Birds have been a part of Zabul’s ecosystems for thousands of years. From the majestic eagles soaring high in the sky to the bright parrots in the trees, these creatures bring a unique and vibrant life to the country.
The variety of birds in Zabul provides us with an insight into the region’s incredible biodiversity and offers us a range of different habitats to explore and enjoy.
Whether you are a passionate bird watcher or enjoy spending time outdoors, there is something for everyone to enjoy regarding the birds of Zabul.
23 Birds to Watch in Zabul
Zabul is a province in southern Afghanistan that is rich in biodiversity and natural beauty. Despite the ongoing conflict and instability in the region, Zabul is home to many species of birds that are worth watching for their colorful plumage, unique songs, and fascinating behaviors.
Here are 23 birds to watch in Zabul.
1. Bearded Vulture
The Bearded Vulture, scientifically known as Gypaetus barbatus, is a fantastic bird of prey. This large raptor is the only member of its genus and is often referred to as the Lammergeier or Ossifrage.
It is traditionally grouped with other Old World vultures. However, recent studies have revealed that it is more closely related to the Egyptian Vulture. This makes it the only member of the Accipitridae family with this distinction.
The Bearded Vulture is a striking bird with a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters and a distinct head plume. Its mainly black body is covered with white patches on the wings and tail, a yellowish-brown crest, and a white chin on its head.
It is a solid and robust bird, capable of soaring for hours for food. The Bearded Vulture primarily feeds on carrion but will also hunt small mammals and birds.
It has been known to drop bones from a height of up to 40 meters to crack them open and access the marrow inside. This unique behavior has earned it the nickname “bonebreaker.” The Bearded Vulture is found in the mountains of southern Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia.
Here, it has adapted to human-altered habitats, with many of its populations living close to human settlements. Unfortunately, the species is declining due to habitat loss, persecution, and poisoning. Conservation efforts are underway to ensure its survival in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Gypaetus |
| Species | G. barbatus |
2. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is the most abundant and significant of the flamingo species, making it a widely recognized bird.
It is native to the Old World, where it inhabits an extensive range that stretches from Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa to 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.
These birds are found in various habitats, such as shallow lakes, lagoons, mudflats, and coastal areas. They can often be seen wading in shallow waters, seeking food such as mollusks, crustaceans, and algae.
Their bright pink feathers and long legs are distinctive features that make them stand out in any environment. The greater flamingo is a social bird that often congregates in large colonies.
This makes them a beautiful sight, as they can be seen in large numbers, ranging from a few hundred to thousands.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
3. Black-winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt, scientifically known as H. Himantopus, is a wading bird belonging to the avocet and stilt family, found across various habitats. It is an incredibly distinctive species, with its long legs and streamlined body.
The stilt is a migratory bird in regions such as Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australasia.
It is also one of the few species of birds to have a single, almost cosmopolitan distribution, with a single population being found across all of these regions. The black-winged stilt is an omnivore, feeding mainly on small aquatic insects, crustaceans, and other invertebrates.
It also feeds on mollusks, worms, and small fish. It is a gregarious species, often found in groups of up to a dozen individuals.
It nests in shallow lakes and marshes and can sometimes be found on mudflats. The black-winged stilt is an essential species for conservation, as it helps to maintain the health of wetlands and other water bodies. Its presence is a sign of a healthy aquatic ecosystem.
The species is also famous for birdwatchers, as its beautiful black and white plumage is a sight to behold.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
4. Bulbuls
The Pycnonotidae family is a group of medium-sized passerine songbirds commonly known as bulbuls. These birds are found in various habitats across Africa, the Middle East, tropical Asia, Indonesia, and Japan.
This family has several species, such as greenbuls, brownbuls, leafloves, and bristlebills.
Each species has its unique physical characteristics and behaviors, though they are all members of the same family. The bulbuls found in Africa tend to be smaller and have colorful plumage.
They are usually found in woodlands and forests, where they feed on fruits, flowers, and insects. In the Middle East, the bulbuls are generally more extensive and more drab in color.
They typically inhabit open fields and scrubland, where they eat mainly seeds and grains. In tropical Asia and Indonesia, the bulbuls are usually quite large and have a variety of colors. They can be found in all habitats, from forests to grasslands.
