Birds in Treviso are a delight to watch, with their bright colors and varied songs. From the majestic eagle soaring high above the city to the tiny wrens flitting through the trees, there is something to appeal to every bird watcher.
Treviso is home to many bird species, including many rare and endangered species. With its many wetlands, forests, and other natural habitats, it is an ideal place for birders to observe birds in their natural environment.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced birder, you will find something interesting in Treviso.
13 Birds to Watch in Treviso
Treviso is a city in northeastern Italy, famous for its art, culture, and cuisine. But it is also a great destination for birdwatchers, as it hosts a rich diversity of avian life. Whether you are looking for rare, colorful, or majestic birds, you will find them in Treviso.
Here are 13 birds that you should not miss when you visit this beautiful city.
1. Long-tailed Tit
The long-tailed tit, also known as the long-tailed bushtit, is a species of bird that is found throughout Europe and the Palearctic. This small bird has a distinctive long tail, which it uses to help it navigate through bushes and trees.
It is a very social bird, often seen in flocks. The long-tailed tit is a member of the Aegithalos genus, which Aristotle first named. He used this term to refer to a variety of European tit species, including the long-tailed tit.
This species is highly adaptable and can be found in various habitats, such as woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands. They eat a range of insects, seeds, and berries and are known to store food for later.
It fluffs its feathers and makes loud noises to protect itself from predators. The long-tailed tit is an integral part of the European and Palearctic bird populations and is an important species to preserve.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Aegithalidae |
| Genus | Aegithalos |
| Species | A. caudatus |
2. Great Tit
The great tit is a small, passerine bird that belongs to the Paridae family. It is found throughout Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and eastward to the Amur River, which forms the border between Russia and China.
Its range is one of the largest among all birds in the world. It is also one of the most abundant species, with a population of up to 30 million individuals.
It has various habitats, including forests, gardens, parks, and heathland. The great tit is a highly adaptable species and can survive in a wide range of climates. It is a strong flier and can migrate long distances when necessary.
It has a distinctive black and yellow coloration, black head, and yellowish-white underparts. The wings and tail are black, with white patches on the wings. Its bill is black and short. The great tit is omnivorous and eats a wide variety of food.
It feeds on insects, fruits, seeds, and nuts. It also visits bird feeders in gardens. It builds its nest in tree cavities or nest boxes and lays about 6 to 12 eggs.
The chicks hatch after about two weeks and are fed by both parents. The great tit is an essential species in the ecosystem, as its diet helps to control insect populations and helps to disperse the seeds of many plant species.
It is also an important species for birdwatchers, as its bright colors and distinctive call make it easy to spot.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Parus |
| Species | P. major |
3. Common Buzzard
The common buzzard is a bird of prey in the family Accipitridae and is part of the genus Buteo. It is a medium to large bird with a wingspan of between 88 and 130 cm and a length of 45 and 63 cm.
The common buzzard is widely distributed and can be found across Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is also found in parts of North America, where it was introduced in the past. The common buzzard is a scavenger and feeds mainly on small animals such as rabbits, hares, and birds.
It also feeds on carrion and is frequently seen around roadsides, looking for dead animals and insects.
It is not particularly territorial and will usually tolerate other birds of prey in its vicinity. The common buzzard is an adaptable bird breeds in various habitats, from open grasslands to forests.
It is also quite resilient and can be found in urban areas, where it can find food and shelter.
The species has a variable plumage but is usually light brown above and white below, with some areas of darker brown. The common predator is one of the most common birds of prey in the world, and its population is stable in many areas.
Despite this, it is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and the use of pesticides. Conservation measures are needed to help protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. buteo |
4. Red-crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a species of duck known for its diving abilities. This species is native to parts of Europe and Asia and is known to inhabit certain parts of Africa. Its scientific name, Netta rufina, is derived from Greek and Latin.
The Greek word “Netta” translates to “duck,” while the Latin word “Rufina” translates to “golden-red.” This refers to the distinctive red crest on the head of the red-crested pochard.
The red-crested pochard is a large duck that can grow up to 17 inches long and is typically distinguished by its black and white head, bright red beak, and crest. The underside of the duck is usually white with a tinge of yellow.
These ducks inhabit shallow bodies of water and feed mainly on aquatic insects, mollusks, and small fish. They also feed on seeds and plants found in the water.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
5. Great Cormorant
The great cormorant is a widely distributed member of the cormorant family of seabirds.
