Midi-Pyrénées is a region located in the south of France, and it is home to a diverse and beautiful variety of birds. With its varied landscapes, ranging from the lush green valleys of the Tarn River to the rocky Pyrenean mountains, the region is a paradise for birdwatchers.
From rare species like the Hume’s Warbler to the iconic and majestic Griffon Vultures, the birds of Midi-Pyrénées offer plenty of opportunities for birdwatchers to observe and appreciate this unique avian wildlife.
10 Birds to Watch of Midi-Pyrénées
Midi-Pyrénées is a region located in the south of France, and it is home to a diverse and beautiful variety of birds. With its varied landscapes, ranging from the lush green valleys of the Tarn River to the rocky Pyrenean mountains, the region is a paradise for birdwatchers.
Here are 10 of the most striking birds you can find in Midi-Pyrénées.
1. Western Capercaillie
The western capercaillie (also known as the Eurasian capercaillie, wood grouse, heather cock, cock-of-the-woods, or simply capercaillie) is an impressive species that is part of the grouse family and is the largest of all existing grouse species.
It is an impressive bird with a fantastic size and weight. The heaviest recorded specimen of the western capercaillie in captivity weighed an incredible 7.2 kilograms.
This is a remarkable feat for any bird, demonstrating the impressive size and weight of the western capercaillie. The capercaillie of the West, also known by many other names, is a unique species that stands out from the rest of the Grouse family.
It is a large, heavy bird that can reach impressive sizes and weights. This is a fantastic bird that is both large and heavy. This makes the western capercaillie a magnificent member of the grouse family.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Tetrao |
| Species | T. urogallus |
2. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is an impressive and majestic bird, the family’s most significant and widespread species. This species is commonly found in the Old World, meaning Europe, Asia, and Africa.
In Africa, the greater flamingo can be found in both Northern and Sub-Saharan regions. Additionally, they can be found in India, the Middle East, the Levant, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe.
This species can also be found in areas such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, and Cameroon. The greater flamingo is an unmistakable bird that stands out due to its bright pink to orange-red feathers and long legs.
These birds typically live in large flocks in shallow lakes, lagoons, and mudflats. They feed on small aquatic creatures, such as shrimp, insects, and algae.
The greater flamingo is an essential species for wetland ecosystems, as it helps to maintain water quality and provides food for other animals. Unfortunately, the greater flamingo is threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, and illegal hunting.
In some areas, its population has decreased dramatically due to these threats. Conservation efforts are needed to help protect this species and ensure its future survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
3. Little Grebe
The little grebe, commonly known as dabchick, is a species of water bird classified in the family of grebes. Its scientific genus name is derived from the Ancient Greek words thus, meaning ‘fast,’ and bap to, which means ‘to sink under.’
The scientific name of this species, ruficollis, combines two Latin words – Rufus, meaning ‘red’ and -Collis, which is derived from the Latin phrase collum, meaning ‘neck.’
This name, therefore, suggests that this species of grebe has a redneck, which is one of its most distinctive features.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
4. Great Crested Grebe
The great crested grebe is an impressive water bird that belongs to a group known as the grebes.
This family of birds is found in many parts of the world but is best known for the elaborate and intricate courtship displays that members of the species put on during mating season. The great crested grebe is no exception to this.
During mating season, it performs an impressive show of aerial acrobatics and synchronized swimming to attract potential mates.
This display is often accompanied by loud honking, splashing noises, and unique visual cues, such as the male flaunting its pointed crest.
If the female is impressed with the male’s display, they will form a pair bond and remain together for the breeding season. This is just one of the many fascinating behaviors that make the great crested grebe unique.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. cristatus |
5. Ruddy Shelduck
The ruddy shelduck, also known as the Brahminy duck, is a species of waterfowl belonging to the family Anatidae. It is native to India and can be distinguished from other waterfowl due to its reddish-brown coloration and size.
An adult ruddy shelduck typically measures 58 and 70 cm long, with a 110 to 135 cm wingspan. The bird is found throughout India and is usually seen near wetlands, rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, where it feeds on insects, mollusks, and other small animals.