They feed on various foods, including fruits, nectar, insects, and even small animals. Finally, the bulbs found in Japan are pretty small and usually pale yellow-green.
They often inhabit wetlands and other wet areas, feeding aquatic insects and other small creatures. No matter where they live, all members of the Pycnonotidae family share certain traits, such as a short, curved beak and a singsong call.
They are all quite vocal and are known for their melodic songs. Though they may look different, the bulbuls are all part of the same family and share a common ancestor.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Pycnonotidae |
5. White-headed Duck
The white-headed duck is a species of small diving duck found worldwide. It has an average length of 45 centimeters, and the male has a white head with a black crown, a blue bill, and reddish-grey plumage.
The female has a dark bill and less vibrant coloring than the male. The white-headed duck prefers to inhabit lakes with a lot of open water and vegetation near the edge.
It is an excellent diver, often seen ducking under the water to feed on aquatic plants, insects, and mollusks. During the breeding season, the male usually performs courtship displays to attract a mate.
It will also build a nest on the ground near the lake’s edge or in a shallow water area. Due to its decreasing population numbers, the white-headed duck is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. It is threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and hunting pressure.
Conservation efforts have been put in place to protect the species, and its population is slowly increasing.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Oxyura |
| Species | O. leucocephala |
6. Common Pochard
The common pochard is a species of duck found in many parts of the world. The scientific name of this bird is derived from two different languages.
The first part of the name, Lithuania, is from ancient Greek and refers to a type of seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle.
The second part of the name, ferina, is from Latin and means “wild game,” stemming from the word ferus, which means “wild.” This reflects the wild nature of the common pochard, a species of duck often found in the wild.
The common pochard is a medium-sized diving duck that typically has a dark brown back, white sides, and a white chest. This duck species is known for its ability to dive underwater for food, such as small fish, aquatic insects, and aquatic vegetation.
This diving behavior likely prompted the ancient Greek authors to recognize this duck species and subsequently include it in their writings. The common pochard is an essential species due to its role in the environment and its popularity amongst hunters.
This duck species is an essential component of aquatic ecosystems, providing a food source for other animals and helping to keep the water clean by feeding on aquatic vegetation.
Additionally, this species is widespread amongst hunters, who seek out its meat and feathers for various uses. The common pochard is an essential species of duck, both ecologically and culturally.
Its scientific name, derived from ancient Greek and Latin, reflects its wild nature, and its ability to dive underwater has made it an essential part of aquatic ecosystems.
Its meat and feathers have also made it popular amongst hunters, further ensuring its importance today.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. ferina |
7. Cotton Pygmy Goose
The cotton pygmy goose is a small duck species found in many parts of Asia, including Southeast Asia and as far south as Queensland, Australia. It is also known as the cotton teal.
These birds are small and usually found in wetlands and other watery habitats. They are omnivores, feeding mainly on small fish, insects, and plants. In Asia, the cotton pygmy goose is widespread and is found in many different regions.
It is also found across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
In Australia, the cotton pygmy goose, sometimes called white-quilled pygmy geese, is found in Queensland. The cotton pygmy goose is one of the smallest species of ducks. It measures about 14-16 inches long and has a wingspan of about 20-24 inches.
It is a beautiful bird with a white belly, gray-brown head, and wings. The back of the bird is usually darker in color, and it has a distinctive white quill on the tail. The cotton pygmy goose is an essential species in its habitat.
They are a vital part of the food chain, providing a valuable food source for many species of larger birds and mammals. They are also essential to the local ecology, as their droppings can help fertilize the soil and provide nutrients to the surrounding environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Nettapus |
| Species | N. coromandelianus |
8. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck is a medium-sized diving duck found in Europe and Siberia. Several other names, including ferruginous, common white-eye, and white-eyed pochard, also know it.
The scientific name of the duck, Aythya nyroca, is derived from the Greek word Lithuania, used by ancient authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle to refer to an unidentified seabird and york, the Russian word for duck.
The ferruginous duck is a strong swimmer and has adapted well to its environment in Europe and Siberia. It feeds mainly on aquatic plants, insects, and mollusks and can be found in shallow lakes, marshes, and wetlands.
