50 Birds You’ll Find In Night

Birds are fascinating creatures with a unique ability to navigate through even the darkest of nights. These nocturnal birds have evolved special adaptations that allow them to easily travel through the dark, hunting and feeding while others sleep.

From the tiny owl to the majestic eagle, birds of the night play an important role in our ecosystems. They are mysterious and awe-inspiring, and observing them can provide a rare glimpse into the hidden world of the wilderness at night.

In this article, we will explore the various species of birds that inhabit the night and take a closer look at their fascinating behaviors and adaptations.

1. 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

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2. Northern Mockingbird

The northern mockingbird is a common fixture in North American skies. It has greyish-brown upperparts and a paler underside with white wing patches, and its distinctive long tail makes it easy to spot.

This adaptable bird can often be seen singing from the tops of trees or fences, though it rarely strays into Europe.

The species was first described by Carl Linnaeus in his 1758 Systema Naturae as Turdus polyglottos – aptly named for their remarkable ability to mimic other birds’ songs.

Northern mockingbirds typically live on insects, fruits, berries and seeds but they will also happily scavenge food scraps left out by humans.

With its beautiful song and striking plumage this beloved avian makes an important contribution to our environment.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Mimidae
Genus	Mimus
Species	M. polyglottos

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3. Common Loon

The Common Loon is a beautiful bird found in North America. It has a large black head and neck, with a greenish to purple sheen that stands out against its dark grey upperparts.

The underparts are pure white except for some black on the undertail coverts and vent.

During non-breeding season adults have brown plumage instead of the bright shades they show during breeding season.

They also exhibit unique behaviors such as diving underwater to catch fish or swimming along lakeshores while calling loudly, which is how they got their name “great northern diver”.

With their stunning colors and interesting behavior, it’s no wonder why these birds make up an iconic part of many landscapes across North America.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Gaviiformes
Family	Gaviidae
Genus	Gavia
Species	G. immer

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4. Barred Owl

The Barred Owl is a large species of owl native to eastern North America. It belongs to the genus Strix, which is part of the true owl family Strigidae.

These beautiful birds are mainly brown with distinct stripes on their bodies and wings. Its face has dark eyes, a white chin patch and two black bars across its yellow-brownish beak, giving it an intimidating appearance.

The barred owls have powerful talons that they use for hunting small mammals like mice and voles as well as other animals such as fish, amphibians or insects.

They also rely heavily on hearing when looking for prey in low light conditions.

With their amazing camouflage abilities these birds can often remain undetected while observing potential threats from predators – making them highly successful hunters.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Strix
Species	S. varia

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5. Great Horned Owl

The Great Horned Owl is an impressive bird native to the Americas. It is well-known for its wide range and adaptability, as it can be found in many different habitats across the continent.

Its diet consists primarily of rabbits, hares, rats and mice; however, they are also known to consume skunks, geese and other birds too.

With their powerful talons capable of crushing prey with ease, these owls have earned themselves a fearsome reputation due to their incredible strength.

Their iconic horn-like tufts on either side of its head add another layer of intimidation which helps them stand out from other owls in the area.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Bubo
Species	B. virginianus

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6. Killdeer

The Killdeer bird is a large plover found in the Americas. It has an unmistakable call which gives it its name, and boasts striking upperparts of brown with rufous fringes.

Its head features patches of white and black, while two distinctive bands adorn its neck – one black above, and one chestnut below.

The undersides are mostly white or pale buff-brown; their wings feature bright orange stripes when they take flight.

During breeding season males perform elaborate courtship rituals to attract females into establishing a pair bond; they also defend territories fiercely against other birds that encroach on them during this time.

In winter months some killdeers migrate southwards but many stay put throughout the cold weather too.

All in all these beautiful creatures provide us with quite a sight indeed.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Charadriidae
Genus	Charadrius
Species	C. vociferus

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7. Burrowing Owl

The Burrowing Owl is a small, long-legged owl found in open landscapes throughout North and South America. They are typically seen in grasslands, rangelands, agricultural areas or deserts with low vegetation.

