Birds, with their vibrant colors and unique characteristics, have been a constant marvel of nature. They are found in almost every part of the world, ranging from the polar regions to tropical jungles, displaying a wide variety of adaptations and behaviors.
A vital component of our ecosystem, they contribute to pollination, pest control, seed dispersal, and nutrient cycling. They play a significant role in maintaining the balance of nature and contributing to the overall health of our planet
Furthermore, birds have captivated humans for centuries, inspiring art, literature, and music, and serving as symbols of freedom, love, and peace.
This article will examine the importance of birds in nature and their unique features that make them stand out among other animals.
1. Cranes
Cranes are majestic birds that can be found on most continents except Antarctica and South America. They are in the Gruiformes group of birds and belong to the family Gruidae.
Cranes have long legs, and long necks, and stand out from other birds due to their impressive size.
When they fly, they do so with their necks outstretched rather than pulled back like many other similar-looking species like herons.
There are fifteen species of cranes that are divided into three genera: Antigone, Balearica, and Grus.
They are a sight to behold and are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to observe them in their natural habitat.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Superfamily | Gruoidea |
| Family | GruidaeVigors, 1825 |
Also Featured In: Most Common Birds in China, Flocks Birds around Us
2. Golden Eagle
The Golden Eagle is an iconic bird of prey found throughout the northern hemisphere. It is a large, powerful raptor with dark brown feathers and lighter golden-brown plumage on its nape.
Immature eagles have white patches around their beaks, tails and wings which they lose as they mature.
Its diet consists mostly of small mammals such as rabbits, hares and marmots but can also include birds or reptiles depending on where it lives.
These majestic creatures are known for their remarkable strength in flight; using thermal updrafts to soar high into the sky searching for food or simply enjoying the view below them.
They are often seen soaring alone over open expanses looking out for potential threats from other predators like wolves or foxes that may encroach upon their territory.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Aquila |
| Species | A. chrysaetos |
Also Featured In: Birds That Live in Colorado, Native Birds of Kazakhstan
3. Common Kingfisher
The Common Kingfisher is a small, sparrow-sized bird that can be found across Eurasia and North Africa. It has the typical short tail and large head of kingfishers with seven different subspecies recognized in its range.
They are mainly resident birds but will migrate away during winter when rivers freeze over. The species usually live near bodies of water such as streams or lakes.
Where they hunt for fish by diving from above into the water after spotting their prey below them.
These brightly coloured birds have an unmistakable vibrant blue plumage along with orange underparts and white patches on their wings which makes them easy to recognize amongst other similar looking species.
Their call is loud and shrill making it one of the most recognizable sounds heard around wetlands throughout Europe.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Subfamily | Alcedininae |
| Genus | Alcedo |
| Species | A. atthis |
Also Featured In: Common Birds in India, Ukrainian Birds You Should Know
4. Kingfisher
Kingfishers are a vibrant and unique family of birds, with most species found in tropical regions across Africa, Asia, Oceania and Europe.
Their bright colors make them easily identifiable among the foliage of deep forests near calm ponds or rivers.
They come in three subfamilies: tree kingfishers (Halcyoninae), water kingfishers (Cerylinae) and river kingfishers (Alcedinidae).
Kingfisher birds have short legs used for perching along branches overhanging streams or lakes; they also possess strong beaks perfect for catching fish.
These little hunters will remain motionless as if suspended from thin air until an unsuspecting prey comes within reach.
Then they swoop down quickly to grab their meal. With 116 different species making up this incredible family, there’s something special about every single one.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Suborder | Alcedines |
| Family | Alcedinidae Rafinesque, 1815 |
Also Featured In: Birds You’ll Find in Moldova, Most Common Lake Birds
5. Thrush
Thrushes are small to medium-sized birds belonging to the Turdidae family, and found all over the world. They live on or near the ground and feed on insects, other invertebrates and fruit.
Their feathers range from greyish browns to deep blues in colour with spotted wings that help them blend into their natural habitats such as forests, woodlands and shrubs.
Thrushes have distinctive songs which they sing during spring mating season; many species also perform complex flight displays for courtship rituals.
These birds may be solitary creatures but can often be seen foraging together in groups or pairs when searching for food sources like worms, snails or berries.
A healthy thrush population is an indication of a balanced environment since they require clean water sources as well as plenty of vegetation cover – making them important indicators of ecosystem health worldwide.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Suborder | Passeri |
| Family | Turdidae Rafinesque, 1815 |
Also Featured In: Birds of Sweden, Bulgarian Birds
6. American Robin
The American robin is a migratory bird, belonging to the true thrush genus and Turdidae family.
It was named after its European counterpart due to the similar reddish-orange breast they both possess; however, they are not related closely.
This species can be seen through most of North America during winter months, as well as in parts of Mexico and Central America where it also breeds.
