Welcome to Rimini, home of an array of beautiful birds! This coastal Italian city is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 130 species of birds observed in the area.
From majestic eagles soaring over the sea to tiny wrens flitting through the trees, you’ll find a variety of species here. In this article, we’ll explore the most common birds that can be found in Rimini and the best places to see them.
So grab your binoculars and let’s get started!
1. Eurasian Collared Dove
The Eurasian collared dove is a species of dove native to Europe and Asia. It has a vast global range, meaning it can be found in many different countries and regions. The bird was introduced to Japan, North America, and islands in the Caribbean, likely due to human activity.
This wide distribution of the species has resulted in a large and growing population size. As a result, the species has been listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List since 2014.
This designation indicates that the species is not threatened or endangered and that its population is stable.
The Eurasian collared dove is a species that is well adapted to living in many different habitats, and its current population trend suggests that it will continue to thrive in the near future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. decaocto |
2. Common Wood Pigeon
The common wood pigeon is a species of dove and pigeon found in the western Palearctic region. It is a large bird, easily recognizable by its grey-blue plumage and white patches on its wings.
The bird belongs to the genus Columba, which includes other closely related species such as the rock dove. The common wood pigeon is mainly found in rural areas, such as woods, hedgerows, and agricultural fields.
It feeds primarily on plant matter such as grains, fruits, and berries, as well as some insects. The wood pigeon is an important source of food for predators such as foxes, hawks, and owls. It is also hunted for sport, and its meat is consumed by humans.
During the breeding season, the wood pigeon builds a flimsy nest in trees or shrubs and lays two white eggs. The chicks hatch after 18-19 days and fledge after about 4 weeks.
The wood pigeon is a common and widespread species, and its population is not considered to be threatened.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. palumbus |
3. Common Cuckoo
The common cuckoo is a bird belonging to the Cuculiformes order of birds, which also includes the roadrunners, the anis, and the coucals. This species of cuckoo is very widespread, with its summer range covering Europe and Asia and its winter range being Africa.
Every year, the cuckoo migrates from its summer range to its winter range and back again, meaning that its range is vast and expansive.
The common cuckoo is a very unique bird in that it is a brood parasite, meaning that it does not build its own nests, but instead lays its eggs in the nests of other birds.
Its eggs closely resemble those of the host bird, making it difficult for the host bird to distinguish them from its own eggs. Once the eggs hatch, the cuckoo chicks are fed by the host bird, which can be detrimental to the host bird’s own young.
Despite this, the common cuckoo is a beloved bird in many cultures and is admired for its vocalizations and beauty.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Cuculus |
| Species | C. canorus |
4. Common Swift
The common swift is a medium-sized bird that resembles the barn swallow and house martin, however, it is slightly bigger than them.
Despite the similarities in appearance, the common swift is not related to the barn swallow and house martin, as it belongs to the order Apodiformes.
The similarities between the three birds are a result of convergent evolution, which is a process of organisms adapting to similar environments and developing similar features.
Convergent evolution allows for different species to adapt to their environment in a similar way, leading to similar physical characteristics even if they have no evolutionary connection.
This explains why the common swift, barn swallow, and house martin can look so similar even though they come from different species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Apus |
| Species | A. apus |
5. Common Pochard
The common pochard is a medium-sized diving duck that can be found in many regions around the world. Its scientific name, Aythya ferina, is derived from the ancient Greek language.
The name “aithuia” is derived from Hesychius and Aristotle, who both mentioned an unidentified seabird in their writings. The second part of the scientific name, “ferina”, comes from the Latin word “ferus” which means “wild” and is associated with “wild game”.
This indicates that the common pochard is a wild species of duck. The name is a reflection of the duck’s natural habitat, which is typically in the wild.
The common pochard is an important species of waterfowl, and its scientific name helps to identify it and differentiate it from other species of ducks.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. ferina |
6. Garganey
The garganey is a small, migratory duck that is found throughout Europe and the Palearctic region. During the winter, the entire population of garganeys takes flight and moves south to Africa, India, Bangladesh, and Australasia.
In these areas, large flocks of birds can be seen in the winter months. The garganey is a dabbling duck, meaning that it feeds mainly on plants, insects, and other small animals near the surface of the water.
The birds breed in the summer months throughout Europe and the Palearctic region, then migrate south for the winter.
This is a necessary survival strategy as the cold weather of the Northern Hemisphere is too harsh for the birds to endure. The garganey is a unique species, having adapted to its migratory lifestyle over the course of many generations.
This adaptation is essential for the survival of the species, and it is remarkable to think that such a small bird can make the long journey to and from its winter home every year.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Spatula |
| Species | S. querquedula |
7. Mute Swan
The Mute Swan is a species of swan that belongs to the waterfowl family Anatidae. It is native to a wide range of areas, including much of Eurosiberia and the far north of Africa. This species of swan is known for its white plumage, orange bill, and long neck.
