Uthai Thani is a province located in the northern region of Thailand. It is situated in the west-central part of the country and is bordered by the provinces of Kamphaeng Phet, Sukhothai, and Phitsanulok.
Uthai Thani is home to a wide variety of birds, many unique to the area. The province is known for its high biodiversity, which can be attributed to its diverse habitats, such as grasslands, forests, and wetlands.
The birds of Uthai Thani include a wide range of species, from the elegant and colorful Bee-eaters to the shy and secretive Woodpeckers.
These birds provide an essential source of food and nutrients for the local people while also providing an exciting and unique look at the beauty and diversity of Uthai Thani’s wildlife.
24 Birds to Watch of Uthai Thani
If you are a bird lover, you might want to visit Uthai Thani, a province in northern Thailand that is home to many rare and beautiful birds. Uthai Thani has a variety of habitats, such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands, that support a high diversity of birdlife.
Here are 24 birds that you can watch in Uthai Thani, some of which are endemic to the region.
1. White-Breasted Waterhen
The white-breasted waterhen is a species of waterbird that is part of the Rallidae family. It is found in various habitats across South and Southeast Asia, from wetlands to open water, forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas.
They have a unique look, with dark, slaty bodies and clean white faces, breasts, and bellies. This bird is a strong swimmer who prefers to stay close to the water’s edge and feeds on aquatic vegetation, small insects, and other invertebrates.
It is also an excellent climber, often perching on tall vegetation or rocks near the water.
The white-breasted waterhen is also a very social bird, often gathering in large flocks and engaging in various behaviors, such as preening and bathing, to form strong social bonds. It is also known to form monogamous pairs during the breeding season.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Gruiformes |
Family | Rallidae |
Genus | Amaurornis |
Species | A. phoenicurus |
2. Spotted Dove
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The spotted dove is a small, long-tailed pigeon species native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is a common resident breeding bird in these regions and is easily recognizable due to its distinctive spotted pattern on its plumage.
The species has been introduced to many other parts of the world, and it has been able to establish feral populations in these areas. As a result, it can now be found in a wide variety of habitats in many countries, such as Australia, the United States, and Japan.
Despite its adaptability, the spotted dove is still vulnerable to habitat loss and fragmentation, and conservation efforts are needed to ensure its survival.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Columbiformes |
Family | Columbidae |
Genus | Spilopelia |
Species | S. chinensis |
3. Lesser Whistling Duck
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The lesser whistling duck is an interesting species of duck found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. This duck species is also known as the Indian whistling duck or lesser whistling teal.
It is a nocturnal feeder, meaning it only feeds at night while the sun is down. During the day, the lesser whistling duck can be found in large flocks around lakes and wet paddy fields.
These ducks are an essential part of the aquatic ecosystem in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. They feed on marine invertebrates and small fish and play a vital role for controlling aquatic plant growth and dispersing aquatic seeds.
The presence of the lesser whistling duck is an indicator of healthy aquatic ecosystems in the region.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Dendrocygna |
Species | D. javanica |
4. Red-Collared Dove
The red-collared dove, also referred to as the red turtle dove, is a species of small pigeon, a permanent breeding bird in Asia’s hot and humid climates.
The male of the species has a striking appearance, with a blue-grey head and a body featuring reddish-brown plumage. The female is much less eye-catching, with a pale brown plumage reminiscent of the more giant Eurasian collared dove.
Both the male and female of the species have a white collar around their neck, which is where their name originates from. The red-collared dove is a monogamous bird and forms strong pair bonds with its mate.
The nest of a red-collared dove is usually built in a tree or shrub composed of twigs, leaves, and other plant material. The female typically lays two white eggs, which she incubates for around two weeks.
Both parents feed the young birds, and they soon become independent. Red-collared doves are usually found in pairs or small flocks and are often seen feeding on the ground.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Columbiformes |
Family | Columbidae |
Genus | Streptopelia |
Species | S. tranquebarica |
5. Indian Spot-Billed Duck
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The Indian spot-billed duck is a sizeable dabbling duck native to the Indian subcontinent. It is a non-migratory breeding duck, meaning it does not migrate and remains in the same freshwater wetlands all year round.
The species is characterized by a red spot at the base of its bill, which is the source of its name. This spot is found mainly in the mainland Indian population of the ducks. The Indian spot-billed duck inhabits many wetland habitats, from swamps to rivers and lakes.
