Jowzjan is home to many bird species, ranging from the majestic and powerful eagle to the tiny but beautiful hummingbird. Here, you can find everything from the Afghan snow finch to the demoiselle crane and many other unique and fascinating feathered friends.
With various habitats, including wetlands, deserts, and mountains, Jowzjan is the perfect place to observe birds in their natural environment. From early morning to late night, you can spot various species as they soar and dive in search of food or nest in the trees.
Whether you’re a beginner birder or experienced, Jowzjan will indeed have something to offer. So come and take in all the beauty that Jowzjan’s birds provide.
24 Birds to Watch in Jowzjan
Jowzjan is a province in northern Afghanistan rich in natural beauty and biodiversity. It borders Turkmenistan to the north, Balkh to the east, Sar-e Pol to the south, and Faryab to the west.
Here are 24 birds that you should not miss when visiting Jowzjan.
1. Black Bellied Plover
The grey plover is a species of bird that is found all over the world. It is known as the black-bellied plover in North America and is a large species compared to other plovers.
It can be found in Arctic regions during the breeding season, but when not breeding, it has a nearly worldwide coastal distribution. This species of plover is also a long-distance migrant, meaning that it will migrate long distances to find suitable habitats.
This could be from the Arctic to the coasts or from one coast to another. The long-distance migration of the grey plover is an impressive and vital adaptation that allows it to inhabit many different areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Pluvialis |
| Species | P. squatarola |
2. Bustard
Bustards are a type of large, ground-dwelling bird found primarily in open, dry areas such as grasslands and steppes. They belong to the family Otididae and can measure up to 150 cm in length. Two of the most common species of bustard are floricans and korhaans.
Bustards have long legs and large bodies, making them relatively slow-moving birds. They are omnivorous, meaning they feed on various plants and animals. Their diet comprises different seeds, grains, fruits, insects, small mammals, lizards, and other small prey.
They also have a unique ability to store fat in their bodies, which allows them to survive in times of food scarcity. Bustards are considered a vulnerable species due to human activity and natural causes.
Human activities such as converting grasslands to farmland, overgrazing, and poaching have destroyed or severely degraded their habitats. Additionally, they are often hunted for their feathers, used in traditional cultural practices.
Climate change is also a factor in their decline, as it has caused changes in their habitats and food sources. Overall, bustards are an essential part of the ecosystem, and we must take steps to protect these birds and their habitats.
We must work to reduce the destruction of their habitats and address the threats posed by climate change. In addition, we must also take measures to reduce poaching and hunting so that these birds can continue to thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Otidimorphae |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
3. Common Merganser
The Common Merganser, also known as the Goosander, is a large sea duck found in rivers, lakes, and forests in Europe, Asia, and North America. This duck species is predominantly carnivorous, with most of its diet consisting of fish.
To nest, the common merganser will look for a hole in a tree, creating a nest and laying its eggs. The tree must be large enough to provide a safe environment for the ducklings to grow up in and be in a location away from predators.
The common merganser is a significant environmental species that helps maintain a healthy fish population in its habitation area. It also plays a vital role in the local ecosystem as a food source for other wildlife.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergus |
| Species | M. merganser |
4. Cotton Pygmy Goose
The cotton pygmy goose, also known as the cotton teal, is a small species of duck that can be found breeding in various regions of Asia, including Southeast Asia. This duck species is relatively tiny compared to other species and is known for its perching abilities.
These ducks have been spotted in Queensland, where they are referred to as white-quilled pygmy geese. The cotton pygmy goose is known to be an aquatic bird that prefers freshwater habitats such as lakes, rivers, and ponds.
They are omnivorous and feed on various items, such as fish, insects, and small amphibians. These ducks are also very social, often gathering to feed or migrate in large groups.
The cotton pygmy goose is an essential species for conservation, as their population has declined in recent years due to habitat destruction and hunting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Nettapus |
| Species | N. coromandelianus |
5. Black-winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt is a wading bird species in the avocet and stilt family. It is found in many parts of the world, and its long legs are necessary adaptations for its wading lifestyle. It is scientifically referred to as H.
