Nimruz is a province located in the southwest of Afghanistan, and it is home to a wide variety of bird species. The bird population in Nimruz includes both migratory and resident species and is a source of incredible beauty and joy for the locals.
Some species found in Nimruz are Eurasian Eagles, Common Quails, Desert Larks, and Great Grey Shrikes. The birds can be seen in many of the province’s wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural areas.
Since Nimruz is located in a desert region, these birds are a great addition to the local ecosystem and provide a valuable food source for the local people.
20 Birds to Watch in Nimruz
Nimruz is a province in southwest Afghanistan with a rich diversity of birdlife. Nimruz has wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural areas providing habitats for many residents and migratory birds. Some birds are rare and endangered, while others are more widespread.
Here are 20 birds that you can watch in Nimruz
1. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck is a medium-sized diving duck found in Europe and Siberia.
Its scientific name derives from the ancient Greek word Lithuania, an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle, and the Russian word nyrok, which means duck.
Ferruginous pochard, common white-eye, and white-eyed pochard also know it. This duck species is characterized by its dark brown body with rusty-colored feathers on the back and wings.
The head and neck of the ferruginous duck are a lighter brown color with pale yellow eyes. The bill is orange in color, and its feet are greyish-green. It has a wingspan of about 60 cm and weighs around 500-800 g.
The ferruginous duck is a strong swimmer capable of diving to depths of up to 8 meters. It feeds on aquatic plants, insects, and other small aquatic animals. It has a wide breeding range, from the UK and Iceland to the Arctic Circle and south to the Mediterranean.
The female ferruginous duck lays up to 9 eggs and incubates them for about 28 days. The ferruginous duck is not listed as an endangered species but is vulnerable, as its population numbers are decreasing due to hunting and habitat loss.
Conservation efforts are being made to protect this species, such as habitat protection and reintroduction programs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
2. White-headed Duck
The white-headed duck is a small diving duck measuring around 45 cm long. It is a distinctive bird, with males having a white head and a black crown, a blue bill, and reddish-grey plumage.
The female is less striking, with a dark bill and duller coloring. The white-headed duck prefers to breed in lakes with open water and plenty of vegetation on the margins.
This allows it to hide itself amongst the vegetation when it dives beneath the surface for food while also providing plenty of insects, aquatic plants, and other sources of sustenance. The vegetation also helps protect the duck from predators while it is nesting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Oxyura |
| Species | O. leucocephala |
3. Red-breasted Merganser
The red-breasted Merganser is a species of duck that lives in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere. Males of this species stand out due to their bright red breasts, which gives them their common name.
This red breast is only displayed by males in breeding plumage and is absent in females and non-breeding males. The rest of the bird’s body is dark brown with white spots, and they have a long, thin bill that is serrated like a saw.
They are typically found near rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water and feed on fish, amphibians, and aquatic invertebrates. In addition to their unique red breast, they can be identified by their distinctive call, a high-pitched whistle.
Red-breasted mergansers are considered to be of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and their population is stable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergus |
| Species | M. serrator |
4. Common Merganser
The Common Merganser, or the Goosander, is a large sea duck found in various parts of Europe, Asia, and North America. Its habitats are mainly rivers and lakes that are surrounded by forests.
The Common Merganser feeds primarily on fish, making it a predatory species. It also has unique nesting habits, as the birds tend to nest inside hollows in trees. The need for protection from predators inspires this behavior.
The trees provide the Merganser a safe space to lay their eggs and raise their young. The Common Merganser is an exciting species due to its adaptability to different environments and omnivorous diet.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergus |
| Species | M. merganser |
5. Cotton Pygmy Goose
The Cotton Pygmy Goose, also known as the Cotton Teal, is a small duck species found in many regions of Asia and Southeast Asia. These ducks are particularly fond of wetlands and marshes, often seen perching on reeds and other vegetation.
The Cotton Pygmy Goose has a distinct white quill and is known to migrate between different parts of the continent.
They have been spotted as far south as Queensland, Australia, where they are often referred to as White-Quilled Pygmy Geese. The Cotton Pygmy Goose is an integral part of the wetland ecosystem in Asia and Southeast Asia.
They provide a vital food source for predators, including birds of prey, carnivores, and other aquatic animals.
These ducks also provide a unique source of beauty in the wetland areas they inhabit, with their bright white quill standing out among the lush green vegetation. In addition to its ecological importance, the Cotton Pygmy Goose has a rich cultural history in many parts of Asia.