They have plump bodies with gray upperparts and white underparts that vary from yellow on their throats down to orange toward their bellies.
Robins feed on fruits such as berries or insects like worms which makes them an important part of ecosystems by helping disperse seeds naturally throughout these areas.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
Also Featured In: Most Common United States Birds, Most Common Winter Birds
7. American Goldfinch
The American goldfinch is a small North American bird in the finch family. Males are vibrant yellow with black wings and tail, while females are duller in colouration.
It migrates from mid-Alberta to North Carolina during breeding season, south of Canada–United States border to Mexico for its wintering grounds.
The only finch which undergoes complete molt every year, it displays sexual dichromatism where males have brighter colours than their female counterparts.
They feed mainly on seeds but also eat insects such as aphids and caterpillars when raising youngs; they often occur near thistles or other plants that produce viable seed heads.
Their call consists of an array of chirps and trills making them quite conspicuous.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Subfamily | Carduelinae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
Also Featured In: Blue Birds You’ll Found around Us, Birds Commonly Found in New York
8. Songbirds
Songbirds are a special suborder of perching birds found all over the world. These beautiful creatures have intricate vocal organs that allow them to produce elaborate bird songs, making them stand out from other species.
With around 5,000 different types of songbird in existence, they come in various sizes and colors with complex feathers adding to their beauty.
Songbirds play an important role in eco-systems as they help disperse seeds by eating fruit and insects which act as agents for pollination.
Their presence also serves to attract more biodiversity into areas where these delicate animals live, creating vibrant habitats full of life.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Clade | Eupasseres |
| Suborder | Passeri Linnaeus, 1758 |
Also Featured In: Common Birds in the Cities, Summer Birds that Live around Us
9. Blue Jay
The Blue Jay is a beautiful bird that resides in eastern and central United States, as well as Newfoundland Canada.
They have an unmistakable blue colored plumage with white markings on their heads and wings.
These birds are highly adaptable to different habitats ranging from deciduous forests to urban areas.
As part of the Corvidae family, they are known for being intelligent problem solvers who will often use tools or mimic vocalizations of other species like hawks when defending their territories.
Their diet consists mostly of insects, seeds and nuts but can also include small vertebrates such as frogs or lizards if food resources become scarce.
Overall these birds provide much needed color to our environment while playing important roles in maintaining healthy ecosystems through pollination services and seed dispersal activities.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. cristata |
Also Featured In: Birds Live in Arkansas, New Hampshire Birds You Should Know
10. Peregrine Falcon
The Peregrine Falcon is a majestic bird of prey belonging to the family Falconidae. It has a blue-grey back, barred white underparts and black head making it easily recognizable.
This intelligent raptor is known for its incredible speed reaching over 320 km/h (200 mph) during hunting dives – one of the fastest animals in existence.
The peregrine falcon can be found around the world from Arctic tundra to tropical rainforests thriving with humans or in high alpine mountains far away from civilization.
With their beauty, power and adaptability they are an impressive species that have earned respect among many cultures throughout history as symbols of strength and endurance.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Genus | Falco |
| Species | F. peregrinus |
Also Featured In: Asian Birds, European Birds
11. House Sparrow
The house sparrow is a small bird of the Passeridae family. It has an average length of 16 cm and weighs 24-39.5 gm.
Females have dull brown and grey plumage, whereas males are brighter, with black, white and brown markings on their wings and back feathers.
This species is one among 25 different kinds in its genus Passer .These birds are found all around the world mainly near human dwellings where they feed off food scraps from garbage bins or gardens etc..
They also make nests close to houses which makes them even more visible to people living nearby.
House sparrows can be seen hopping around yards looking for food during daytime hours but usually hide in colonies at night time.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passeridae |
| Genus | Passer |
| Species | P. domesticus |
Also Featured In: House Birds You’ll Love to Pet, Autumn Birds You Should Know
12. Mourning Dove
The Mourning Dove is a breathtakingly beautiful bird. It has stunning gray and brown feathers with white tipped wings, giving it an elegant appearance. Its long tail also adds to its graceful look in flight.
A symbol of peace and serenity, they are abundant across North America and can be found in gardens or open fields throughout the year.
As well as being popular game birds for hunters, they feed on grains such as wheat and millet providing important food sources for wildlife species including foxes, coyotes, skunks and raccoons.
These doves have a distinctive cooing sound that can often be heard echoing through woodlands during summer evenings making them one of nature’s greatest treasures.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Zenaida |
| Species | Z. macroura |
Also Featured In: Birds Live Near San Diego, Common Southern Californian Birds
13. White-Breasted Nuthatch
The White-breasted Nuthatch is a medium-sized bird belonging to the nuthatch family Sittidae. It measures around 15.5 cm in length and its colour varies throughout its range.
