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24 Birds to Watch in Perugia

Perugia is a city in central Italy, renowned for its rich natural landscape and its abundance of birds.

From the mountains of the Apennines to the lush Umbrian valleys, this diverse environment provides a home for a wide variety of bird species. The region is home to a number of rare and endangered species, as well as common species such as woodpeckers, hoopoes, and white storks.

There are also a number of key migratory bird species that pass through Perugia, including the black storks and golden orioles.

Perugia is a paradise for bird watchers, with dozens of local birdwatching sites offering stunning views and a chance to observe birds in their natural environment.

1. Eurasian Collared Dove

Eurasian_collared_dove__1

The Eurasian collared dove is a species of dove that is native to Europe and Asia. It has also been introduced to Japan, North America, and various islands in the Caribbean.

This bird has a large global range and its population is steadily increasing, which has resulted in it being listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List since 2014.

This means that it is not currently threatened with extinction and that its population is considered to be stable.The Eurasian collared dove is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive black collar around its neck.

Its plumage is generally greyish-brown in color and it has a white underbelly. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, open fields, and wooded areas.

The dove feeds mainly on seeds and fruits, and it is also known to eat small insects. The Eurasian collared dove is a sociable species and it is often seen in flocks. It is also known for its loud, cooing call which can be heard during the day and at night.

It is an important species in many ecosystems, as it helps disperse seeds and controls insect populations. Overall, the Eurasian collared dove is a common and widespread species with an increasing population.

As a result, it has been listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List since 2014, meaning that it is not currently threatened with extinction and that its population is considered to be stable.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderColumbiformes
FamilyColumbidae
GenusStreptopelia
SpeciesS. decaocto

2. Rock Pigeon

Rock_dove__2

The rock dove, rock pigeon, or common pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the Columbidae family. This species is often referred to by the general public as a “pigeon”.

The domestic pigeon that we are familiar with today is descended from the rock dove and has become a popular pet in many homes.

Unfortunately, some of these domestic pigeons have escaped into the wild, and have caused a dramatic increase in the populations of feral pigeons around the world. As a result, these birds can now be found in cities, towns, and rural areas alike.

This species is also known for its homing abilities, allowing them to fly long distances and return to their original location.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderColumbiformes
FamilyColumbidae
GenusColumba
SpeciesC. livia

3. Grey Heron

Grey_heron__3

The grey heron is an elegant-looking bird found throughout temperate Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. It is a long-legged wading bird that belongs to the heron family, known as Ardeidae.

This species is quite widespread and is known to be a resident in many parts of its range, meaning it usually stays in the same area it was born in. However, some populations from more northern regions will migrate southwards in the autumn, probably due to the colder weather.

This is a common behavior among many birds, and the grey heron is no exception. It is an adaptation that helps them survive and thrive in their environment.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPelecaniformes
FamilyArdeidae
GenusArdea
SpeciesA. cinerea

4. Common Wood Pigeon

Common_wood_pigeon__4

The common wood pigeon is a species in the dove and pigeon family that is native to the western Palearctic. It is typically identified by its large size and its white and grey plumage.

The common wood pigeon is part of the genus Columba, which includes other closely related species such as the rock dove.

The common wood pigeon can be found in a wide range of habitats, including urban areas, and it is one of the most common and widespread of all wild bird species in Europe. It feeds on a variety of food sources including grains, fruits, and leaf buds.

The wood pigeon is a monogamous species, meaning it forms lasting pair bonds with its mate. The female typically lays two eggs in a nest, which hatch after an incubation period of around 18 days.

Both parents take turns caring for the young for around 5 weeks until they are ready to leave the nest.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderColumbiformes
FamilyColumbidae
GenusColumba
SpeciesC. palumbus

5. Common Swift

Common_swift__5

The common swift is a medium-sized bird belonging to the order Apodiformes, which includes hummingbirds and treeswifts. It is superficially similar to the barn swallow or house martin, though it is larger in size.

This resemblance is due to convergent evolution, which is the process of two unrelated species adapting similar features in response to similar environmental pressures.

In this case, the common swift and barn swallow/house martin have both evolved similar features in order to survive in similar contexts.

For example, they both have streamlined bodies that allow them to fly quickly and efficiently, and long wings that enable them to travel long distances. As a result, both species have evolved similar traits and appearances, despite having different evolutionary origins.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
CladeStrisores
OrderApodiformes
FamilyApodidae
GenusApus
SpeciesA. apus

6. Mallard

Mallard__6

The mallard, or wild duck, is a type of dabbling duck that is widely distributed across many parts of the world. It breeds predominantly in the temperate and subtropical zones of the Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa.