It is also known by various names across the Northern Hemisphere, such as the black shag or kawau in New Zealand, the great black cormorant, the black cormorant in Australia, and the large cormorant in India.
This species of cormorant is an excellent swimmer and fishery due to its webbed feet, and it is often seen floating in the water or perched on rocks. Its feathers are dark grey to black, and its bill is curved and hooked.
It is a large bird with a wingspan of up to 1.3 meters and a total body length of up to 1 meter. The great cormorant is found in coastal areas around the world, from the Arctic to the tropics, and it feeds on fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic creatures.
It is a colonial nester, and the breeding season typically starts in the spring. The great cormorant is vital to the ecosystem and is a valuable part of the marine environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Phalacrocorax |
| Species | P. carbo |
6. Coal Tit
The coal tit, also known as the coal tit, is a small bird of the Paridae family and is found in forests across the temperate to subtropical areas of the Palearctic, which includes North Africa.
It is a widespread resident breeder easily recognizable due to its black crest. The black-crested tit was previously treated as a separate species but is now usually considered part of the coal tit species.
The coal tit has a grayish-brown back, a white belly, and a black cap. The wings are grayish-brown, and the tail is blackish-brown with white edges. Its legs are dark gray, and its beak is black. It has a distinctive call: a high-pitched “tee-tee-tee.”
The coal tit can be found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous woodlands, coniferous forests, and urban areas. It feeds on insects, seeds, and berries.
The coal tit is an integral part of the Palearctic’s ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations, disperse seeds, and pollinate flowers. It is also an important food source for many larger birds and mammals.
The coal tit is a long-distance migrant traveling to warmer climates during the winter months. It has a lifespan of about six years in the wild and is a relatively common species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Periparus |
| Species | P. ater |
7. Pallid Swift
The pallid swift is a species of swift that belongs to the genus Apus. Its Latin name, Apus pallidus, roughly translates to “pale swift,” indicating its coloration.
Swifts are characterized by their very short legs, which they use exclusively to cling to vertical surfaces. This adaptation sets them apart from other birds, as they cannot land on the ground and take off from it.
The ancients believed that swifts had no feet, which is reflected in their scientific name. This is why the scientific name Apus is Latin for “swift” and pallidum for “pale.”
The pallid swift never voluntarily settles on the ground but instead uses its ability to cling to vertical surfaces to move from place to place.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Apus |
| Species | A. pallidus |
8. Common Moorhen
The Common Moorhen, also known by its alternate names of Waterhen and Swamp Chicken, is a bird species that belongs to the rail family. It is found in many parts of the Old World and resides primarily in well-vegetated wetlands such as marshes, ponds, and canals.
They have a wide range of habitats, from the tropics to the temperate regions of the Old World. The Common Moorhen is a medium-sized bird, usually twelve and fifteen inches long. It has a black bill and a striped body with a white belly.
The bird’s legs are bright red, and its feet are yellow. Its wings are dark with white patches, and its tail is white and black. The Common Moorhen is an omnivore that eats plants and small animals.
They feed on frogs, snails, worms, insects, and seeds during the breeding season. They feed on grains, grasses, and aquatic plants in winter. Common Moorhens are monogamous, meaning they mate for life with one partner.
They build their nests on ponds and marshes, usually near dense vegetation. The nests are made from reeds, grass, and other materials and are often lined with feathers. The female lays 4-6 eggs, which both parents help incubate.
When the chicks hatch, both parents feed them with the food they bring to the nest. Common Moorhens are social birds living in colonies, usually with 4-6 pairs. They are vocal birds, producing a variety of calls and songs.
The males are particularly vocal during the breeding season, which helps to attract potential mates. The Common Moorhen is a widespread species of minor concern on the IUCN Red List.
Despite their large population, they are threatened by habitat loss, degradation, hunting, and poaching. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the long-term survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Gallinula |
| Species | G. chloropus |
9. Mediterranean Gull
The Mediterranean gull is a small species of gull native to the Mediterranean region and can also be found in coastal areas of Europe and parts of Africa.
Its scientific name, Ichthyaetus melanocephalus, is derived from Greek words that mean “black-headed fish eagle.” The genus Ichthyaetus comes from two words: ichthus, meaning “fish,” and autos, meaning “eagle.”