It is an aquatic bird that prefers to live in wetlands, shallow water, and open water. The Mute Swan is a strong swimmer and can be found in flocks with other species of swans or geese. It is also an omnivore, eating a variety of vegetation, insects, and small fish.
The Mute Swan is an important species to wetland ecosystems, as its presence helps to maintain water quality and balance. It also helps to control the growth of aquatic vegetation, which in turn supports other wildlife.
The Mute Swan is also a popular bird to observe, as its graceful movements and iconic white feathers make it a beautiful sight.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. olor |
8. Alpine Swift
The alpine swift is a species of swift found in Africa, southern Europe, and Asia. It is a migratory bird, meaning it moves between different regions based on the season.
In particular, the southern European population of alpine swifts migrates to southern Africa to spend the winter. During the breeding season, these birds live in the mountains, ranging from southern Europe to the Himalayas.
Alpine swifts have many similarities to common swifts, which are also migratory birds. Both types of swifts often breed in colonies, living in large groups near cliffs or in cavities.
They feed on small flying insects, and they have a unique shape which allows them to fly in very fast and agile maneuvers. Alpine swifts are important members of their ecosystems.
They can help control insect populations, and they are also important food sources for other animals. Alpine swifts are also important indicator species, as their presence or absence can signal changes in the environment.
For example, if the alpine swift population is declining, it could be a sign of environmental degradation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Tachymarptis |
| Species | T. melba |
9. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck is a species of duck that is found in the Eurosiberia region. It is also known as the ferruginous pochard, common white-eye, or white-eyed pochard. It is a medium-sized diving duck, and its scientific name is derived from the Greek words aithuia and nyrok.
Aithuia is an unidentified seabird that was mentioned by ancient authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle. Nyrok is the Russian word for a duck. This species of duck is known for its reddish-brown feathers and white eyes, which give it its unique name.
It is an omnivore, and its diet consists of small fish, insects, and aquatic plant material. The ferruginous duck is also a migratory bird, and it can be found in many parts of Europe and Asia during the winter months.
It is an important species to consider when looking at conservation efforts, as its numbers are decreasing due to habitat loss and degradation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
10. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a species of water bird belonging to the Grebe family. It is scientifically named ‘Tachybaptus ruficollis’, derived from Ancient Greek and Latin terms.
The genus name ‘Tachybaptus’ is derived from two Ancient Greek words – ‘takhus’ meaning ‘fast’ and ‘bapto’ meaning ‘to sink under’. The species name ‘ruficollis’ is derived from two Latin words – ‘rufus’ meaning ‘red’ and ‘collis’ meaning ‘necked’.
The latter word is itself derived from the Latin word ‘collum’ which means ‘neck’.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
11. Stock Dove
The Stock Dove is a species of bird belonging to the Columbidae family. It is found in the western Palearctic region, which stretches from Europe and North Africa to the Middle East.
The Stock Dove is a medium-sized bird, with a grey head, neck, and breast and a blackish-brown back and wings. Its wingspan is approximately 30 to 33 cm and it has a distinct white bar on its wings.
The Stock Dove is usually seen in pairs or small flocks, and it has a distinctive cooing call. It feeds on a variety of seeds and grains and is often found near farms and fields, where it can find plenty of food.
The Stock Dove is a common sight in many parts of its range and it is not currently considered to be threatened.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. oenas |
12. Pallid Swift
The pallid swift is a species of swift that belongs to the genus Apus. Swifts are characterized by having very short legs which they use exclusively for attaching themselves to vertical surfaces, such as walls and trees.
The name Apus is derived from the Latin word for a swift, which was thought by the Ancient Greeks and Romans to be a type of swallow that had no feet. The species name pallidus is also derived from Latin, and translates to ‘pale’.
Unlike some other species of birds, swifts never settle voluntarily on the ground and are rarely seen on the ground in general.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Apus |
| Species | A. pallidus |
13. Eurasian Wigeon
The Eurasian wigeon, also known as the European wigeon, widgeon, or simply wigeon, is a species of dabbling duck that is found throughout the Palearctic region. It is one of three species of wigeon in the genus Mareca and is the most common and widespread of the three.
It is a medium-sized waterfowl, with a brown and white plumage, a white forehead and crown, and a chestnut-colored head. The male has a black bill, while the female has a brown bill.
The Eurasian wigeon is an omnivorous species, feeding on both aquatic and terrestrial plant material. It is a gregarious species, typically found in flocks, and is a strong flier, able to migrate over long distances.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. penelope |
14. Great Crested Grebe
The great crested grebe is a member of the grebe family, which is a group of water birds that are found in many parts of the world. These birds have long, slender body and a short, thick neck. They have a pointed bill and webbed feet, which allow them to swim easily.