Males have a light blue-grey upperpart, with black crown and nape whereas females have a dark grey crown instead of black one.
The underparts are whitish, with reddish tinge on sides and flanks while the bill is short and stout with pale base near eyes which can be yellow or white depending upon geographic location..
This species feeds mainly on insects but will also eat seeds, nuts and berries when available.
They prefer open woodlands where they often climb trees searching for food along trunks as well as branches underneath bark crevices creating their nest there too.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
Also Featured In: Birds Commonly Found in Northern California, British Columbian Birds
14. Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are tiny birds found throughout the Americas, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego. Most species measure between 3-5 inches in length and weigh less than an ounce.
The smallest hummingbird is only 2 inches long. Hummingbirds have a unique ability of hovering by rapidly flapping their wings up to 80 times per second.
They feed on nectar and insects, with some species even able to drink sap or eat pollen directly off flowers.
Their vibrant colors make them instantly recognizable as they dart through gardens in search of food and mates.
Hummingbirds truly bring joy into our lives as they remind us that nature’s beauty can be seen around every corner if we take the time to look for it.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae Vigors, 1825 |
Also Featured In: Birds of Symbolism, Spiritual Birds
15. Mallard
The Mallard is a species of dabbling duck that can be found living in temperate and subtropical regions across the Americas, Eurasia and North Africa.
It has been introduced to other areas such as New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil and South Africa by humans.
This beautiful bird belongs to the Anatinae subfamily of waterfowl family Anatidae. The adult mallards have a glossy green head with white neck ring surrounding.
It along with brownish grey body feathers making them look stunning when they fly away or just sitting in their natural habitat around lakes or ponds.
They are excellent swimmers too due to webbed feet which helps them swim fast underwater while looking for food like aquatic insects etc.. Their loud quacking sound makes them quite popular among nature lovers.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. platyrhynchos |
Also Featured In: Most Popular Bird Species in North America, Water Birds Live around Us
16. Osprey
The Osprey is a majestic bird of prey with an incredibly wide habitat range. It has distinctive brown upperparts and greyish head and underparts, making it easily identifiable in the skies above many regions across the world.
With a wingspan of up to 180cm (71in) and body length reaching 60cm (24in), this large raptor specializes in hunting for fish, soaring high over rivers as well as coasts searching for its next meal.
Despite living near water sources, they can also be found inhabiting mountainsides or even woodlands, proving their incredible adaptability. An impressive species that truly deserves admiration.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Pandionidae |
| Genus | Pandion |
| Species | P. haliaetus |
Also Featured In: Birds of Latvia, Common Estonian Birds
17. Birds-Of-Paradise
The birds-of-paradise are a family of passerines found mainly in eastern Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and eastern Australia.
These fascinating creatures have 45 species divided into 17 genera and are best known for their vibrant plumage.
Males of the species tend to be more colourful than females, with bright colours such as reds, blues and greens often seen on their feathers.
Their elaborate courtship displays also make them quite unique among other birds; they use various visual cues to attract mates including plumes, tail feathers and even dances.
The diversity of these stunning creatures makes them one of the most captivating bird families in existence today.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Corvoidea |
| Family | Paradisaeidae Swainson, 1825 |
Also Featured In: Beautiful Indonesian Birds, Common Tropical Rainforest Birds
18. Finches
Finches are a diverse group of passerine birds found around the world, excluding Australia and polar regions. They vary in size from small to medium-sized, with stout conical bills adapted for eating seeds and nuts.
Many species have brightly coloured plumage; this helps them stand out against their natural habitats which can range from deserts to forests.
Finches occupy these areas all year round without migrating elsewhere – making them particularly well suited for local environments.
As part of the Fringillidae family they possess unique characteristics that make them popular amongst birdwatchers everywhere.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Passeroidea |
| Family | Fringillidae Leach, 1820 |
Also Featured In: Native Pakistani Birds, Aviary Birds You Should Know
19. Woodpeckers
Woodpeckers are an incredibly diverse bird species, found all over the world except for Australia, New Guinea, New Zealand, Madagascar and the extreme polar regions.
They live in a variety of habitats including forests and woodlands but also rocky hillsides and deserts with no trees.
Their beaks are adapted to pecking at tree bark to find food such as insects or larvae hidden beneath it while they use their long tongues to catch them from deep inside crevices.
Woodpeckers have tough skulls that protect their brains from impact when they bang into things during drumming – a behaviour used by males for territorial signalling and reproduction purposes which is done using strong rapid beats against hollow objects like dead branches or metal poles.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Infraorder | Picides |
| Family | Picidae Leach, 1820 |
Also Featured In: Most Common Types of Bangladeshi Birds, Common Serbian Birds
20. Ducks
Ducks are water birds belonging to the family of Anatidae. They have a worldwide distribution except Antarctica and are highly adapted for swimming, floating on water surface or in shallow depths.