The duck is a famous game bird and is hunted for its meat and feathers. The duck is also threatened by overhunting and habitat destruction and is listed as a species of most minor concern on the IUCN Red List.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
9. Cinereous Vulture
The cinereous vulture is a large bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family, found in Eurasia’s temperate areas. It is one of the largest raptors in the world and can reach a wingspan of up to 2.6 meters.
Due to its distinctive dark coloration, it is sometimes referred to as the black vulture, monk vulture, or Eurasian black vulture. The cinereous vulture typically feeds on carrion, although it will hunt small animals such as hares and rodents if food is scarce.
It plays a vital role in helping to keep the environment clean by scavenging dead animals. The species is threatened by habitat destruction and poisoning from agricultural chemicals and is listed as near threatened by the IUCN.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Aegypius |
| Species | A. monachus |
10. Grebes
Grebes are a unique bird type found in both freshwater and marine environments. They are part of the order Podicipediformes, a group of diving birds found in many parts of the world.
Grebes are unique in that they can fly, although some species have adapted to being flightless, particularly in calm waters.
Most grebes are found in freshwater habitats, but during the winter and migration, some species are also found in marine environments. Grebes are adept swimmers who spend much of their time diving underwater in search of food.
Their long, slim necks characterize them and pointed bills, and they typically have a dark, glossy upper body and a white or light-colored underbelly. Grebes are highly social creatures, and they are usually found in groups.
They have a complex mating ritual that involves a loud series of calls and dives. They usually build their nests in shallow waters and often construct the nest in the shape of a floating platform.
Grebes are essential to freshwater and marine ecosystems and play a vital role in controlling the population of small fish and other aquatic life.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Mirandornithes |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
11. Cuckoos
Cuckoos belong to the bird family Cuculidae, the only family of the order Cuculiformes. This family includes several species like the common or European cuckoo, roadrunners, koels, malkohas, couas, coucals, and anis.
Coucals and anis are sometimes classified as separate families, the Centropodidae and Crotophagidae. These birds generally have long tails and are known for their distinctive call.
They are widely distributed across Africa, Eurasia, and the Americas, and their diet consists mainly of insects, fruits, and some small animals. Cuckoos are solitary birds that often lay their eggs in other birds’ nests, a behavior known as “brood parasitism.”
Many species are also declining due to habitat destruction and other human activities.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Otidimorphae |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
12. Montagu’s Harrier
Montagu’s harrier is a bird of prey species belonging to the harrier family. This species is a migratory bird, which means it travels long distances from one region to another.
It is named after the British naturalist George Montagu, known for his research and bird studies.
He contributed significantly to ornithology, and Montagu’s Harrier is a fitting tribute to his work. The Montagu’s harrier is most commonly found in Europe, Central Asia, and parts of Africa. Its diet consists mainly of small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects.
It is a medium-sized bird of prey with a wingspan of around 55–60 cm and a length of 40–45 cm. Its plumage is brown or grey, with a white belly and black wings. Montagu’s harrier is listed as ‘Near Threatened’ on the IUCN Red List due to its declining population.
It faces various threats, such as habitat loss, persecution, and the use of pesticides and insecticides. Conservation efforts are being taken to protect this species, such as habitat restoration and establishing protected areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Circus |
| Species | C. pygargus |
13. Red-crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a type of large diving duck. It is found in various parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. The scientific name of this species is derived from two different languages, Greek and Latin. The word “Netta” is taken from Greek, which means “duck”.
The word “Rufina” is taken from Latin, which means “golden-red.” This aptly describes the bird’s appearance, as it has a distinctive red crest at the top of its head.
The red-crested pochard is an essential species in its natural habitat, as it plays a critical role in the aquatic ecosystem. It feeds on fish, aquatic plants, and other tiny organisms, and its presence helps maintain a healthy water balance.
It is also a famous bird among bird watchers, its bright red crest making it easily recognizable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
14. Demoiselle Crane
The demoiselle crane is a species found in Central Eurosiberia, an area stretching from the Black Sea to Mongolia and Northeast China. This crane species is known to migrate, which explains why it can be found in such a wide area.
Additionally, a small breeding population in Turkey indicates that the demoiselle crane may have a specific attraction to this area. Migration is an integral part of the demoiselle crane’s life cycle.
