Sassari is a beautiful city in Italy and it is home to a wide variety of birds. From colorful parrots to majestic eagles to small wrens, there is something for everyone to admire. The birds in Sassari have adapted to their environment and the city’s temperate climate.
There are many different species of birds that can be seen in the area, including owls, woodpeckers, and even some rarer species like the common kestrel. The city of Sassari is a great place to observe and appreciate the beauty of these birds.
Whether you are a birding enthusiast or just an admirer of nature, you are sure to find something to appreciate in Sassari.
1. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is a species of the flamingo family that is found in many parts of the world, especially in the Old World.
They are native to many parts of Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East, the Levant, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe.
This makes them the most widespread and largest species of the flamingo family. The greater flamingo is a large, beautiful bird that is easily recognizable due to its pink or reddish-pink feathers.
They can be found in many different habitats, including wetlands, brackish lakes, pools, mudflats, and lagoons.
They are gregarious birds, often seen in large flocks. The diet of the greater flamingo consists mainly of small aquatic invertebrates, such as brine shrimp and blue-green algae. They use their beaks to filter out these small creatures from the water.
They also consume some plant material, such as seeds and leaves. The greater flamingo is an essential part of the ecology of many regions. They are an important food source to many predators, such as birds of prey and crocodiles.
They also help to keep their habitats clean by consuming large amounts of algae. The greater flamingo is a remarkable species that is found in many different parts of the world.
They are a species that is essential to many different ecosystems, and their presence helps to keep their habitats in balance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
2. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck is a unique species of bird that is found mostly in Eurosiberia, the region encompassing both Europe and Siberia. It is also known by the names ferruginous pochard, common white-eye, and white-eyed pochard.
This species of duck is medium-sized and usually dives in the water for food. Its scientific name is derived from Greek words: aithuia and nyrok. Aithuia was an unidentified seabird mentioned by ancient authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle.
Nyrok is the Russian name for a duck. This species of duck is recognized for its rust-colored feathers, hence the name ‘ferruginous’ duck, and has a white ring of feathers around its eyes, giving it the other three common names.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
3. Pallid Swift
The pallid swift is a bird belonging to the swift family. Swifts are known for their short legs, which they use mainly for clinging to the sides of vertical surfaces such as cliffs and buildings.
The scientific name for the pallid swift is Apus pallidus; ‘Apus’ is derived from the Latin word for ‘swift’, while ‘pallidus’ means ‘pale’. The pallid swift is one of the few bird species that never settle voluntarily on the ground.
Instead, they use their short legs to grip onto vertical surfaces, allowing them to stay in the air even when at rest. The pallid swift is an incredibly agile flyer, capable of performing sharp turns and sudden changes of direction at high speed.
They feed mainly on insects, which they spot in mid-air and catch with their beaks while still flying.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Apus |
| Species | A. pallidus |
4. Eurasian Wigeon
The Eurasian wigeon (Mareca penelope) is a species of dabbling duck that is found across the Palearctic region. It is also known as the European wigeon, the widgeon or simply the wigeon.
This species is one of three species of wigeon in the genus Mareca; the other two are the American wigeon (Mareca americana) and the Chiloé wigeon (Mareca sibilatrix). The Eurasian wigeon is a medium-sized duck, measuring around 42–50 cm in length with a wingspan of up to 70 cm.
Its plumage is mainly grey and white, with a distinctive chestnut-brown head and neck. It has a black bill, black legs and feet, and a blue-grey wing patch. The Eurasian wigeon is a common and widespread species, inhabiting wetlands, marshes, and shallow lakes across its range.
This species feeds mainly on aquatic plants, as well as some insects, molluscs, and other small invertebrates. It is also known to eat grains and seeds.
This species is the most widespread of the three species of wigeon, and is found across much of Europe, Asia, and North Africa.
Its population is believed to be increasing, and it is listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. penelope |
5. Alpine Swift
The alpine swift is a species of swift found in three continents, Africa, Europe, and Asia. It is a migratory bird, and breeds in mountains from southern Europe to the Himalayas.
During the winter months, the southern European population of alpine swifts migrates further south to southern Africa. This species of swift is closely related to the common swift and shares many of the same behaviors.
The alpine swift has a slender and streamlined body, which helps it to fly quickly and efficiently. Its wings are short and rounded, and its tail is long and deeply forked.
Its plumage is predominantly greyish-brown, with a white throat and a black patch in the center of its chest. It has long, pointed wings and a shortish, slightly curved bill. The alpine swift has a wide range of habitats, including mountains, cliffs, and rock walls.
It prefers to nest in crevices or small caves in cliffs and rocky walls. It feeds by flying high in the sky and catching flying insects. It also forages low in the air and sometimes visits flowers to feed on nectar.