Ducks come in various sizes ranging from small teals to large swans with around 174 species found across 43 genera.
Their feathers make them waterproof enabling ducks to stay afloat even in stormy waters while their webbed feet allow them to swim gracefully underwater.
Ducks usually feed by filtering food items such as insects, molluscs and crustaceans through their bills but some also graze on land vegetation like grasses & grains depending upon availability of resources at different locations they inhabit.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Suborder | Anseres |
| Superfamily | Anatoidea |
| Family | Anatidae Leach, 1820 |
Also Featured In: Turkey Birds You Should Know, Birds that Live in Croatia
21. Crow Family
The Crow family is a cosmopolitan group of birds that contains crows, ravens, rooks, jackdaws, jays, magpies and more.
Altogether there are 133 members in this bird family which all share similar characteristics such as large beaks and feet.
The genus Corvus alone makes up over a third of the entire crow family population with species like the common crow or blackbird being some of its most recognizable members.
All these birds have strong social bonds so they often travel in groups to find food sources or build nests together for protection against predators.
With their intelligence and adaptation skills they are able to survive almost anywhere on Earth from mountains to cities making them one of the world’s most successful families of avian creaturesScientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Corvoidea |
| Family | Corvidae Leach, 1820 |
Also Featured In: Common Birds in Japan, Common Denmark Birds
22. Passerine
Passerines are a vast order of birds, comprising more than half the species in existence. Many familiar garden and woodland species fall into this category such as sparrows, blackbirds, finches and warblers.
They can be recognised by their arrangement of toes; three pointing forward with one back which helps them perch on branches or wires.
Passerines range from tiny wrens to large crows and have adapted to inhabit many environments around the world including forests, mountainsides and deserts.
They feed mainly on insects but some also consume fruit and seeds depending on their diet preferences.
Their diversity is truly remarkable from vibrant coloured tropical parrots to drab winter thrushes – making passerine birds an integral part of our natural heritage.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Psittacopasserae |
| Order | Passeriformes Linnaeus, 1758 |
Also Featured In: Egyptian Birds, Black And White Birds You Don’t Know About
23. Falcon
Falcons are majestic birds of prey found in almost all parts of the world, except Antarctica. They have long, slender wings that allow them to fly swiftly and change directions quickly.
As adults they feed on small animals such as mice and insects, but when young their diet consists mainly of carrion or food provided by their parents.
Falcons use a range of techniques for hunting including hovering high up above potential prey before diving down at great speed to catch it during flight.
Additionally, they also ambush unsuspecting victims from concealed perches close to the ground.
These remarkable hunters can even take advantage of thermal currents rising off warm surfaces like roads which give them an extra boost while flying.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Subfamily | Falconinae |
| Genus | Falco Linnaeus, 1758 |
Also Featured In: Common Carnivore Birds,
24. Great Spotted Woodpecker
The Great Spotted Woodpecker is a fascinating bird. It has black and white feathers, with red patches on its lower belly and head or neck depending on whether it’s male or young.
This species inhabits most of the Palearctic region as well as some parts of North Africa.
For much of its range, it remains in one place all year round but may migrate if food sources become limited further north.
Its diet consists mainly of insects found under tree bark along with small amounts of seeds and fruit when available.
Despite being quite vocal they are hard to spot due to their camouflaged feathers which helps protect them from predators like cats and birds-of-prey.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dendrocopos |
| Species | D. major |
Also Featured In: Native Birds Of Germany, Most Common Lithuanian Birds
25. Eurasian Hoopoe
The Eurasian hoopoe is a unique and stunning bird. Its cinnamon-coloured body contrasts sharply with its black-and-white wings, while the tall erectile crest gives it an even more distinctive appearance.
It also has a broad white band across its black tail and a long narrow downcurved beak. When you hear this species of birds call, it’s typically “oop-oop-oop”, very soft yet unmistakable in tone.
This beautiful creature can be found throughout Europe, Asia and northern Africa where they mainly migrate for cooler climates during winter months.
The Eurasian hoopoe is truly one of nature’s most majestic creations – from their vibrant plumage to their mellow calls – making them unforgettable creatures that will never cease to amaze us all.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Bucerotiformes |
| Family | Upupidae |
| Genus | Upupa |
| Species | U. epops |
Also Featured In: Most Common Spain Birds, Ko Mak Birds You Didn’t Know
26. Barn Owl
Barn owls are a beautiful and fascinating species of birds found around the world, with the exception of polar and desert regions, most of Indonesia and some Pacific Islands.
They have large eyes, thin legs and long wings that help them to hunt silently in low light conditions.
Their white colouring helps them blend into their surroundings making it easier for them to catch prey.