This species has been successfully introduced to other parts of the world, including New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa. The mallard is a common sight in many wetlands, lakes, and rivers, where it prefers to feed and breed.

It is a medium-sized duck, with males typically having a green head, yellow bill, and brown body. Females are generally mottled brown and white. The Mallard is an important species for many ecosystems, as it is a keystone species that helps to maintain healthy wetland habitats.

It also provides a valuable food source for other animals, such as fish, birds, and mammals. The mallard is a popular game bird and is heavily hunted in many parts of the world. It is also an important species for captive breeding and conservation.

It is used to create hybrids with other ducks, to create new breeds.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusAnas
SpeciesA. platyrhynchos

7. Mute Swan

Mute_swan__7

The mute swan is an iconic species of swan, recognizable for its white plumage and orange bill. It is a member of the waterfowl family Anatidae, which includes ducks, geese, and swans.

This species is native to a large range of Eurasia and the far north of Africa, stretching from Ireland to Japan and from Morocco to the Arctic Ocean.

It prefers habitats with open water, such as lakes and wetlands, but can also be found in more urban areas such as parks and gardens. The mute swan is a large bird, with adults measuring up to 152 cm (60 in) in length and weighing up to 11 kg (24 lb).

The wingspan of an adult is between 1.7-2.3 m (5.6-7.5 ft), making it one of the largest flying birds in the world. It has a long neck and a distinctive bill, which is orange with a black base. Its plumage is white, and its legs and feet are black.

The mute swan is a generally peaceful species but can be territorial and aggressive when defending its nest or chicks. It is an omnivore, feeding on aquatic plants, invertebrates, and small fish.

This species has a long lifespan, with some individuals living up to 20 years in the wild. The mute swan is an important species for wetland conservation and is a popular sight in parks and gardens worldwide.

It is also a popular species for domestication, particularly in Europe, where it has been kept as far back as the 12th century. It is also an important part of culture and mythology, appearing in folklore, literature, and art.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusCygnus
SpeciesC. olor

8. Cuculus canorus

Common_cuckoo__8

The Common Cuckoo is a migratory bird, belonging to the Cuculiformes order of birds. This order is comprised of many species, including the Roadrunners, Anis, and Coucals.

The Common Cuckoo is a very widespread species, which migrates to Europe and Asia during the summer months and then winters in Africa.

The Common Cuckoo is a very special species, as it is one of the most widespread of its kind, and its migratory habits make it an important part of the ecosystem. The Common Cuckoo is an interesting bird and is known for its unique call which is often heard during the summer months.

Its call is actually a form of communication, as it helps the bird to find mates during the breeding season. Additionally, the Cuckoo has a fascinating relationship with other birds, known as brood parasitism.

This means that the Cuckoo will lay its eggs in the nest of other birds, and then the young Cuckoo will be raised by the other birds. The Common Cuckoo is a very important species, as it helps to maintain the balance of the ecosystem.

Its migratory habits are key to the survival of many species, as it brings food and other resources from one area to another.

Additionally, its presence in Europe and Asia in the summer months helps to pollinate plants and spread seeds, both of which are essential for a healthy environment. Overall, the Common Cuckoo is an incredible species, which plays an important role in the ecosystem.

Its migratory habits, unique call, and fascinating relationship with other birds make it a very special bird. It is also an important species, as it helps to maintain the balance of the ecosystem and provides food and other resources to other species.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderCuculiformes
FamilyCuculidae
GenusCuculus
SpeciesC. canorus

9. European Nightjar

European_nightjar__9

The European nightjar, also known as the common goatsucker, Eurasian nightjar, or simply nightjar, is a species of bird that is native to the Palearctic region, stretching from Europe to Mongolia and Northwestern China.

It is a member of the nightjar family and is both crepuscular and nocturnal, meaning that it is active during both the twilight hours of dawn and dusk, as well as during the night.

This species of bird is a summer breeding bird, and during this time it can be found across most of Europe. Its habitat consists of open areas such as heaths, grasslands, and bogs, and it is known for its distinctive churring call.

The European nightjar is a medium-sized bird that measures around 22-26 cm in length and has a wingspan of around 53-62 cm. Its plumage is mottled brown in color, with a white throat and short black crest. Its diet consists mainly of moths, beetles, and other small insects.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
CladeStrisores
OrderCaprimulgiformes
FamilyCaprimulgidae
GenusCaprimulgus
SpeciesC. europaeus

10. European Turtle Dove

European_turtle_dove__10

The European turtle dove is a species of bird that belongs to the Columbidae family. This family includes both doves and pigeons. The turtle dove has a wide breeding range across the southwestern Palearctic region, which includes northern Africa.