Unlike most owls they nest and roost underground by taking over burrows made by other animals such as prairie dogs.

Their diet consists of insects, rodents and sometimes lizards or frogs that they hunt during the night time hours when their eyesight is sharpest.

This species faces threats due to habitat loss caused by human development but conservation efforts have been successful at reversing some of this damage allowing for populations to remain stable into the future despite these pressures.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Athene
Species	A. cunicularia

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8. Potoo

Potoo birds, or Nyctibius, are nocturnal creatures in the family of Nyctibiidae. They have a distinct long beak and large eyes that help them find prey during night time hunting.

These interesting-looking birds build their nests on tree branches near water sources such as rivers and lakes for easy access to food.

Potoos also use camouflage to blend into their surroundings when sleeping during the day; this helps protect them from predators like hawks who can spot an easily visible bird from miles away.

Potoos live in tropical regions throughout Central America and South America where they hunt small insects at night with their sharp sense of hearing allowing them to quickly locate hidden prey even in darkness.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Nyctibiiformes
Family	Nyctibiidae
Subfamily	Nyctibiinae
Genus	Nyctibius Vieillot, 1816

9. True Owl

Owls are one of the two main families of owls, with Strigidae being the true owl family. With 230 species and 24 genera, this large bird family is found all around the world except for Antarctica.

Owls vary greatly in size and shape, but they typically have a round face with forward-facing eyes and a hooked bill to help them catch their prey.

They also possess asymmetrical ears that allow them to detect even faint sounds from great distances making them formidable predators at night.

Although solitary by nature, some species can be quite vocal while others may remain silent during daylight hours until sunset when they become active again looking for food under cover of darkness.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae Leach, 1820

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10. Frogmouth

The Frogmouth is a nocturnal bird that belongs to the same family as owlet-nightjars, swifts and hummingbirds.

They have large flattened hooked bills with huge frog-like gape which helps them capture insects during night time.

Three species of Podargus are found in Australia and New Guinea only – they have massive eyes that allow for excellent night vision.

Their bodies are generally grey or brownish in colour with cryptic markings for camouflage when roosting during day light hours.

Generally known as quiet birds, their loud wailing call can be heard at dusk or dawn near river banks or wetlands where they live alone or form pairs throughout breeding season.

The diet of these fascinating creatures consists mainly of flying insects such as moths, beetles & cicadas etc., but on occasion will consume small vertebrates like lizards and frogs too.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Clade	Strisores
Order	Podargiformes Matthews, 1918
Family	Podargidae Gray, 1847

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11. Short-Eared Owl

The Short-eared Owl is a species of owl belonging to the genus Asio, commonly known as ‘Eared Owls’. It has short tufts resembling mammalian ears that may or may not be visible.

When threatened they will display their tufts defensively; however these very short tufts are usually hard to spot.

This bird can be found in grassland habitats across much of the world and hunt mainly small mammals such as voles at night by swooping low over the ground from perches like trees and posts.

They also take other prey including birds, amphibians, reptiles and insects when available.

During breeding season males can often been seen performing aerial displays with claps of its wings while hovering above potential mates on territories it defends fiercely against intruders including humans.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Asio
Species	A. flammeus

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12. Eurasian Reed Warbler

The Eurasian reed warbler (Acrocephalus scirpaceus) is a species of Old World Warbler native to the temperate parts of Europe and Asia.

It breeds in wetlands such as marshes, ponds and rivers with dense vegetation like reeds or tall grasses.

During its wintering season, it migrates southward to sub-Saharan Africa where there are milder conditions.

This small bird has streaked brown plumage on the upperparts and white underparts which makes it difficult for predators to spot among the foliage.

Its diet consists mainly of insects including aphids, caterpillars larvae and moths caught while flying over water or by gleaning from plants growing near water bodies.

