Kensington is a beautiful area of London, England that is home to a diverse population of birds. From the majestic swans of Hyde Park to the tweeting sparrows of Kensington Gardens, bird-watching in this area is a true delight.
There are more than 50 species of birds that can be seen in and around Kensington, from the colorful parakeets to the rarest of wading birds. Whether you’re an experienced bird-watcher or just a beginner, there’s something to enjoy in Kensington’s bird world.
So, get your binoculars ready and join us on a journey through Kensington’s bird population.
1. Mute Swan
The mute swan is a species of swan that belongs to the Anatidae family of waterfowl. It is native to a large portion of the Eurasian continent, stretching from northern Africa to Siberia.
This species of swan is easily distinguished from other waterfowl due to its large size and white plumage. It is also known for its distinctive orange bill, which is often tipped with black. The mute swan is an omnivorous species that feeds on a wide variety of food sources.
It mostly eats aquatic organisms, such as aquatic plants, insects, mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. It is also known to eat grains, grasses, and other terrestrial plants.
In addition to these food sources, the mute swan will also scavenge for food such as carcasses and garbage. The mute swan is a social bird that often lives in flocks with other waterfowl.
It is a migratory species that usually breeds in the temperate and northern regions of Eurasia and winters in more southerly regions. During the winter months, it will form large colonies in wetlands and lakes.
The mute swan is also known to sometimes travel great distances, with some individuals being recorded traveling as far as North Africa. The mute swan is an iconic species with a long history of domestication.
It has been kept as an ornamental species for centuries and is still kept as a pet in many parts of the world. This bird is also popular with waterfowl hunters due to its large size and white plumage, which makes it an easy target.
Despite its popularity as an ornamental species, the mute swan is classified as a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List due to its declining population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. olor |
2. Coal Tit
The coal tit, also known as the coal tit, is a small passerine bird that belongs to the Paridae family of birds, commonly known as the tit family.
It is found in forests throughout the temperate to subtropical Palearctic region, which includes North Africa, and is a widespread resident breeder. In recent times, the black-crested tit has been considered to be a part of the coal tit species.
The coal tit is a small bird, usually around 11 to 12 cm in length. It is easily recognized by its black head and white cheeks that contrast with its gray body. It also has a white wing bar and tail tip, as well as a black bib under its chin.
The coal tit usually feeds on insects, spiders, and small seeds and can be found in a variety of habitats including woodlands, parks, gardens, and even urban areas. The coal tit is a very social bird and can often be found in small flocks.
It is known for its loud call, which consists of a short, sharp “tee-tee-tee” sound. It also has a unique song, which consists of a short, repeated phrase that can be heard throughout the year.
The coal tit is a popular bird among bird watchers and bird enthusiasts, due to its colorful appearance and lively behavior. It is also an important species for conservation, as it is an indicator of the general health of the environment.
Therefore, it is important to ensure that its habitat is preserved and protected so that it can continue to thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Periparus |
| Species | P. ater |
3. House Martin
The western house martin is a migratory bird belonging to the swallow family.
It is commonly found across Europe, North Africa, and the Palearctic region, and is known by several different names, including common house martin, northern house martin, and, in Europe, simply house martin.
During the winter months, these birds migrate to warmer climates such as sub-Saharan Africa and tropical Asia. The western house martin is easily distinguished from other swallow species due to its distinctive brown plumage and forked tail.
These birds can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour when flying, making them incredibly fast and agile.
They are also highly social creatures and usually nest in large colonies near humans, providing an interesting sight for onlookers. Western house martins feed on a variety of insects, such as flies and beetles, which they catch in mid-flight.
This behavior is also known as ‘hawking’ and it allows the birds to remain constantly in motion, making them difficult to capture or observe. The western house martin is an important species for maintaining healthy ecosystems, as it helps to control insect populations.
