Trieste is home to a wide variety of birds, ranging from the tiny hummingbird to the majestic eagle. The city is ideally located in the northeastern part of Italy, surrounded by the Adriatic Sea.
This makes it the perfect place for bird watchers, as the city offers a rich and diverse selection of species. There are numerous parks, forests, and wetlands throughout the city that are home to a large number of bird species.
From the common pigeons to the rarer species such as the white stork, many different birds can be observed in Trieste. With its unique climate and habitat, Trieste is a paradise for ornithologists and bird watchers alike.
1. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a type of water bird from the grebe family. Its scientific name is derived from Ancient Greek and Latin words. The genus name, takhus, comes from Ancient Greek and means “fast”, while bapto means “to sink under”.
The species name, ruficollis, is from Latin and is made up of two words. The first, Rufus, means “red” and the second, -Collis, is derived from the Latin collum, meaning “neck”. Thus, ruficollis literally translates to “red-necked”.
This is likely a reference to the reddish-brown feathers of the bird’s neck.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
2. Great Crested Grebe
The great crested grebe is a large water bird native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and parts of Australia. It is a member of the Grebe family, which includes approximately 20 species of aquatic birds.
This species is well-known for its elaborate mating display, which takes place on the water’s surface. During the display, the male and female birds will face each other, dip their heads under the water, and perform a synchronized dance.
During this dance, they will often raise their wings and point their beaks skyward.
This display is usually accompanied by a variety of vocalizations made by both the male and female. The great crested grebe is a strongly territorial species, and the male will defend his territory from other males during the breeding season.
The breeding season usually occurs during the summer months, and the female will lay up to four eggs in a floating nest made from vegetation. Both the male and female will take turns incubating the eggs, and the chicks will be capable of swimming within 24 hours of hatching.
After hatching, the chicks will be fed by both parents for up to twelve weeks until they become independent. The great crested grebe is a protected species due to its declining population.
It is threatened by factors such as habitat destruction, pollution, and predation from other animals. Conservation efforts are being made in order to protect and preserve this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. cristatus |
3. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck is a species of medium-sized diving duck that is native to Eurosiberia. It is also known by various other names such as ferruginous pochard, common white-eye, or white-eyed pochard. Its scientific name is derived from two words, “aithuia” and “nyrok”.
Aithuia is a Greek word that was used by ancient authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle to refer to an unidentified seabird, while nyrok is the Russian name for a duck. This species of duck is known for its unique ferruginous coloration and its ability to dive underwater.
It is an important part of the Eurosiberian wetland ecosystem, providing food for other species and helping to maintain the environmental balance..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
4. Mute Swan
The mute swan is a species of swan belonging to the Anatidae family, which consists of waterfowl. It is native to a large portion of Europe and Siberia, as well as parts of North Africa.
Mute swans are typically found in wetlands, rivers, lakes, marshes, and other aquatic habitats. They are highly social animals and often form large flocks when foraging for food.
The mute swan is an omnivorous species that feeds on a variety of plants and animals, such as aquatic weeds, fish, crustaceans, insects, and small rodents. They are also known to feed on cultivated crops such as wheat and barley.
Mute swans are generally silent birds, but they do occasionally produce a variety of low-pitched honking noises. They have also been known to produce a loud hissing sound when threatened.
Mute swans are generally white in color, though some may have a light gray or yellowish tint. They are usually quite large, with an average wingspan of about 6-10 feet. The mute swan is a highly recognizable species and is one of the most popular birds in the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. olor |
5. Grebes
Grebes are a type of bird found in freshwater habitats, although some species can also be found in marine habitats during migration and winter. These aquatic diving birds belong to the order Podicipediformes and are widely distributed across the globe.
The majority of grebes are able to fly, although some species are flightless. These flightless grebes are usually found in stable lakes, which provide them with a safe haven from predators.
Grebes are also known for their distinctive diving behavior, which is often used to capture prey or escape from danger. They have webbed feet that help them move quickly through the water and their feathers are specially adapted to help them stay dry.