Barn owls are nocturnal hunters who use their impressive hearing capabilities to locate rodents moving within vegetation or tunnels beneath the ground.
They also feed on insects such as beetles, moths etc., which they can detect from high up in flight using their excellent vision even at night time.
The barn owl plays an important role in balancing ecosystems by controlling rodent populations which is why they should be protected wherever possible so that this vital service continues uninterruptedly.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Tytonidae |
| Genus | Tyto |
| Species | T. alba |
Also Featured In: Belarus Birds You Should Know, Birds You’ll Find in Night
27. Common Blackbird
The Common Blackbird is a species of true thrush with the scientific name Turdus merula. Found in Europe, Asiatic Russia and North Africa it has also been introduced to Australia and New Zealand.
The male bird has glossy black plumage while the female’s coloration is more brownish gray.
It is known for its melodious song that can be heard throughout much of the year; typically they are seen alone or in pairs but occasionally form large flocks when food sources become available or during migration periods.
Its diet consists mainly of insects, worms, berries and other fruits as well as some human-provided foods such as bread crumbs or garbage scraps when available.
With its wide distribution range along with ease of adaptation to different habitats this species will likely remain one our most common birds around us.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. merula |
Also Featured In: Birds of United Kingdom, Most Common Scotland Birds
28. Great Tit
The Great Tit is a small passerine bird found in woodlands throughout Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia. Its beautiful black and white plumage with bold yellow or green patches make it easily distinguishable from other species of its family.
It generally does not migrate except for harsh winters but will stay resident in any kind of woodland area.
The diet consists mainly on insects, seeds and nuts which are found by searching through trees or scavenging from feeders placed near gardens.
Great Tits are also known to be clever problem solvers; they can open milk bottles left out unattended as well as cracking sunflower seeds that provide them essential nutrients during winter months when food is scarce.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Parus |
| Species | P. major |
Also Featured In: Birds Found in Hungary, Amsterdam Birds You Should Know
29. Weavers
Weaver birds are small passerine birds found in the family Ploceidae. They are known for their intricately woven nests, made from vegetation and other materials sourced locally by the weavers.
These complex structures have earned them their distinctive name, as they appear to weave together a home away from home.
Weaverbirds come in a range of sizes and colours – some are brightly coloured while others may be more subtle or plainer looking – but all share an affinity with weaving material into intricate architectural designs.
Some species also use mud instead of plant life to build these impressive homes. Not only do these feathered architects give us insight into nature’s incredible capacity for problem-solving and resourcefulness; they provide stunningly colourful displays too.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Passeroidea |
| Family | Ploceidae Sundevall, 1836 |
Also Featured In: Birds of South African, Savanna Birds You Need to See
30. Common Raven
The Common Raven is an iconic black bird found throughout the Northern Hemisphere. It belongs to the Corvus corax species of passerines, and has at least eight subspecies with little physical variation between them.
Recent research however suggests there are significant genetic differences among populations from various areas.
They have a large wingspan of up to 1m and their call can be heard over great distances due to its deep croaking sound; they also use mimicry for communication purposes like many other birds do.
The ravens diet consists mostly of carrion, insects and fruits but they will scavenge in human settlements as well when food sources become scarce.
Their nests require plenty of space so these birds prefer open habitats such as tundra or mountain regions- ideal conditions for their long distance migrations.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Corvus |
| Species | C. corax |
Also Featured In: Birds of Poland, Birds that Live in San Francisco Bay Area
31. Cardinal
Cardinalidae is a family of passerine birds endemic to the New World that includes cardinals, grosbeaks and buntings.
This large group has great diversity in its members which range from tanager-like Piranga to warbler-like Granatellus.
They are usually distinguished by their bright plumage with reds, oranges and yellows being common among them.
Their strong bills enable them to feed on seeds, fruits and insects as well as other small prey items like lizards or frogs depending upon species.
Cardinals also have loud calls often used for territorial defense and courtship purposes while some can even imitate sounds made by other animals.
These adaptable birds inhabit a variety of habitats across North America making them an important part of many ecosystems there.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Emberizoidea |
| Family | Cardinalidae Ridgway, 1901 |
Also Featured In: Common Birds in Canada, Birds that Migrate through Illinois in the Spring
32. Atlantic Puffin
The Atlantic puffin is a seabird that belongs to the auk family. It has two related species found in the northeastern Pacific, namely tufted and horned puffins.
This bird breeds widely throughout Russia, Iceland, Ireland, Norway, Greenland and Canada’s Newfoundland & Labrador as well as Nova Scotia regions of Faroe Islands.
Its colorful beak with markings of yellowish-orange during mating season makes it stand out among other birds.
An interesting fact about this sea-dweller is its ability to fly underwater; they use their wings for propulsion while swimming.
