardeidae family. It is native to temperate parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
It is a resident species in most of its habitats; however, the Grey Heron migrates south during the autumn season in the northern parts of its range. The Grey Heron is known for its long legs, which serve it well for wading in shallow areas.
Its diet comprises small fish, invertebrates, amphibians, and other small animals. The Grey Heron typically breeds in colonies, usually in trees near wetlands. It is a solitary bird but can be seen in small flocks in its wintering and migrating grounds.
It builds a large nest of sticks, which it uses for resting and breeding. The Grey Heron is an essential species for the balance of the ecosystem as it helps control the population of certain species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. cinerea |
2. Squacco Heron
The squacco heron is a small species of heron found in the Old World. It typically measures 44-47 cm, with a body length of 20-23 cm and an impressive wingspan of 80-92 cm. This heron is native to southern Europe and the Greater Middle East, where it breeds and lives.
It is a solitary and shy bird, often seen wading in marshy areas for food. Its diet comprises small fish, crustaceans, insects, and other aquatic invertebrates.
The squacco heron is a reasonably common bird and is not considered threatened, though it is vulnerable to human activity and destruction of its natural habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardeola |
| Species | A. ralloides |
3. Red-Crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a large diving duck native to many parts of the world. It is named after its distinctive red crest, a distinguishing feature of the species. The scientific name of the red-crested pochard is derived from two sources.
The first part of the name, Netta, is derived from the Greek word for “duck.” The second part, Rufina, comes from the Latin word “golden-red,” referring to the color of the duck’s crest.
This scientific name is fitting for this species, as it accurately describes the unique feature of the red-crested pochard. The red-crested pochard is a large duck with a body length of up to 60 cm and a body weight of up to 1.5 kg.
It is a diving duck, meaning that it feeds by diving underwater to catch the prey that it eats. It is a strong swimmer and can remain underwater for several minutes while searching for food.
The red-crested pochard is found in many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. It prefers to inhabit shallow lakes and ponds with plenty of vegetation, using the plants as cover while searching for food.
The red-crested pochard is an important species, both ecologically and economically. It is an integral part of the aquatic food chain, and its presence helps maintain the ecosystem’s balance.
The red-crested pochard is also an important game bird hunted for sport and food in many parts of the world. This species is also widespread among birdwatchers, as its bright red crest makes it easy to spot.
In conclusion, the red-crested pochard is a large and distinctive diving duck in many parts of the world. Its scientific name is derived from Greek and Latin words that accurately describe its unique red crest.
The red-crested pochard is an ecologically and economically important species, and it is popular among birdwatchers due to its bright coloration.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
4. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is the most abundant and prominent species of the family.
Native to the Old World, they have a wide geographical range and can be found throughout 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.
This extensive range of habitats allows the greater flamingo to thrive in various climates and landscapes, from wetlands and lagoons to coastal areas and large bodies of water.
In Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa, the greater flamingo can be found in Egypt, South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania.
In the Indian Subcontinent, it can be found in India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. It can be found in countries like Syria, Iraq, and Iran in the Middle East. It is found in countries like Lebanon, Jordan, and Israel in the Levant.
The greater flamingo can also be found in the Persian Gulf countries, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe. The greater flamingo is a social bird that lives in large flocks, often numbering in the thousands.
Flamingos are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and animals, and their diet consists of shrimp, mollusks, algae, and other small aquatic life.
Their long legs and webbed feet help them filter feed in their habitats’ shallow waters. The greater flamingo is a beautiful and unmistakable bird, with its bright pink feathers and long, curved neck.
It is an iconic species and an essential part of many regions it inhabits. Despite its wide range, its population is in decline due to habitat destruction and other human-induced threats.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect this magnificent species and ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
5. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a small water bird belonging to the grebe family. It is named after two words from the Ancient Greek language: thus, which means “fast,” and bap to, which means “to sink under.”
The species name is ruficollis, derived from two Latin words: Rufus, meaning “red,” and Collis, meaning “necked.” Collis is derived from the Latin phrase collum, meaning “neck.”
Thus, “e little grebe is characterized by its fast swimming ability and redneck.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
6. Common Cuckoo
The common cuckoo is a type of bird that belongs to the Cuculiformes order of birds, including the roadrunners, the anis, and the coucals.
This particular species of bird is a migratory one, spending its summers in Europe and Asia and then migrating to Africa during the winter.
Many other bird species share the cuckoo’s migratory habits, and this bird is typically seen in the spring and summer months in the regions it migrates to.
The common cuckoo is a medium-sized bird with a length of around twelve to fifteen inches and a wingspan of around twenty-two to twenty-four inches.
Its back is grayish-brown, and its underside is white. Its legs are long and thin, and its beak is short and curved.
The cuckoo’s call is a loud, repetitive “cuckoo” sound, and its diet consists primarily of insects and small invertebrates. The common cuckoo is a solitary bird living in open woodland, scrubland, and meadows.
