The Northern Region has various bird species, from small garden birds to large migratory birds.
This diverse range of birds provides an excellent opportunity for birders to enjoy year-round birding in this region. From the majestic Bald Eagle to the tiny Hummingbird, the Northern Region has a variety of birds to discover.
The abundance of wetlands, forests, and grasslands provides the perfect habitat for various species. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced birder, you can find a variety of birds to enjoy in the Northern Region.
24 Birds to Watch in Northern Region
If you are a bird lover, you might be interested in this list of 24 birds to watch in the northern region of the country. These birds are either native to the area or migrate there during certain seasons. They are all beautiful and fascinating creatures that deserve our attention and respect.
Here are some of the birds you can look for in the northern region:
1. Northern Shoveler
The northern shoveler is a species of duck found in many parts of the world. It is most commonly found in northern Europe and across the Palearctic, North America, and Central, South, and Southeast Asia.
This duck is known as the shoveler due to its giant bill, shaped like a shovel. The shoveler is a widespread species known to breed in northern areas of Europe.
During winter, these ducks migrate to warmer climates, such as southern Europe, the Indian subcontinent, Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America.
This duck species is widespread and an essential part of the local ecosystem, providing food for other animals and helping keep the environment healthy.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Spatula |
| Species | S. clypeata |
2. Northern Pintail
The pintail, or northern pintail, is a species of duck widely distributed across the Northern Hemisphere. It breeds in the northern areas of Europe and across the Palearctic and North America.
This duck species is migratory, moving from its breeding areas in the north to winter in warmer climates further south, close to the equator. The pintail is a long-distance migrator, making it an impressive and resilient bird.
It can survive in harsh winter conditions by making a long journey south. The wide geographic distribution of the pintail enables it to take advantage of different habitats and food sources, ensuring its survival and success as a species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. acuta |
3. Eurasian Wigeon
The Eurasian wigeon, also known as the European wigeon or simply the wigeon, is a species of dabbling duck. It is part of the genus Mareca, which includes three distinct wigeon species.
The Eurasian wigeon is a widespread species and can be found throughout its Palearctic range. It is mainly found in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Its habitat comprises wetland areas such as lakes, marshes, and ponds.
It is an omnivorous species, feeding on aquatic plants and small invertebrates. It also feeds on grain and other human-provided food sources. During the winter, the Eurasian wigeon migrates to areas further south, such as Africa and the Mediterranean.
It is a social species, often found in large flocks. It has a distinctive call that is frequently heard in wetlands. The Eurasian wigeon is a medium-sized duck with a brownish-grey head and breast white sides and belly.
The male and female have similar plumage, with the male slightly larger. The Eurasian wigeon is an essential species for conservation, as it is a famous game bird and may be affected by habitat loss and hunting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. penelope |
4. Eurasian Teal
The Eurasian Teal is a small duck species native to temperate parts of Eurasia and is also known by other names such as the common teal and the Eurasian green-winged teal.
It is a highly adaptable and widespread species and is often found in large numbers in the areas where it breeds. The Eurasian Teal is recognizable by its distinctive green-winged pattern, which is unique to this species.
In winter, large numbers of these ducks migrate south, searching for suitable habitats and food, an expected behavior among many waterfowl species.
As a result, the Eurasian Teal is often called simply the ‘teal’ due to being the only small dabbling duck species found in much of its range. This species is highly valued in many parts of the world for its aesthetic beauty and environmental importance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. crecca |
5. Rock Dove
The rock dove, rock pigeon, or common pigeon is a species of bird that belongs to the Columbidae family. It is most commonly referred to simply as the “pigeon.”
The domestic pigeon is a descendant of this species, and it is believed that the populations of feral pigeons worldwide have grown due to escaped domestic pigeons.
Because the domestic pigeon is a variety of the rock dove, the two species can breed together, resulting in offspring that are a hybrid of the two species. Feral pigeons are often seen in urban areas, feeding on food scraps and birdseed.