They usually feed on various aquatic invertebrates, such as mollusks and insects. They may also consume some plant matter. When nesting, they build their nests near water, and the nests are often found in dense vegetation.
The female typically lays a clutch of 7-9 eggs, incubated for around 25 days. The Indian spot-billed duck is an adaptable species not currently considered at risk. However, it is still threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, and hunting.
For these reasons, appropriate measures must be taken to ensure the conservation of this species.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Anas |
Species | A. poecilorhyncha |
6. Zebra Dove
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The zebra dove is a species of bird found in Southeast Asia. It has a small body with a long tail and is predominantly grey.
Its most distinguishing feature is the black and white barring that covers its body, giving it its other common names of barred ground dove or barred dove.
This barring is used for camouflage in their native habitat, allowing them to blend in with the surrounding environment. Zebra doves are also exceptionally social birds, living in flocks and gathering in open areas to feed on the ground.
They feed primarily on insects and eat grains, fruits, and seeds. They are also known to nest in trees and shrubs. Due to their beautiful markings and social nature, Zebra doves are famous birds to keep as pets.
They are also popular in aviculture, as their stunning coloration and charisma make them a beautiful sight in aviaries and gardens.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Columbiformes |
Family | Columbidae |
Genus | Geopelia |
Species | G. striata |
7. Green Imperial Pigeon
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The green imperial pigeon is a species of large forest pigeon found in many locations stretching from Nepal, southern India, and Sri Lanka in the west to south China, Indonesia, and the Philippines in the east.
This species is usually found in moist evergreen forests and mangroves and is common in these habitats. Its diet consists mainly of fruit, buds, and leaves. The green imperial pigeon is a large bird with an average length of about 40 cm and a wingspan of around 61 cm.
Its characteristic plumage has a green body, yellow vent, and bright red eyes. The species also makes low cooing calls and is known to flock in large numbers. It is considered to be of least concern by the IUCN due to its extensive range and population.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Columbiformes |
Family | Columbidae |
Genus | Ducula |
Species | D. aenea |
8. Thick-Billed Green Pigeon
The thick-billed green pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the Columbidae family. This family is also known as the pigeon or dove family and includes some of the most common birds in the world.
The thick-billed green pigeon is found in many parts of India, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan. It is a medium-sized bird with a body length of about 10-12 inches.
The thick-billed green pigeon has a striking green plumage on its body, with a darker green head and neck. Its wings are marked with white patches, and its tail is tipped with a white band.
The thick-billed green pigeon is an omnivorous bird, feeding mainly on fruits, buds, and seeds. It also consumes insects, small reptiles, and even carrion. The thick-billed green pigeon is monogamous and usually mates for life.
It typically nests in trees and lays two eggs at a time. The thick-billed green pigeon is considered to be of least concern in terms of conservation. Despite this, its numbers are declining due to habitat loss and illegal hunting.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Columbiformes |
Family | Columbidae |
Genus | Treron |
Species | T. curvirostra |
9. Asian Koel
The Asian koel is a member of the Cuculiformes, a group of birds known as cuckoos. It is widely distributed throughout the Indian Subcontinent, China, and Southeast Asia. The species is closely related to two other bird species, namely the black-billed koel and Pacific koel.
These two koel species are sometimes considered subspecies of the Asian koel, forming a superspecies. The Asian koel is a medium-sized bird with a black body and distinctive white patches on the wings.
It is an omnivorous species, feeding on various fruits, insects, and small animals. The bird is often found in open woodlands and agricultural areas but can also be seen in urban parks and gardens.
They are usually seen in pairs, with the male and female taking turns to incubate the eggs. The Asian koel is essential to many ecosystems, providing critical pest control services by consuming various insects.
They are also a valuable food source for many predators, including owls and hawks. As a result, they play an essential role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Cuculiformes |
Family | Cuculidae |
Genus | Eudynamys |
Species | E. scolopaceus |
10. Eurasian Curlew
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The Eurasian curlew, also known as the common curlew, is a large wading bird belonging to the Scolopacidae family. It is native to temperate parts of Europe and Asia and is one of the most widespread species of curlews.