It typically builds its nest in a tree or shrub but can also be home in a hollow tree cavity or among dense vegetation. The female lays between four and eight eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them.
Once the chicks hatch, they are usually left to fend for themselves. The common cuckoo is an essential food and pest control species, as its diet consists of many insects and other invertebrates.
Its migratory habits also help to spread its genes amongst different populations, helping to ensure the species’ genetic diversity and survival.
Overall, the common cuckoo is an exciting and vital bird species, and its migratory habits make it a fascinating species to observe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Cuculus |
| Species | C. canorus |
7. Baikal Teal
The Baikal teal is a species of dabbling duck native to Eurasia. It is also known by two other common names, the bimaculate duck and the squawk duck. This species breeds in eastern Russia in the summer months and migrates south to East Asia for the winter.
This species is a relatively small duck, with a length of around 39 cm and a wingspan of 60 cm. Its plumage is generally brown, with some black and white markings on the feathers of its wings.
It is known to feed on aquatic plants and insects and is usually found in shallow wetlands and lakes. This species is currently listed as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN Red List due to its declining population due to hunting and habitat loss.
Conservation efforts have been put in place to help preserve the population of the Baikal teal and protect its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Sibirionetta |
| Species | S. formosa |
8. Red-Breasted Goose
The red-breasted goose is a species of goose found in Eurasia and is known for its bright coloring. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the red-breasted goose as vulnerable.
This means that the species faces a high risk of extinction in the wild due to several factors, including habitat loss and overhunting. Red-breasted geese typically inhabit wetlands, coastal areas, tundra, and mountain grasslands.
They feed on aquatic plants, insects, and small fish. Unfortunately, human activities such as land reclamation and urban development have destroyed many of their habitats.
This has caused a decrease in their population and has made them more vulnerable to hunting and other threats. In addition, the red-breasted goose is also threatened by the illegal trade in wildlife.
As a result, the IUCN has listed the species as vulnerable and has called for more excellent protection of the species and its habitat.
Conservation efforts such as habitat restoration, law enforcement, and public education are needed to help protect the red-breasted goose and ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Branta |
| Species | B. ruficollis |
9. Red-Necked Grebe
The red-necked grebe is a migratory aquatic bird found in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. This bird species is known for its beautiful red neck feathers and dark head.
It prefers to inhabit areas of calm waters, such as those found just beyond the waves around ocean coasts. Some birds may also winter on large lakes, though this is not as common.
During the winter, the red-necked grebe can be seen in flocks, often huddled in sheltered sea areas. The red-necked grebe has adapted to its aquatic habitat by developing webbed feet and a streamlined body that helps it swim quickly and maneuver in the water.
Its diet consists of small aquatic animals such as fish and crustaceans. It is an excellent diver, capable of diving up to several meters below the water surface in search of its prey. The red-necked grebe is an essential species for the conservation of aquatic ecosystems.
It is an essential indicator of water quality and can alert us to pollutants and other environmental changes.
It is also an essential part of the food web, as it sustains many other species, such as fish, birds, and mammals. For these reasons, protecting the red-necked grebe and its habitat is essential.
This species is currently listed as vulnerable by the IUCN and faces a number of threats, such as habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing. We must take steps to ensure that this species can continue to thrive in its natural habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. grisegena |
10. Great Egret
The great egret, also known as the common egret, large egret, great white egret, or great white heron, is a large and widely distributed bird species. It can be found worldwide in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe.
In recent years, the great egret has been seen in more northern regions of Europe, suggesting their range is expanding. The great egret is a majestic bird with a wingspan of up to five feet and a long, slender neck and bill.
Its feathers are a stunning white, which is why it is also known as the great white egret or heron. It usually lives near wetlands, feeding small fish, frogs, and insects.
The great egret is a famous sight in many parts of the world, symbolizing beauty and grace. The great egret is currently listed as a species of “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
This means that while the species may not be in immediate danger, there is still a need to ensure that it continues to thrive.
Conservationists are working to protect its wetland habitats and monitor its population size to ensure this beautiful bird can remain a part of the world’s wildlife for many years.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. alba |
11. Lesser Flamingo
The lesser flamingo is a species of flamingo that can be found in sub-Saharan Africa and western India. These birds are usually found in these areas, but there have been reports of them being seen further north.
These sightings are usually rare and considered to be vagrant, meaning they have ventured outside their typical habitat. These occurrences are thought to be quite rare, as the birds are not typically found in these areas.
The lesser flamingo is a tropical bird, so they are likely drawn to these other locations for the warmer climates. In the areas where they are commonly found, they can be seen in large flocks in shallow lakes and lagoons.
They feed on a diet of primarily algae, so they have their bright pink coloring. The lesser flamingo is the smallest species of flamingo, with an average height of only three feet. They have long legs, a curved neck, and a slightly upturned beak.
They also have long wings that can span up to five feet across. Since the lesser flamingo is not typically found outside its typical habitat, sightings in other areas are pretty exciting.