This duck species is often used in traditional folk art, such as paintings and sculptures.
The feathers of the Cotton Pygmy Goose have also been used in making traditional clothing, such as hats and headdresses. The Cotton Pygmy Goose is an important species of duck that is both beautiful and beneficial to the wetland ecosystems in Asia and Southeast Asia.
They are a valuable resource for predators, providing a unique source of beauty in the wetlands they inhabit. Their cultural significance also makes them an essential part of the cultural heritage of many Asian countries.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Nettapus |
| Species | N. coromandelianus |
6. Falcated Duck
The falcated duck, also known as the falcated teal, is a dabbling duck found in the east Palearctic region. It is similar in size to the gadwall, another species of dabbling duck.
The falcated duck has a unique appearance: a long, curved bill and distinctive mottled gray and white plumage.
It is found mainly in wetland habitats, such as marshes, lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. The falcated duck is an omnivorous species, feeding on various plants, insects, and small fish. It will also feed on grain and other plant matter in agricultural areas.
During the breeding season, they form monogamous pair bonds and build nests in the vegetation near water.
The female typically lays between seven to nine eggs in a single clutch. The falcated duck is typical in its range, but its population is declining due to habitat destruction and hunting.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists it as a species of most minor concern.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. falcata |
7. Red-crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a large diving duck that is found around the world. It is a species of diving duck that is classified in the family Anatidae.
The scientific name of the red-crested pochard is derived from the Greek word Netta, which means “duck,” and the Latin word Rufina, which means “golden-red.” This is because the duck has a golden-red crest on its head.
The red-crested pochard is a medium-sized duck that has a distinctive reddish-orange crest on its head and a black beak. It also has a white patch on its chest and is typically found in shallow waters in wetlands, lakes, and rivers.
The red-crested pochard is an omnivore which feeds on plants and animals. It primarily eats aquatic vegetation, insects, mollusks, crustaceans, and fish.
The red-crested pochard is a migratory species found in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America during different times of the year.
The species is considered to be of least concern regarding conservation status, meaning that it is not currently threatened by extinction.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
8. Great Bustard
The great bustard is a large bird that belongs to the bustard family. It is the only species that still survives in the genus Otis. It is mainly found in open grasslands and farmland, inhabiting regions from northern Morocco in Africa to East Asia.
It is also found in Central Europe and Central Asia and is particularly adapted to temperate climates. The great bustard is a ground-dwelling bird, with males reaching a meter in height and up to 15kg in weight.
Its body is covered in grayish-brown feathers, with a paler head and neck. The male bustard has a distinctive white patch on its shoulder and a blackish patch on its tail. The great bustard primarily feeds on insects, small reptiles, and grains.
In some areas, it is also known to consume small birds.
The bird is mainly diurnal but may forage in the early morning and late evening. The great bustard is listed as Vulnerable in IUCN’s Red List, as its population is declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as hunting and egg-collecting.
Conservation efforts have been implemented to protect this species, including habitat restoration and establishing protected areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Otis |
| Species | O. tarda |
9. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is the most widespread and most significant species of the flamingo family and can be found in various locations across the Old World.
It is present in Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East, the Levant, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe.
The wide range of the greater flamingo is evident from its presence in these distinct geographical areas. The greater flamingo is especially prevalent in Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa, as well as the Indian Subcontinent, which is home to various other species of flamingo.
The Middle East, the Levant, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe also provide habitats for the greater flamingo.
The variety of climates and landscapes in these areas make them ideal for the greater flamingo, as they provide the bird with various resources and habitats. The greater flamingo is an impressive species due to its size and wide range.
It is one of the largest species of flamingo, and its broad geographical distribution means it can be seen in many different areas.
Their presence in the Old World provides a valuable source of biodiversity to these areas, and their impressive size and wide range make them an exciting species to observe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
10. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a small water bird that belongs to the grebe family. As its name suggests, it is adept at diving and swimming underwater.
Its genus name, takhus, comes from the Ancient Greek words’ takhus,’ meaning ‘fast,’ and ‘bapto,’ meaning ‘to sink under,’ which accurately describe the little grebe’s ability to plunge underwater quickly.
Its name, ruficollis, is derived from two Latin words: ‘rufus’ meaning ‘red’ and ‘Collis’ meaning ‘necked.’ ‘collins’ is derived from the Latin word’ collum,’ which translates to ‘neck.’