In Europe, it is often referred to as the ‘curlew,’ whereas in Scotland, it is known as the ‘whaup’ in Scots. The Eurasian curlew is the largest wader in Europe, measuring up to 60 cm in length. It has a long, curved bill, and its feathers are brown and mottled.
Its call is a loud, distinctive ‘cur-lee,’ described as a ‘melancholy cry.’ The Eurasian curlew is typically found in wetland habitats, such as marshes, estuaries, and mudflats.
It feeds on various prey, including worms, mollusks, crustaceans, and insects. It nests in fields and meadows during the breeding season, laying up to four eggs.
The Eurasian curlew is an essential species in many parts of Europe and is listed as a species of most minor concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Scolopacidae |
Genus | Numenius |
Species | N. arquata |
11. Lesser Sand Plover
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The Siberian sand plover is a species of bird belonging to the plover family. It is a small wader and is distinguished from the lesser sand plover by its size and the color of its plumage.
The International Ornithologists’ Union recently split the Tibetan sand plover from the lesser sand plover and changed its vernacular name to the Siberian sand plover.
This is because the Siberian sand plover is a giant bird compared to the lesser sand plover, which has darker plumage and is found in the northern regions of Europe and Asia.
This name change reflects a more accurate representation of the species, as the Siberian sand plover distinctly differs from the lesser sand plover, the Tibetan sand plover.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Charadriidae |
Genus | Charadrius |
Species | C. mongolus |
12. Garganey
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The garganey is a small species of dabbling duck found across much of Europe and the Palearctic. It is a migratory bird that travels great distances to move between its breeding and wintering grounds.
During the winter of the Northern Hemisphere, the entire population of garganey ducks will fly south to places like Africa, India, Bangladesh, and Australasia. In these wintering grounds, they can be seen in large flocks.
This behavior ensures that the population of the garganey is spread out across a much wider area, which helps to reduce competition and ensure that the species thrive in its environment.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Spatula |
Species | S. querquedula |
13. Orange-Breasted Green Pigeon
The orange-breasted green pigeon is a species of pigeon that can be found across tropical Asia from the Himalayan region down to the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia. They are a type of green pigeon, and they mainly feed on small fruits.
These birds are relatively peaceful and move slowly in the trees, usually seen in pairs or small flocks. They do not usually make a lot of noise but are content to go about their foraging quietly.
The orange-breasted green pigeon is a beautiful bird, with most of its feathers being a soft, lime green. The most distinctive feature of this species is the orange patch displayed on its breast.
This bright patch of color is what sets it apart from other green pigeons and makes it easily recognizable. These birds are shared across its range and can be seen in many parks and gardens.
However, they tend to shy away from people, so they are best spotted in the trees. They can often be seen feeding on small berries and other fruits, and sometimes, they can be seen drinking from bird baths and other water sources.
The orange-breasted green pigeon is a lovely bird, and its presence can be enjoyed in many parts of the world. Its peaceful nature and beautiful feathers make it a great addition to any garden or park.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Columbiformes |
Family | Columbidae |
Genus | Treron |
Species | T. bicinctus |
14. Falcated Duck
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The falcated duck, also known as the falcated teal, is a dabbling duck found throughout the East Palearctic. This duck species typically has a size similar to that of gadwall, a species of dabbling duck found in Eurasia and North America.
The falcated duck is a migratory species known to travel to and from its breeding grounds in the East Palearctic during different times of the year. The falcated duck is a distinctive species with its unique curved bill and plumage.
This duck is generally brown, with a white patch on its throat and a black line running along its neck. Its tail is also curved, making it easily distinguishable from other duck species.
The falcated duck is a widespread species in the East Palearctic and is widely hunted and fished for by local hunters and fishermen.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Mareca |
Species | M. falcata |
15. Asian Emerald Cuckoo
The Asian emerald cuckoo is a species of cuckoo belonging to the family Cuculidae.
This species can be found in several South and Southeast Asian countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. This species of cuckoo is noted for its bright green coloration.
It has a slender body, a long tail, and a dark bill. Its head is black, and its underparts are yellow. These birds inhabit forests and woodlands, feeding on small insects and fruits.
They are usually seen in pairs or small groups, searching for food in the undergrowth. The Asian emerald cuckoo is an essential species in its range, as it helps to control insect populations and disperse seeds of the fruit it eats.