The Atlantic puffin diet consists mainly of fish caught from shallow waters near shorelines or cliffsides where they nest annually during springtime months before embarking on long migrations southward towards winter grounds at seaside coasts until spring returns once again.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Alcidae |
| Genus | Fratercula |
| Species | F. arctica |
Also Featured In: Birds that Live in the Ocean , Birds that Live in Newfoundland and Labrador
33. Parrots
Parrots are a diverse group of birds, found in tropical and subtropical regions. They make up the order Psittaciformes, which is divided into three superfamilies: “true” parrots (Psittacoidea), cockatoos (Cacatuoidea) and New Zealand Parrots (Strigopoidea).
Many species have brightly colored feathers that can be red, yellow or blue. Their strong curved bills allow them to feed on fruits, nuts and seeds.
Parrot behavior ranges from playful to aggressive depending on their environment and socialization with humans.
Some even learn human words. As beloved pets they bring joy to many households around the world though it’s important for owners to understand how best to care for these intelligent creatures so as not to cause distress or harm.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Psittacopasserae |
| Order | Psittaciformes Wagler, 1830 |
Also Featured In: Most common birds in Australia, Birds Typically Found in Australian Rainforest
34. Crows
Crows are medium to large birds with a wide range of species belonging to the Corvidae family. They can be found in Europe, Asia, America and Australia.
Common crows include carrion crow, hooded crow, common raven and rooks which differ mainly by size; crows being generally smaller than their counterparts.
Crows have distinctive black feathers that contrast against their white eyes while they possess an intelligence far beyond other birds as they will use tools for tasks like cracking open nuts or making nests out of twigs.
Their curious nature makes them great problem-solvers when faced with challenging situations such as finding food sources or navigating new terrain.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Subfamily | Corvinae |
| Genus | Corvus Linnaeus, 1758 |
Also Featured In: Birds of Netherlands, Scavengers Birds You Should Know
35. Long-Eared Owl
The Long-eared Owl is a medium sized species of owl with an extensive breeding range that spans across Europe and the Palearctic.
It has two distinct features, its long ears and yellow eyes, which can be seen during the day or at night due to their excellent vision.
Its diet consists mainly of small mammals such as voles and mice but it will also eat birds if given opportunity.
During winter months they may migrate south in search for food because there are less prey available in cold temperatures.
The Long-eared Owl prefers open habitats like meadows, fields or wetlands but sometimes uses forests too when hunting for food .
This makes them quite adaptable since they have no restrictions on where they choose to live.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Strigidae |
| Genus | Asio |
| Species | A. otus |
Also Featured In: Birds of Taiga, Winter Birds of Ohio
36. Falconiformes
Falconiformes is an order of birds that includes the family Falconidae, which consists of falcons and caracaras. Additionally, there are handfuls of mysterious species from the Paleogene era.
Traditionally, other bird-of-prey families like Cathartidae (New World vultures and condors), Sagittariidae (secretarybird), Pandionidea (ospreys) and Accipitridae (hawks) were also classified as members in this group.
Advances in comparative genomics have allowed for a more thorough understanding not just about these unique species but their relationships with one another too.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Eufalconimorphae |
| Order | Falconiformes Sharpe, 1874 |
Also Featured In: Most Common Birds In Paraguay, Common Species of Birds
37. Albatrosses
Albatrosses are majestic, large seabirds belonging to the Diomedeidae family in the Procellariiformes order.
These birds have an impressive wingspan and can fly great distances over oceans with minimal effort.
They inhabit all of the world’s southern oceans, ranging from Antarctica up through New Zealand and Australia as well as parts of the northern Pacific Ocean region.
Albatross populations were once abundant throughout much of their range but they now face threats such as longline fishing gear entanglement which has caused a significant decline in numbers in some areas.
Furthermore, occasional vagrants have been found outside their native ranges including fossil remains suggesting that albatrosses previously existed on other regions too.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Procellariiformes |
| Family | Diomedeidae G.R. Gray 1840[1] |
Also Featured In: New Zealand Birds, Galapagos Birds You Should Know
38. Rollers
Rollers are birds that belong to the Coraciidae family. They are known for their aerial acrobatics which they display during courtship or territorial flights, earning them their name.
Rollers share similarities with crows in terms of size and shape, but they have a more vibrant appearance like kingfishers and bee-eaters — blues and pinkish or cinnamon browns being the most common colors.
These birds also have an interesting feature: two inner front toes connected together while the outer ones remain separated from each other.
Their impressive flying skills make rollers one of nature’s beauties, captivating us all with its colorful feathers and graceful moves.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Coraciidae Rafinesque, 1815 |
Also Featured In: Comoros birds, Common Uzbekistan Birds
39. Penguins
Penguins are an amazing species of aquatic birds that live mainly in the Southern Hemisphere. They have a unique plumage, which is black and white countershaded to aid them while swimming in the water.