Grebes are an important part of the food chain and they play a vital role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Mirandornithes |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
6. Pallid Swift
The pallid swift is a species of swift which belongs to the genus Apus. Swifts are birds that have very short legs which they use for clinging to vertical surfaces. The term “Apus” is derived from the Latin language and means “swift”, while “pallidus” in Latin means “pale”.
These birds have the unique ability to never settle voluntarily on the ground, making them quite distinct from other species of birds. They are often found flying in the sky or perched on a vertical surface.
The pallid swift is known for its pale coloring and can be found in various parts of the world. The pallid swift is also known for its speed and agility, making it a popular species of bird to watch.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Apus |
| Species | A. pallidus |
7. Rock Partridge
The rock partridge, also known as the common rock partridge, is a species of gamebird from the pheasant family, Phasianidae. It belongs to the order Galliformes, which includes other gamebirds such as grouse, quail, and turkeys.
The rock partridge is native to southern Europe and is closely related to its eastern counterpart, the chukar partridge, A. chukar. The two birds are very similar in appearance and share many of the same characteristics.
The rock partridge is a medium-sized bird, with males usually measuring between 38-40 cm and females measuring up to 33 cm. They have grayish-brown plumage with darker barring, a pale throat, and a white-tipped tail. The bill and feet are yellowish-orange.
They have a short, rounded black crest on the back of the head. The rock partridge is a terrestrial bird, preferring to spend most of its time on the ground and only taking to the air if disturbed.
It feeds mainly on seeds and grains, but will also eat insects, berries, and other small invertebrates. The rock partridge is a social bird, usually seen in small groups and occasionally in larger flocks.
They can be found in a variety of habitats, from open fields to rocky slopes and scrubland. The rock partridge is a popular gamebird in southern Europe and is often hunted for sport.
It is becoming increasingly rare due to habitat destruction and hunting pressure, but populations have been stable in recent years.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Alectoris |
| Species | A. graeca |
8. Common Pochard
The common pochard is a species of diving duck that is found all around the world. Its scientific name is derived from two distinct sources.
The first source is Greek, specifically from the word “aithuia,” which was used by ancient authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle to refer to an unidentified seabird.
The second source is Latin, where the word “ferina” means “wild game” and is derived from the Latin word “ferus,” which translates to “wild.” This name gives us a clearer idea of what this species of duck is like.
It is likely a wild bird that lives near the sea and can dive for its food. It is also possible that it is a game bird, meaning that it is hunted for sport or food.
The common pochard is a medium-sized duck that is found in many different habitats, including shallow freshwater wetlands, marshes, and even the open ocean. It is a popular species of duck that is often seen in parks and other areas with water.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. ferina |
9. Tufted Duck
The Tufted Duck, also known as the Tufted Pochard, is a species of small diving duck that has an estimated population of close to one million individuals. It is found in northern Eurasia and is easily recognizable due to its unique tufts of feathers on its head.
Its scientific name, Aythya fuligula, is derived from Ancient Greek. The term “aithuia” was used by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle to describe an unidentified seabird.
The Latin word “fuligo”, which translates to “soot”, is likely a reference to the black plumage of the duck, while the Latin word “gula” is used to describe its throat. This species is a popular game bird, hunted both for sport and for food.
The Tufted Duck is a hardy species, able to survive in a variety of habitats, from wetlands to lakes and rivers. Unfortunately, the population of Tufted Ducks has been declining due to human activities, such as hunting, habitat destruction, and pollution.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect this species and its habitats and to ensure its numbers will remain stable in the future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. fuligula |
10. European Nightjar
The European nightjar is a species of bird belonging to the nightjar family. This species can be found across most of Europe, the Palearctic, Mongolia, and Northwestern China.
It is a crepuscular and nocturnal bird, meaning it is active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk, as well as during the night. This bird’s diet consists of insects such as moths, beetles, and grasshoppers, which it catches during its active hours.
It is also known by several other names, including common goatsucker, Eurasian nightjar, and simply nightjar. The European nightjar has a distinctive appearance. It has a mottled brown upper body and a light grayish-white belly, with a black band running across its chest.