Additionally, they are a source of entertainment for people, and the sight of them soaring through the sky is a sight to behold.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Delichon |
| Species | D. urbicum |
4. Fieldfare
The fieldfare is a species of bird that belongs to the thrush family, Turdidae. This species is found across the Palearctic region and mainly inhabits woodland and scrub areas in the northern parts of Europe.
During the winter season, many of the northern birds of this species will migrate south in search of more suitable habitats, making it a strongly migratory species.
This type of behavior is common among many Palearctic species, as the northern climates become increasingly harsh during the winter. To survive, they must migrate to warmer climates, or else risk dying due to the cold.
The fieldfare is no exception, and its migration patterns are evident throughout the year.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. pilaris |
5. White Wagtail
The white wagtail is a species of bird belonging to the family Motacillidae, which includes other passerines such as pipits and longclaws. This species is found in a wide range of areas, including much of Europe, parts of North Africa, and the Asian Palearctic.
It is even able to survive in the more extreme climates of Alaska, though its presence there is scarce. The white wagtail is a small bird that is typically gray or brown. It has a white eyebrow stripe and a long tail which it often flicks from side to side as it walks.
The white wagtail feeds on insects and other small invertebrates, which it finds on the ground. It also takes some small seeds. During the breeding season, the white wagtail builds a cup-shaped nest in trees, shrubs, or rocks.
The female typically lays four to six eggs at a time, and both the male and female take turns incubating them for around two weeks. Once the chicks are hatched, both parents help to feed them.
The white wagtail’s song is a cheerful trill, and it can also be heard making a chattering call. This species is a popular sight in many parks and gardens and is one of the most widespread of the wagtail family.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Motacillidae |
| Genus | Motacilla |
| Species | M. alba |
6. Long-tailed Tit
The long-tailed tit, also known as the long-tailed bushtit, is a bird found all over Europe and the Palearctic region. This bird belongs to the genus Aegithalos, a term first used by the ancient philosopher Aristotle to describe some European tits, including the long-tailed tit.
Long-tailed tits are known for their distinctive long tails and vibrant plumage. They typically inhabit deciduous and mixed woodland areas, where they can be found in large, flocking groups.
Their diet consists of insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates that they can glean from tree bark and foliage. Additionally, they are known to be inquisitive and fearless, often entering gardens and parks.
They are also known to be highly vocal, and their call is a soft, metallic “tsee-tsee”. Long-tailed tits are an important species in the avian ecosystem, serving as both prey and predators.
They are an important food source for a variety of birds of prey, while also helping to control insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Aegithalidae |
| Genus | Aegithalos |
| Species | A. caudatus |
7. Great Crested Grebe
The great crested grebe is a rather unique species of water bird, belonging to the grebe family. The great crested grebe has a distinctive, elegant appearance, with a black head, neck, and breast; a white belly and wing patches; and a bright orange-red beak and eye patch.
The bird has a long, pointed bill and webbed feet, which make it an excellent swimmer. The great crested grebe is renowned for its elaborate and spectacular mating display.
During the courtship period, the birds will perform a courtship “dance” where they swim in circles around each other, bob their heads, and clap their bills. They will also make a high-pitched trill, which serves as a territorial call.
The male will then present the female with a gift of water plants, such as waterweed or pondweed, as an offering of courtship. If the female is impressed, she will accept the gift and the two will form a pair bond.
The great crested grebe is a widespread species, found in many parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is a freshwater bird that can be found in lakes, ponds, and rivers.
The great crested grebe is listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN and is a protected species in many countries. In conclusion, the great crested grebe is a beautiful and unique species of water bird, noted for its elegant appearance and elaborate mating display.
It is a widespread species, found in many parts of the world, and is a protected species in many countries.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. cristatus |
8. Mistle Thrush
The mistle thrush is a species of bird found in many parts of the world, including Europe, temperate Asia, and North Africa. It is a year-round resident of many areas, but some northern and eastern populations of the bird migrate south for the winter season.