During the winter months, however, the turtle dove migrates to sub-Saharan Africa to spend the colder months. This migration allows the bird to find more suitable climates and plenty of food sources.

The European turtle dove is an important species in the bird world, as its presence helps to maintain the health of ecosystems in both the Palearctic and sub-Saharan regions.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderColumbiformes
FamilyColumbidae
GenusStreptopelia
SpeciesS. turtur

11. Great Crested Grebe

Great_crested_grebe__11

The great crested grebe (Podiceps cristatus) is a species of water bird found in freshwater lakes and ponds in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is a member of the Grebe family, which includes 22 species of diving birds that are adapted to live in water.

The great crested grebe is easily identifiable by its long, thin neck, dark grey head and neck, and white underparts. It has a distinctive crest of black feathers on its head. The great crested grebe is known for its elaborate mating display.

The mating display involves a number of behaviors, including head-shaking, bill-dipping, and synchronous swimming. The grebes will also engage in elaborate courtship dances, where the male and female will face each other, extending their wings and pointing their beaks upwards.

This behavior can also involve the birds producing loud calls, which can be heard up to a kilometer away.

The courtship display is believed to be the grebe’s way of showing off its physical fitness. The mating season for the great crested grebe usually occurs between April and July. During this time, the grebes will create a floating nest made of aquatic vegetation.

After mating, the female will lay a clutch of 2-3 eggs, which will be incubated by both the female and the male.

The chicks will hatch after about three to four weeks and will remain with their parents until they are ready to leave the nest and fend for themselves. The great crested grebe is an endangered species, as its numbers have declined due to loss of habitat and pollution.

Conservation efforts are underway to protect and restore the population of this species.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPodicipediformes
FamilyPodicipedidae
GenusPodiceps
SpeciesP. cristatus

12. Little Grebe

Little_grebe__12

The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a small water bird that belongs to the family of grebes. Its genus name, takhus, comes from the Ancient Greek words that mean “fast” and “to sink under”.

The species name, ruficollis, is a combination of Latin words – “Rufus” which means “red” and “Collis” which means “necked”. This word is derived from the Latin word “collum” which means “neck”.

This species of bird is known for its ability to rapidly dive underwater to escape from predators. Its bright red neck makes it stand out from other water birds.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPodicipediformes
FamilyPodicipedidae
GenusTachybaptus
SpeciesT. ruficollis

13. Eurasian Coot

Eurasian_coot__13

The Eurasian coot is a unique species of bird found in many regions of the world. It is a member of the Rallidae family, which consists of the rail and crake bird species.

This bird is easily recognizable as it has a slat-black body, a glossy black head, and a white bill with a white frontal shield. This species is found in Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of North Africa.

This bird is a freshwater species and prefers to inhabit shallow waters with lots of aquatic vegetation. They usually feed on aquatic plants, insects, and small fish. This species is a social bird and can often be seen in large groups.

They are known to be quite vocal and can be heard making loud cackling or honking noises. The Eurasian coot is also known as the common coot or Australian coot. They are able to fly, although they often prefer to swim or walk.

They have strong legs and webbed feet, which help them to maneuver through the water. They are known to be good swimmers and can dive underwater for food. The Eurasian coot is a unique species that is found in many parts of the world.

It is easily recognizable due to its characteristic slaty-black body, glossy black head, and white bill with a white frontal shield. This species is a social bird that can often be seen in large groups foraging in shallow waters.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderGruiformes
FamilyRallidae
GenusFulica
SpeciesF. atra

14. Common Quail

Common_quail__14

The common quail, also known as the European quail, is a small bird belonging to the Phasianidae family of pheasants. This species of quail is mostly migratory, meaning it spends part of the year in one region and part of the year in another.

During the breeding season, the common quail can be found in the western Palearctic, while during the winter it travels to Africa and southern India. Although it may be difficult to spot due to its small size, the common quail can easily be identified by its distinct call – a series of three repeated chirps.

These calls can be heard echoing across the landscape, making this species of quail a familiar sound throughout its range.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderGalliformes
FamilyPhasianidae
GenusCoturnix
SpeciesC. coturnix

15. Ring-necked Pheasant

Common_pheasant__15

The common pheasant is a species of bird belonging to the family of pheasants. Its scientific name is derived from the Latin word “phasianus”, which translates to mean “pheasant”.

The species designation, colchicums, is derived from the Latin term for “of Colchis”, which is a country located on the Black Sea. It is believed that pheasants first became known to Europeans when they arrived from this region.