The alpine swift is an important species of bird, as it helps to control insect populations, and is a vital part of the food chain. Its migration patterns are also important, as they help to ensure the survival of the species.
It is important that we work to protect this species, so that future generations can continue to enjoy its presence in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Tachymarptis |
| Species | T. melba |
6. Cattle Egret
The Cattle Egret is a species of heron found all over the world in various climates. It is the only species in its genus, Bubulcus, although some authorities believe that it has two subspecies – the Western Cattle Egret and the Eastern Cattle Egret.
These two subspecies are found in the tropics and subtropics, as well as in warm-temperate zones.The Cattle Egret has an interesting ability to adapt to different environments. It is able to live in different climates, ranging from tropical to warm temperate.
This species is often found alongside cows and other livestock, which is where it gets its name.
The egret feeds on the insects that are disturbed by the livestock as they graze, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two. The Cattle Egret is also known for its distinctive bright white feathers.
This species of heron stands out in any environment, making it easy to spot and identify.
Its bright feathers are also an advantage in the wild, as it can be easily seen by other animals, allowing it to better evade predators. Overall, the Cattle Egret is a remarkable species of heron that is able to live in many different environments.
Its white feathers make it easy to spot, and its ability to adapt to different climates makes it a truly cosmopolitan species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Bubulcus |
| Species | B. ibis |
7. Garganey
The garganey is a small and distinctive species of duck that inhabits much of Europe and parts of the Palearctic area.
It is a migratory species, and the entire population of garganey ducks makes an annual journey to Africa, India, Bangladesh and Australasia for the winter season of the Northern Hemisphere. During this time large flocks of the species can be observed in these regions.
The garganey is a dabbling duck, which means that it feeds on aquatic plants and other vegetation found in shallow waters. Its scientific name is Anas querquedula, and it is listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN Red List.
The garganey is a popular game bird in Europe and is hunted for its meat and feathers, which are used for fly tying and other decorative purposes.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Spatula |
| Species | S. querquedula |
8. European Turtle Dove
The European turtle dove is a species of bird from the Columbidae family, which includes doves and pigeons.
This species breeds across a wide range of the southwestern Palearctic region, which extends from the Mediterranean to the steppes of central Asia, and also includes parts of North Africa.
During the winter months, the European turtle dove migrates south to areas of northern sub-Saharan Africa, where the climate is warmer and more suitable for the species.
This behavior helps to ensure the survival of the species, allowing it to take advantage of the different climates during different times of the year.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. turtur |
9. Black-Winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt is a species of wader that can be found in many different parts of the world. It is part of the avocet and stilt family of birds, which are known for their long legs and slender bodies. This species’ scientific name is H.
himantopus, and it is often considered to be a single, almost cosmopolitan species. These birds feed on small insects, crustaceans, and other aquatic organisms, which they search for in shallow waters.
The black-winged stilt is a fairly small bird, measuring between 25 to 31 centimetres and weighing up to 180 grams. It has a distinct black and white plumage, with a long, sharp bill, and black legs and feet.
The adult birds also have a black patch on their wings, giving them their name. The black-winged stilt is a migratory species, and can be found in many parts of the world.
It is a common summer visitor to Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, while it is a permanent resident in parts of Africa and the Middle East.
These birds can also be found in North America, where they may have been introduced. The black-winged stilt is an important species in the wetlands it inhabits.
It plays an important role in the food chain, as it feeds on a variety of aquatic organisms, which in turn are preyed upon by other animals.
This species is also an important indicator of the health of its habitat, as it is affected by changes in water quality and the availability of food.
As such, it is important to monitor the population of this species and maintain healthy wetlands in order to ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
10. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a type of water bird that belongs to the grebe family. Its scientific name is derived from Ancient Greek, Latin and Modern Latin.
The genus name ‘Takhus’ comes from the Ancient Greek word which means “fast”, while ‘Bapto’ means “to sink under”. The species name ‘ruficollis’ is derived from Latin ‘rufus’ which means “red” and Modern Latin ‘-collis’ which means “-necked”.
This term 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. Purple Swamphen
The western swamphen is a species of bird belonging to the Rallidae family, commonly known as the rail family. It is also known as the sultana bird, derived from its French name talève sultane.
This bird, measuring about the size of a chicken, is easily distinguishable by its bright plumage, large feet, red bill, and frontal shield. It is found in its native range, where it is easily recognisable due to its unique features.
The western swamphen is one of the six species of purple swamphen, which are found in various parts of the world. It has a long and narrow body, with a black head and neck, and a pale greyish-brown back.