Himantopus is typically considered a single, almost cosmopolitan species. This means that it is found in many different regions, but the populations of the species are generally similar in appearance and behavior.
The species is easily recognized due to its distinct black wings and long legs. Its long legs allow it to access deeper waters when foraging for food, and its black wings help it to blend in with its environment, making it difficult for predators to spot.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
6. Eurasian Wigeon
The Eurasian wigeon is a species of dabbling duck and a member of the genus Mareca. It is also known as the European wigeon or simply wigeon.
This species is widely distributed in the Palearctic region, making it widespread. The Eurasian wigeon is distinctive, with a bright white patch on the head and neck and a dark gray back.
Its wings are brown and gray with white patches, while its chest is white. The male has a chestnut head and neck, while the female has a gray head and neck.
In both sexes, the bill is greenish-gray in color. The Eurasian wigeon feeds mainly on aquatic plants and invertebrates, including mollusks, crustaceans, and insects. It prefers shallow freshwater or coastal wetlands and can often be seen in small flocks.
Breeding usually takes place in the spring and summer months. The female lays up to seven eggs in a lined nest on the ground. Overall, the Eurasian wigeon is a species of dabbling duck with a wide geographic range.
Its bright plumage and familiar presence make it a popular species among birdwatchers and waterfowl enthusiasts.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. penelope |
7. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck is a species of diving duck found in Eurosiberia. Various other names, such as ferruginous pochard, common white-eye, or white-eyed pochard, also know it. This species is medium-sized, and its scientific name is rooted in the Greek language.
Specifically, it is derived from the words ‘aithuia’ and ‘nyrok’. ‘Aithuia’ is an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle in the past. On the other hand, ‘nyrok’ is the Russian word for a duck.
Thus, the scientific name of the ferruginous duck reflects its status as a diving duck species found in Eurosiberia.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
8. Gadwall
The gadwall is a species of dabbling duck that belongs to the family Anatidae. It is a medium-sized duck found in many parts of the world. It is a reasonably common sight in wetlands, ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water.
The gadwall has a slender body, a long neck, and a flat bill. Its head and neck are grayish-brown, its chest and belly are white, and its wings and back are dark brown. The gadwall is a graceful swimmer that can be seen diving for food or preening its feathers.
It is a strong flier that can be seen flying in large flocks during migration. The gadwall is an omnivorous feeder, and its diet consists of aquatic invertebrates, small fish, mollusks, and plant material.
It is a social species, often seen in large groups, sometimes forming small flocks. The gadwall is a valuable species, and it is essential to the health of wetland ecosystems. It is a famous game bird, and it is hunted for sport and food.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. strepera |
9. Garganey
The garganey is a small dabbling duck throughout much of Europe and the Palearctic region. It is a migratory bird, meaning that the entire population will move to warmer climates during the winter of the Northern Hemisphere.
These warmer climates include southern Africa, India, Bangladesh, and Australasia. Large flocks of garganeys can be seen in these warmer climates.
This migration is essential for the species’ survival, as it allows them to avoid harsh winters and find food sources in more temperate areas. Garganeys feed on aquatic plants, invertebrates, and small fish in their winter habitats.
During the summer, they will return to their breeding grounds in Europe and the Palearctic region.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Spatula |
| Species | S. querquedula |
10. Red-crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a species of large diving duck native to parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is a distinctive bird with a large red crest and a white chin.
The species’ scientific name is derived from Netta, a Greek word meaning “duck,” and Rufina, a Latin word meaning “golden-red.” This is a fitting name for the species, as its red crest and golden-red feathers reflect its scientific name.
The red-crested pochard is a popular waterfowl for hunting and bird-watching. It frequents lakes, ponds, and other bodies of water, diving for food. It is a social bird and can often be seen in small flocks.
The red-crested pochard is an integral part of wetland ecosystems, providing food for other species and helping to maintain water quality.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
11. Tufted Duck
The tufted duck, also known as the tufted pochard, is a species of small diving duck found across northern Eurasia. Its population numbers around one million individuals, making it a relatively common species.