They can also be found in rural areas, and their presence can provide an essential food source for bird predators.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
6. Columbidae
Columbidae is a bird family containing doves and pigeons, the only species in the order Columbiformes. These birds have stout bodies with short necks and small, slender bills that, in some species, have a fleshy cere.
Although the types of food they eat can vary depending on the species, their diet primarily consists of seeds, fruits, and plants.
They are adaptable to changing environments and can be found in many habitats, from tropical rainforests to open woodlands and urban areas.
Columbidae birds tend to be monogamous and form strong family bonds, often returning to the same nesting area year after year. They build their nests in trees, shrubs, and other vegetation and typically lay two white eggs per clutch.
Columbidae birds are essential for their role in seed dispersal and pest control, helping to maintain a balanced ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Columbimorphae |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
7. Greater white-fronted Goose
The greater white-fronted goose is a species of goose belonging to the same family as the lesser white-fronted goose. It is distinguished from other geese by the white feathers that make up the base of its bill.
This patch of white feathers gave it its scientific name, albifrons, derived from the Latin ” albus, ” meaning “white,” and frons, meaning “forehead.”
This goose species is native to the northern hemisphere and is typically found in wetlands, coastal areas, and open tundra regions. They are particularly fond of grains and other plant material and can often be seen feeding in agricultural fields.
They migrate in large flocks, sometimes seen flying in a V-formation in the sky. The greater white-fronted goose is an important species for conservation efforts since it is vulnerable to habitat loss and hunting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anser |
| Species | A. albifrons |
8. Canada Goose
The Canada goose, also known as the Canadian goose, is one of the most recognizable birds in North America. It is a large, wild goose with a black head and neck, white cheeks, white under its chin, and a brown body.
Its wingspan is typically around 2.7 meters, and it can fly up to 80 kilometers per hour. The Canada goose is native to both the arctic and temperate regions of North America and is a migratory bird.
During the winter, they migrate southward to warmer climates and return to the same areas in the summer. The Canada goose is also occasionally seen during migration across the Atlantic in northern Europe.
The Canada goose is a social bird who prefers being around other geese. It often forms large flocks with up to several thousand birds. The Canada goose can live up to 25 years in the wild and is omnivorous, meaning it will eat plants and animals.
It eats grass, grains, insects, worms, and aquatic plants. The Canada goose is an integral part of the North American ecosystem, as it helps to disperse seeds and fertilize the land.
They are also popular game birds hunted in many areas to provide food. The population of Canadian geese is stable, and they are not considered endangered.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Branta |
| Species | B. canadensis |
9. Garganey
The garganey is a small dabbling duck across Europe and the Palearctic region. This species is a strictly migratory bird, meaning that the entire population of garganeys will move south during winter in the Northern hemisphere.
The garganey will migrate to southern Africa, India, Bangladesh, and Australasia. Once they reach their destination, they will form large flocks.
This allows them to take advantage of food sources and avoid winter’s colder temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere. The migration of the garganey is a fascinating phenomenon as it allows them to survive the winter and continue their population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Spatula |
| Species | S. querquedula |
10. Green-winged Teal
The American teal, also known as the green-winged teal, is a type of duck found throughout North America. It is a prevalent species, with its breeding grounds located in the northern areas of the continent, excluding the Aleutian Islands.
For a while, the American teal was classified as a subspecies of the Eurasian teal but has since been reclassified as a distinct species. The American teal is a small-bodied duck, and its distinctive green wings give it its name.
It has a brown head, neck, and chest, with white stripes on the sides of its head. The American teal can be found in freshwater and saltwater habitats and is a famous duck for hunters.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. carolinensis |
11. Tundra Swan
The tundra swan is a species of swan found in the Holarctic, the region encompassing the northern hemisphere. It comprises two distinct taxa, which are usually regarded as the same species but can also be divided into two separate species.