The male sings an attractive song consisting of several phrases repeated one after another as part of their courtship display during breeding season in order attract females for mating purposes.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Acrocephalidae
Genus	Acrocephalus
Species	A. scirpaceus

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13. Eurasian Stone-Curlew

The Eurasian stone-curlew, also known as the Eurasian thick-knee, is a species of bird from the Burhinidae family. It was first described by Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus in 1758 and is mainly found in England.

These birds have brown feathers with black markings on their wings and head; they also possess long beaks for catching prey.

They usually feed on insects, small rodents, worms and other invertebrates that can be found near water sources or open areas such as fields and meadows.

Stone curlews are mostly active during night time but can occasionally be seen during day light hours too.

During breeding season these birds make loud calls to attract mates and ward off predators while defending their nests which are often built in grassy plains or dry moorside land away from human activity or disturbance.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Burhinidae
Genus	Burhinus
Species	B. oedicnemus

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14. Tawny Owl

The Tawny Owl is a stunning bird found in woodlands throughout Europe to western Siberia. It has seven recognized subspecies, each with its own subtle differences.

This stocky owl usually has pale underparts with dark streaks and either brown or gray upper feathers. They build their nests high up in tree holes and are very territorial when it comes to protecting them.

During the day they roost quietly among branches of trees but become quite active at night as they hunt small mammals like mice and shrews using their extraordinary hearing skills.

The tawny owl’s call can be heard echoing through forests on still nights making it one of the most recognizable owls around.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Strix
Species	S. aluco

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15. 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

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16. 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

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17. Boreal Owl

The Boreal Owl is a small, nocturnal bird of the Strigidae family commonly found in North America and Europe.

It’s also known as Tengmalm’s owl after Swedish naturalist Peter Gustaf Tengmalm or Richardson’s owl after Sir John Richardson.

The boreal owl has an elusive nature which makes it difficult to observe due to its shyness towards human activity during daylight hours.

Its feathers are dark brown with white spots on the wings, face and throat while its underbelly is light grey/brown with darker streaks along the sides.

They have long talons used for catching prey such as mice, voles and other small rodents making them effective hunters at night-time when they become more active seeking food sources away from humans.

Their habitat consists of coniferous forests where they can find shelter among large trees that offer nesting sites high up off of ground level keeping them safe from predators like foxes and coyotes who roam around looking for easy meals near the forest floor.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Aegolius
Species	A. funereus

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18. Corn Crake

The Corn Crake is a species of rail that inhabits Europe and Asia, migrating to Africa for the winter.

It’s medium-sized with buff or grey streaked brownish black upperparts and blue-grey underparts that are decorated with rust colored bars along its flanks and undertail.

They prefer moist meadows, grasslands, marshes, bogs and moorland where they can find their food sources such as seeds, leaves shoots insects worms spiders etc.

In the summer it may be heard singing from tall vegetation at night when looking for mates but during day time it will hide in thick cover making them difficult to spot.

The corn crake has been listed by IUCN as near threatened due Conservation efforts have helped increase numbers but ongoing threats such as habitat loss still remain an issue so continued effort must be made if this unique bird is to survive into future generations.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Gruiformes
Family	Rallidae
Genus	Crex Bechstein, 1803
Species	C. crex

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19. Night Parrot

The Night Parrot is one of the most mysterious birds on Earth due to its extreme elusiveness. It is a small parrot endemic to Australia and can also be known as porcupine parrot, nocturnal ground parakeet, midnight cockatoo, solitaire, or spinifex parrot.

For 67 years there were no confirmed sightings of this bird until 1979 when it was rediscovered in western Queensland.

Its secretive behavior makes it difficult for humans to observe these creatures properly and many attempts have been made by researchers over the decades ever since then in order try get more information about them but with limited success so far.

The future looks uncertain for these special creatures however hopefully through continued research we will find out much more about them soon.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Psittaciformes
Family	Psittaculidae
Genus	Pezoporus
Species	P. occidentalis

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20. 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

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21. Yellow-Breasted Chat

The Yellow-breasted Chat is a large songbird found in North America, and is the only member of its family Icteriidae.

