Birds of Franche-Comté are a diverse and fascinating group of species found in the region of Franche-Comté, located in the eastern part of France. This region is known for its rolling hills, forests, and wetlands, providing an excellent habitat for various bird species.
It is estimated that over 200 species of birds are found in Franche-Comté, ranging from songbirds to raptors to waterfowl. This region is an excellent place for birdwatching, as each season brings different species.
Many of these birds are migrants traveling from other parts of the world to find food and shelter in this beautiful region. In this article, we will explore some of the most common and interesting birds of Franche-Comté.
24 Birds Found of Franche-Comté
Franche-Comté is a region in eastern France rich in natural and cultural heritage. It is home to many species of birds, some of which are rare or endangered.
Here are 24 birds you can find in Franche-Comté.
1. Red-Crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a species of large diving duck found in several parts of the world. It is a very distinctive species with its characteristic red crest on its head and its beautiful golden-red plumage. Its scientific name is derived from two languages – Greek and Latin.
The word ‘Netta’ is of Greek origin, and it means ‘duck’. The word ‘Rufina’ is of Latin origin and means ‘golden-red.’ This combination of words is used to describe the unique characteristics of this species – the red crest and golden-red plumage.
The red-crested pochard is an essential member of the duck family and is widely admired for its beauty and grace.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
2. Common Pochard
The common pochard is a species of duck known for its diving ability. Its scientific name is derived from Greek and Latin words. The Greek word Lithuania, used in the scientific name, was initially mentioned by ancient writers such as Hesychius and Aristotle.
The Latin farina, also part of the scientific name, translates to “wild game” and comes from the Latin phrase fetus, which means “wild.” This is fitting, given the wild nature of the common pochard.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. ferina |
3. Horned Grebe
The horned grebe, also known as the Slavonian grebe, is a small waterbird that belongs to the Podicipedidae family. It is native to the Palearctic and North America and is divided into two distinct subspecies—the Palearctic subspecies, P. a.
Mauritius is found in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The North American subspecies, P. a. cornutus, is found in the United States and Canada. The horned grebe is a distinctive bird with a black head and neck, a white throat, and a reddish-brown back.
It has a pointed yellow bill and a distinctive yellow horn-like plume on its head. Adult birds also have a chestnut-red patch on their chests during summer. The horned grebe is highly aquatic and spends most of its time on the water.
It feeds mainly on aquatic insects, small fish, and crustaceans, which it catches by diving underwater. The horned grebe is a migratory species and travels long distances between its breeding and wintering grounds.
The species breeds in freshwater and brackish wetlands in the Palearctic, while in North America, it breeds mainly in large lakes and rivers. During the winter months, it moves to coastal marine habitats.
The species is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, although its population is declining due to habitat loss and pollution.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. auritus |
4. Mute Swan
The mute swan is a swan species belonging to the Anatidae family. It is native to many parts of Europe and Siberia, as well as the northern regions of Africa. This species of swan is known to be one of the most vocal of the Anatidae family.
Despite its name, the mute swan does not lack in vocalizations. Instead, it has a different type of vocalization than other Anatidae species. This vocalization is a low, rumbling sound often used as a warning or defensive call.
The mute swan is also known for its large size and iconic white feathers. It often nests near freshwater sources like lakes, rivers, streams, and ponds. It is an omnivorous species, feeding on both aquatic plants and small animals.
In addition, the mute swan is a long-lived species, with some individuals recorded to live up to 20 years in the wild. The mute swan is an important species in terms of its ecological role, as it helps to maintain a balance in its ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. olor |
5. Great-Crested Grebe
The great crested grebe is a species of water bird that belongs to the grebe family. It is characterized by its unique appearance, with a white face, a dark cap, and a reddish-brown back. This species of bird is also known for its elaborate mating display.
During this display, the males swim around the females, extending their crests and flapping their wings. They will also make a unique, high-pitched call and perform a “weed dance,” picking up weeds from the water and passing them between each other.
This display is used to attract a potential mate. The female will then choose a mate based on the male’s display. After mating, the couple will build a nest together and care for the eggs and chicks.
