West Kordofan is a state in Sudan located in the north-central part of the country. It is home to various birds, making it an excellent bird-watching place. The most common birds in West Kordofan are raptors such as vultures, eagles, and hawks.
There are also many varieties of songbirds, like finches, larks, and buntings. In addition, there are numerous species of waterfowl, including ducks, geese, and flamingos.
West Kordofan is also home to a wide variety of migratory birds which travel through the area on their way to their wintering grounds. With its diverse habitats and its large population of birds, West Kordofan is an excellent place to explore the world of birds.
22 Birds to Watch in West Kordofan
West Kordofan is a state in Sudan that is rich in biodiversity and natural beauty. One of the attractions of this region is the variety of birds that can be seen and heard throughout the year. Whether you are a birdwatcher, a nature lover, or just curious.
Here are 22 birds that you should look out for when visiting West Kordofan.
1. Black-winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt is a species of wading bird that is part of the avocet and stilt family and is found in many parts of the world. It has very long legs, which helps it wade in the water for food. Its scientific name is H.
Himantopus, but it is sometimes referred to as a single, nearly universal species. This is because it is found in many places, including parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia. It has a black and white plumage, a black head and back, and a white belly.
Its long legs are pinkish. The black-winged stilt is a graceful wading bird that feeds mainly on invertebrates, such as insects, mollusks, crustaceans, small fishes, and amphibians.
It is an essential part of wetland habitats, helping to maintain healthy ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
2. Helmeted Guineafowl
The helmeted guineafowl is a bird part of the Numididae family and is the only species in the Numida genus. It is native to Africa, specifically the region south of the Sahara desert.
However, it has been introduced to various parts of the world, such as the West Indies, North America, Colombia, Brazil, Australia, and Europe. It is kept as a domesticated species in these areas and is widely known.
The helmeted guineafowl is recognizable by its unique helmet-like crest of feathers on its head, which gives it its name. Apart from this, it is also known for its loud vocalizations and its ability to adapt to various climates.
Its diet consists of seeds, insects, and other small animals. As a result of its introduction to new areas, the helmeted guineafowl has become an invasive species in some places.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Numididae |
| Genus | Numida |
| Species | N. meleagris |
3. Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse
The chestnut-bellied sandgrouse, also known as the common sandgrouse, is a bird species found in a wide range of habitats across northern and central Africa, as well as western and southern Asia.
It can be either sedentary or nomadic, depending on the availability of food and water sources. This species is divided into six recognized subspecies, each with distinctive characteristics, such as coloration and size.
The chestnut-bellied sandgrouse is a medium-sized bird with a length of around 20 centimeters and a wingspan of up to 35 centimeters. The males are generally more brightly colored than the females, with a chestnut-colored belly and gray-brown wings.
All subspecies share the same basic coloration, but there are subtle differences in the patterns on the wings and head, as well as in the sizes of the feathers. This species feeds mainly on insects, seeds, and other small animals.
They have adapted to arid and semi-arid climates and can survive for long periods without water. They are found in grassland, savannah, and desert habitats, where they forage in small groups.
This species is also known to breed in small colonies, usually found near water sources. The chestnut-bellied sandgrouse is a widely distributed species and is generally not considered to be threatened.
However, some subspecies are at risk due to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts, such as habitat protection and strict hunting regulations, are in place to protect this species and its subspecies.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pterocliformes |
| Family | Pteroclidae |
| Genus | Pterocles |
| Species | P. exustus |
4. Long-legged Buzzard
The long-legged buzzard is a bird of prey found in many areas, including Eurasia and North Africa. This buzzard species is found in Southeastern Europe, East Africa, and the northern part of the Indian subcontinent.
It is a member of the Buteo genus, a group of larger birds of prey. Long-legged buzzards usually have a wingspan of around two and a half feet and weigh up to two pounds.
This species typically has a dark brown to greyish-brown head, white neck, pale underbelly, and barred tail. It usually feeds on small mammals, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. The long-legged buzzard is a diurnal species that is most active during the day.