It was once part of the New World Warbler family but has since been moved to its own group due to taxonomic uncertainty.

This bird stands out as it was previously thought to be the largest species within Parulida.

Its plumage features shades of yellow, olive green and browns; males have darker heads while females are slightly paler overall.

The chat’s diet consists mostly of insects such as caterpillars and beetles which they forage from low vegetation or glean off leaves on tree branches during summer months when their populations peak.

They also feed heavily on fruits like elderberry, grapes and wild cherries during migration periods throughout spring/fall season providing much needed energy for long journeys southwards or northwards depending upon geography location each year.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Emberizoidea
Family	Icteriidae Baird, 1858
Genus	Icteria Vieillot, 1808
Species	I. virens

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22. Nightjars

Nightjars are fascinating nocturnal or crepuscular birds belonging to the Caprimulgidae family. These medium-sized birds have long wings, short legs and very small bills.

They can be found across many parts of the world in forests, grasslands and scrubland habitats.

Nightjars feed on insects such as moths, beetles, crickets and cicadas which they catch with their sharp eyesight during night time flights over open fields when hunting for food.

Their scientific name ‘Caprimulgidae’ is derived from an old folktale that claims these birds suck milk from goats.

In reality though, they are harmless creatures who pose no threat to livestock whatsoever.

Nightjars make a variety of different calls ranging from whistles to chirps all throughout the night – adding further mystery to this amazing species.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Clade	Strisores
Order	Caprimulgiformes Ridgway, 1881
Family	Caprimulgidae Vigors, 1825

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23. Black-Crowned Night Heron

The Black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) is a medium-sized bird found in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia and North and South America.

It has black crowns on its head with white feathers underneath. Its wings are greyish brown while its underparts are mostly white.

This species can be seen foraging near shallow water or along coastlines during dusk or dawn as it hunts small fish, amphibians and crustaceans.

They also feed on insects such as grasshoppers and beetles which they find in meadows close to freshwater bodies like lakes or ponds where they breed during springtime making nests using twigs lined with reeds and leaves near these waterside habitats.

In Australasia, this species hybridizes with the nankeen night heron that inhabits those areas instead; however both populations remain distinct from each other despite their overlap range regions.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Ardeidae
Genus	Nycticorax
Species	N. nycticorax

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24. Kiwi

Kiwi are a unique species of flightless birds endemic to New Zealand. With their small stature and size, they are the smallest living ratites—a group which also includes ostriches, emus, rheas and cassowaries.

They have long beaks with nostrils at the tip; brown furry feathers instead of scales; strong legs for digging through soil in search for food like worms and insects; no tail or wings; and sharp claws used for defense against predators such as cats or stoats.

Kiwis live an average life span of 20-30 years in the wild. It is truly amazing how this little bird has adapted so well to its environment despite being without wings – it just goes to show that even if you don’t fly high above the clouds, you can still reach great heights on land.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Infraclass	Palaeognathae
Clade	Novaeratitae
Order	Apterygiformes Haeckel, 1866
Family	Apterygidae Gray, 1840[1]
Genus	Apteryx Shaw, 1813[1]

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25. Kākāpō

Kākāpō are unique and endangered birds native to New Zealand. They grow up to 25 inches in length, with finely-blotched yellow-green plumage and a distinct facial disc made of feathers.

These flightless parrots have nocturnal habits, spending the night time on the ground foraging for food like berries or insects.

Kākāpōs were once widespread across both main islands but their population has been dramatically reduced due to deforestation, predation by introduced species such as cats and rats, and competition from other bird species.

Today there are only about 200 kakapo left in existence making it one of the world’s rarest birds – conservation efforts must be increased if we want these amazing animals around for future generations.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Psittaciformes
Superfamily	Strigopoidea
Family	Strigopidae Bonaparte, 1849
Genus	Strigops G.R. Gray, 1845
Species	S. habroptilus

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26. Great Potoo

The Great Potoo is a nocturnal bird that can be found in Central and South America. It has unique plumage, with its grey-brown body against white feathers on the underside of it’s wings.