Penguins feed mostly on krill, small crustaceans found near Antarctica. These remarkable creatures can’t fly but they compensate by being excellent swimmers due to their flippers-like wings which help them move faster underwater.
All this makes penguins one of nature’s most fascinating animals – not just for kids.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Austrodyptornithes |
| Order | Sphenisciformes Sharpe, 1891 |
| Family | Spheniscidae Bonaparte, 1831 |
Also Featured In: Antarctica Birds, Large African Birds You Need to Know
40. Red-Billed Leiothrix
The Red-billed Leiothrix is a stunning bird, native to southern China and the Himalayas. It has an olive green back along with a bright yellow-orange throat and chin.
Males have brighter colors than females while juveniles are noted for their black bills. The most striking feature of this species is its red bill which gives it its name.
This bird can also be found in other parts of Asia due to intentional introductions by humans over time.
In addition to being eye catching, the Red-billed Leiothrix is renowned for its melodic songs that fill forests with beautiful music during breeding season.
All in all, these birds make for wonderful additions to any backyard or park setting.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Leiothrichidae |
| Genus | Leiothrix |
| Species | L. lutea |
Also Featured In: Hawaii Birds, Most Common Oahu Birds
41. Ring-Necked Pheasant
The Ring-necked Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) is a stunning bird from the pheasant family. It has an iridescent green and gold plumage, with bright red facial wattles and white neck rings that contrast against its black tail feathers.
This elegant species can be found in fields, meadows, woodlands and open areas across Northern Europe to East Asia where it feeds on grain, insects and other small animals. The male displays spectacular courtship rituals to attract mates.
He spreads his wings wide while making loud calls as a sign of dominance which helps him establish territories for breeding season.
Despite being hunted for both food by humans or predators like foxes and cats this magnificent creature remains one of nature’s most beautiful sights.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Phasianus |
| Species | P. colchicus |
Also Featured In: birds of South Dakota, Most Common Romanian Birds
42. Columbidae
Columbidae is a bird family that includes both doves and pigeons. These birds are characterized by their stout bodies, short necks, and small slender bills with fleshy ceres in some species.
They feed mainly on seeds, fruits, and plants found all around the world but have the greatest variety in Indomalayan and Australasian regions.
Columbidae have an unmistakable soft cooing sound which makes them one of the most beloved avian families worldwide – especially among city dwellers.
Whether it be feeding time or just hearing their soothing call throughout nature walks; these birds will remain a favourite for many more years to come.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Columbimorphae |
| Order | Columbiformes Latham, 1790 |
| Family | Columbidae Leach, 1820 |
Also Featured In: birds of white, Birds for Your Home Garden
43. Puffins
Puffins are small seabirds that belong to the bird genus Fratercula. They primarily feed by diving into the water and breed in colonies on coastal cliffs or offshore islands.
They can nest in crevices among rocks or in burrows in the soil. There are three species of puffins, with two found in the North Pacific Ocean and one in the Atlantic Ocean.
The tufted puffin and horned puffin are North Pacific species, while the Atlantic puffin is the only puffin species found in the Atlantic Ocean.
These birds have colorful beaks that are often compared to clowns’ faces, making them a popular sight among birdwatchers.
Puffins are fascinating creatures that have long been the subject of fascination and study among the scientific community.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Alcidae |
| Tribe | Fraterculini |
| Genus | Fratercula Brisson, 1760 |
Also Featured In: Birds You’ll Find in the Sea, Famous Paintings Birds
44. Cassowaries
Cassowaries are unique, flightless birds belonging to the genus Casuarius. They are classified as ratites, and they do not have a keel on their sternum bones.
These fascinating birds are found in the tropical forests of New Guinea, Aru Islands, and northeastern Australia. Three species of cassowaries still exist, with the most prevalent being the Southern cassowary.
They are known for their crest, which protrudes from their heads, and their bright blue skin on their neck and head.
Cassowaries are also known for their sharp talons that can grow up to 12 centimeters long, and they can jump up to 1.5 meters high.
Cassowaries are often described as being dangerous as they have been known to attack humans when provoked, but they also play a vital role in their ecosystem as seed dispersers.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Infraclass | Palaeognathae |
| Order | Casuariiformes |
| Family | Casuariidae Kaup, 1847[1] |
| Genus | Casuarius Brisson, 1760 |
Also Featured In: Birds That Live in the Jungle, Rainforest Birds You Should Know
45. European Robin
The European robin, also known as simply robin or robin redbreast, is a small insect-eating bird belonging to the chat subfamily.
This bird species can be found across Europe, extending east to Western Siberia while inhabiting North Africa.
The bird species is relatively sedentary and is found in most of its range, except for the far north.
Measuring around 12.5-14.0 cm, this bird is commonly known for its distinctively red breast feathers.