It is also known for its impressive soaring and gliding abilities, often riding on thermals and updrafts to get more height and distance. This species is monogamous, meaning it will form lifelong partnerships with the same mate.
The long-legged buzzard is a generally widespread species, though its population is believed to be declining in some areas due to habitat loss and human disturbance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. rufinus |
5. Bustards
Bustards are a group of large terrestrial birds belonging to the family Otididae. They encompass various species, such as floricans and korhaans, and are found in the Old World’s dry grassland and steppe areas.
Bustards range from 40 to 150 cm long and have a distinctive shape with long legs and a large, rounded body.
Their wingspan is typically broad and can often be seen soaring in open skies. These birds prefer open grassland, where they can forage for seeds, insects, and small mammals. Bustards are also known to eat fruits, roots, and small reptiles.
They are usually solitary but can sometimes be seen in small flocks. They are shy and wary birds that typically run away from humans if approached. Bustards are essential species in the Old World, as they are the only large terrestrial birds that inhabit the grasslands.
They are preyed on by various predators, including foxes, wolves, and even eagles. People also hunt bustards, as they are considered good game birds.
As a result, their populations are declining in many areas, and they are now considered a threatened species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Otidimorphae |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
6. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is the most widely distributed and prominent species of the family.
It is commonly found in the Old World, primarily in 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.
The greater flamingo is a large bird, reaching up to 5ft tall and weighing up to 6.5 lbs.
It has long legs, a long neck, and bright pink plumage. Its most distinctive feature is its giant bill, which is curved downwards. This allows it to filter food from the water. The greater flamingo is a highly sociable bird, typically found in large flocks.
It feeds on algae, crustaceans, insects, and mollusks, which it filters from the water using its bill. It nests in colonies, typically on the ground or in shallow water. The greater flamingo is an essential species in its range.
It plays a role in maintaining wetland habitats and helps to control insect populations.
It is also an essential food source for other species, such as the white-tailed eagle and the purple heron. Despite its wide range, the greater flamingo is threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and illegal hunting.
It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Conservation efforts are being made to protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
7. Arabian Bustard
The Arabian bustard is a large bird species belonging to the genus Ardeotis. It is found in an extensive range, including the Sahel region of Africa and southwestern Arabia.
Despite its wide range, the Arabian bustard is relatively unknown, and little is known about its behavior and ecology. Despite this, it is considered a typical species of its genus, displaying the same characteristics and behavior as other members of its group.
The Arabian bustard is a large bird, with males reaching up to 30 inches long. They are sandy brown, with white throat patches, dark wings, and a black tail.
The Arabian bustard is ground-dwelling and is primarily an omnivore, feeding on insects, small mammals, reptiles, and even fruits and grains. Regarding conservation, the Arabian bustard is considered of most minor concern due to its extensive range and stable population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Ardeotis |
| Species | A. arabs |
8. Hooded Vulture
The hooded Vulture is a bird of prey found in the Old World region. It belongs to the order Accipitriformes, which includes a variety of birds, such as eagles, kites, vultures, and hawks.
The hooded Vulture is the only species in the genus Necrosyrtes, closely related to the larger Gyps genus. These genera are a part of the Aegypiinae subfamily of Old World vultures.
Old World vultures are found in the tropical and temperate regions of the Old World, including Africa, Eurasia, and parts of Australia. They are typically scavengers, feeding on carrion or the remains of dead animals.
They are also known to supplement their diet with eggs and small animals. The hooded Vulture is a medium-sized vulture with a length of about 80 cm and a 150-200 cm wingspan. It has a distinctive hood and a white neck patch, which gives it its name.
The hooded Vulture is an essential species in the Old World vulture community, and it plays a critical role in the ecosystem, helping to keep the environment clean by removing carrion.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Necrosyrtes |
| Species | N. monachus |
9. White-backed Vulture
The white-backed Vulture is a species of Old World found in Africa and the surrounding areas. It belongs to the Accipitridae family, a large bird group that includes eagles, kites, vultures, and hawks.
The white-backed Vulture is the most common vulture species in Africa, making up the majority of the vulture population in the continent. It has a distinctive white back and wings, which makes it easy to spot amongst other birds.