Its head also features yellow eyes, long eyelashes and an impressive crest atop its crown.

This species preys upon large insects as well as small vertebrates which they catch by making short sallies from their high perches at night time.

The most recognisable trait of this bird however is the melodic moaning growl it vocalizes throughout the night – creating an eerie atmosphere in any location where they are present.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Nyctibiiformes
Family	Nyctibiidae
Genus	Nyctibius
Species	N. grandis

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27. Eastern Screech Owl

The Eastern screech owl is a small nocturnal bird native to most wooded areas in Mexico and Canada. It has adapted well to human development, making it relatively common in East North America.

This species is known for its unique call which often sounds like a horse whinnying or an electronic beep.

Its feathers are mainly grey with brown bars, but they can also range from red-brown to blackish-grey depending on the individual bird’s location.

They feed primarily on insects and other small animals such as mice and lizards that live near their nest sites at night.

The eastern screech owl is an amazing creature adapting well to humans while still managing to stay hidden under cover of darkness.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Megascops
Species	M. asio

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28. Yellow-Crowned Night Heron

The Yellow-crowned night heron is a beautiful and unique species of bird native to the Americas. It has distinctive yellow crowns on its head, making it easy to identify among other herons.

These birds are also larger than most other types of herons, reaching up to 70 cm in length and 850 g in weight.

They usually feed on small fish or crustaceans while wading through shallow waters with their long legs.

The yellow-crowned night heron can be found near marshes or lakes during breeding season when they will build nests made from twigs high above the ground for protection against predators like raccoons and foxes.

This majestic bird is an important part of wetland ecosystems as it helps keep populations of smaller aquatic animals balanced by preying upon them.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Ardeidae
Genus	Nyctanassa
Species	N. violacea

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29. Great Grey Owl

The Great Grey Owl is the world’s largest species of owl and is found across the Northern Hemisphere. It has many other names such as Phantom of The North, Cinereous Owl, Spectral Owl and Lapland Owl.

This majestic bird stands at an impressive length of about 24 inches with a wingspan that can reach up to five feet.

Its unique plumage allows it to blend in well with its natural environment which makes spotting this elusive creature quite difficult.

Despite being generally silent during most times, they are known for their deep hooting calls when mating or roosting season arrives.

These magnificent birds feed on small mammals like mice, voles and hares but have also been seen hunting larger prey such as ducks and grouse depending upon availability in their area.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Strix
Species	S. nebulosa

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30. Northern Saw-Whet Owl

The Northern saw-whet owl is a small species of bird native to North America. It can be found in dense thickets, either at eye level or up to 20 feet high.

These owls are among the smallest species of their kind on the continent and have sharp claws for hunting prey such as rodents and other birds.

Due to its size, it often falls victim to predators like larger hawks and eagles which hunt them down relentlessly.

Fortunately, they camouflage well with their brown feathers that blend into trees easily giving them some protection from these hunters while they search for food during night time hours when most predators are asleep.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Aegolius
Species	A. acadicus

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31. Western Screech Owl

The Western Screech Owl is a small bird native to both North and Central America. It belongs to the same family as its Eastern counterpart, standing at an average of 22 cm tall with 55 cm wingspan and weighing about 143 g.

Females tend to be larger than males, while weight can range from 88-220g depending on habitats in Northern populations being heavier than those living further south.

The scientific name for this owl pays homage to American naturalist Robert Kennicott who studied these birds extensively during his life’s work.

Their diet mostly consists of invertebrates such as insects but they may also hunt small mammals when food sources are scarce or seasonally available.

Their habitat preferences vary across different parts of their geographical range due mainly to environmental conditions like climate and vegetation type.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Megascops
Species	M. kennicottii

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32. Hermit Thrush

The Hermit Thrush is a medium-sized bird native to North America. It is easily identified by its spotted feathers and measures between 15-18 cm in length, with wingspan of 25-30 cm across.