Its large eyes are yellow, and it has a long beak that is used for catching insects. Its wingspan can reach up to 35 cm in length. This species is quite vocal and produces a variety of calls.
The most common is a harsh “churr” sound. The European nightjar usually nests on the ground, in open areas with plenty of shrubs and trees. It usually lays two eggs at a time, and the incubation period can last up to two weeks. The chicks are able to fledge within three weeks.
The European nightjar is a species of least concern, as its population is relatively stable across its range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | C. europaeus |
11. Common Shelduck
The common shelduck is a type of waterfowl belonging to the Tadorna genus. It has a wide and abundant range in the Palearctic region of Europe and Siberia.
During the breeding season, the common shelduck prefers temperate climates, while in the winter it migrates to subtropical climates. It can also be found during the winter in the Maghreb region of North Africa.
This species of shelduck is unique in that it is able to adapt to a wide variety of climates, allowing it to inhabit a broad range of habitats.
The common shelduck is a highly social bird, often seen in large flocks on its migratory journeys and when it comes to land to feed, breed, and rest.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Tadorna |
| Species | T. tadorna |
12. Red-breasted Merganser
The red-breasted merganser is a species of duck that can be found across much of the Northern Hemisphere. The males of this species are particularly striking due to the bright red breast that they display during the breeding season.
This bright red breast is the reason for its common name, as it stands out among the other species of ducks. The red-breasted merganser is a large duck, with a long, pointed bill and a distinct crest of feathers on its head.
It is a strong swimmer and can be found in both freshwater and saltwater habitats. During the breeding season, the males are marked with a bright red breast, which contrasts with the light gray body and dark head.
This is the only time that the red breast is displayed and is the main reason for the bird’s common name. The red-breasted merganser is an important species for the ecosystems across the Northern Hemisphere and is an important food source for many predators..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergus |
| Species | M. serrator |
13. Red-necked Grebe
The red-necked grebe is an aquatic bird that migrates during the winter in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. It can be found in both coastal and inland areas, although most of the birds winter around ocean coasts.
This species prefers calm waters, just beyond the reach of the waves, and can sometimes be seen in large lakes as well. The red-necked grebe is an excellent swimmer and diver, capable of submerging for up to 30 seconds in search of food.
Its diet consists mainly of small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. This species is also known to feed on small amphibians and reptiles.
The red-necked grebe has a unique plumage, consisting of a grey-brown back, paler head and neck, and a distinctive reddish-brown neck patch. It is also an impressive flyer, using its strong wings to glide over the water in search of food.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. grisegena |
14. Alpine Swift
The alpine swift is a species of swift found in Africa, southern Europe, and Asia. This species of swift is unique in that it has adapted to live in mountainous regions. Alpine swifts breed in the mountains of southern Europe all the way to the Himalayas.
Like many other species of swift, these birds are migratory, and the southern European population will migrate south to winter in southern Africa. This species of swift is quite hardy and is able to survive in the mountainous terrain and colder climates of the winter months.
Alpine swifts have a wide range and can be found in many parts of the world, making them a remarkably adaptable species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Tachymarptis |
| Species | T. melba |
15. Eurasian Wigeon
The Eurasian wigeon, also known as the European wigeon, is a species of dabbling duck from the genus Mareca. It is a common and widespread waterfowl, found throughout the Palearctic region, which encompasses the majority of Europe, parts of North Asia, and Northern Africa.
It is easily identifiable by its distinctive grey and white plumage and its bright chestnut head. Its bright, yellow-tipped bill is also a distinguishing feature.
The Eurasian wigeon is a social species, usually found in groups in wetlands, such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and marshes. It feeds on a variety of aquatic plants, as well as insects, mollusks, and crustaceans.