During the winter, they migrate from their breeding grounds in Central Eurosiberia to the warmer climates of Turkey and other parts of the Middle East. This migration helps these birds to survive the harsher winter climates of their original habitats.
During summer, they migrate back to their breeding grounds in Central Eurosiberia. The demoiselle crane is an impressive bird with a wingspan of up to 1.6 meters and a height of up to 1.2 meters.
They are known to be graceful flyers, and their long wings allow them to cover large distances during their migrations. These birds are also known for their loud call, often heard during their migration patterns.
In addition to their impressive physical features, the demoiselle crane is also known for its strong social bonds. These birds prefer to live and breed in large, cohesive flocks.
Although these flocks may disperse during winter, they will reunite during the breeding season, often in the exact location. The demoiselle crane is a beautiful species well adapted for survival in its Central Eurosiberia habitat.
Its impressive wingspan and loud call make it a standout among other crane species. Its migratory habits and strong social bonds are also critical to its survival in its native habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Grus |
| Species | G. virgo |
15. Rock Pigeon
The rock dove, rock pigeon, or common pigeon is a species of bird in the Columbidae family. Various names know it, but it is commonly called a “pigeon.”
Domestic pigeons are derived from this species, and they have spread worldwide due to escaped domestic pigeons increasing the populations of feral pigeons across the globe.
This has been facilitated by the fact that the rock dove is an adaptable species, easily able to take advantage of the food and shelter offered by human settlements.
As a result, the pigeon can now be found in many habitats, ranging from urban environments to rural farms and forests.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
16. Short-toed Snake Eagle
The Short-toed Snake Eagle, also known as the Short-toed Eagle, is a medium-sized bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family. This family includes many diurnal raptors, such as kites, buzzards, and harriers.
The scientific name of this species is Circaetus, which comes from the Ancient Greek words “Kirkus” and “autos,” which mean “hawk” and “eagle,” respectively.
The Short-toed Snake Eagle is found in many habitats, from open grasslands and woodlands to mountain slopes and desert regions.
It is widely distributed throughout Africa, the Middle East, and parts of southern Europe and Asia.
It is a relatively large species of eagle, typically reaching a length of around 60 cm, with a wingspan of around 1.2 m and an average weight of 1.2 kg.
The Short-toed Snake Eagle is a predatory bird, primarily feeding on reptiles, small mammals, and other small birds.
It often hunts by hovering and swooping to catch its prey. It also scavenges carrion when available. The Short-toed Snake Eagle is a pretty long-lived species, with individuals known to have lived up to 25 years in captivity.
It is also a monogamous species, with pairs typically staying together for life. The female usually lays two to three eggs each year, which the male helps to incubate.
Both parents take part in raising the young, which fledge after about 45 days. Overall, the Short-toed Snake Eagle is an impressive bird of prey widely distributed throughout its range.
It is a beautiful species, with its striking black and white plumage, and is an integral part of many ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Circaetus |
| Species | C. gallicus |
17. Black Stork
The black stork is a distinct species of bird that belongs to the Ciconiidae family, also known as storks.
It was first described in 1758 by Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus in his book Systema Naturae, which is recognized as the starting point of modern biological classification. The black stork is a large bird with a wingspan of around 1.5 m and a body length of up to 100 cm.
It has a long, slender neck, pointed bill, and long, reddish-brown legs. Its plumage is black on the upper parts and white underneath, with a white patch on the wings and a white tail.
The black stork is found in various wetland habitats across Europe and Asia, including marshes, swamps, and wet meadows. It feeds mainly on amphibians, fish, small mammals, and insects.
It is a non-migratory species, but it does make some seasonal movements in search of better food sources. Despite its wide range, the black stork is an uncommon species listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Ciconiiformes |
| Family | Ciconiidae |
| Genus | Ciconia |
| Species | C. nigra |
18. Black-headed Jay
The black-headed jay, or lanceolated jay, is a bird species similar to the Eurasian jay. The two species are roughly the same size and have a few features in common, such as their crest and long tails.
However, the black-headed jay has some features that set it apart from the Eurasian jay. Firstly, it is a more slender bird overall, except for its bill, which is slightly shorter and thicker than the Eurasian jay.