The first is Bewick’s swan, found in the Palaearctic and covers much of the northern hemisphere. The other species is the whistling swan, native to the Nearctic, a region mainly covering North America.
Both of these taxa are small swans, and they share many morphological and behavioral similarities. Despite this, they are still considered distinct species due to their differences in size, coloration, and habitat preferences.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. columbianus |
12. Phasianidae
The Phasianidae family is composed of a variety of heavy, ground-dwelling birds. Among them are pheasants, partridges, junglefowl, chickens, turkeys, Old World quail, and peafowl. These types of birds are prevalent for hunting and game purposes.
The Phasianidae family is extensive, with 185 species divided into 54 genera. They are known to be a hardy species, able to survive in various environments. They are, for the most part, ground-living birds, but some species may also be found in trees.
The family also includes both migratory and non-migratory species, providing a wide array of characteristics and behaviors within the family.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
13. Tufted Duck
The tufted duck, also known as the tufted pochard, is a small diving duck native to northern Eurasia. With a population of almost one million birds, it is one of the most abundant duck species.
The species’ scientific name is derived from ancient Greek, referencing the Lithuania, an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle.
The Latin part of the name, logo, and gula means “soot” and “throat,” respectively, referring to the distinctive tufts of feathers on the duck’s throat. The tufted duck is a medium-sized duck with a length of around 45 cm and a wingspan of around 70 cm.
It has a grey-brown body, a black head, and a white belly. The head of the duck is streaked with white, and it has a distinctive tuft of black feathers on its throat. It also has a white patch on its wings, visible in flight.
The tufted duck is diving, meaning it feeds on aquatic plants and small creatures by diving under the water. It is found in shallow lakes, ponds, rivers, and marshes, where it can easily find food.
It is also a migratory species, and it can be found in more southern areas during the winter months. The tufted duck is an essential species in its environment’s food chain. Its diet of aquatic vegetation and small animals helps to keep the water clean and healthy.
The duck is also hunted for sport and food, but the population remains stable thanks to its large size and ability to adapt to different habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. fuligula |
14. Cuckoos
The Cuculidae family is a group of birds that make up the single taxonomic order of Cuculiformes. This family includes a variety of species, such as the standard or European cuckoo, roadrunners, koels, malkohas, couas, coucals, and anis.
While they are all part of the Cuculidae family, some scientists have suggested that the coucals and anis should be placed in their own families, known as the Centropodidae and Crotophagidae, respectively.
Cuckoos are medium-sized birds that have an upright posture and long tails. They feed primarily on insects and fruit and can be found in many habitats, from forests to grasslands.
Roadrunners are long-legged ground-dwelling birds found in the deserts of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Koels are medium-sized birds with long tails and a loud, harsh call. They are found in tropical regions of southern Asia and Australia.
Malkohas are medium-sized birds with a long tail and a loud, harsh call, and are native to Africa. Couas are medium-sized birds with a long tail and a loud, harsh call and are native to Madagascar.
Coucals are medium-sized birds with long tails and a loud, harsh call, native to Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, and Southeast Asia. Anis are medium-sized, ground-dwelling birds with a long tail and a loud, harsh call, native to Central and South America.
Overall, the Cuculidae family includes a variety of birds, all of which have unique characteristics and behaviors.
While most of these species are considered part of the Cuculidae family, some scientists have suggested that the coucals and anis should be placed in their families.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Otidimorphae |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
15. Brant
The brant or Brent goose is a species of goose that belongs to the genus Branta. It is a migratory bird with three distinct subspecies that spend the winter along temperate-zone sea-coasts and breed on the remote, high-arctic tundra.
The Brent oilfield, located in the North Sea off the coast of Scotland, was named after this species, likely due to its abundance in the region.
The brant or Brent goose is an important species, as it provides an essential connection between the high-arctic tundra and temperate coastal regions, with a range that spans almost the entire northern hemisphere.