The great crested grebe is particularly noteworthy for its elaborate mating display. During this display, the birds will rise out of the water in unison and perform a complex series of movements and vocalizations.
The male will then swim in circles around the female, showing off his colors and plumage. This is done in order to attract the female and to demonstrate his strength and vigor. The female will then choose the male she finds most suitable for mating.
The great crested grebe’s elaborate courtship displays are a fascinating part of its natural behavior.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. cristatus |
15. Common Shelduck
The common shelduck is a species of waterfowl that belongs to the shelduck genus, Tadorna. This species is widespread and abundant in the Euro-Siberian region of the Palearctic, which covers most of Europe and Siberia.
It breeds in temperate climates during the summer months and migrates to subtropical regions during winter. During winter, the common shelduck can also be found in the Maghreb, which is the western region of North Africa.
This species has adapted well to its environment and is able to survive the colder temperatures in Europe and the warmer temperatures in Africa. The common shelduck is an exceptional species of waterfowl that has adapted to its different habitats in order to survive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Tadorna |
| Species | T. tadorna |
16. Red-Crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a species of large diving duck. It is native to subtropical and temperate parts of Europe, and parts of northern and central Asia. The scientific name of the red-crested pochard is Netta rufina.
This name is derived from the Greek word Netta, meaning “duck”, and the Latin word rufina, meaning “golden-red”. The red-crested pochard is easily identifiable by its distinctive red crest on its head, and its reddish-brown body.
It is a strong and agile swimmer and can dive to depths of up to 10 meters to forage for food. It mainly feeds on aquatic invertebrates, such as insects, mussels, and crustaceans.
The red-crested pochard is a migratory species and can be found in large flocks during the winter months.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
17. Great Cormorant
The Great Cormorant is a species of seabird found across much of the world. It is known by many different names in various regions. In New Zealand, it is referred to as the Black Shag or Kawau. In the Northern Hemisphere, it is known as the Great Black Cormorant.
In Australia, it is called the Black Cormorant, and in India, it is known as the Large Cormorant.
It is a member of the Cormorant family of seabirds, which includes other species of cormorants, shags, and gannets. The Great Cormorant is an impressive bird, with a large wingspan of up to 1.5 meters.
It is mainly black, with a white patch on the throat and a white stripe on the wing. It has a long, hooked bill and webbed feet, which it uses to capture its prey.
Its diet consists of fish, which it catches by diving underwater. The Great Cormorant is found across much of the world, from temperate to tropical climates. It usually lives near large bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans.
It is a migratory species, with populations in some areas moving south in the winter months. The Great Cormorant is an important species in the ecosystems in which it is found.
It helps to keep fish populations in check by preying on them, and it also serves as an important food source for other predators. It is also an important species for ecotourism, with its impressive size and striking appearance making it a popular bird to observe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Phalacrocorax |
| Species | P. carbo |
18. Little Egret
The little egret is a species of small heron that belongs to the family Ardeidae. It is easily recognizable by its white feathers and slender black beak. Its long black legs are a distinguishing feature, and the western race of the species has the added feature of yellow feet.
This aquatic bird can be found in shallow water or on land, where it feeds on a variety of small animals. Its diet consists of insects, crustaceans, amphibians, reptiles, and small fish.
The little egret is a fascinating species due to its ability to feed in both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. It is also known to be a highly adaptive bird, and it can be found in a variety of habitats from coastal areas to wetlands and woodlands.
The little egret is an important part of the ecosystem, as it helps to maintain balance by consuming smaller animals. It is also a beloved sight to many, as its bright white feathers are a beautiful addition to any landscape.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. garzetta |
19. Black-Headed Gull
The black-headed gull is a species of small gull that breeds in a wide range of areas in the Palearctic. This includes much of Europe, as well as the coastal regions of eastern Canada.
Most of the population of this species migrates south during the winter months, but a few birds are able to remain in the milder climates of the westernmost areas of Europe.
This species is able to survive in these areas, as they are not exposed to the harsher winter conditions that birds further east must endure. The black-headed gull is an adaptable species, able to live in various climates and habitats.
Its migratory habits also allow it to take advantage of the seasonal abundance of food available in different areas. This species is an important part of the ecological balance in many parts of the world, and its presence is a key indicator of a healthy ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Genus | Chroicocephalus |
| Species | C. ridibundus |
Conclusion
Birds in Rimini are a source of joy and beauty, and they provide many benefits for both people and the environment. They are a symbol of the city’s natural beauty, and they are an important part of its ecology.
The city has taken measures to ensure the protection and conservation of the birds, allowing them to thrive and providing a wonderful experience for visitors and locals alike.