The great crested grebe is an essential species in many ecosystems and is an integral part of the natural environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. cristatus |
6. Common Shelduck
The common shelduck is a species of waterfowl belonging to the Tadorna genus of the shelduck family. It is a widespread species found throughout the Euro-Siberian region of the Palearctic biome.
It breeds in temperate regions during the warmer months and can be found wintering in the subtropical areas. However, wintering has also been observed in the Maghreb region of Africa, further south than its typical wintering grounds.
It is a relatively common species often encountered in areas near water, such as lakes, rivers, coasts, and wetlands. It has many habitats and is a hardy species not threatened by human activities.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Tadorna |
| Species | T. tadorna |
7. Common Cuckoo
The common cuckoo is a bird species belonging to the Cuculiformes order, a large group of birds that includes roadrunners, anis, and coucals.
This species is a migratory bird, flying from Europe and Asia during the summertime and spending the winter season in Africa.
The common cuckoo is a widespread species, meaning it can be found in many areas across the continents to which it migrates. One of the unique features of the common cuckoo is its migratory pattern.
Every year, it will migrate from its native areas in Europe and Asia during the summer months. It will then fly south to Africa, staying during winter.
This pattern ensures that the common cuckoo will always have access to the food and shelter it needs to survive and thrive. The common cuckoo is an essential species in the environment.
It helps control the population of certain insect pests, such as caterpillars, by feeding on them.
Additionally, its migratory pattern helps spread the gene pool of the species across continents, which helps maintain the population’s genetic diversity and adaptive potential. The common cuckoo is an essential bird species with an interesting migratory pattern.
It helps maintain the balance of the environment by controlling insect pests and spreading its gene pool across continents.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Cuculus |
| Species | C. canorus |
8. Little Bustard
The little bustard is a species of bird belonging to the bustard family, making it the only member of the genus Tetrax.
The genus name is derived from a term in Ancient Greek, and it is believed to be a reference to a gamebird described by Aristophanes and other writers of the time.
The little bustard is a medium-sized bird, with males typically reaching up to 40 inches long and weighing up to 4.4 pounds. Its back and wings are mottled gray and brown, while its undersides and neck are pale, often appearing white.
Its long, broad tail and long legs allow it to move quickly over open ground. The little bustard is found throughout much of Europe and Asia, preferring open habitats such as grasslands, steppes, and cultivated fields.
It is a ground-dwelling species, feeding on various small animals, insects, and seeds. It is also an important game bird, hunted for its meat and feathers.
The little bustard is listed as near threatened by the IUCN due to its natural habitat’s ongoing loss and degradation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Tetrax |
| Species | T. tetrax |
9. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck is a species of duck found in Eurasia. It is commonly called the ferruginous, common white-eye, or white-eyed pochard. It is a medium-sized diving duck with a scientific name derived from Greek.
Aithuia refers to an unidentified seabird mentioned in multiple ancient texts, including those of Hesychius and Aristotle. The word nyrok is Russian for ‘duck,’ further indicating the bird’s commonality in the region.
The ferruginous duck is a species well-adapted to Eurasia’s cold climates. It can be found in several habitats, including wetlands, rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. It is omnivorous, feeding aquatic plants, insects, and small fish.
The ferruginous duck has a distinctive coloration, with shades of brown, grey, and white. The male has a more vibrant plumage than the female, and both sexes sport a white eye ring. This species is also known for its loud honking call, which can be heard from a great distance.
The ferruginous duck is listed as a species of most minor Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Although its population is declining, it is still standard in certain areas.
Conservation efforts are currently being made to ensure the survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
10. Grey Heron
The grey heron is a species of bird that is part of the heron family, Ardeidae. It is native to many European and Asian countries and parts of Africa. This species is known for its long legs, which allow it to wade in shallow water for food.
The grey heron usually remains in its habitat all year round. However, some of the populations living in northern regions migrate south during the autumn months. This is likely due to decreased food sources and other resources available in the colder climates during winter.