In addition, the black-headed jay has a black top to its head and a more obvious crest than its relative. Lastly, its tail is also longer than that of the Eurasian jay. All these features make the black-headed jay a distinctive and attractive bird species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Garrulus |
| Species | G. lanceolatus |
19. Black-winged kite
The black-winged kite, also known as the black-shouldered kite, is a medium-sized bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family. It is mainly found in open grasslands and is known for its unique hovering behavior, similar to smaller kestrels.
The bird has black wings and a white head and chest, with a black patch running from the beak to the back of the neck. It has long, narrow wings and a short tail, and its eyes are bright yellow.
The black-winged kite is a diurnal species active during the day and roosts at night. It mainly eats small rodents, reptiles, and insects and can also scavenge on carrion.
The bird can be seen hovering low over open grasslands in search of prey, and it has a distinct call consisting of a series of repeated notes. It nests in trees or shrubs and usually lays two to three eggs.
The black-winged kite is an essential species in its habitat, as it helps to keep the population of small rodents and insects in check.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Elanus |
| Species | E. caeruleus |
20. Booted Eagle
The booted eagle is a bird of prey species found across an extensive Palearctic and southern Asia range. It has a migratory behavior, spending the winter months further south in Africa and Asia, and a small, isolated breeding population in southwestern Africa.
It belongs to the Accipitridae family, which includes all eagle species. The booted eagle is a medium-sized bird of prey with 72 and 81 centimeters wingspan. The bird’s plumage is dark brown overall, with lighter coloration on its chest and head.
It has a short, hooked bill and long, pointed wings. The booted eagle is a predatory species, and its diet is mainly composed of small mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates. It hunts by soaring through the air and searching for its prey from above.
It is an opportunistic hunter and will also scavenge for food. The booted eagle is listed as a species of most minor concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Hieraaetus |
| Species | H. pennatus |
21. Long-legged Buzzard
The long-legged buzzard is a bird of prey found in many areas, stretching from Southeastern Europe to East Africa and into the northern part of the Indian subcontinent. It belongs to the genus Buteo, a group of larger bird species.
The long-legged buzzard is a formidable hunter, with its long legs allowing it to dash and chase down its prey. Its sharp vision allows it to spot prey from long distances, and its powerful talons will enable it to capture its victims quickly.
The long-legged buzzard is a famous bird of prey among birdwatchers, who enjoy observing its impressive hunting skills.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. rufinus |
22. Pallid Harrier
The pale or pallid harrier is an impressive migratory bird of prey belonging to the family of harriers. Its scientific name – Circus macrourus – is derived from Ancient Greek.
The first part of the name, “Circus,” comes from “Kirkus,” which refers to a bird of prey well-known for its circling flight, likely the hen harrier.
The second portion of the scientific name, “macrourus,” is composed of two words: “macros,” which means “long,” and “ours,” which means “-tailed.” This combination of words refers to the long tail of the pale or pallid harrier.
Thus, the scientific name of this bird of prey can be translated as “long-tailed circling bird,” accurately describing its physical characteristics and behavior.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Circus |
| Species | C. macrourus |
23. Sandgrouse
Sandgrouse is a species of bird that belongs to the family Pteroclidae and the order Pterocliformes. They are divided into two genera: Syrrhaptes and Pterocles.
The two species of sandgrouse native to central Asia are classified as Syrrhaptes, while the remaining fourteen species are classified as Pterocles and are found throughout Africa and Asia.
Sandgrouse is unique among bird species in that they have adapted to desert living and, as a result, have developed several features that help them survive in dry climates.
Including thickened, leathery skin, long legs for walking long distances in search of water, and feathers that are specially adapted to soak up and retain water.
They also have long bills for digging and scraping in the soil for water, and some species can even drink water directly from the ground. These adaptations have enabled them to survive in harsh desert environments, making them well-suited for their habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Columbimorphae |
| Order | Pterocliformes |
| Family | Pteroclidae |
Conclusion
Birds in Zabul are exceptional creatures that have adapted to the climate and environment of the region. They are an integral part of the local ecosystem and play a vital role in the balance of nature.
From providing food sources for other animals to helping to control pests, birds are an essential part of Zabul’s wildlife. As such, protecting them and their habitats is essential to ensure that they continue to thrive.