This migration usually occurs in small flocks, as the birds travel together in search of warmer climates. The mistle thrush is an important species, both in terms of its presence in the environment and its cultural significance.
In some areas, it is known as a symbol of good luck and is even celebrated in folklore. The bird is also known for its beautiful song, which has been immortalized in many pieces of classical music.
This species of bird is important to consider when discussing avian conservation efforts, as it is vulnerable to habitat loss and other changes in its environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. viscivorus |
9. Redwing
The redwing is a species of thrush that is native to Europe and the Palearctic region, which consists of Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. The redwing is a member of the family Turdidae, which includes many songbirds.
It is slightly smaller than the related song Thrush, which is also a member of the thrush family.
The common name for the redwing is derived from the bright red patch on its shoulder, which is a distinctive feature that helps to identify it easily. The redwing is found in a variety of habitats including woodlands, gardens, and farmland.
It is usually seen in small flocks, feeding on the ground and foraging for food such as insects and worms.
It has a melodious song, similar to other thrush species, and can often be heard singing in the early morning and late evening. The redwing is a migratory bird, spending the summer months in its breeding grounds in northern areas of Europe and Asia, and migrating south to spend the winter in warmer climates.
During the breeding season, males will establish a territory and court a female by singing and displaying. The female will then build a nest in a tree or on the ground, and incubate the eggs.
The young birds can fly after about two weeks and can fend for themselves soon after. The redwing is an important species within its range and is conservation-dependent. It is vulnerable to the destruction of its habitats, as well as other forms of habitat degradation.
Therefore, suitable habitats must be conserved and managed to maintain healthy populations of redwing in Europe and the Palearctic region.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. iliacus |
10. Common Redstart
The Common Redstart, more commonly known simply as Redstart, is a type of small passerine bird. It belongs to the genus Phoenicurus and is closely related to other species of birds. Until recently, the Common Redstart was categorized as a member of the thrush family.
However, recent studies have determined that it is a member of the Old World flycatcher family. The Common Redstart has a distinctive plumage, with a bright reddish-orange breast and a dark grey head.
Its wings and tail are mostly black with white flashes along the edges. The wings and tail also have some yellow highlights. Its bill is black, and its eyes are dark brown. It is a very active species and can often be seen flitting around looking for food.
The Common Redstart feeds mainly on insects that it catches in mid-air. It will also feed on small fruits and berries on occasion. It prefers to live in open woodlands, gardens, and farmland, and can also be found in cities and parks.
Its range extends from the British Isles to Central Asia and down to North Africa. The Common Redstart is a popular bird among birdwatchers due to its distinctive plumage and active behavior.
It is also an important species in terms of biodiversity, playing a key role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Muscicapidae |
| Genus | Phoenicurus |
| Species | P. phoenicurus |
11. Tufted Titmouse
The tufted titmouse is a small songbird native to North America belonging to the tit and chickadee family. It is characterized by its black-crested head and is mostly found in the central and southern parts of Texas.
It was considered to be a subspecies of the tufted titmouse until recently when it was reclassified as a separate species called Baeolophus atricristatus. The tufted titmouse is a popular bird among backyard birdwatchers as it is very vocal and has a broad repertoire of calls.
It is often seen in small flocks foraging for food in trees and shrubs. It mainly eats insects, seeds, and berries, and will also visit feeders for suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Baeolophus |
| Species | B. bicolor |
12. Goldcrest
The goldcrest is a tiny member of the kinglet family, a group of small passerine birds. Its distinguishing feature is its bright golden crest feathers, which is why it is named the “king of the birds” in European folklore. This is reflected in its scientific name, R.
regulus, which translates to “king” or “knight”. These golden crest feathers are not only beautiful but give the goldcrest a sense of regality befitting the title of “king of the birds”.