The wings are also dark greyish-brown and the tail is grey-brown, with a black tip. The legs are yellow-green and the feet are large and strong. The bill is red and the frontal shield is also red, with a black band running through it.
The plumage of the western swamphen is mainly blue-purple, with black flecks on the back. This species of swamphen is a ground-dwelling bird, living in wetlands and grasslands.
It is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods such as insects, worms, small fish, and various plant matter. It builds its nest on the ground, using grass and reeds as material. The western swamphen is a vocal bird, typically making a variety of calls throughout the day.
It is generally found in small flocks of up to five birds. The western swamphen is listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Despite this, its population is decreasing due to habitat destruction and hunting.
Therefore, it is important to protect its native range to ensure that this species of swamphen survives.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Porphyrio |
| Species | P. porphyrio |
12. Little Bittern
The Little Bittern, also known as the Common Little Bittern, is a species of wading bird from the heron family, Ardeidae. Its scientific name, Ixobrychus minutus, is derived from two sources.
The first part, “Ixobrychus”, originates from Ancient Greek and is composed of the words “ixias” and “brukhomai”. The former is a reference to a type of reed-like plant, while the latter means “to bellow”. The second part of the name, “minutus”, is the Latin word for “small”.
This is an indication of the bird’s small size relative to other members of its family. The Little Bittern is a small, stocky bird that is typically brown or grey in colour, with distinctive yellow-brown streaks.
Its habitat is typically marshy areas or wetlands, where it feeds on small fish, frogs and insects. It is quite vocal, making a loud, raucous call to attract a mate during the breeding season.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ixobrychus |
| Species | I. minutus |
13. Purple Heron
The purple heron is an impressive species of wading bird found in the heron family, Ardeidae. This bird is widely distributed in many parts of the world, including Africa, central and southern Europe, and southern and eastern Asia.
The scientific name for the purple heron is derived from the Latin words ‘arde’ meaning heron, and ‘purpureus’ meaning colored purple. This bird usually breeds during the summer months in the areas it is found in, providing a stunning sight for birdwatchers.
The purple heron is a beautiful bird, with a purplish-grey coloration that stands out beautifully against its surroundings. It is known to inhabit various habitats, including wetlands, marshes, and other shallow bodies of water.
It can also be seen in some cultivated areas like ponds and gardens. This bird has a long neck and legs, and a pointed bill, making it easy to identify. It feeds on small fishes, amphibians, and even insects.
The purple heron is an important species of bird, and conservation efforts are being taken to ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. purpurea |
14. Squacco Heron
The squacco heron is a small species of heron found in the Old World. It grows to a length of 44 to 47 centimeters, with a body length of 20 to 23 centimeters and a wingspan of 80 to 92 centimeters.
This heron is mostly found in areas of Southern Europe and the Greater Middle East, where it breeds during the summer months. Its habitat usually consists of wetlands and other marshy areas, where it feeds on small fish, crustaceans, frogs, and aquatic insects.
The squacco heron is a solitary species, typically found alone or in pairs, and is usually seen wading in shallow water while hunting for prey. During the breeding season, its plumage changes, and the head, neck, and back become a bright chestnut color.
This species of heron is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, due to threats such as habitat loss and destruction, hunting, and pollution.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardeola |
| Species | A. ralloides |
15. Griffon Vulture
The Eurasian griffon vulture is a large bird of prey that is found in the Old World. It is a member of the Accipitridae family, which are birds of prey such as hawks, eagles, kites, and harriers.
This particular species of vulture is also referred to as the Griffon vulture, although this name may also be applied to the entire genus.
It is important to note that the Eurasian griffon vulture should not be confused with the Rüppell’s griffon vulture or Himalayan griffon vulture, which are other species of vultures in the same genus.
The Eurasian griffon vulture is quite large in size, measuring up to three feet in length and having a wingspan of nearly seven feet. It has a bald head and a pale yellow to orange beak. It is primarily scavenging and feeds on carcasses of dead animals.
It is mainly found in open areas with few trees and is known to soar in the air for long periods of time. In terms of conservation, the Eurasian griffon vulture is listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
This is due to its large population and wide range of distribution. However, as the species is facing threats from human activities such as habitat loss and poisoning, it is important to ensure that its population is not further degraded.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Gyps |
| Species | G. fulvus |
Conclusion
Sassari is home to a wide variety of birds. From the Great Cormorants and Black-winged Stilts of the wetlands, to the Blue Rock Thrushes of the mountains, and the Common Coots of the lakes and rivers, Sassari is a paradise for birdwatchers.
This diversity of birds provides many different habitats for them to inhabit and helps to keep the region’s biodiversity healthy. With the right knowledge and equipment, birdwatching in Sassari can be a great way to explore the region’s wildlife and natural beauty.