Its diet consists mainly of carrion, which it scavenges and eats from the ground. A highly social bird often forms large groups to feed and roost together. Its population is declining due to habitat loss, illegal hunting, and poisoning.
As the most common vulture species in Africa, it is essential to protect this species and its habitat so that it can continue to thrive in the future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Gyps |
| Species | G. africanus |
10. Black kite
The black kite is a medium-sized bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family, a daily raptor group.
This species is believed to be the most abundant of the Accipitridae family, though some populations have seen drastic decreases or changes in numbers over time.
This bird is found in open habitats such as grasslands and savannas on every continent except Antarctica. The black kite has a wide wingspan and a distinctive forked tail, enabling it to soar and hunt with great agility and speed.
It usually feeds on small animals such as rodents, reptiles, insects, and carrion. The black kite is also known to steal food from other birds and scavenge for food in human settlements.
Despite its adaptability and wide range, the species is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN due to its declining population in some areas. Conservation efforts are underway to ensure the species’ survival in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Milvus |
| Species | M. migrans |
11. Glossy Ibis
The glossy ibis is a species of water bird that belongs to the order Pelecaniformes and the family Threskiornithidae. This order and family encompass several other water birds, such as herons, spoonbills, and storks.
The scientific name of the glossy ibis is derived from Ancient Greek and Latin roots – pleads and faces – both of which translate to “sickle.” This is about the distinctive shape of the glossy ibis’ bill, which is curved at the tip like a sickle.
The curved bill allows the glossy ibis to hunt for food, such as small insects, larvae, and crustaceans, in shallow waters.
The glossy ibis is native to many regions, including the Caribbean, Africa, and parts of Europe, and can be identified by its iridescent black and green feathers and curved bill.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Plegadis |
| Species | P. falcinellus |
12. Booted Eagle
The booted eagle is a medium-sized migratory bird of prey, meaning it feeds primarily on small animals and birds. It is found in the Palearctic region, the northern part of Europe and Asia, and in southern Asia.
During the winter, it migrates to the tropical regions of Africa and Asia, where its food sources are plentiful. Additionally, a small, isolated population of booted eagles in southwestern Africa breeds there year-round.
All eagles, including the booted eagle, belong to the family Accipitridae, a large group of birds of prey.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Hieraaetus |
| Species | H. pennatus |
13. Egyptian Vulture
The Egyptian Vulture is a unique species of Old World vulture and is the only bird in the genus Neophron. It is a small bird, measuring 22 and 24 inches long, with a wingspan of about 4.9 feet.
The Egyptian Vulture has a distinctive white head, neck, underparts, gray back, and wings.
It is also known as the white scavenger vulture or pharaoh’s chicken. The Egyptian Vulture extends from the Iberian Peninsula in Europe to North Africa and India.
Its habitat includes open country with scattered trees, cliffs, rocky hills, and dry grasslands and farmland.
They are often spotted scavenging for food near roadsides and rubbish dumps. The Egyptian Vulture feeds mainly on carrion but will also eat small animals, reptiles, eggs, and chicks of other birds.
They have been known to use tools to open eggs and to carry stones to break them. They will also catch and eat small rodents and insects. The Egyptian Vulture is one of the world’s oldest and most threatened species of vultures.
It has a declining population due to habitat loss, poisoning, and illegal hunting. It is listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. Conservation efforts are underway to protect the species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Neophron |
| Species | N. percnopterus |
14. Black Crowned Crane
The black crowned crane is a species belonging to the family Gruidae. It is closely related to its sister species, the grey-crowned crane.
These species share the same characteristic bristle-feathered golden crown on their heads, giving them their unique name.
This crest of feathers is one of the most distinctive features of the black-crowned crane and is thought to be used in courtship displays or for territorial purposes.
The black crowned crane is also known for its loud call, a deep, honking sound that can be heard from a great distance.
In addition to the black-crowned crane, there are several other species of crane in the Gruidae family, including the red-crowned crane, the hooded crane, and the sandhill crane.