This species has an unmistakable sweet song which can be heard during the spring and summer months throughout its range.

They feed on invertebrates such as insects, spiders, worms, snails and berries when available seasonally.

The habitat of this thrush includes deciduous woodlands or thickets near streams or wetlands where they are known to nest high up in trees making them difficult to observe directly but their beautiful songs can often be heard from afar.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Turdidae
Genus	Catharus
Species	C. guttatus

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33. Common Nighthawk

The Common Nighthawk is a medium-sized nocturnal bird of the Americas. It has dark grey, black and brown cryptic colouring which makes it difficult to spot during the day.

They are most commonly found in open fields or near water sources such as rivers and lakes with tall grasses and trees for shelter from predators at night.

Its identity can be easily revealed through its vocalization – a loud “peent” sound that they make while flying around looking for food like beetles, moths and other insects.

During mating season their display flight includes steep dives followed by sharp climbs accompanied by their distinctive call making them even easier to identify.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Caprimulgiformes
Family	Caprimulgidae
Genus	Chordeiles
Species	C. minor

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34. Virginia Rail

The Virginia Rail is a small waterbird which belongs to the Rallidae family. It remains fairly common in spite of habitat loss, but it’s difficult to spot since they tend to be quite secretive and their calls can often be heard more than them being seen.

They are also sometimes hunted for sport, however this does not happen very often. The Ecuadorian rail is considered by some authorities as its own species separate from the Virginia Rail, although others classify it as a subspecies.

These birds have dull coloured plumage with brownish-grey upperparts and whitish underparts; males have a reddish throat patch during breeding season while females do not possess one at all times.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Gruiformes
Family	Rallidae
Genus	Rallus
Species	R. limicola

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35. Blackburnian Warbler

The Blackburnian warbler (Setophaga fusca) is a small New World songbird found primarily in eastern North America.

These birds breed from southern Canada, down to the Carolinas and as far west as the Canadian Prairies, Great Lakes region and New England.

They are migratory birds, spending their winters in Central America or South America; they have also been recorded rarely on western Europe.

The males of this species can be identified by their bright orange-red throat patches set against yellow head feathers.

Females may show some yellowish colouration but lack the distinct markings seen on male specimens.

This species feeds mainly on insects gleaned from tree branches during its breeding period; during migration it will eat fruit or nectar for sustenance insteadScientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Parulidae
Genus	Setophaga
Species	S. fusca

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36. Black Rail

The Black Rail is a small species of bird belonging to the Rallidae family. It can be found in both North and South America, and was formally described by German naturalist Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1789 as part of his revised edition of Carl Linnaeus’s Systema Naturae.

This tiny rail has dull black feathers on its back with white spots covering its sides, while the underside is completely grayish-white.

Its wings are short but powerful enough for it to take flight when threatened or disturbed.

The diet mainly consists of insects, crustaceans and seeds which they search for amongst vegetation along wetlands habitats such as marshes, bogs and swamps.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Gruiformes
Family	Rallidae
Genus	Laterallus
Species	L. jamaicensis

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37. Common Nightingale

The Common nightingale, also called the rufous nightingale, is a small bird known for its beautiful and powerful song. It was formerly considered a thrush, but is now classified as an Old World flycatcher.

The bird is a member of the Muscicapidae family, and is often referred to as a chat due to its terrestrial behavior.

The nightingale’s song is widely appreciated for its melodious and varied notes. The plumage of the bird is brown, with a hint of reddish color, and it has a stout beak for feeding on insects.

The Common nightingale can be found throughout Europe, Western Asia, and parts of Africa.

Overall, the bird is known for its vibrant and distinctive singing voice.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Muscicapidae
Genus	Luscinia
Species	L. megarhynchos

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38. 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

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39. Eastern Whip-Poor-Will

The Eastern whip-poor-will is a bird native to North America and belongs to the nightjar family. This medium-sized bird measures between 22-27 cm and is well-camouflaged, making it difficult to spot despite being commonly heard within its range.

