North Chungcheong is a province in the Republic of Korea known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty.
It is home to hundreds of species of birds, ranging from small songbirds to larger waterfowl. Many of these birds are migratory, passing through the area in the spring and fall to feed or breed.
The region is an essential stopover for migratory birds, as well as a nesting ground for a variety of species. North Chungcheong is a popular destination for birders, with plenty of opportunities to observe these feathered creatures in their natural habitat.
From wetlands to mountains, the province is teeming with life, making it an excellent place to explore and appreciate the beauty of birds in Korea.
24 Birds to Watch in North Chungcheong
North Chungcheong is a province in South Korea that boasts a rich biodiversity and natural beauty. It is home to hundreds of species of birds, ranging from small songbirds to larger waterfowl.
Many of these birds are migratory, passing through the area in the spring and fall to feed or breed. The region is an essential stopover for migratory birds, as well as a nesting ground for a variety of species.
Here are 24 birds that you can watch in North Chungcheong:
1. Mandarin Duck
The mandarin duck is a species of duck that is found in the East Palearctic region. It is distinctive because males and females have very different characteristics. The mandarin duck is medium-sized, measuring 41 and 49 cm long, with a wingspan of 65 to 75 cm.
It is closely related to the North American wood duck, the only other member of the Aix genus. Male mandarin ducks are easily recognizable because of their brightly colored feathers, which range from bright red to orange, yellow, and purple.
Conversely, females are more muted in color, with brown feathers and white spots. Both males and females have distinctive white facial markings, which help to distinguish them from other duck species.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Aix |
Species | A. galericulata |
2. Falcated Duck
The falcated duck, or falcated teal, is a species of dabbling duck from the east Palearctic region. Its size is similar to the gadwall, a common dabbling duck.
The falcated duck is medium-sized, with males usually measuring 40 to 50 cm long and weighing between 500 to 700 grams. The head and neck of the male are greyish-brown, while the wings and back are dark grey with white spots.
The flanks and chest are chestnut-brown, and the belly is white. The bill is yellow-green, and the legs are pale orange.
The female is similar in size and coloring but lacks the white spots on her wings and back. The falcated duck is a migratory species, breeding in northern China and wintering in Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia.
It inhabits freshwater marshes, ponds, lakes, and flooded grasslands. It feeds on various aquatic plants, insects, mollusks, and crustaceans.
It is a social bird and often forms large flocks, particularly during migration. The falcated duck is listed as a species of most minor concern by the IUCN, and its population is thought to be stable.
Despite this, it is threatened by wetland destruction and pollution, which are causes of habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure this species remains abundant in the wild.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Mareca |
Species | M. falcata |
3. Common Redshank
The common redshank is a wader species, a bird typically found near wetlands, rivers, and coasts. It is native to Eurasia, the region of the world that encompasses most of Europe and Asia.
The redshank is a member of the large family of birds known as Scolopacidae, which consists of shorebirds such as sandpipers, plovers, and tattlers. The common redshank is a medium-sized wader with a long, thin body and long, yellowish-green legs.
Its head is greyish-brown, with a white eyebrow and a black patch around each eye. The wings are greyish-brown, with white spots on the upper wings and a white patch on the inner wings.
The redshank has a long, black-tipped bill and a red patch on its neck, hence its name. During the breeding season, the redshank becomes more colorful, with a reddish-brown back, a white throat, and a white belly.
The redshank is a vocal bird that can often be heard calling in loud, rasping tones. It feeds on insects, worms, and crustaceans and can usually be seen wading in shallow water, probing for food with its long bill.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Tringa |
Species | T. totanus |
4. Common Sandpiper
The common sandpiper is a small Palearctic bird covering Europe, Asia, and northern Africa. It belongs to the genus Actitis, including its American counterpart – the spotted sandpiper.
The two species are parapatric, meaning they occupy separate but overlapping geographical areas, and they may hybridize with each other, meaning they may interbreed when stray members of either species enter the breeding range of the other.
This could be due to the birds straying from their usual range or being forced to migrate due to changes in climate or habitat.
Hybridization between the two species can produce offspring with mixed characteristics, which could be beneficial if the resulting birds are better adapted to their environment than either parent species.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Actitis |
Species | A. hypoleucos |
5. Black-tailed Gull
The black-tailed Gull is a species of seabird that is native to shorelines of East Asia. It is a medium-sized gull that belongs to the Laridae family. It is mainly found near the coasts of Japan, Korea, and China.