This accurately describes the little grebe’s bright, rufous neck and its importance to its identity.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
11. Yellow-eyed Pigeon
The yellow-eyed pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the family Columbidae, which also includes other types of pigeons and doves. It is distinguished by its yellow eyes and its pale back.
This pigeon species is native to a large Central Asian region, including southern Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, northeast Iran, and extreme north-west China.
The yellow-eyed pigeon lives in various habitats, including open forests, shrublands, and dry steppes. To survive in this diverse array of habitats, the species has evolved to become well-adapted to the local environment.
It primarily feeds on seeds, fruits, and other plant materials but occasionally consumes invertebrates and other small animals. Regarding reproduction and mating, the yellow-eyed pigeon typically breeds during the spring and summer.
After a brief courtship, the female pigeon will lay a clutch of two to four eggs in a nest built by the male. The eggs will hatch after about two weeks, and the young pigeons will remain in the nest for another three weeks until they can fly.
The yellow-eyed pigeon is classified as a species of “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Although the species’ population is stable, it is threatened by habitat loss and hunting pressure in some areas.
As a result, conservation measures have been implemented in some regions to protect the species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. eversmanni |
12. Laughing Dove
The Laughing Dove (also known as the Palm Dove) is a small species of pigeon native to parts of Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and Western Australia. This dove species is known for its distinctive call that sounds like laughter, hence the name.
In 1898, the Laughing Dove was released from Perth Zoo in Western Australia, and since then, it has established itself in the wild in the region. This dove is a resident breeder, meaning it stays within its breeding range all year round rather than migrating.
It prefers to live in open habitats such as farmland, savannahs, and woodlands, as well as urban parks and gardens. It feeds mainly on grains, seeds, and other plant matter and often scavenges for food.
The Laughing Dove is a relatively common species. However, its population is declining due to habitat loss and other human activities.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Spilopelia |
| Species | S. senegalensis |
13. Asian koel
The Asian koel is a bird species in the Indian Subcontinent, China, and Southeast Asia. It is part of the Cuculiformes order, a group of birds commonly called cuckoos.
The Asian koel belongs to related species known as the black-billed koel and the Pacific koel. In some cases, the black-billed koel and the Pacific koel are classified as subspecies of the Asian koel.
The Asian koel is a medium-sized bird that has an overall black color. Its back is darker, and its wings have white spots. Its tail is long, and its beak is curved. The Asian koel is known for its loud, repetitive call.
It is also known for its habit of laying its eggs in the nests of other species. The Asian koel has a wide range, covering the Indian Subcontinent, China, and Southeast Asia. It is found in various habitats, including forests, woodlands, and cultivated areas.
It prefers open areas with trees and shrubs and is often seen perching on trees. It feeds on insects, fruits, and berries. The Asian koel is an essential bird in its range, as it is an important pollinator of many tree species.
It is also a keystone species, meaning its presence can significantly impact the local ecosystem. As a result, its conservation is essential for the health of its habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Eudynamys |
| Species | E. scolopaceus |
14. Demoiselle Crane
The demoiselle crane is an impressive bird species native to central Eurosiberia. It has an extensive range, extending from the Black Sea to Mongolia and Northeast China. There is also a small breeding population located in Turkey.
These graceful birds are known to be migratory, meaning that they travel from one place to another. During the summer, they can be found in Eurasia, and during the winter, they migrate to Africa. The demoiselle crane is a large bird standing up to 1.2 m (4 ft) tall.
They have a distinctive white coloration, with a greyish-blue patch on their wings and back. The bills and legs of these birds are also bright orange. These birds feed mainly on plant matter, such as grains, seeds, and insects.
During the breeding season, they will also consume frogs and small mammals. To keep cool in the hot summer, the demoiselle crane will stand in shallow water and flap its wings to create a breeze.
The demoiselle crane is an important species for conservation and is currently classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN. The population of these birds has been decreasing due to habitat destruction, hunting, and the illegal capture of birds for the pet trade.
Conservation efforts are being undertaken to protect and restore the demoiselle crane population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Grus |
| Species | G. virgo |
15. Jacobin Cuckoo
The Jacobin cuckoo is a species of bird belonging to the Cuculidae family. It is distributed across Africa and Asia and is partially migratory. It is also known as the pied cuckoo or pied crested cuckoo.