The bird is named after the sound it makes, which is described as an onomatopoeic “whip-poor-will” call.

Due to its nocturnal habits, the Eastern whip-poor-will is rarely seen during the day. Despite its elusiveness, this bird is known for its distinct song and has become a popular subject in folklore and literature.

It is also known as “whip-o-will” or “whip o’ will”.

The Eastern whip-poor-will is an important part of the ecosystem, as it helps control insect populations by consuming large quantities of insects at night.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Clade	Strisores
Order	Caprimulgiformes
Family	Caprimulgidae
Genus	Antrostomus
Species	A. vociferus

40. European Nightjar

The European nightjar is a nocturnal bird that can be found in Europe, the Palearctic region, Mongolia, and Northwestern China.

It belongs to the nightjar family and is known by several names, including the common goatsucker and Eurasian nightjar.

There are six subspecies of this bird. The nightjar is crepuscular, meaning it is most active during dawn and dusk.

Its Latin generic name comes from an old myth that the bird suckled from goats, causing them to stop giving milk.

The European nightjar is well-adapted to its nocturnal lifestyle with large eyes and wide gape that help it catch flying insects in the dark.

Its plumage is cryptic, blending in with its surroundings, making it difficult to spot. The bird usually nests on the ground, and the male performs aerial displays during breeding season.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Clade	Strisores
Order	Caprimulgiformes
Family	Caprimulgidae
Genus	Caprimulgus
Species	C. europaeus

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41. 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

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42. Great Reed Warbler

The Great Reed Warbler is a Eurasian bird and belongs to the genus Acrocephalus. This slender bird has a flat head, long tail, and a pointed beak. Its plumage is mostly brown with some streaks on the chest and abdomen.

Great Reed Warblers are known for their singing ability and can produce a variety of melodious sounds.

They usually breed in reed beds and wetlands, and their diet consists of insects and spiders. They were previously part of the Old genus, but now they are classified in their own genus.

The name Acrocephalus comes from Greek, meaning ‘highest head,’ while the specific name, arundinaceus, refers to its reed-like appearance. The Great Reed Warbler is a migratory bird and spends its winter in tropical Africa.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Acrocephalidae
Genus	Acrocephalus
Species	A. arundinaceus

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43. Upland Sandpiper

The upland sandpiper, also known as the upland plover, is a bird closely related to curlews. It is the only member of its genus, and its scientific name is Bartramia longicauda.

These birds are sometimes colloquially referred to as papabottes in Louisiana. William Bartram, an American naturalist, is commemorated in the genus name and old common name Bartram’s sandpiper.

These birds are notable for their large size and long tails. They can be found in grasslands and prairies throughout North America, where they nest on the ground and primarily feed on insects.

Unfortunately, they are threatened by habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and conversion to grassland monocultures.

Conservation efforts are underway to protect these unique and important birds.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Scolopacidae
Genus	Bartramia
Species	B. longicauda

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44. Australian Owlet-Nightjar

The Australian owlet-nightjar, also known as the moth owl, is a nocturnal bird found in open woodland in Australia and southern New Guinea.

Despite facing challenges from introduced species, it remains the most common nocturnal bird in Australia and is not currently considered threatened.

This small to medium-sized bird is known for its distinctive call and unique behavior, such as roosting in tree hollows during the day.

With its impressive adaptability and resilience, the Australian owlet-nightjar is a testament to the hardiness and tenacity of Australia’s diverse wildlife.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Clade	Strisores
Order	Aegotheliformes
Family	Aegothelidae
Genus	Aegotheles
Species	A. cristatus

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45. Little Penguin

The Little Penguin, also known as the Blue Penguin or Kororā in Māori, is a type of penguin found in New Zealand. With its distinctive slate-blue plumage, it is a beloved symbol of the island nation’s wildlife.

The Little Penguin is a small bird that stands no taller than 40cm and weighs a mere 1kg, making it the smallest species of penguin in the world.