They travel to warmer climates where food sources are more abundant, and the temperatures are more conducive to their lifestyle. The grey heron is essential in many ecosystems, as it helps balance predator and prey species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. cinerea |
11. Barnacle Goose
The barnacle goose is a species of goose that belongs to the genus Branta of black geese. This genus is well known for its predominantly black plumage species, which sets them apart from the grey Anser species.
This black plumage is a unique feature that can distinguish the barnacle goose from its relatives. The barnacle goose is a medium-sized bird that usually has a white head and neck, a black breast, and a white belly.
Its wings are grey-black with a white patch near the tips. Its legs and bill are black. The barnacle goose is a migratory bird, breeding in the Arctic regions of Europe and Asia and wintering further south in the temperate areas.
It is a gregarious bird, forming large flocks that can number thousands. Its diet consists mainly of plant material, such as grasses, sedges, and berries, but it also eats small insects.
The barnacle goose is an essential species in its habitats, providing vital ecological services such as pollination and pest control.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Branta |
| Species | B. leucopsis |
12. Garganey
The garganey is a species of small dabbling duck. It is found in many parts of Europe and throughout the Palearctic region. It is a strictly migratory species, meaning that the entire population of garganeys moves to different areas in the winter.
These areas include southern Africa, India, Bangladesh and Australasia. During this migration period, large flocks of garganeys can be seen in these regions. The garganey is an essential species in the ecosystem of its inhabited areas.
It feeds on insects, crustaceans, mollusks, and plant material, which helps maintain the food web’s balance. Its presence also helps to control the populations of insect pests. Migratory birds like the garganey face many challenges.
These include loss of habitat, disturbances in their breeding grounds, and changing environmental conditions due to climate change. As a result, the population of the garganey has been declining in recent years.
Conservation efforts are therefore necessary to ensure the survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Spatula |
| Species | S. querquedula |
13. Greater Scaup
The greater scaup is a mid-sized diving duck generally more significant than its relative, the lesser scaup. It is known by many names, including “just scaup” in Europe and “bluebill” in North America.
This duck species migrates to Alaska, northern Canada, Siberia, and the northernmost parts of Europe for the summer months to breed and raise their young. During this time, they can be found in freshwater areas such as lakes, rivers, and ponds.
In the winter, they migrate to coastal areas and estuaries. The greater scaup feeds mainly on crustaceans, mollusks, aquatic insects, and other small invertebrates.
It is an essential species in the food web of aquatic ecosystems and plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy balance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. marila |
14. Greater White-Fronted Goose
The greater white-fronted goose is a species of goose that is closely related to the lesser white-fronted goose. The name of the greater white-fronted goose is derived from the white feathers that encircle the base of its bill.
This white patch has even led to its scientific name, albifrons, derived from two Latin words: albus, meaning “white,” and frons, meaning “forehead.”
This goose species is mainly found in northern parts of the world, including parts of Europe, Asia, and North America. It is a migratory species, usually flying south for the winter months.
The greater white-fronted goose is a medium-sized one with a wingspan ranging from 68 to 81 cm, a characteristic orange-brown bill, and a bright yellow eye ring. Its upper parts are dark brown with pale barring, and its undersides are gray-brown with faint barring.
The species feeds on various aquatic plants, grasses, grains, and nests on the ground near wetlands.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anser |
| Species | A. albifrons |
15. Tufted Duck
The tufted duck, or tufted pochard, is a small diving duck across northern Eurasia. It has an estimated population of around one million birds.
Its scientific name is derived from the Ancient Greek word “Lithuania,” an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle.
The Latin words “fuligo” and “gula” are also included in the scientific name, with “fuligo” meaning “soot” and “gula” meaning “throat.” The tufted duck has a black head, chest, white neck, and belly.
The head has a distinctive tuft of feathers at the back, which gives the duck its name. Its wings are grey, and its tail is black. In the winter, the tufted duck can be found in flocks on open water or marshes, and in summer, it is often seen on smaller pools and wetlands.
The tufted duck is an essential species for conservation, as it is relatively abundant compared to other diving ducks. Its diet consists mainly of aquatic invertebrates and small fish, but it will also feed on seeds and vegetation.