Common pheasants typically inhabit open grasslands and woodlands, and they feed on a variety of seeds, leaves, insects, and other small animals. They are found in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.

The males are brightly colored with iridescent feathers, while the females are largely brown in color. Common pheasants are popular game birds and are often hunted for sport.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderGalliformes
FamilyPhasianidae
GenusPhasianus
SpeciesP. colchicus

16. Rock Partridge

Rock_partridge__16

The rock partridge, also known as the common rock partridge, is a species of bird in the pheasant family, Phasianidae. It is part of the order Galliformes, which includes a wide variety of bird species, such as quail, turkeys, chickens, pheasants, and grouse.

This particular species is native to southern Europe, and it is closely related to and very similar in appearance to its eastern equivalent, the chukar partridge, A. chukar.

The rock partridge is a type of gamebird, meaning it is hunted for sport, and it has a plump body, brownish-gray feathers, and a red bill and legs. It also has a distinct white stripe on its face, which is one of its most distinguishing features.

The rock partridge is a ground-dwelling bird that is typically found in scrubland and rocky areas, but it can also be found in cultivated areas and woodlands. It usually feeds on seeds, fruits, and insects, and it is known to be an excellent flier.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderGalliformes
FamilyPhasianidae
GenusAlectoris
SpeciesA. graeca

17. Gadwall

Gadwall__17

The gadwall is a type of duck that belongs to the family Anatidae. It is considered to be one of the most common and widespread species of dabbling duck in the world. The gadwall is native to temperate and subtropical regions of Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America.

It is a migratory species, moving from its breeding grounds in the northern hemisphere to its wintering grounds in the southern hemisphere. The gadwall is easily recognizable due to its unique coloration.

Its head and neck are dark gray, its breast is light gray, and its back is brownish-gray. Its sides are white, with black patches on its flanks. Its bill is yellow, and its legs and feet are a pale orange color. The gadwall is a social species, usually found in groups.

It feeds mainly on aquatic plants, insects, and mollusks. It is also known to feed on grains, seeds, and other plant matter.

Its diet varies depending on the season and its habitat. The gadwall is an important species in the wild, providing food for numerous predators, such as eagles, hawks, and owls. It is also an important game bird, often hunted for sport.

Its population has been declining in some areas due to habitat destruction, but it is still widely distributed and considered to be of least concern.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusMareca
SpeciesM. strepera

18. Common Pochard

Common_pochard__18

The Common Pochard is a species of diving duck that has an interesting scientific name. The name is derived from two ancient sources: Greek and Latin. The word “aithuia” in Greek is an unidentified seabird that was mentioned by various authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle.

The Latin word “ferina” means “wild game”, and it is derived from the Latin word “ferus,” which means “wild”. This name is fitting for the Common Pochard, which is a wild duck that is often found in open water.

The Common Pochard is a medium-sized duck that is well suited to diving, making it a great duck for hunting and fishing. It has an interesting scientific name that reflects its wild nature, while still being easy to remember.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusAythya
SpeciesA. ferina

19. Water Rail

Water_rail__19

The water rail is a species of rail found in a variety of wetlands across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. This bird is a member of the rail family, which includes a variety of other wetland birds.

The water rail is a migratory bird in its northern and eastern breeding ranges, migrating annually in search of food and better weather. However, in the warmer climates of its breeding range, the water rail is a permanent resident.

It is well adapted to wetlands and finds plenty of food and resources in these environments. The water rail can often be found in marshes, swamps, and other areas with plenty of vegetation, where it can find plenty of insects, amphibians, and other small animals to feed on.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderGruiformes
FamilyRallidae
GenusRallus
SpeciesR. aquaticus

20. Garganey

Garganey__20

The garganey is a species of small dabbling duck that is found across a large portion of the Palearctic region.

This species breeds throughout Europe and across the Palearctic, but is strictly migratory, meaning that the entire population will move south during the winter months of the Northern Hemisphere.

During these times, garganey can be found in large numbers in places such as southern Africa, India, Bangladesh, and Australasia.

This species is one of the few ducks to make such a long and wide-reaching migratory journey and is a sight to behold when large flocks congregate in these distant locations.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusSpatula
SpeciesS. querquedula

21. Greylag Goose

Greylag_goose__21

The greylag goose, also known as the graylag goose, is a large species of waterfowl in the Anatidae family. It is the type species of the genus Anser and is a popular bird among those who study waterfowl.

The greylag goose has distinctive plumage, which is mottled and barred in grey and white colors. Its beak is orange in color, and its legs are a pinkish hue. The greylag goose is also known for its loud, honking call, which can be heard from far away.