It is also known to eat grains, aquatic vegetation, and fruit. The ruddy shelduck is considered a shy and wary bird that is not easily approached. It is typically found in pairs or small groups and is known to migrate during winter.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Tadorna |
| Species | T. ferruginea |
6. Great Bustard
The great bustard is a bird species that is part of the bustard family, and it is the only living species classified under the genus Otis. It can be found in various habitats, from northern Morocco to Central and East Asia.
The bird typically lives in open grasslands and farmland where it can breed and raise its young. The great bustard is an essential member of many of its ecosystems, as it helps to regulate the populations of other animals that share its environment.
For example, it preys on insects, small birds, and small rodents, and it also serves as a food source for larger predators, such as the Eurasian eagle-owl. Furthermore, its presence helps to maintain the diversity of the grasslands and the farmland in which it is found.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Otis |
| Species | O. tarda |
7. Bearded Vulture
The bearded vulture is a large bird of prey found in the Old World and is the only species in the genus Gypaetus. Other names, including the lammergeier and ossifrage know this bird.
The bearded vulture is closely related to the Egyptian vulture, and scientists consider it to form a separate minor lineage of Accipitridae, a family of birds of prey. Bearded vultures have an impressive wingspan, often exceeding 2 meters, and can weigh up to 6 kilograms.
They are identifiable by their unmistakable black beards, as well as their white heads and wings and reddish-brown body feathers. They have hooked beaks and powerful talons, which make them well-adapted for hunting and scavenging.
These birds can be found in mountainous regions from North Africa to Central Asia. Bearded vultures feed mainly on the bones of dead animals, which they can break open using their powerful beaks. This is why these birds are also known as ‘bone-breakers.’
They feed on smaller animals, reptiles, and occasionally carrion and eggs. The bearded vulture is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN, mainly due to habitat loss and disturbance.
Conservation efforts are being made to protect this species, and hopefully, populations can be stabilized and even increased.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Gypaetus |
| Species | G. barbatus |
8. Alpine Swift
The alpine swift is a type of swift found in three regions of the world: Africa, southern Europe, and Asia. This species of swift is known for its preference for breeding in the mountainous areas, from southern Europe to the Himalayas.
Like other swifts, the alpine swift is migratory, moving from one place to another during different seasons. The southern European population of the alpine swift, in particular, spends the winter months in the south of Africa.
This is an example of how migrating species can be found in different parts of the world, depending on the season. The alpine swift is a unique species, adapted to living in higher altitudes and adapting their migration patterns to suit the changing temperatures.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Tachymarptis |
| Species | T. melba |
9. Red-Crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a large diving duck found worldwide in various freshwater habitats. It is a species of bird that is easily identifiable due to its distinctive red crest and white face.
It is also known by its scientific name, Netta Rufina, derived from Greek and Latin. The Greek word for “duck” is Netta, while the Latin word for “golden-red” is Rufina.
This combination of Greek and Latin words accurately describes the red-crested pochard’s vibrant coloring.
The red-crested pochard is usually found in shallow waters, where it can dive up to depths of about four meters to feed on aquatic plants, invertebrates, and sometimes even small fish.
The red-crested pochard is an important species to many ecosystems, as it is a crucial food source for many predators, including foxes, raccoons, and various types of birds of prey.
It is also an important species for humans, as its feathers are used to make decorative items, and its meat is used for food. Overall, the red-crested pochard is essential for its ecological and economic significance.
Its scientific name, Netta rufina, accurately describes its unique and distinct coloring, and it is an important species for many different ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
10. Pallid Swift
The pallid swift is a species of swift which belongs to the genus Apus. This genus name is derived from Latin and means a type of swallow without feet. Pallidus is the Latin word for “pale,” which fits this swift species.
These birds have very short legs solely for clinging to vertical surfaces. Their short legs prevent them from settling on the ground voluntarily.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Apus |
| Species | A. pallidus |
Conclusion
The birds of Midi-Pyrénées are a diverse and unique group of birds that inhabit the region. Their varied habitats, from the mountains to the coast, provide the perfect environment for various bird species.
From the colorful and musical songbirds to the majestic raptors, these birds are an integral part of the region’s natural beauty and a great source of pride for the people of Midi-Pyrénées.
From the great bustards to the graceful egrets, the birds of Midi-Pyrénées are a delight to behold and a testament to the region’s beauty.