It is an important seed disperser, helping to spread aquatic plants across wetlands. The tufted duck is a conservation concern, as its population is declining due to habitat loss, hunting, and pollution.
It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this species and its habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. fuligula |
16. Rock Dove
The rock dove, also known as the rock pigeon or common pigeon, is a bird species from the Columbidae family. It is ubiquitous in cities and towns and is often called the “pigeon.” It is believed that the domestic pigeon is descended from this species.
Moreover, many domestic pigeons have escaped in recent years, and these birds have successfully established themselves in the wild, increasing the populations of feral pigeons worldwide.
Feral pigeons are everywhere, from parks and cities to remote rural areas. They can survive in various habitats and are often seen scavenging for food. The rock dove is an essential species in the wild and captivity.
Domesticated pigeons are kept as pets, for racing, and even to deliver messages. Wild rock doves are also important, providing food for various animals and helping to disperse seeds, which in turn helps spread plants.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
17. Eurasian Teal
The Eurasian teal, also known as the common teal or green-winged teal, is a widely distributed duck species brewing in temperate parts of Eurosiberia. During the winter, the Eurasian teal migrates south to find warmer climates.
It is the only one of its kind in much of its range, making it quite recognizable and an easy target for hunters. This species is highly adaptable and can be found in various habitats, from wetlands and marshes to agricultural fields and urban areas.
The Eurasian teal is a small dabbling duck that dives into the water to feed on aquatic plants, small fish, and insects. It has deep chestnut-colored feathers on its head and neck, with grey and brown feathers covering its body.
Males and females look very similar, but males have a distinct green patch on their wings. The Eurasian teal is slightly larger than other species of teal, measuring around 33-38 cm in length.
This species is vital to local ecosystems, as it helps to keep the water clean and provides food for other animals. The Eurasian teal is also a famous game bird, as it is a relatively easy target for hunters.
The population of Eurasian teals is generally stable, but there is some concern that its range may decrease due to habitat loss. TConservation efforts are needed to ensure this species continues to thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. crecca |
18. Common Wood Pigeon
The standard wood pigeon is a familiar sight in the western Palearctic region. It is a giant dove and pigeon family species with a body length of up to 38 cm and a wingspan of up to 71 cm.
The adult has a greyish-brown plumage, rounded body, and distinctive white patches on its wings.
Due to its size and unique markings, it is easily distinguishable from other species in the Columba genus, such as the rock dove. The wood pigeon is found in various habitats, including forests, woodlands, parks, gardens, and farmland.
It is most commonly seen in open areas near woodland edges, where it can feed on grasses, cereal crops, fruits, and seeds.
The wood pigeon is also a famous feeder bird in urban areas, where it can be seen gathering around bird tables and feeders. The wood pigeon is an essential species for conservation, as it plays a significant role in the food web of many ecosystems.
The bird is a significant seed disperser, and its droppings provide essential nutrients to the soil. The wood pigeon is also a vital food source for many predators, such as raptors, foxes, and cats.
As such, it is an important species to protect to ensure the success of many other species in the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. palumbus |
19. Black-Tailed Godwit
The black-tailed godwit is a species of shorebird widely distinguished by its long legs, bill, and tail. It was first identified by the renowned Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus in 1758.
It belongs to the Limosa genus of godwits, a family of birds that inhabit coastal areas, wetlands, and grasslands worldwide. The black-tailed godwit is a large bird with a wingspan of between 33 inches and 42 inches and a body length of roughly 16 inches.
Its plumage is predominantly mottled brown and black, with a pale grayish-white underside. The black-tailed godwit has a long, straight bill with a characteristic black band at the base. It has long legs of a yellowish hue and a blackish-brown tail with a white terminal band.
The black-tailed godwit is found in many parts of the world, including Western Europe, Australia, Asia, and the North American continent. It prefers to inhabit coastal areas, mudflats, and wetlands but can also be found in grasslands and nearby agricultural areas.
It feeds on a variety of aquatic invertebrates, as well as seeds and grains. It has a distinctive call, a loud, harsh “Klee-ek” sound that can be heard in its habitat.