Its black tail, wings, white body, and yellow bill easily identify this gull species. The black-tailed Gull has a wingspan of approximately 79 centimeters and is typically seen in large flocks near the shoreline, often searching for food.
The gulls feed on insects, small fish, and crustaceans. They also scavenge for scraps in urban areas near the shore. They breed in colonies on rocky islands or small islets and lay two to three eggs per clutch.
The black-tailed Gull is not considered endangered. However, there is concern that its populations have declined due to coastal development and pollution.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Laridae |
Genus | Larus |
Species | L. crassirostris |
6. Common Kingfisher
The common kingfisher is a small bird native to Eurasia and North Africa. It is known by different names such as Eurasian kingfisher and river kingfisher. Seven subspecies of this bird have been identified, and it is widely distributed across its native range.
The common kingfisher resides in many parts of its range but is known to migrate from areas where rivers freeze in winter. This is likely due to the lack of food in these areas when the rivers are frozen.
The kingfisher is an essential food chain member, feeding on fish and other aquatic creatures. Its presence in a given habitat can indicate the local environment’s health.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Coraciiformes |
Family | Alcedinidae |
Genus | Alcedo |
Species | A. atthis |
7. Black-winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt, scientifically known as H. Himantopus, is a type of water bird found in many parts of the world. It belongs to the avocet and stilt family and is characterized by its exceptionally long legs.
The black-winged stilt is a single species, meaning it is found in nearly all habitats across the globe. This species is a shorebird, often found near wetlands, rivers, and coasts.
Its long legs help it wade through shallow water and mud to feed on insects and other small creatures. In addition to its long legs, the black-winged stilt is characterized by its black wings and white body. It has a long, slightly down-curved bill that is yellow.
This species is an integral part of the local ecosystem, providing food to animals such as fish, amphibians, reptiles, and birds. It is also an important indicator species, helping to monitor the health of the wetlands and rivers in which it lives.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Recurvirostridae |
Genus | Himantopus |
Species | H. himantopus |
8. Far Eastern Curlew
The Far Eastern curlew is a large shorebird that is most similar in appearance to the long-billed curlew. It is slightly larger than the long-billed curlew and primarily brown. This sets it apart from other curlews, as its underwing is plain and unpatterned brown.
The Far Eastern curlew is a distinctive species, easily recognizable due to its size and dull brown coloring. Its large size makes it a solid and robust flyer, and it can be seen traveling long distances across the ocean.
Its dull brown color helps it to blend in with its surroundings, giving it some advantage when it comes to avoiding predators. The Far Eastern curlew is a unique species and an essential member of the shorebird population.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Numenius |
Species | N. madagascariensis |
9. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a small water bird belonging to the grebe family. Its scientific name is derived from Ancient Greek, with ‘takhus”meanin’ ‘fast’ and ‘b’pto’ ‘meaning’ ‘to sink under.”
The species name, ruficollis, is derived from the Latin words ‘rufus’ ‘meaning’ ‘red,’ and ‘calls,” meaning ‘necked,” which is derived from the Latin ‘Latin,’ meaning ‘neck.’ ‘the little grebe is a small water bird well adapted for life in its aquatic environment.
Its name comes from its ability to dive quickly and sink below the water’s surface. The species name Ruficollis refers to its reddish neck, a distinctive feature of this species. The little grebe can be found in bodies of fresh water in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
It feeds mainly on aquatic insects and small fish. It nests in emergent vegetation and is known to be a vocal species with various complex calls. The little grebe is an interesting species, with its scientific name and distinctive features reflecting its unique identity.
It is a species that has adapted perfectly to its aquatic environment, with its ability to dive quickly and its reddish neck giving it an impressive appearance.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Podicipediformes |
Family | Podicipedidae |
Genus | Tachybaptus |
Species | T. ruficollis |
10. Light-vented Bulbul
The light-vented bulbul is a species of bird belonging to the bulbul family. It is native to several East Asian countries, such as China, Hong Kong, Macao, northern Vietnam, southern Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea.
It is found in a range that stretches from central to southern China, and there are occasional sightings in South Korea. The bird is also known as the Chinese bulbul due to its wide range in China.
It has a distinctive black head with a white eye ring, and its back and wings are greyish-brown. The chest, belly, and underparts are white.
The light-vented bulbul has a short, yellowish-orange beak and a long, blackish tail. The bird is usually found in wooded areas, such as forests, shrublands, and mangroves. It feeds on various fruits and insects and is a solitary species.