The specific melanocephalus comprises two words: melas, meaning “black,” and -cephalous, meaning “headed.” Its black head and white body quickly identify this species of gull. Its wingspan is about 4 feet, and its diet consists of insects, crustaceans, and fish.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Genus | Ichthyaetus |
| Species | I. melanocephalus |
10. Montagu’s Harrier
Montagu’s harrier is a bird belonging to the harrier family, characterized by its migratory behavior. The bird is named after the British naturalist George Montagu, who dedicated his life to studying the natural world.
The Harrier family has a long history, with members spread across the globe. Montagu’s harrier is one of the most prominent members of this family, with a wingspan of up to 4 feet.
It is a powerful bird of prey with sharp eyes and nails and a diet of small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, and sometimes small birds.
Montagu’s harrier is typically found across western and central Europe, with some birds migrating as far east as Kazakhstan and southwest Russia. They can be found in the Middle East and North Africa during the winter months.
In the spring, they migrate back to their breeding grounds in Europe. Montagu’s harrier is a protected species in the UK, and the population has been slowly increasing in recent years.
However, its migratory habits and limited range put it at risk of disappearing in certain areas if conservation efforts are not put in place.
Overall, Montagu’s harrier is a remarkable species of bird of prey, and its common name is a fitting tribute to the British naturalist George Montagu. Its migratory behavior, diet, and range make it a unique species that deserves protection and conservation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Circus |
| Species | C. pygargus |
11. Great Spotted Woodpecker
The great spotted woodpecker is a fascinating bird in many parts of the world. It is a medium-sized woodpecker with distinctive black and white plumage. On the lower belly, it has a bright red patch, making it stand out from other birds.
Males and younger birds also have red markings on their necks or heads, which adds to their distinctiveness. This species is widely distributed across the Palearctic region, which includes parts of North Africa.
Its range stretches from the British Isles to China, and it is also found in many other European countries and parts of the Middle East.
It is a common sight in woodlands and parks and can frequently be seen as it feeds on insects. The great spotted woodpecker is a protected species that play a vital role in the health of forests and woodlands.
Its habit of drilling into the wood to feed on sap and other insects can help to keep trees healthy by removing pests and allowing air to circulate in the tree. It also helps disperse seeds via its droppings, and its loud tapping sound is familiar in the woods.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dendrocopos |
| Species | D. major |
12. Black Stork
The black stork is a large bird belonging to the family Ciconiidae. The Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus first described and documented it in the 10th edition of his famous book Systema Naturae.
The black stork is most commonly found in woodlands and wetlands and is known to be a very elusive species. Although it is not considered an endangered species, its population is declining in some regions due to habitat loss and human activity.
The black stork has a very characteristic appearance, with its black plumage and long, red legs. It also has a long, pointed bill, which feeds on smaller creatures, like fish and frogs.
In addition, the black stork is also known to be a migratory species, traveling from its breeding grounds in Europe and Asia to its wintering grounds in Africa.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Ciconiiformes |
| Family | Ciconiidae |
| Genus | Ciconia |
| Species | C. nigra |
13. Golden Oriole
The Eurasian golden oriole, also known as the common golden oriole, is a unique species of passerine bird native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
This species is a summer migrant in Europe and the Palearctic, meaning it spends the warm seasons in these regions and then migrates south during the colder winter months.
The Eurasian golden oriole typically spends winter in central and southern Africa, where the climate is more conducive to its needs.
The Eurasian golden oriole is part of the Old World oriole family, a group of passerine birds characterized by their vibrant colors and melodic songs. These birds usually have black and yellow markings, and the Eurasian golden oriole is no exception.
Its bright yellow feathers have a black crown, wings, and tail, making it quite striking. This species is also known for its beautiful song, often heard echoing through woodlands during the summer months.
Overall, the Eurasian golden oriole is a truly remarkable bird. Its striking yellow and black plumage and melodic song make it a joy to spot and listen to.
It is also interesting to note that this species is a summer migrant, meaning it spends the colder winter months in Africa before returning to its northern habitats in the spring.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Oriolidae |
| Genus | Oriolus |
| Species | O. oriolus |
Conclusion
Treviso is home to various birds, from the common sparrows to the rarer species like the Black Woodpecker.
The birds of Treviso are a source of delight for many locals, providing them with a glimpse of nature in their urban surroundings.
With the city’s numerous parks and reserves, Treviso is an excellent place for bird-watching and bird-lovers.