In recent years, the black-tailed godwit population has declined due to habitat loss, degradation, overhunting, and predation. It is considered a Near-Threatened species on the IUCN Red List.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect the black-tailed godwit and its habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Limosa |
| Species | L. limosa |
20. Black-Headed Gull
The black-headed gull is a small gull found throughout large parts of the Palearctic region, including Europe. In addition to this, it is also found along the eastern coast of Canada.
The majority of the population of this species migrates to warmer climates during the winter months, but some birds remain in the milder climates of the westernmost parts of Europe. This helps to ensure a consistent population of black-headed gulls in these regions.
The species is well-adapted and can thrive in various environments, from coastal areas to inland lakes and rivers.
Its ability to survive in a wide range of climates and environments makes it an essential part of the ecosystem where it is found.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Genus | Chroicocephalus |
| Species | C. ridibundus |
21. Eurasian Collared Dove
The Eurasian collared dove is a species native to Europe and Asia. It is a widespread species and was introduced to several locations outside its original range.
In Japan, North America, and several islands in the Caribbean, the Eurasian collared dove has been introduced and now lives in these areas. The Eurasian collared dove is an attractive bird with a distinctive grey body and a white patch on its neck.
It is a medium-sized dove with a 25-29 centimeter wingspan. It is a ground-dwelling species and typically feeds on grasses, grains, and invertebrates. The Eurasian collared dove is known for its hardiness and often can thrive in urban areas.
In North America, the species has become invasive, as it can out-compete other species for food and nesting sites. The Eurasian collared dove is a species of Concern in several locations, as it is seen to be a threat to native species.
In some areas, it is also seen as a nuisance as it can be loud in calls. Despite this, the Eurasian collared dove is an interesting species, and its introduction to various parts of the world has been an exciting story to follow.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. decaocto |
22. Common Quail
The Common Quail, or the European Quail, is a small bird that lives and nests on the ground. It belongs to the Phasianidae family, which is a type of pheasant. Common Quails are migratory birds, meaning they travel from place to place with the changing seasons.
During the summer months, they breed in the western Palearctic region, which includes parts of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. During the winter, they migrate to Africa and southern India. The Common Quail is known for its distinct call: three short chirps.
This call is often heard before the quail is seen, as they are small birds and can be challenging to spot.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Coturnix |
| Species | C. coturnix |
23. Great Spotted Cuckoo
The great spotted cuckoo is a species of bird that is part of the Cuculiformes order, a group of birds that includes roadrunners, anis, and coucals. This bird is found in various places, such as Africa and the Mediterranean Basin.
It is a type of bird called a brood parasite, which lays its eggs in the nests of other birds, usually corvids such as the Eurasian magpie.
This behavior benefits the cuckoo because the other bird unknowingly raises its young while the cuckoo moves on to the next nest. The great spotted cuckoo is an interesting species of bird that has uniquely adapted to its environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Clamator |
| Species | C. glandarius |
24. European Turtle Dove
The European turtle dove is a species of bird found throughout much of the southwestern Palearctic region. It belongs to the Columbidae family, which includes doves and pigeons. This species breeds in a wide area that extends from North Africa to the southwestern Palearctic.
These birds migrate to northern sub-Saharan Africa during winter to find more favorable conditions. European turtle doves are small and slender birds, typically with greyish-brown plumage and white patches on their wings.
They are primarily found in open woodlands, meadows, and farmland, usually in pairs or small flocks. They feed on seeds, berries, and insects and build their nests in trees or shrubs. The European turtle dove is currently classified as a species of most minor Concern by the IUCN.
However, its population is declining due to various factors, such as habitat loss, hunting, and climate change. Conservation initiatives such as habitat restoration and improved hunting management have been implemented to help protect this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. turtur |
Conclusion
The birds of Franche-Comté are a diverse group of birds, ranging from the common garden-dwelling species to the rare and elusive species found in the forests and mountains of the region.
These birds provide beauty and life to the Franche-Comté landscape and are essential to the region’s ecology and cultural heritage. Through careful conservation efforts, the birds of Franche-Comté can continue to thrive for generations to come.