Its scientific name, Aythya fuligula, was derived from Ancient Greek words: Aithuia, an unidentified seabird mentioned by Hesychius and Aristotle, and Latin words Fuligo (“soot”) and Gula (“throat”).
This name references the tufted duck’s black and white plumage, which has a dingy appearance around its throat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. fuligula |
12. White-headed Duck
The white-headed duck is a small diving duck measuring 45 cm long. The male has a distinct white head, black crown, blue bill, and reddish-grey plumage. On the other hand, the female has a dark bill and a duller coloring.
This duck species prefers to breed in lakes with open water and dense vegetation around the margins. This habitat is ideal for the ducks as they can find plenty of food and protection from predators.
The vegetation also provides a safe environment for the ducklings to hide and grow. Additionally, the open water allows the duck to dive and hunt for food.
The white-headed duck is a vital species listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Therefore, protecting this species and its habitat is essential to ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Oxyura |
| Species | O. leucocephala |
13. Whooper Swan
The whooper swan is a large species found in the northern hemisphere. It is often referred to as the common swan and is a Eurasian species, the counterpart of the North American trumpeter swan.
The whooper swan is the type species of the Cygnus genus, including the swans of Europe, Asia, and North America. The whooper swan is one of the largest waterfowl, with a wingspan of up to 8 feet.
It is easily recognizable by its large size and distinctive yellow beak, which can be seen from a distance. The whooper swan is a migratory species, breeding in the northern parts of Europe and Asia before migrating south for the winter.
The whooper swan lives in various habitats, including wetlands, lakes, rivers, and ponds. They feed on aquatic vegetation such as algae, grasses, and sedges and on small invertebrates.
The whooper swan is a social species, often gathering in large flocks on lakes and rivers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. cygnus |
14. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is an iconic species of bird belonging to the flamingo family.
Native to the Old World, they are found in various habitats from Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa to the Indian Subcontinent, Middle East, Levant, Persian Gulf, Gulf of Aden, Red Sea, and Southern Europe.
This species is the largest and most widespread of all the flamingo species, and its global population is estimated to be between 1.5 and 2.5 million individuals. The greater flamingo is known for its long, curved neck and large, pinkish-white body.
Its long legs are typically pinkish-white, and its bill is bright red. This species feeds on various food sources, including aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and plant material. They use their bill to filter out small food items from shallow water to feed.
In addition, the greater flamingo may also feed on land, such as insects and small reptiles. The greater flamingo often congregates in large flocks, sometimes consisting of thousands of individuals.
These flocks often congregate in wetlands and shallow salty lagoons, where they can feed in a safe environment.
This species also migrates seasonally in search of suitable feeding grounds. The greater flamingo is an essential species in many parts of the world and is protected by international law.
They are also seen as a symbol of beauty and grace and have been the subject of many works of art and literature.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
15. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a small species of water bird from the family of grebes. It is distinguished by its scientific name, derived from Ancient Greek and Latin words.
The genus of the little grebe is “Tachybaptus,” which comes from the Ancient Greek words “thus” and “bapto.”
The first word, “thus,” means “fast,” and the second, “bapto,” means “to sink under.” The species of the little grebe is “ruficollis,” which is derived from two Latin words: “Rufus,” which means “red,” and “Collis,” which means “necked.”
This is further derived from the Latin “collum, ” meaning “neck.” Therefore, the scientific name of the little grebe describes its physical characteristics of having a redneck and the ability to dive quickly underwater.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
16. Rock Pigeon
The rock dove, rock pigeon, or common pigeon is a bird species in the Columbidae family. It is commonly referred to as a “pigeon.” The domestic pigeon is a direct descendant of the rock dove.
As a result of the domesticated form of the bird escaping from captivity, there is now a large population of feral pigeons in many places around the world. The feral pigeons are the result of the domesticated form of the rock dove mixing with the species’ wild population.