Additionally, its presence in the North Sea provides a valuable food source for many other bird species and is an integral part of the local ecology.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Branta |
| Species | B. bernicla |
16. Snow Goose
The snow goose is a species of goose native to North America and is known for its distinct white plumage. It is sometimes referred to as the blue goose due to its darker morph that can be observed.
Before being placed in the gray goose genus Anser, the species was placed in the Chen genus. This goose species is primarily known for its white plumage, which is why it was given its name.
The snow goose can be found in various habitats in North America and is a common sight during certain times of the year. It is a migratory species that spends the winter in southern regions and the summer in the northern areas.
They are often seen in large flocks and feed on various grains, grass seeds, and aquatic vegetation. The snow goose is an integral part of North America’s avian population and plays a vital role in the ecosystem of its native habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anser |
| Species | A. caerulescens |
17. Wood Duck
The wood duck, also known as the Carolina duck, is a perching species inhabiting North America. It is a medium-sized waterfowl and one of the most colorful North American waterfowl.
The male wood duck, or drake, is especially striking, with its vibrant colors and distinctive pattern. The drake has a glossy green head, chestnut-colored breast, a white neck ring, and white stripes down its back.
The sides, flanks, and underparts are a mix of black, white, and gray, and its wings have distinctive white and black markings. The bill and feet are bright red.
The female wood duck has a mottled brown-and-gray head and body, a white throat and underside, and a gray-and-black barred tail. Both sexes have a white eye ring, which helps them stand out in the water.
The wood duck is a famous game bird hunted in the fall and winter months. It is also popular in wetlands, wooded swamps, and rivers, where it can be seen dabbling in the water or perched on tree limbs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aix |
| Species | A. sponsa |
18. Ducks
The Anatidae family is a group of water birds that includes ducks, geese, and swans. These birds, except Antarctica, can be found worldwide, showing their wide distribution.
They are well-adapted to their aquatic environment, able to swim and float effortlessly on the water surface and, sometimes, even dive in shallow water.
This adaptation is likely because they spend much of their lives in and around water, as their feet are specially evolved to be webbed for efficient movement through the water.
Additionally, their feathers are waterproof, which helps to keep them dry and warm when submerged. These adaptations also help ducks, geese, and swans to forage for food in the water, such as aquatic plants, insects, and small fish or crustaceans.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
19. Hooded Merganser
The hooded merganser is a species of duck belonging to the subfamily Anatinae and is the only existing species in its genus, Lophodytes. This genus name is derived from the Greek language, with “lophos” referring to the crest on the bird’s head and “dutes” meaning diver.
As a fish-eating duck, this species is an adept hunter, using its sharp vision to spot prey below the water’s surface before diving in and catching it. Its distinctive crest also helps it to blend in with its surroundings, allowing it to sneak up on unsuspecting prey.
In addition to its hunting prowess, the hooded merganser is also known for its impressive courtship display. During mating season, the males often show off their crest and colorful feathers to attract a mate.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Lophodytes |
| Species | L. cucullatus |
20. Ruddy Turnstone
The ruddy turnstone is a species of wading bird that is found across the globe. It belongs to the genus Arenaria, which includes two species of turnstone. This species is part of the sandpiper family Scolopacidae, though it used to be grouped into the plover family Charadriidae.
This species is relatively small and characterized by its reddish-brown coloring. The turnstone is usually found in coastal areas, where it can feed on various food sources. It feeds on insects, small mollusks, and other marine invertebrates.
It is also known to eat the eggs of other birds. The turnstone is a monogamous species, forming pairs during the breeding season.
The female lays up to four eggs, and both parents share in the incubation of the eggs and the care of their young. The ruddy turnstone is a migratory species, traveling thousands of miles each year to find suitable habitats.
It is considered a species of most minor concern by the IUCN due to its large and widespread population.