They are an exciting species to observe and photograph, as they are unique in their appearance. It is important to note that observing them should not disturb their natural habitat, as they are an endangered species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoeniconaias |
| Species | P. minor |
12. Eurasian Wigeon
The Eurasian wigeon is a species of dabbling duck belonging to the genus Mareca. It is one of three species of wigeon in the genus and is commonly found across its Palearctic range, which includes Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa.
The Eurasian wigeon is also known as the European wigeon, widgeon, or simply wigeon. The Eurasian wigeon is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive white crown and a chestnut-colored body. Its wings have a white trailing edge and a prominent patch in the middle.
The male has a green head with a white stripe running down the back of its neck. Females are brown-grey with a lighter head and neck. The Eurasian wigeon feeds mainly on aquatic vegetation, such as water lilies, but will also eat insects, mollusks, and crustaceans.
It is a strong flier and can migrate long distances, often spending the winter in more southern parts of its range. The species is also known to form large flocks during migration. The Eurasian wigeon is a famous game bird in some of its range and is hunted for food.
It is also an essential species for conservation, as its presence and abundance indicate wetland health. Conservation efforts to protect the species and its habitat exist in many parts of its range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. penelope |
13. Great-Crested Grebe
The great crested grebe is a species of water bird that belongs to the grebe family. It is a large bird with a body length of around 50 centimeters and a wingspan of around 75 centimeters.
It can be found in freshwater lakes, marshes, and coastal waters and generally stays close to shore. The great crested grebe is well known for its elaborate mating display.
During this display, the male and female birds swim around each other, with the male often making loud calls. They will then swim away from each other for a short distance before returning for a courtship dance.
During the dance, they will flap their wings, bob their heads, and sometimes even perform a ‘rush’ where they swim around each other at high speed.
This display is used to attract a mate and to defend their territory. The great crested grebe is an important species for many countries, as it provides food for other animals.
It is also popular with bird watchers, as its colorful plumage and elaborate mating display make it an interesting species to observe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. cristatus |
14. White-Headed Duck
The white-headed duck is a species of small diving duck that grows to around 45 cm in length. It is easily distinguishable due to its distinctive coloring, with the male having a white head and black crown, a blue bill, and reddish-grey plumage.
The female has a much darker bill and duller coloring in general. The white-headed duck is a water bird that prefers to inhabit lakes and other bodies of water with open water and dense vegetation at the margins.
This environment provides the perfect combination of open water for swimming and diving and plenty of cover and food sources from the dense vegetation. This is where the white-headed duck breeds and raises its young.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Oxyura |
| Species | O. leucocephala |
15. Great Cormorant
The great cormorant is a species of seabird found around the world. It is known by different names in different parts of the world. In New Zealand, it is known as the black shag or kawau. It was formerly known as the great black cormorant in the Northern Hemisphere.
In Australia, it is known as the black cormorant; in India, it is known as the large cormorant. The great cormorant is a member of the cormorant family of seabirds, characterized by its long neck and hooked bill.
It is a large sea bird, with an average length of about 60 cm and a wingspan of up to 2 meters. It is dark-colored, with an iridescent sheen, and has a white patch on the lower neck. The great cormorant is found near sea coasts, estuaries, coastal lagoons, and rivers.
It is usually seen near other seabirds, such as gannets and terns. It feeds mainly on fish but takes crustaceans, mollusks, and other aquatic organisms. The great cormorant is a social bird often seen in large groups known as “rafts.”
They form large colonies and can be seen nesting on cliffs or near the shore. They breed in the spring and summer and lay their eggs in a single nest. The great cormorant is an important species for many cultures and a food source for many people.
It is also an essential part of the natural ecosystem, controlling the population of fish and other aquatic organisms.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Phalacrocorax |
| Species | P. carbo |
16. Little Egret
The Little Egret is a small heron species belonging to the Ardeidae family. It is a white bird with a slender black beak, long black legs, and, in the western race, yellow feet.
It is an aquatic bird that feeds on land and shallow water, consuming a variety of small creatures such as insects, small reptiles, amphibians, and crustaceans. The Little Egret is usually found near bodies of water, such as ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams.
It is also often seen wading in shallow waters, hunting for food. The Little Egret is a graceful bird with elegant white feathers, and its long legs and neck make it a beautiful sight. It appears to be very agile and can move quickly in pursuit of its prey.
The Little Egret is an essential bird species, as it helps keep the aquatic environment clean by eating small marine creatures. It is also beneficial to the local ecosystem, as it helps to keep the populations of small creatures in balance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. garzetta |
Conclusion
Foggia is an excellent place for bird watching and has an abundant variety of bird species. From the migratory birds, such as the bee-eaters and the hoopoes, to the resident species, such as the hawks and owls, Foggia has a diverse and beautiful range of birds.
It is an excellent destination for birders, who can admire the natural beauty of the area and the variety of birds that call Foggia home.