Birds have been a part of Mantua’s history since its founding centuries ago. They are vital to the city’s ecosystem, providing essential services such as pollination and pest control.
Mantua is home to a diverse array of bird species, both native and migratory, that can be seen in the city’s parks, gardens, and other green spaces.
From the majestic eagles soaring overhead to the colorful songbirds flitting through the trees, birds bring life and vibrancy to Mantua.
Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or appreciate their beauty, take a moment to admire Mantua’s feathered friends and enjoy their essential role in our city’s ecology.
9 Birds Found in Mantua
Mantua is a city in northern Italy, surrounded by lakes formed by the Mincio River. It is a place rich in history, culture, and nature, and it hosts a variety of bird species that can be admired by locals and visitors alike. Here are 9 birds that can be found in Mantua.
1. European Turtle Dove
The European turtle dove is a species of bird that belongs to the Columbidae family, which includes doves and pigeons. This species of dove breeds in a large area of the southwestern Palearctic region, which includes North Africa.
However, when the winter season arrives, the European turtle dove migrates southward to northern sub-Saharan Africa.
This migration allows the species to enjoy warmer temperatures and abundant food, essential for the bird’s survival. The Palearctic region is considered the world’s largest biogeographic region, encompassing Europe, northern and central Asia, and North Africa.
It is a habitat rich in diverse species, and the European turtle dove is just one of many species that call the region home. The migration process is essential for the survival of the European turtle dove.
As winter approaches, the dove must migrate southward to warmer climates to find food and shelter.
By migrating, the species cane in the harshest climates and find sustenance in areas where food is scarce. The European turtle dove is a resilient species that has adapted to its environment to survive.
Its ability to migrate to northern sub-Saharan Africa for its winter season ensures its survival. It provides the species with all the resources it needs to survive the cold months. By doing so, the European turtle dove thrives in the Palearctic region.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. turtur |
2. Gadwall
The gadwall is a species of duck belonging to the family Anatidae, which also includes swans and geese. It is a dabbling duck, which means it feeds mainly on plant material near the surface of shallow water.
The gadwall is widespread in the United States, Mexico, and much of Europe. It prefers to inhabit shallow wetlands like marshes, ponds, and lakes. The gadwall has a long neck, a gray or brownish back, a pale gray breast, and a white belly.
Its wings are brownish-gray with white patches, and its tail is black. The gadwall is a migratory species, traveling long distances each year to breed in the northern hemisphere. In the winter, it migrates south to warmer climates.
The gadwall is an essential species for waterfowl hunters, as it is a famous game bird. It is also a necessary part of the wetland ecosystem, providing food for predators and invertebrates.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. strepera |
3. Red-Necked Grebe
The red-necked grebe is a migratory bird found in the northern hemisphere’s temperate regions. They are most commonly found in coastal areas during the winter, where they can take advantage of the calm waters beyond the waves.
Some birds may choose winter on large lakes rather than the ocean coast. The red-necked grebe has adapted to living in these climates, with their feathers providing insulation in cold weather.
They have also developed a strong swimming ability to help them traverse the waters for food. The red-necked grebe feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic life and usually dives down to find prey.
They also feed on insects and other invertebrates on the water’s surface. The red-necked grebe is an important species to the aquatic environment, helping keep the water clean and debris-free.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. grisegena |
4. Great Egret
The great egret, also known as the common egret, large egret, great white egret, or great white heron, is a species of wading bird widely distributed in many regions worldwide.
It is found in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe and is known for its white feathers and long neck. In recent years, it has also been seen in more northern areas of Europe, indicating that its range is expanding.
The great egret is a large bird, up to 39 inches long and weighing up to 4 pounds. Its wingspan can reach up to 5 feet, allowing it to cover large distances for food.
It prefers to live in wetlands, marshes, rivers, and other shallow-water ecosystems. It can often be seen wading in shallow water in search of small fish, amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates.
The great egret is known for its elegant beauty and has become a symbol of conservation and a popular subject for birdwatchers and photographers.
It is also an important predator in its ecosystems, as it helps to control the populations of small fish and amphibians, which helps maintain the balance of the aquatic ecosystem.
The great egret is listed as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, but its population has declined in some areas due to habitat loss and pollution.
We must protect its habitats and ensure it can thrive in its natural environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. alba |
5. Eurasian Wigeon
The Eurasian wigeon, also known as widgeon or wigeon, is a species of duck that belongs to the genus Mareca. It is found throughout its Palearctic range, a large geographical area spanning Europe and Asia to North Africa.
This abundant and widespread duck species can be seen in habitats from wetlands to grasslands. The Eurasian wigeon is a medium-sized duck, measuring between 43 and 57 cm in length.