As a result, the species’ wild population has grown dramatically in many areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
17. Snow Pigeon
The snow pigeon is a bird species belonging to the genus Columba and the family Columbidae. It is found in hilly regions of central Asia and is known for its distinctive white feathers.
Snow pigeons typically have a gray body with white wings and tail feathers, giving them a unique look.
They are relatively small birds, usually measuring 9 and 12 inches long. Snow pigeons feed on various seeds and grains and can be seen foraging in gardens, parks, and meadows. They are also known to visit bird feeders.
In terms of behavior, the snow pigeon is a social species and can often be seen in flocks of up to fifty individuals.
They also make loud cooing sounds that can carry for several miles. The snow pigeon is an important species for conserving biodiversity in central Asia.
They play a significant role in maintaining the health of plants and flowers in the region, as they help disperse the seeds of these plants, allowing them to grow and reproduce. They are also crucial for providing food for other species, such as raptors and rodents.
As a result, the snow pigeon is an integral part of the region’s ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. leuconota |
18. Cuckoos
Cuckoos are a family of birds called Cuculidae, the only family in its order, Cuculiformes. Cuckoos can be found worldwide and encompass many species, including the common or European cuckoo, roadrunners, koels, malkohas, couas, coucals, and anis.
Although related, some species of cuckoos have been separated into their own distinct families. These include the Centropodidae and Crotophagidae, which contain coucals and anis, respectively.
The various species of cuckoos vary in their behavior, with some, such as koels, being migratory, whereas others, such as the couas, are more passive. They also differ in size and shape, with the malkohas being the smallest cuckoos and the coucals being the largest.
No matter the species, cuckoos are all known for their distinctive calls and singing, which can be heard in many habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Otidimorphae |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
19. Bearded Reedling
The Bearded Reedling is a unique bird species that can be found in reed beds. It is a small passerine bird with distinct sexual dimorphism, meaning that males and females have differently colored plumage.
Due to its long tail, it is often mistaken for the Long-tailed Tit, which is why it is also known as the Bearded Tit. It is the only species of its family, Panuridae. As a result, it is easily identified by its distinctive features.
Its head is adorned with a black “beard,” its body is mostly brown with white speckles. The males have a bright yellow head, chest, and throat, while females have a brownish-grey head and chest. The Bearded Reedling is a social bird that usually lives in pairs or small groups.
It feeds mainly on insects and worms but eats seeds and other plant matter. It is an essential species in its habitat, as it helps to spread the seeds of the plants it feeds on, thus aiding with the regeneration of reed beds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Panuridae |
| Genus | Panurus |
| Species | P. biarmicus |
20. Eurasian Oystercatcher
The Eurasian oystercatcher is a species of wading bird classified within the Haematopodidae family.
Its proper scientific name is Haematopus ostralegus, but it is also commonly known as the common pied oystercatcher, the Palaearctic oystercatcher, or simply oystercatcher.
It is native to many parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa and is highly visible due to its black and white plumage. The Eurasian oystercatcher is a large wader, usually measuring around 40–50 cm long with a wingspan of approximately 70–80 cm.
Its bill is a distinctive orange-red, while its legs are deep pink. Its plumage is black and white, with the black feathers appearing mainly on the head, neck, and back and the white feathers covering most of its wings and body.
Regarding diet, the Eurasian oystercatcher is an omnivore, consuming various food sources such as mollusks, crustaceans, insects, worms, and even some plant material. It also feeds on fish eggs and small fish when available.
It is an active forager, often searching for food along the shoreline or in shallow water. The Eurasian oystercatcher is a social species usually seen in small groups, especially during the breeding season.
It has a loud, distinctive call often heard in coastal areas. The species is also known for its courtship display, where the male and female will perform a synchronized flight involving a series of turns, dips, and dives.
The Eurasian oystercatcher is a species of conservation concern in some areas and is listed as vulnerable in some parts of its range. The main threats to the species are habitat fragmentation, human disturbance, and predation.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect and monitor this species and to ensure its continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Haematopodidae |
| Genus | Haematopus |
| Species | H. ostralegus |
21. Demoiselle Crane
The demoiselle crane is a species in an extensive range across Central Eurosiberia, from the Black Sea to Mongolia and Northeast China. These birds are migratory, meaning they fly to different areas depending on the season.