It can be found in many coastal and offshore areas around New Zealand, and is also known to frequent parts of Australia.

In fact, there is such a strong connection between New Zealand and this dapper little bird that it is often used as the mascot for local sports teams and other cultural events.

Despite its diminutive size, the Little Penguin is a tough survivor that has adapted well to the challenges of life in the wild.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Sphenisciformes
Family	Spheniscidae
Genus	Eudyptula
Species	E. minor

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46. Large-Tailed Nightjar

The Large-tailed nightjar is a species of bird from the Caprimulgidae family. It is a resident in countries such as Australia, Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, and many more.

The bird is found along the southern Himalayan foothills, eastern South Asia, Southeast Asia, and northern Australia. It has a unique appearance with a large tail, which is where it gets its name.

The Large-tailed nightjar is a nocturnal bird, thus active during the night. It feeds on insects, which it captures while flying. This species has a vast range, and its population size is believed to be stable.

The bird’s presence adds to the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Clade	Strisores
Order	Caprimulgiformes
Family	Caprimulgidae
Genus	Caprimulgus
Species	C. macrurus

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47. Screech Owl

Screech owls belong to the family Strigidae, and there are 23 species of these owls. They were previously classified with the Old World scops owls but are now recognized as a separate genus, Megascops.

Screech owls are found only in the Americas. These birds are known for their small size and sharp features.

They have a distinct call that sounds like a trilling whistle, which is used to communicate with other owls.

Screech owls are primarily nocturnal birds, hunting for prey at night. They feed on small animals such as rodents, insects, and birds.

Screech owls are adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats such as forests, swamps, and deserts.

They are an important part of their ecosystems and help to control pest populations.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Megascops Kaup, 1848

48. Wood Owls

Wood owls, also known as earless owls, belong to the genus Strix and are part of the Strigidae family. They are one of the two living families of owls, along with barn-owls.

Although they are often called wood owls, this name is also used for other forest-dwelling owls. They do not have ear tufts, which distinguishes them from some other owl species.

Wood owls are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and savannas. They primarily feed on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.

Some species, such as the great grey owl, are known for their incredible hunting abilities, able to detect prey from far distances in low light conditions.

Wood owls are known for their distinctive calls, which vary by species and are used to communicate with other owls.

Despite their popularity among bird enthusiasts, many wood owl species are threatened due to habitat loss and other environmental factors.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Strix Linnaeus, 1758

49. Athene

Athene birds are a group of nine small owl species, found in various parts of the world, except for Australia, Antarctica, and Sub-Saharan Africa.

They are known for their distinctive brown and white speckled feathers, striking yellow eyes, and white eyebrows.

While some scientists place four additional species under Athene (formerly classified as Ninox), there is a widespread evolutionary radiation of four related species in the Solomon Islands.

Despite their small size, Athene birds are skilled hunters and are adapted to a wide range of habitats, including forests, deserts, and grasslands.

They have sharp talons and beaks, which allow them to feed on a range of prey, from insects to small mammals.

Overall, Athene birds are fascinating creatures that have adapted to thrive in a diverse range of environments.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Athene F. Boie, 1822

50. Nighthawk

The nighthawk is a fascinating nocturnal bird found mainly in the western hemisphere. Unlike most birds, it belongs to the subfamily Chordeilinae and family Caprimulgidae.

The term “nighthawk” was coined in 1778 to refer to members of the genus Chordeiles and related genera.

Interestingly, it was originally a local name for the European nightjar in England, as recorded in the King James Bible of 1611.

As a nightjar, the nighthawk’s exceptional eyesight and auditory senses enable it to navigate and hunt insects and other small prey in the dark.

Its distinctive silhouette during flight, with long pointed wings and notched tail, makes it easy to spot.

The nighthawk’s unique features and habits make it a fascinating bird species that continues to intrigue birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Clade	Strisores
Order	Caprimulgiformes
Family	Caprimulgidae
Subfamily	Chordeilinae