The light-vented bulbul nests in trees and shrubs and typically lays two to four eggs. The species is classified as near-threatened due to habitat loss and degradation.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect the birds and their habitats, which are considered highly valuable.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Passeriformes |
Family | Pycnonotidae |
Genus | Pycnonotus |
Species | P. sinensis |
11. Grey Heron
The Grey Heron is a member of the Ardeidae family of herons widely distributed across temperate regions in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
It is found in various habitats, including wetlands, rivers, lakes, and coasts, and can be seen standing in shallow waters waiting for its prey. It is a year-round resident in many areas, but in more northern regions, it migrates southwards during autumn.
Its long, slender body and long legs allow it to wade through the shallow water for food. Its feathers are grey, with a white head and black stripes around its eyes.
It feeds mainly on small fish, frogs, and other aquatic creatures but also takes small mammals, such as mice and insects. The Grey Heron is a majestic bird and an essential part of many ecosystems.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Pelecaniformes |
Family | Ardeidae |
Genus | Ardea |
Species | A. cinerea |
12. Mongolian Gull
The relict Gull, Central Asian Gull, belongs to the Laridae family. It is a medium-sized bird with a wingspan of around 60 centimeters. It is found in parts of Central Asia, particularly in the Altai-Sayan region.
Until 1971, the relict Gull was considered an eastern race of the Mediterranean gull and was placed in the genus Larus.
However, DNA analysis has revealed that the relict Gull is a distinct species and is now classified in its genus, Larus relictus. Despite the relict Gull being a different species, there is still some debate over its exact classification.
Some ornithologists believe it should be a subspecies of the Mediterranean gull, while others argue it should be considered a separate species. The relict Gull has a slate gray back and wings, a white head and throat, and a grayish-brown tail.
Its beak is yellowish-green, and it has yellow legs and feet. It prefers to live in wetlands, coastal areas, and open grasslands.
Its diet consists of insects, small fish, and other aquatic animals. The relict Gull is an intriguing bird species due to its enigmatic classification.
It is an integral part of Central Asia’s biodiversity, and its conservation status should be monitored carefully.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Laridae |
Genus | Ichthyaetus |
Species | I. relictus |
13. Eurasian Wigeon
The Eurasian wigeon is a species of dabbling duck in the genus Mareca. It is also known as the European wigeon, the widgeon, or simply the wigeon. It is a widespread species across the Palearctic region, from the British Isles to as far east as Siberia.
The Eurasian wigeon is a midsize duck with a wingspan of between 50 and 60 cm. Its plumage is primarily grey, with a white head and chest, a yellow-brown patch around the eyes, and a chestnut-brown back.
The males have a distinctive green head, bordered with a white line running along the neck and down to the shoulders. The Eurasian wigeon is an omnivore, feeding on grains, aquatic vegetation, and small invertebrates.
It is often seen in flocks, grazing on grassy fields and marshes, and can also be found in open water, such as lakes and ponds. During winter, they migrate to more southern parts of their range, including the Mediterranean basin.
The Eurasian wigeon is a famous game bird hunted in many parts of its range. The species has a minor concern about conservation status and a stable population. It is a social species often seen in large flocks.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Mareca |
Species | M. penelope |
14. Common Shelduck
The common shelduck is a waterfowl species belonging to the shelduck genus Tadorna. It is found in the Euro-Siberian region of the Palearctic and is a widespread species. It breeds mainly in temperate areas and winters in subtropical regions.
During the winter months, it can also be found in the Maghreb. This species is highly adaptable and can survive in a variety of habitats.
It can inhabit fresh and saltwater areas and can be found in various environments, including wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural regions. The common shelduck has a diet that consists of aquatic vegetation, small invertebrates, and grains.
It is a social species, forming large groups during the winter months. It is also a vocal species, making a variety of loud calls. The common shelduck is an essential species for hunters in many countries, as it is a famous game bird.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Tadorna |
Species | T. tadorna |
15. Terek Sandpiper
The Terek sandpiper is a distinctive bird species that belongs to a group of waders known as the Palearctic. This species is the only one of its genus, Xenus, which makes it an incredibly unique bird.
It is named after the Terek River, which flows into the western part of the Caspian Sea. This name was chosen because the bird was first seen around the Terek River.
This bird is a migratory species, meaning it travels long distances to find suitable habitats for nesting and feeding. Its migration route is believed to be from the Terek River to the Black Sea, though some birds have been observed in other parts of Europe.