These species have a similar look and sound to the black-crowned crane but have different habitat preferences and some subtle physical differences.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Balearica |
| Species | B. pavonina |
15. Lesser Spotted Eagle
The lesser spotted eagle is a large bird of prey native to Eastern Europe. Its scientific classification is Accipitridae, the same as all typical eagles’ classification.
This family of birds is known for their large wingspan and impressive hunting skills, making them top predators in their environment. The lesser spotted eagle is a majestic creature with a wingspan of up to three feet and a length that can reach up to two feet.
It has a distinctive white head, neck, and large, dark brown body. Its striking black and white wings feature distinct black wingtips and white patches on the underside.
Its tail is also white with some brown and black bands. The lesser spotted eagle is an opportunistic hunter, using its keen eyesight to spot its prey from great distances.
It primarily feeds on small mammals, birds, and other small animals but will also scavenge for carrion when necessary.
It prefers to hunt in open areas, such as grasslands and wetlands, but it can also be found in forests and mountainous regions. The lesser spotted eagle is a threatened species due to human activities such as habitat destruction, illegal hunting, and the use of pesticides.
Wind turbines also affect it, which can cause collisions or even electrocution. Conservation efforts are being made to protect this species, including habitat protection, captive breeding, and reintroduction programs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Clanga |
| Species | C. pomarina |
16. Eurasian Griffon
The Eurasian griffon vulture is a large bird of prey in the Old World. It is part of the Accipitridae family and can also be known as the Griffon vulture, though this term may refer to the entire genus.
It is important to note that the Eurasian griffon vulture should not be confused with the Rüppell’s griffon vulture and the Himalayan griffon vulture. The Eurasian griffon vulture is a large bird with a wingspan of up to two and a half meters.
It has a pale brown body, white neck ruff, and a distinct bald head. The Eurasian griffon vulture is an opportunistic feeder, scavenging for carrion and regularly eating the remains of dead animals.
They also feed on live prey such as rodents, hares, and ground-nesting birds. The Eurasian griffon vulture is found across Europe and Asia. It tends to inhabit mountain ranges and other areas of rugged terrain. It usually nests on cliff ledges, trees, or in caves.
It is a migratory species, and some Eurasian griffon vultures travel as far south as Africa during the winter months. The Rüppell’s griffon vulture and the Himalayan griffon vulture are two other species that belong to the same genus as the Eurasian griffon vulture.
The Rüppell’s griffon vulture is found in the deserts and semi-deserts of Northern Africa and the Middle East. It has a distinctive greyish-brown body and a black head.
The Himalayan griffon vulture is found in the mountains of the Himalayas and has a mostly white body with a black head. Both species have a wingspan of up to three meters. The Eurasian griffon vulture is a large bird of prey from the Old World.
It is important to note that it should not be confused with the Rüppell’s griffon vulture and the Himalayan griffon vulture. The Eurasian griffon vulture is an opportunistic feeder across Europe and Asia and sometimes as far south as Africa.
The Rüppell’s griffon vulture and the Himalayan griffon vulture are two other species in the same genus that can be found in the deserts and semi-deserts of Northern Africa and the Middle East and the mountains of the Himalayas, respectively.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Gyps |
| Species | G. fulvus |
17. Pennant-winged Nightjar
The pennant-winged nightjar is a species of nightjar bird found in Africa. It is found from Nigeria to northern South Africa and is an intra-African migrant, meaning it migrates within the African continent.
This species is also remarkable for its sexual dimorphism during breeding, where males and females have distinct physical characteristics. Male pennant-winged nightjars have distinctive black and white patterned wings and a bright yellow barred throat.
The females are more drab, with grey upperparts and buff underparts. The sexual dimorphism in the breeding season of the pennant-winged nightjar is thought to be related to courtship and mate selection.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | C. vexillarius |
18. African Hawk-eagle
The African hawk-eagle is a majestic bird of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae. It is a large bird, typically with feathered legs, and is a member of the Aquilinae subfamily.
This species is most commonly found in tropical regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, where it breeds and raises its young. The African hawk-eagle is a formidable hunter, preying on small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and other birds.