They also make the goldcrest easily recognizable and help it stand out among other small birds. The golden crest feathers of the goldcrest are a reminder of its place in European folklore, as well as its scientific name.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Regulidae |
| Genus | Regulus |
| Species | R. regulus |
13. Great Spotted Woodpecker
The great spotted woodpecker is a fascinating bird, easily recognizable due to its unique black and white plumage, and a bright red patch on its lower belly. Males and young birds also have red markings on either the neck or head.
This species is distributed across the Palearctic, which includes parts of North Africa. It is a medium-sized woodpecker and is usually seen drumming on trees to find insects. Its diet consists mainly of insects, but it also feeds on nuts, berries, and seeds.
It is an important member of the forest ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations, as well as dispers seeds and creating nesting holes. It is also an important indicator of the health of a forest.
The conservation status of the great spotted woodpecker is currently listed as the least concern, but it is still important to protect its habitat to ensure its long-term survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dendrocopos |
| Species | D. major |
14. Reed Bunting
The common reed bunting is a type of bird that belongs to the bunting family Emberizidae. This family is now considered to be distinct from the finch family Fringillidae by many experts.
The name of the genus of the bird, Emberiza, originates from the Old German language, where it is known as Embritz, which means bunting.
The species of the bird, schoeniclus, is derived from Ancient Greek, where it is referred to as skhoiniklos, a word that is now unknown and refers to a bird that lives near bodies of water.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Emberizidae |
| Genus | Emberiza |
| Species | E. schoeniclus |
15. Meadow Pipit
The meadow pipit is a small species of bird, belonging to the family of passerines.
It is primarily found in the Palearctic, which is the region of the world spanning from southeastern Greenland and Iceland in the west, all the way to the Ural Mountains in the east, and southwards towards central France and Romania.
Additionally, there is an isolated population of meadow pipits that live in the Caucasus Mountains. The Palearctic is a large region, and the meadow pipit is quite widespread within it. Its range extends from the northernmost regions of Europe to its more southern areas.
This versatility allows it to inhabit a wide variety of habitats, from grasslands to wetlands. As a result, it can successfully thrive in a multitude of environments.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Motacillidae |
| Genus | Anthus |
| Species | A. pratensis |
16. Common Sandpiper
The common sandpiper is a small wading bird found in the Palearctic region. It is one of two species that make up the genus Actitis, the other being the American spotted sandpiper.
These two species have an overlapping geographical range and are known as parapatric, meaning they live near each other.
Occasionally, birds of either species may stray from their species and settle with breeders of the other species, resulting in hybridization.
Hybridization occurs when two different species of plants or animals breed together, producing offspring with a mix of characteristics from each species.
In the case of the common sandpiper and spotted sandpiper, hybridization can occur when birds of either species stray from their species and settle with a partner of the other species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Actitis |
| Species | A. hypoleucos |
17. Snow Bunting
The snow bunting is a species of passerine bird that belongs to the family Calcariidae. It is unique in that it is an Arctic specialist, meaning that its breeding range is limited to areas in the Arctic region of the northern hemisphere.
This range is circumpolar, meaning that it can be found in the Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. The snow bunting spends its summer in the high Arctic tundra, where it nests on the ground and feeds on insects, seeds, and berries.
During the winter, it migrates south to more temperate areas. Its plumage is white and grey in the winter and black and white in the summer. The snow bunting is an important species in the Arctic ecosystem as it is a keystone species for other species.
It is a major food source for predators such as snowy owls and Arctic foxes. It also helps to disperse seeds and pollinate flowers. In recent years, snow bunting has been facing several threats.
Its population is declining due to global warming, increased urbanization, and other human activities. Conservation efforts are underway to help protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Calcariidae |
| Genus | Plectrophenax |
| Species | P. nivalis |
Conclusion
Kensington is a great place for bird-watching. With its variety of habitats and its many parks, there is always something to see.
Whether you are looking for a large flock of wintering waterfowl or a small flock of nesting songbirds, Kensington has something to offer. With its proximity to the city, it is an ideal spot to take in the sights and sounds of nature.