It lives in wetlands, lakes, marshes, and streams, and feeds on aquatic plants, seeds, and small animals. Greylag geese typically fly in V-shaped formations, in large flocks of up to several hundred individuals.

They mate for life and are known to be quite vocal and affectionate with their partner. The greylag goose is an important species in the wild, as it helps to keep wetland ecosystems healthy by eating aquatic vegetation and providing valuable fertilizer.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderAnseriformes
FamilyAnatidae
GenusAnser
SpeciesA. anser

22. Ardea Alba

Great_egret__22

The great egret is a large bird found in many parts of the world. It is also known as the common egret, large egret, or great white egret, or great white heron. There are four subspecies that can be found in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe.

In recent years, it has been observed that the great egret is spreading to more northern areas of Europe. This is likely due to an increase in suitable habitats as well as the ability of this species to adapt to new environmental conditions.

The great egret is a tall bird with a wingspan of up to two meters. Its feathers are white and it has a long, broad bill. It prefers to live near wetlands, lakes, rivers, and marshes where there is plenty of food and shelter.

In addition to a varied diet of fish, insects, and other small animals, it also eats fruit, nuts, and seeds. The great egret is an important species in many ecosystems. As a top predator, it helps to keep populations of smaller animals in balance.

It also plays an important role in the food chain by providing food for other species such as raptors, mammals, and reptiles. The great egret is an iconic species that has been celebrated for centuries.

It is a symbol of grace and beauty and is seen as a spiritual representation of rebirth and renewal. Despite its wide distribution, the great egret is vulnerable to human disturbance, pollution, and hunting, and its populations are slowly declining in many parts of the world.

Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the continued survival of this majestic species.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPelecaniformes
FamilyArdeidae
GenusArdea
SpeciesA. alba

23. Cattle Egret

Cattle_egret__23

The cattle egret is a species of heron bird that is found in various climates across the globe. It can be found in the tropics, subtropics, and warm-temperate zones, making it a very adaptable species.

It is the only bird in its genus, Bubulcus, although some authorities recognize two subspecies of the cattle egret, the western and the eastern. The western cattle egret is found in the Americas, while the eastern is found in Africa, Asia, and Australia.

The cattle egret is a white heron with a yellow bill and a yellow crown that can reach up to 30 inches in height. It has long legs and a long neck that it uses to forage for food in shallow water.

Its diet consists mainly of insects, frogs, fish, and crustaceans, which it finds in wetlands and grassy areas. It is also known to follow grazing animals such as cattle, in order to feed on the insects disturbed by the animals’ movements.

The cattle egret is a highly successful species, and its population has been steadily increasing over the years. It is considered a habitat generalist, meaning that it can survive in a variety of habitats.

This adaptability has helped it to thrive in its various habitats across the world. Overall, the cattle egret is an impressive species of heron that is found across the world in a variety of habitats.

Its adaptability and success have made it a popular bird to observe and admire.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderPelecaniformes
FamilyArdeidae
GenusBubulcus
SpeciesB. ibis

24. Barn Owl

Barn_owl__24

The barn owl is an incredible species of bird that can be found almost everywhere on the planet, excluding polar and desert regions, parts of Asia north of the Himalayas, most of Indonesia, and some Pacific Islands.

This makes it one of the most widespread of all species of birds, and the most widely distributed species of owl in the world. The barn owl is a nocturnal bird, with a distinctive heart-shaped face, and mottled brown and white feathers.

It has long wings and a short tail, which helps it to maneuver agilely through the night sky. This species of owl is a great hunter, as it is able to locate its prey using its excellent eyesight and hearing. It feeds mainly on small mammals such as mice, rats, and voles.

The barn owl is found in almost every habitat, from open fields and grasslands to woodlands, wetlands, and even urban areas. They even live in agricultural areas, where they can help to control rodent populations.

The barn owl has adapted to many different environments and can be found on every continent, except Antarctica.

The barn owl is a remarkable species of bird, that is able to live in many different habitats and is found almost everywhere on the planet, except for the polar and desert regions, parts of Asia north of the Himalayas, most of Indonesia, and some Pacific Islands.

This makes it one of the most widespread of all species of birds, and the most widely distributed species of owl in the world.

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumChordata
ClassAves
OrderStrigiformes
FamilyTytonidae
GenusTyto
SpeciesT. alba

Conclusion

Birds are an important part of the ecology of Perugia. From colorful songbirds to majestic raptors, they bring life and beauty to the region. Their presence is an indication of a healthy and diverse environment.

By respecting the habitat of these birds, and protecting them from harm, we can ensure that they will continue to thrive in Perugia for generations to come.

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