As an insectivorous passerine bird, the European robin mainly feeds on insects to sustain its energy.
Given its widespread range throughout Europe and continuous presence in certain parts of the world, the European robin is widely recognized for its distinct physical appearance, singsong voice, and tiny size.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Muscicapidae |
| Genus | Erithacus |
| Species | E. rubecula |
Also Featured In: Most Common Songs Birds that Live around You, Italian Birds You Should Know
46. Owls
Owls are remarkable birds of prey that belong to the order Strigiformes. Known for their solitary and nocturnal behavior, these birds are commonly associated with an upright stance, broad head, binocular vision, binaural hearing, sharp talons, and specially adapted feathers for silent flight.
With over 200 species, owls are mostly carnivorous and hunt small mammals, making them excellent at controlling rodent populations.
Although most owls are solitary animals, some species, such as the gregarious burrowing owl, are social and interact regularly with their own kind.
Despite their nocturnal habits, some owls, like the northern hawk-owl, are diurnal and hunt during daylight hours.
All in all, owls are fascinating creatures that have intrigued bird watchers and scientists alike for many years.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Telluraves |
| Order | Strigiformes Wagler, 1830 |
Also Featured In: Flight Birds You Should Know, Birds You’ll Find in Zoo
47. Ostriches
Ostriches are massive birds that cannot fly. They lay the biggest eggs amongst land animals. These birds are remarkable sprinters, with a top speed of 70 km/h.
They are farmed in several countries, with the Philippines and Namibia being the most significant producers.
Famed for their leather, ostriches are bred for their hides, which are in high demand for their durability and aesthetics.
Their long and thick plumes are often used as decorations or in fashion accessories.
Despite their size, ostriches are primarily herbivores, feeding on shoots, leaves, flowers, and grass. They are social animals and live in groups of up to 50 in the wild.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Infraclass | Palaeognathae |
| Order | Struthioniformes |
| Family | Struthionidae |
| Genus | Struthio Linnaeus, 1758[1] |
Also Featured In: African Birds, Birds that Live in the Deserts
48. Neognathae
Neognathae is a type of bird that comprises the majority of living bird species. Exceptions are tinamous and flightless ratites that belong to Palaeognathae.
The name Neognathae comes from Greek and refers to its new or young jaw. There are almost 10,000 species of Neognathae that are part of the clade Archosauria.
These birds have developed unique characteristics that differentiate them from their Palaeognathae counterparts. For example, Neognathae birds have a flexible palate and longer bills that allow them to feed on a wider range of foods.
Their wings are also more developed and allow for flight, which is not the case for ratites. Neognathae birds have a diverse range of sizes, colors, and behaviors that have allowed them to populate different habitats around the world.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Infraclass | Neognathae Pycraft, 1900 |
49. Asteriornis
Asteriornis was a bird species that lived during the Late Cretaceous period in Belgium. Unlike more primitive birds, it had a closer evolutionary relationship to modern-day Galloanserae species such as chickens and ducks.
These small, long-legged birds are estimated to have weighed around 394 grams and lived near the coastline. The genus is known from a single species called Asteriornis maastrichtensis.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Infraclass | Neognathae |
| Clade | Pangalloanserae |
| Genus | †Asteriornis Field et al. 2020 |
50. Dendrocopos
The Dendrocopos bird is a woodpecker found in Asia, Europe, and Northern Africa. It has a wide range, stretching from the Philippines to the British Isles.
The genus was named by German naturalist Carl Ludwig Koch in 1816, combining the Ancient Greek words for “tree” and “striking”. The Dendrocopos bird derives its name from its ability to strike trees with its strong beak in search of food.
The great spotted woodpecker was designated as the type species. These birds are known for their distinctive drumming behavior, which is produced by tapping their beaks on trees.
They are also admired for their colorful plumage and unique adaptations to their environment.
Despite their widespread distribution, some species of Dendrocopos are facing threats from habitat loss and fragmentation.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Tribe | Melanerpini |
| Genus | Dendrocopos Koch, 1816 |
51. Sphenisciformes
Sphenisciformes, also known as penguins, are a group of flightless birds found primarily in the southern hemisphere.
They are characterized by their distinctive black and white coloration, streamlined bodies, and flippers which are used for swimming.
Penguins are adapted to living in cold, aquatic environments and can dive to great depths in search of food.
They lay eggs on land and have a unique method of incubating them by balancing them on their feet and covering them with a brood pouch. Most penguin species form monogamous pairs and exhibit strong bonding behaviors.
Penguins are valued for their charismatic personalities and have become popular icons in both popular culture and conservation efforts.
However, many species of penguins are threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Sauropsida |
| Clade | Avemetatarsalia |
| Clade | Ornithurae |
| Class | Aves Linnaeus, 1758[6] |