Its plumage is predominantly grey-brown, with white patches on the head and neck. It also has a distinctive white crescent on its forehead and a white stripe along its back.
Its white wings have a small black patch near the tip. The Eurasian wigeon feeds primarily on plant material such as grasses, seeds, and grains. It also eats insects, mollusks, and crustaceans.
In the winter, it may migrate to coastal areas, where it can feed on aquatic vegetation. The Eurasian wigeon is a social bird, living in large flocks with other ducks. Its breeding season is usually from late March to June.
During this time, the males will perform courtship displays to entice the females. Females usually lay 7 to 10 eggs in a nest on the ground.
The chicks can fly within 2 to 3 weeks after hatching and are independent within a few months. The Eurasian wigeon is currently classified as a species of most minor concern by the IUCN. This is due to its extensive range and abundant population.
However, it is still vulnerable to habitat destruction and hunting, which can cause a decline in its population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. penelope |
6. Black-Winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt (Himantopus himantopus) is a species of wading bird found in a wide range of habitats across the globe. It belongs to the avocet and stilt family, composed of long-legged species that wade in shallow water for food.
The black-winged stilt is characterized by its long, thin legs and a black patch on its wings. The species is found in Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australasia, with some populations migrating further afield.
It is also found in wetlands, lagoons, estuaries, and mudflats, where it feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. The scientific name for the black-winged stilt is Himantopus himantopus, which is sometimes used to refer to a single species found worldwide.
This species is unique in that it is the only member of its family with a black wing patch.
Its size and body structure make it well-suited for wading in shallow water, and its long legs and wings make it adept at flying. The black-winged stilt is highly adaptable and can live in various wetland habitats.
It has also become a famous sight in birdwatching, as it is often seen in large groups, which can be quite a spectacle.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
7. Great Crested Grebe
The great crested grebe is a species of water bird belonging to the grebe family. These birds are mainly found in temperate and subarctic regions of Eurasia and North America. They are easily recognizable by their distinct black and white plumage and large, bright red eyes.
Great crested grebes are strong swimmers, and they are known for their elaborate mating displays. During the breeding season, male great crested grebes can be seen performing a courtship dance.
This involves the males stretching their wings, shaking their heads, and diving into the water. They make a loud, trumpeting call as they emerge from the water. The male will swim around the female in circles, and the female will join him in the dance.
This ritual is repeated several times until the birds finally mate. The great crested grebe’s mating display is an impressive sight, and it is one of the most fascinating behaviors of any bird species.
Not only does it allow the birds to attract a mate, but it also serves to strengthen the bond between two birds. This bond is essential for the successful raising of their young.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. cristatus |
8. Black-Necked Grebe
The black-necked grebe, also known as the eared grebe, is a species of water bird belonging to the grebe family. It was first identified in 1831 by Christian Ludwig Brehm.
Three distinct subspecies of the black-necked grebe have been identified, including the nominate subspecies. The black-necked grebe is a small water bird, typically measuring 30 cm long.
It has a predominantly black head and neck, except a white collar that encircles its neck. The rest of the bird is primarily dark brown. The bill is yellowish-orange, and the eyes are a deep red.
The black-necked grebe has a short, pointed tail and a long, thin neck. The species is generally found in freshwater lakes, marshes, and ponds but can also inhabit coastal areas.
It feeds mainly on small fish and aquatic insects but can consume worms, crustaceans, and mollusks. The black-necked grebe builds a floating nest among aquatic vegetation and lays two to five eggs.
The black-necked grebe is a widely distributed species throughout much of Europe and Asia. It can also be found in parts of North Africa and North America. The species is listed as least concern by the IUCN, reflecting its sizeable global population and wide range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. nigricollis |
9. Glossy Ibis
The glossy ibis is a water bird species that belongs to the order Pelecaniformes and the ibis and spoonbill family Threskiornithidae. Its scientific name is derived from Ancient Greek and Latin, both of which refer to the distinctive shape of its bill.
In Ancient Greek, the word “pleads” describes the shape of the bill, curved like a sickle. Similarly, the Latin word “falcis” also translates to “sickle”, referring to the same shape.
The bird’s name is derived from the characteristic shape of its bill, which is long, curved, and slender. This shape allows the bird to forage in shallow waters and small mudflats, feeding on aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and amphibians.
The glossy ibis is a medium-sized bird, typically 60-70cm long. It has a long neck, short legs, and a black body with iridescent green and bronze feathers.
It can be found in wetlands, marshes, and mudflats in many parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Plegadis |
| Species | P. falcinellus |
Conclusion
The birds of Mantua are a constant reminder of the beauty of nature, the diversity of life, and the importance of protecting the environment.
By providing habitat and food for these birds, we can ensure the health and well-being of our local ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. We should all work together to protect our feathered friends in Mantua and beyond.