In India, the Jacobin cuckoo is seen as a symbol of the monsoon season due to its arrival during the monsoon period. The bird is usually seen in May and June, and its arrival indicates the start of the monsoon season.
It has been given a symbolic status in India and is seen as a harbinger of the rains.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Clamator |
| Species | C. jacobinus |
16. Baikal Teal
The Baikal teal is a dabbling duck, a type of waterfowl that feeds by submerging its head underwater and upending its body to filter food from the water. The Baikal teal is also known by two other names, the bimaculate duck and the squawk duck.
This duck species is native to the eastern region of Russia, where it breeds and migrates to East Asia in the winter. The Baikal teal’s diet consists mainly of aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates in freshwater and brackish habitats.
These ducks are generally smaller than other dabbling ducks and have a dark green head and neck, brown back, and a white chest. They are also known to be quite vocal, hence the name squawk duck.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Sibirionetta |
| Species | S. formosa |
17. Black-winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt, scientifically referred to as H. Himantopus, is a species of wader found in avocets and stilts. It is a widely distributed species, meaning it can be found in many different areas worldwide.
Its long legs are one of its most distinguishing features, allowing it to move quickly and efficiently across land and water.
It is one of the few species with a single, almost cosmopolitan distribution. It can be found in many different parts of the world, with only minor differences in its physical features.
This makes the black-winged stilt a highly adaptable species, allowing it to survive in different climates and environments.
The black-winged stilt is an integral part of many ecosystems, providing food for predators such as birds of prey and helping to keep the balance of nature in check.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
18. Lesser Flamingo
The lesser flamingo is a species of flamingo that is native to sub-Saharan Africa and western India. This species of flamingo can be seen in large flocks in these areas, usually near bodies of water such as lakes, lagoons, and mudflats.
Though they are typically found in these two regions, there have been reports of fewer flamingos in other parts of the world. These sightings are usually considered vagrants or birds straying from their native range.
This suggests that the lesser flamingo can travel far distances and has been doing so for a long time.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoeniconaias |
| Species | P. minor |
19. Pin-tailed Sandgrouse
The pin-tailed sandgrouse is a member of the sandgrouse family, a medium-sized bird with a small, pigeon-like head and neck and a reasonably robust body. Its wings are long and pointed whitish underneath, capable of a quick, direct flight.
The sandgrouse is a social bird, traveling in flocks to watering holes at dawn. Its call is a loud, distinctive “kattar-kattar” sound. In its natural habitat, the pin-tailed sandgrouse lives in various environments, from semi-arid deserts to grasslands and shrublands.
It feeds mainly on seeds and insects but occasionally eats small lizards and other small animals.
Its diet is supplemented by drinking water from the ground at watering holes or from plants. The sandgrouse is known for its incredible ability to fly long distances for food and water.
It can travel up to 400km daily to find the best food sources.
During the breeding season, males display courtship, alternating between rising high into the air and diving back down while calling loudly. The pin-tailed sandgrouse is a remarkable bird with impressive flying ability and beautiful plumage.
Its habit of gathering in flocks to drink and forage in the early morning makes it a delight to observe in its natural habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pterocliformes |
| Family | Pteroclidae |
| Genus | Pterocles |
| Species | P. alchata |
20. Common Crane
The Common Crane is a species of bird of the family Gruidae, also known as the Eurasian Crane. It is a medium-sized bird able to grow up to 1.3m in height.
The Common Crane is the most commonly seen in Europe, with the Demoiselle Crane and the Siberian Crane being the only other cranes regularly seen in the easternmost parts of the continent.
The Common Crane has a distinctive appearance: long legs, a long neck, and a grey-white body with a black crown and neck. It is also known for its loud and melodious call, which can be heard up to 1.5km away.
The Common Crane is a migratory species, with individuals often traveling thousands of kilometers to reach their breeding grounds. In winter, they are usually seen in large flocks, feeding in open grasslands and wetlands.
The Common Crane is an essential species for the environment, as it plays a vital role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations and providing food for other animals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Grus |
| Species | G. grus |
Conclusion
Overall, birds play an essential role in the ecology of Nimruz, providing various benefits for people and wildlife. They are an integral part of the local food web, and their presence helps to maintain a healthy and diverse environment.
They also provide essential aesthetic and recreational benefits, and many bird species are important indicators of the local environment’s health.
For these reasons, it is essential to protect and conserve the birds of Nimruz so that future generations can continue to enjoy their many benefits.