It is also an essential part of the food chain, providing sustenance to other animals. Its presence is a vital part of the African ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Aquila |
| Species | A. spilogaster |
19. Great White Pelican
The great white pelican is a large water bird with a wingspan of up to 3.3 meters. It is found in many parts of the world, including southeastern Europe, Asia, and Africa.
This species of pelican is also known by several other names, such as the eastern white pelican, rosy pelican, or white pelican. The great white pelican is typically found in wetlands, including swamps and shallow lakes.
It is an adept swimmer and feeds on fish, amphibians, and other aquatic species. It catches its prey by dipping its bill into the water and scooping the food. The breeding season for the great white pelican is mainly during the summer months.
During this time, the pelicans gather in large colonies, often on islands. They build nests of sticks and twigs, usually placed close to the water’s edge.
The female lays an average of two to three eggs, which both parents incubate. The great white pelican is an impressive bird in its natural habitat. Its striking white plumage and large size make it a memorable sight.
Unfortunately, the species is vulnerable to several threats, including habitat destruction and human disturbance. Fortunately, conservation efforts are in place to help protect this magnificent bird.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Pelecanidae |
| Genus | Pelecanus |
| Species | P. onocrotalus |
20. Narina Trogon
The Narina trogon is a species of bird belonging to the Trogonidae family. It is characterized by its vibrant green and red plumage and medium size.
This species is found throughout the forests and woodlands of the Afrotropics and is the most widely distributed of the three Apaloderma species.
Despite its prevalence and flexibility in habitat selection, the Narina trogon is facing a decline in population due to deforestation. Deforestation has destroyed the birds’ natural habitat, decreasing the number of species.
The Narina trogon is currently listed as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List due to its wide range and relatively stable population. However, conservation efforts are still necessary to protect this species from further decline.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Trogoniformes |
| Family | Trogonidae |
| Genus | Apaloderma |
| Species | A. narina |
21. Sand Partridge
The sand partridge is a type of gamebird that belongs to the Phasianidae family, which is part of the larger order of Galliformes, including poultry-like birds.
This species is native to the Middle East, with its primary range stretching from Egypt and Israel to the south of Arabia. It is a medium-sized ground-dwelling bird that lives in arid and semi-arid habitats, such as deserts and steppes.
The sand partridge has a sandy-brown back and wings with bold white spots, while its head and neck are grayish-brown. Its breast is rufous in color, and its belly is white. This partridge is monogamous and breeds only during the spring and summer months.
It feeds mainly on a variety of seeds, grains, and insects. The sand partridge is a famous game bird in the Middle East region and is often hunted for sport. It is also kept as a pet in some parts of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Ammoperdix |
| Species | A. heyi |
22. Black-winged kite
The black-winged kite is a small, diurnal bird of prey belonging to the family Accipitridae. It is commonly known as the black-shouldered kite. One of its most distinct behaviors is hovering over open grasslands resembling smaller kestrels.
This bird of prey can be seen flying in the air while it searches for its prey. It is a very agile flier capable of making very sharp turns. The black-winged kite has a wide wingspan, and its plumage is usually brownish-black.
Its head is primarily white, and its feet and legs are yellow. Its wings are black with white patches on the tips. Its tail is long and narrow, and its beak is hooked. The black-winged kite feeds mainly on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.
It is a solitary hunter and will hunt alone or in pairs.
It prefers to hunt over open grasslands but can also be found in wooded areas and near water. The black-winged kite is an essential part of its natural environment, as it helps to control the population of small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.
It is also an essential part of the food chain, as it is a vital food source for larger birds of prey.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Elanus |
| Species | E. caeruleus |
Conclusion
West Kordofan is an incredibly diverse and important region for birds. It is home to many species, many threatened or endangered.
The region is home to breeding grounds for several migratory species, providing valuable habitat for them to rest and refuel during their annual journeys. The region is also home to several endemic species, making it a unique and vital area for conservation efforts.
With proper management and protection, West Kordofan can remain a vibrant and healthy bird habitat.