National wildlife laws in many countries protect the species, and several conservation efforts are underway to protect its habitat and prevent population declines.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Arenaria |
| Species | A. interpres |
21. Common Eider
The Common Eider is a sea duck species found in many areas of the Northern Hemisphere. It is a large sea duck with a wingspan of up to four feet and a body length of around two feet. They have a distinctive white head, neck, black back, and wings.
The Common Eider is found in high latitudes in Europe, North America, and eastern Siberia. It is also known as St. Cuthbert’s duck or Cuddy’s duck. The Common Eider has a variety of habitats, including rocky coasts, sand beaches, estuaries, and wetlands.
It feeds mainly on mollusks, crustaceans, and other aquatic animals. They are a coastal species and often congregate in large flocks in sheltered areas. The Common Eider is an important species for many cultures.
It is the national bird of Iceland, and its feathers have been used for centuries to make warm and insulating garments. The species is also hunted for food in many areas of the Northern Hemisphere. The Common Eider is a species of conservation concern.
It is threatened by pollution, human disturbance, and climate change. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this species, as it is an integral part of the world’s biodiversity.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Somateria |
| Species | S. mollissima |
22. Cackling Goose
The cackling goose is found primarily in North America and East Asia. It is one of the smallest members of the goose family, averaging about 22 inches in length and weighing just a few pounds.
The cackling goose can be identified by its distinctive sound, described as a loud cackle. The cackling goose has an overall brownish-grey coloration and a white head and neck. It has a black bill and black legs and feet.
The cackling goose is a highly social species and often flocks with other waterfowl. It feeds on plant material, such as grass, sedges, grains, and aquatic invertebrates.
The cackling goose is an essential species in the ecosystem, as it helps to spread plant and invertebrate species throughout its range. It is also becoming increasingly popular among birders and is a great species to watch.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Branta |
| Species | B. hutchinsii |
23. Osprey
The Osprey is a type of raptor, or bird of prey, that is found all around the world. It is easily recognizable due to its unique size and coloring. The Osprey is typically between 60 cm and 180 cm in length, with a wingspan of 180 cm.
Its upperparts are brown, while its head and underparts are a greyish color. It is a diurnal bird, meaning it is active during the day, and its diet consists primarily of fish.
It has various common names, including sea hawk, river hawk, and fish hawk, which all refer to its habit of hunting for fish in marine and freshwater habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Pandionidae |
| Genus | Pandion |
| Species | P. haliaetus |
24. Red knot
The red knot, or just knot, is a mid-sized shorebird breeds in tundra habitats and the Arctic Cordillera in the far north of Canada, Europe, and Russia.
It is part of the Calidris sandpipers family and is the second most prominent member of the species, only being smaller than the great knot. There are six different subspecies of the red knot, which scientists have all recognized.
The red knot has a unique plumage that includes shades of red, brown, and grey. Its back is reddish-brown, with its wings and tail being grey. It also has a white belly and a black bill.
In terms of its size, the red knot is typically between 16 and 20 centimeters in length and weighs between 40 and 70 grams. The red knot is a migratory bird that travels long distances during its annual migration.
It makes its way from its breeding grounds in the far north to its wintering grounds in the southern hemisphere. It stops in places like the United States, Europe, Africa, and South America.
The red knot’s diet primarily consists of marine worms, mollusks, and crustaceans, which it finds in the intertidal zone. It is an essential species in the food chain, as it helps to break down organic material and make it available to other species.
The red knot is considered a vulnerable species, as its population has been decreasing in recent years due to various factors. This includes changes in its habitat, as well as the effects of climate change.
Conservation efforts are being made to help protect the red knot and its habitat to maintain its population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Calidris |
| Species | C. canutus |
Conclusion
Birds in the Northern Region are diverse and abundant. They can be found in various habitats, from forests to grasslands, and they are known for their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Birds provide numerous ecological services, such as pollination and seed dispersal, and are important indicators of environmental health.
Understanding the ecology of birds in the Northern Region is essential for preserving both bird species and their habitats.