The Terek sandpiper is a small bird with a length of only 20-25 cm and a wingspan of around 40-45 cm. Its plumage is primarily grey and brown, with white or yellowish underparts.
The male Terek sandpiper will have a distinctive black and white head pattern during the breeding season. This bird feeds mainly on aquatic invertebrates, such as beetles, mollusks, and crustaceans.
It is a relatively common species, though it is considered vulnerable to human activities such as pollution and habitat destruction.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Xenus |
Species | X. cinereus |
16. White-throated Needletail
The white-throated needletail is an impressive bird species found in the genus Hirundapus. It is one of the fastest birds in the world, with reports of reaching speeds of up to 170 km/h in horizontal flight.
To put this into perspective, the fastest recorded airspeed of a commercial airliner is 945 km/h. This makes the needletaneedletail’slmost almost twice as fast as the fastest aircraft in the world.
Although these speeds are remarkable, they have not been verified due to the lack of published methods for measuring the speed of the needletail.
To accurately measure the speed of the needletail, the methods used must be published for the results to be accepted and trusted. Until then, the speeds of the needletail will remain unverified.
The white-throated needletail is a fantastic creature, and its incredible speeds make it one of the most impressive species in the avian world. While its speed is still unverified, the needletail remains a fascinating bird and an incredible avian sight.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Clade | Strisores |
Order | Apodiformes |
Family | Apodidae |
Genus | Hirundapus |
Species | H. caudacutus |
17. Whimbrel
The Eurasian or common whimbrel is a species of wader from the Scolopacidae family. It is a type of curlew, a group of shorebirds with long beaks and legs. This species is among the most widespread, living and breeding across subarctic Asia and Europe.
The bird can be found as far south as Scotland, making it a truly remarkable species. The common whimbrel is also known as the white-rumped whimbrel in North America.
It is a medium-sized shorebird with a brownish-grey back and white underside, with a distinct black and white band on its crown. Its bill is long and curved, and its legs are a dull yellow or greenish.
The bird feeds mainly on insects, crustaceans, mollusks, and worms. The Eurasian or common whimbrel is an important species for conservation, as it plays a significant role in its ecosystem.
Its presence helps maintain the shoreline’s health, providing a breeding and foraging ground for other species. It is also a symbol of wildlife diversity and a reminder of the importance of preserving natural habitats.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Numenius |
Species | N. phaeopus |
18. Tit
The Paridae family consists of small passerine birds found mainly in the Northern Hemisphere and Africa. This family includes tits, chickadees, and titmice.
These birds were formerly classified in the genus Parus. Passerines are birds that have feet adapted explicitly for perching. They typically have strong, sharp claws and curved beaks. The Paridae family is quite large, with over 60 species of birds.
These species are found in Europe, Asia, North America, and Africa. They range in size from 4 to 17 cm and exhibit a range of colors. Paridae birds are known for their boldness and intelligence. They are also very different from other birds regarding their vocalizations.
They are often found in mixed flocks of other passerines and can be identified by their loud, nasal “stick” or “all. “In terms of behavior, Paridae birds typically feed on various foods, including insects, spiders, seeds, fruits, and berries.
They are also known to store food for later consumption. They are usually found in deciduous and coniferous forests, grasslands, and gardens. Paridae birds are pretty popular among birdwatchers and nature lovers. They are attractive and often quite bold.
They can also be entertaining as they flit around looking for food.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Passeriformes |
Family | Paridae |
19. Kestrel
The common kestrel is a bird of prey species belonging to the Falconidae family. Also known as the European kestrel, Eurasian kestrel, or Old World kestrel, it is the only kestrel species commonly found in the United Kingdom.
As a result, it is referred to as “kestrel” in this” region. The common kestrel is a member of the kestrel group of the Falconidae family. This family of birds is known for their powerful beaks and talons, which they use to hunt for prey.
This particular species is known to feed on various animals, such as small mammals, insects, and other birds.
It is also known to hunt in open fields, making it a common sight in many areas. The common kestrel is a medium-sized bird that is usually gray or brown. Its wingspan can range from 20 to 24 inches, and its weight can range from 8 to 12 ounces.
Its long, narrow tail and bright yellow eyes also distinguish this species—the common kestrel breeds in various habitats, including grasslands, woodland, and urban areas.