In the winter months, the Eurasian wigeon migrates south to warmer climates, where it joins up with other species of ducks to form large flocks. The Eurasian wigeon is an important species in the Palearctic region, playing an integral role in the local ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. penelope |
16. Gadwall
The gadwall is a type of dabbling duck that belongs to the family Anatidae. It is found in many different parts of the world and is quite common. The gadwall is a medium-sized duck that typically measures between 19 and 21 inches in length and has a wingspan of 28 to 32 inches.
It has brown plumage with white patches on its wings, a grey head, and a black tail. The male gadwall has a green head and neck, while the female has a brown head and neck. Gadwalls are mainly found in wetlands, such as shallow ponds, marshes, and lakes.
They feed on aquatic plants, insects, and other small animals that they find in the water. During the breeding season, the male gadwall will perform a courtship display to attract a mate.
This display involves the male raising his wings and making loud, honking noises. Gadwalls are highly social birds and they can often be seen in large flocks, especially during migration. They are also known to form large flocks during the winter months when food is scarce.
During these times, they will also often join other species of ducks in search of food. Overall, the gadwall is an important species of duck that plays an important role in many ecosystems.
In addition to providing food for other animals, they also help to disperse seeds and clean up aquatic habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. strepera |
17. Greylag Goose
The Greylag Goose, or Graylag Goose, is a species of large goose in the Anatidae family of waterfowl. It is the type species of the Anser genus. This species of goose has a unique plumage, with mottled and barred grey and white feathers all over its body.
The beak of the Greylag Goose is orange, and its legs are pink in color. Its size is also quite large, making it a very noticeable bird. In addition to its distinctive feathers and coloration, this species of goose is also known for its loud, honking call.
This call is often heard during the early mornings and late evenings when the geese are most active. The Greylag Goose is a very distinctive and recognizable bird, and it is an important part of many ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anser |
| Species | A. anser |
18. Common Goldeneye
The common goldeneye is a species of sea duck that is part of the genus Bucephala, commonly referred to as the goldeneyes. It is closely related to Barrow’s Goldeneye, which is similar in size and appearance.
The name of the genus is derived from the Ancient Greek word boukephalos, which refers to the round shape of the bufflehead’s head. The common goldeneye is a medium-sized sea duck that is found in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
It has a black-and-white body with a bright yellow patch near its eyes, hence the name goldeneye. The common goldeneye is a strong swimmer and diver and feeds mainly on mollusks, crustaceans, and fish. It is a popular prey item for predators, such as owls, hawks, and eagles.
The common goldeneye is an important part of the ecosystem, providing food for many other species and helping to maintain the balance of the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Bucephala |
| Species | B. clangula |
19. Velvet Scoter
The velvet scoter is a large sea duck that is found in northern Europe and the western area of the Yenisey basin in the Palearctic region. It is also referred to as a velvet duck. Its scientific name, Melanitta fusca, is derived from Ancient Greek and Latin.
The genus name, Melanitta, is a combination of the Greek words melas meaning black, and Netta meaning duck.
The species name, fusca, is derived from the Latin word meaning dusky brown. The velvet scoter is a popular duck for hunters due to its large size, deep brown color, and distinct white patch along the back of its neck. It has a thick bill, a broad head, and a plump body.
Its wings are large and powerful, giving it good speed and agility in the water.
It feeds mainly on small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. The velvet scoter is a migratory species, with the majority of its population traveling south during the winter months and returning to breed in the spring.
It is believed that the velvet scoter can live for up to 15 years in the wild. The velvet scoter is not considered to be endangered, however, its population has seen a decrease in recent years due to hunting and environmental factors.
It is currently listed as ‘least concern’ on the IUCN Red List. Conservation efforts are ongoing to ensure the long-term survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Melanitta |
| Species | M. fusca |
20. Water Rail
The water rail is a member of the rail family and is found in a variety of wetlands across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. These birds prefer habitats that have plenty of vegetation and they are migratory birds in more northern and eastern parts of their range.
However, these birds are permanent residents in the warmer parts of their breeding range. This indicates that they are able to adapt to different climates, making them resilient species.