In addition to their range in Central Eurosiberia, there is a small breeding population of demoiselle cranes in Turkey. Demoiselle cranes are migratory birds, relocating to different habitats depending on the season.
They have adapted to the cold climates of Central Eurosiberia, as well as the warmer climates of Turkey.
During the summer, they fly to more northern areas, such as Mongolia and Northeast China, and during the winter, they fly back to more southerly regions, such as the Black Sea and Turkey.
These birds are giant, standing approximately 4 feet tall, and have a wingspan of up to 7 feet. They have distinctive greyish-blue plumage, with black feathers on the wings and a white neck and head. The beak and legs are also black.
Demoiselle cranes are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and animals. Their diet consists mainly of insects, such as grasshoppers and beetles, as well as small mammals and amphibians. They also eat various types of plant material, such as grains, berries, and tubers.
The demoiselle crane is an essential species in its Central Eurosiberian range. Various international and regional laws protect them, and several organizations are dedicated to conserving this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Grus |
| Species | G. virgo |
22. Baikal Teal
The Baikal teal, also known as bimaculate duck or squawk duck, is a species of dabbling duck. It is native to eastern Russia and breeds in the region during summer.
During winter, the Baikal teal migrates to East Asia to find more favorable conditions. This duck species is characterized by its small size and brown and white plumage.
The males are usually darker than the females, with a white band around the neck and a white patch on the lower back. The Baikal teal is generally found in shallow wetlands, such as lakes, marshes, and ponds, and feeds on aquatic vegetation.
The Baikal teal is an essential species for hunters and conservationists alike. It is a famous game bird in some areas of Russia, the primary source of waterfowl meat.
It is also vital for conservation efforts, as it is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. As waterfowl hunting increases in certain areas, conservationists are working hard to protect the Baikal teal and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Sibirionetta |
| Species | S. formosa |
23. White-throated Needletail
The white-throated needletail is a large, swift part of the genus Hirundapus. It is believed to be capable of reaching an impressive speed of 170 km/h in horizontal flight.
However, this claim has not been verified due to the lack of a published methodology to measure its speed. The speed of the white-throated needletail is challenging to measure as it is a bird that can change direction rapidly and efficiently.
A combination of various techniques must be used to measure its speed accurately. These techniques could include radar, GPS tracking devices, and high-speed cameras.
These methods require a significant investment in time and resources, which is why the speed of the white-throated needletail has not been officially verified.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Hirundapus |
| Species | H. caudacutus |
24. Yellow-eyed Pigeon
The Yellow-Eyed Pigeon is a bird species belonging to the Columbidae family. It is also known as the Pale-Backed Pigeon, Yellow-Eyed Dove, or Yellow-Eyed Stock Dove.
It is native to a large region of Central Asia, with its range spanning from southern Kazakhstan to Afghanistan and from north-east Iran to extreme north-west China. The Yellow-Eyed Pigeon is a medium-sized bird with 25-28 centimeters long and a wingspan of 45-50 centimeters.
It is mainly greyish-brown in color, with a distinctive yellow eye ring. The adult male has a darker head than the female, and both sexes have a white rump patch. The Yellow-Eyed Pigeon is a social species usually found in flocks of up to twenty individuals.
It is a ground-dwelling bird that feeds mainly on grains, seeds, and insects.
It nests in small colonies, typically in the crevices of rocks or on ledges. The Yellow-Eyed Pigeon is classified as a species of most minor concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The population is thought to be stable, and there is no evidence of any significant threats to its survival. Nevertheless, it is a species of conservation concern listed under the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS).
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. eversmanni |
Conclusion
The birds of Jowzjan are an essential part of the local natural environment. They provide a great source of entertainment, food, and unique natural beauty to the area.
They also contribute to the overall health of the environment by helping to maintain healthy ecosystems. Jowzjan is a great place to observe and admire the incredible variety of birds that inhabit the region.