It is a territorial species, and males will defend their territories fiercely against intruders. In the United Kingdom, the common kestrel is a common sight throughout the summer months and is often seen perched on telephone poles or other elevated areas.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Falconiformes |
Family | Falconidae |
Genus | Falco |
Species | F. tinnunculus |
20. Northern Shoveler
The northern shoveler, also known as the shoveler, is a type of duck found in many habitats. It is a widespread species found across many regions of Europe, Asia, and North America.
It breeds in the northern areas of Europe and across the Palearctic region, as well as in most of North America.
During the winter, the shoveler migrates to warmer climates, such as southern Europe, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America.
This species demonstrates great adaptability, as it can survive in a wide range of climates and habitats. This has allowed it to become a widespread species and one that can be spotted in a variety of locations across the world.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Spatula |
Species | S. clypeata |
21. Baikal Teal
The Baikal teal is a dabbling duck species native to eastern Russia. Due to its distinctive call, it is also known as the bimaculate dr squawk duck.
This duck species is a migratory bird, breeding in its native region during the summer before migrating to East Asia in winter. The Baikal teal is a small species, measuring around 40 cm in length, with a wingspan of around 63 cm.
It is a predominantly grey bird with a white head, breast, and dark greenish-black back. Its bill is yellow-orange, and its eyes are brown. The Baikal teal feeds mainly on aquatic vegetation, such as plants and algae, as well as small crustaceans and insects.
This duck species prefers shallow, marshy areas, such as shallow ponds and wetlands, to feed. The Baikal teal is an essential species in eastern Russia, a typical regional breeding species.
It is also essential in East Asia, as it is one of the few migratory duck species that winters in the region. The conservation status of the Baikal teal is currently listed as of least concern by the IUCN. This is due to its large population size and wide distribution range.
However, the species is still threatened by the destruction of its wetland habitats due to human activities such as pollution and agricultural development.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Sibirionetta |
Species | S. formosa |
22. Scaly-sided Merganser
The scaly-sided merganser, also known as the Chinese merganser, is a species of duck classified as endangered. This typical merganser is native to Manchuria and extreme Southeast Siberia and is known to migrate seasonally.
During the breeding season, these ducks are found in the north while they migrate to the south for the winter. The scaly-sided merganser is a medium-sized duck, distinguished by its colorful plumage.
The males have reddish-brown heads, white throats, and white patches on their wings, while the females are mottled brown. The ducks also get their name from the scaly pattern on their sides. The scaly-sided merganser is a highly social species, often found in large flocks.
They feed on aquatic prey, such as fish, frogs, and mollusks. They breed in shallow wetlands and nest in tree cavities. Unfortunately, the scaly-sided merganser is in danger of extinction due to the destruction of their habitats.
The wetlands they rely on are being drained for agricultural and development purposes. In addition, hunting these ducks is still legal, resulting in a decline in their populations. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this species and its fragile habitats.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Mergus |
Species | M. squamatus |
23. Common Tern
The common tern is a species of seabird that belongs to the family Laridae. It is widely distributed, with four subspecies found across temperate and subarctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America.
This species is strongly migratory, with individuals migrating to more tropical and subtropical coasts during winter. During this time, they can be found along coasts in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and other regions in the southern hemisphere.
The common tern is an essential species in the global avifauna, as it helps to maintain balance among coastal marine and terrestrial ecosystems. It feeds primarily on small fish but will also take crustaceans, mollusks, and other small marine creatures.
Due to its wide range, the common tern has been listed as a species of most minor concern by the IUCN.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Laridae |
Genus | Sterna |
Species | S. hirundo |
24. Common Greenshank
The common greenshank is a species of wader belonging to the Scolopacidae family. These birds, also known as typical waders, are characterized by their long legs and webbed feet, which allow them to wade in shallow water to find food.
The genus name ”Tringa’’was was given to the green sandpiper in 1599 by Aldrovandus, taking inspiration from the Ancient Greek word’ ‘trunks,” which referred to a white-rumped, tail-bobbing wading bird of thrush-size, as mentioned by Aristotle.
Greenshanks are found in wetland habitats worldwide and are an essential part of the ecosystem, as they help keep the wetlands healthy.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Tringa |
Species | T. nebularia |
Conclusion
Overall, North Chungcheong is home to various birds, from rare species to migratory birds that pass through seasonally.
The area is an excellent place for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, offering a variety of habitats and landscapes to explore.
North Chungcheong is an excellent place for bird lovers to observe and enjoy the beauty of the many birds that call this region home.