In addition, they are able to take advantage of the abundance of food sources that wetlands offer, such as fish, insects, frogs, and small mammals. This allows them to thrive in their habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Rallus |
| Species | R. aquaticus |
21. Little Crake
The Little Crake is a small waterbird belonging to the Rallidae family. Its name is derived from the Latin word ‘parva’, which means ‘small’.
It is found mainly in reed beds throughout Europe and parts of western Asia, and is a migratory species, migrating south to Africa for the winter months. The Little Crake is a shy bird, preferring to remain well hidden in the reeds of its habitat.
It nests in the reeds and feeds on small insects, worms, and pond vegetation. In recent years, its population has declined due to habitat destruction. As such, conservation efforts are underway to help protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Zapornia |
| Species | Z. parva |
22. Smew
The smew is a species of duck that is the only living member of the genus Mergellus. The genus is derived from the Latin word “Mergus” and “albellus” which translates to “white”.
This genus is closely related to Mergus and is sometimes included in it, as both share many similarities. However, the smew is more closely related to the goldeneyes, another species of duck.
This is due to the similarities between the two such as their feeding habits, breeding behavior, and geographical distribution. The smew is found across Eurasia and North America, while the goldeneyes are more widely distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere.
Both species are also found near rivers, lakes, and ponds. Furthermore, both the smew and the goldeneyes are known for their diving abilities.
The smew is able to dive deep into the water and can stay underwater for up to a minute, while the goldeneyes are known for their fast underwater dives.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergellus |
| Species | M. albellus |
23. Red-crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a species of large diving duck found across much of the world. It is a visually striking waterfowl, with a deep chestnut-colored head, black bill, and white body accented with black markings.
The scientific name of this species is derived from Greek Netta, meaning “duck”, and Latin Rufina, meaning “golden-red” – a reference to its striking red crest. The red-crested pochard is an adept swimmer, as it spends much of its time underwater foraging for food.
Its diet consists primarily of aquatic vegetation, though on occasion, it will also supplement its diet with insects and even small fish. They are highly social creatures, often forming small flocks of up to 30 individuals during the winter months.
These flocks can be seen in many of the large wetlands of the world, including the United States, Europe, and Asia..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
24. Long-tailed Duck
The long-tailed duck is a species of sea duck that is found in the Arctic. It was previously known as the oldsquaw and is a medium-sized duck that measures about eighteen to twenty-two inches in length.
It has a wingspan of thirty-six to forty inches and a long tail, hence the name long-tailed duck. The long-tailed duck breeds in the tundra and taiga regions of the Arctic, and winters along the northern coastlines of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
This species of duck is quite hardy, able to survive in the cold temperatures of the Arctic regions. The long-tailed duck is the only member of the genus Clangula, making it a unique species. It has a white neck and head, with a dark brown back and wings.
Its chest is greyish-white, with a black patch on its belly. The head of the long-tailed duck is slightly peaked, with a thin bill. The long-tailed duck is an omnivore and can be found in both fresh and salt water, often foraging for food in shallow waters.
Its diet consists of aquatic plants, insects, mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish. The long-tailed duck is an attractive species and is often seen in small groups or flocks. They are known to be quite vocal, making a variety of cooing, whistling, and cackling sounds.
Overall, the long-tailed duck is a unique species of sea duck that is found in the Arctic region. It is the only member of the genus Clangula and can survive in the cold temperatures of the Arctic.
Its diet includes a variety of aquatic plants, insects, mollusks, crustaceans, and small fish, and it can be found in both fresh and salt water. The long-tailed duck is an attractive species and is often seen in small groups or flocks making a variety of vocalizations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Clangula |
| Species | C. hyemalis |
Conclusion
The birds of Trieste are a diverse and unique part of the ecology of the city. From the iconic Bora wind-tolerant terns to the migratory birds of the Po Delta, the avian population of Trieste has long played an important role in the city’s history and culture.
The recent establishment of bird-friendly areas such as the Portopiccolo Nature Reserve has helped to ensure that these birds have a safe and secure environment in which to live and thrive.
Trieste is an important part of the Adriatic flyway, and its birds are a vital part of the city’s identity and biodiversity.