Unfortunately, this species is threatened by deforestation and habitat loss. In addition, the use of pesticides has resulted in a decrease in the available insect prey.
As a result, the population of the Asian emerald cuckoo is declining and is now classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Cuculiformes |
Family | Cuculidae |
Genus | Chrysococcyx |
Species | C. maculatus |
16. Plaintive Cuckoo
The cuckoo is a type of bird belonging to the Cuculidae family, also known as the cuckoo family. It is from the genus Cacomantis and is native to Asia, including India, Nepal, China, and Indonesia.
The cuckoo is known for its soft, plaintive call, which can be heard during the spring and summer. The cuckoo is a medium-sized bird often found in open woodlands and grasslands. It has a grey-brown body with white spots and a distinctive white patch on its wings.
Its diet consists mainly of insects, which it captures using its long, pointed bill. The cuckoo is a solitary bird, but it is sometimes seen in small flocks during winter. It is also an essential cultural symbol in many countries, representing hope, joy, and renewal.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Cuculiformes |
Family | Cuculidae |
Genus | Cacomantis |
Species | C. merulinus |
17. Bronze-Winged Jacana
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The bronze-winged jacana is a wading bird in the family Jacanidae and is the only species in the genus Metopidius. It is found throughout South and Southeast Asia and prefers to forage in aquatic habitats.
The bronze-winged jacana feeds on lilies and other floating aquatic vegetation, and its long feet help it to stay afloat by spreading its weight and preventing sinking.
This species is well-adapted to its habitat as it can walk on lily pads or other floating vegetation without sinking. Its long toes also help it grip the slippery surfaces of the vegetation, while its long claws allow it to catch prey.
The bronze-winged jacana is a unique bird with unique coloration and adaptations, making it well-suited for its preferred aquatic habitat.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Jacanidae |
Genus | Metopidius |
Species | M. indicus |
18. Black-Winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt is a species of bird belonging to the avocet and stilt family. It is a wader, meaning it spends much time in shallow water areas, such as ponds, streams, and marshes.
It is widely distributed across many different regions worldwide and easily recognizable by its long legs. Its scientific name is H. himantopus, sometimes referred to as a single, almost cosmopolitan species.
This means the bird can be found in many habitats and regions, from tropical to temperate climates. It is a reasonably common bird and can be seen in many other areas. It is an omnivorous species that eats animal and plant matter.
It typically feeds on insects, small fish, and other aquatic creatures. It is also known to eat seeds, berries, and other vegetation. The black-winged stilt is an exciting bird species and can provide excellent enjoyment for birders and nature lovers.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Charadriiformes |
Family | Recurvirostridae |
Genus | Himantopus |
Species | H. himantopus |
19. Large-Tailed Nightjar
The large-tailed nightjar is a species of bird in the Caprimulgidae family, known for its unique night-time behaviors.
This nightjar species is found throughout a large world area, including the southern Himalayan foothills, eastern South Asia, southeast Asia, and northern Australia. The large-tailed nightjar is a nocturnal bird, meaning it is active at night and sleeps during the day.
It has a unique call that attracts mates and can be heard in the night skies of its habitat. Its plumage is greyish-brown, with white spots and bars on its wings and tail.
The large-tailed nightjar is a medium-sized bird with a wingspan of around 25 to 33 cm and a length of around 25 cm. The large-tailed nightjar feeds mainly on insects, which it hunts for at night.
It has a unique technique of hovering in the air while flapping its wings to catch insects in mid-air. It nests in the ground and lays its eggs on the bare ground. The large-tailed nightjar is a migratory bird whose migratory pattern varies with the changing seasons.
It often migrates in flocks and can cover large distances overnight. This species is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List as its population is declining due to habitat loss and degradation.
Conservation efforts are needed to protect the large-tailed nightjar and its habitat.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Clade | Strisores |
Order | Caprimulgiformes |
Family | Caprimulgidae |
Genus | Caprimulgus |
Species | C. macrurus |
20. Swan Goose
The swan is a large goose native to Mongolia, northeastern China, and the Russian Far East. It is known for its migratory behavior and typically spends its winters in central and eastern China.
The swan goose is a striking bird with a long, slender neck and a black head, neck, and upper breast. Its underparts are white, and its wings are black with white patches.
It has a white tail with a black stripe near the tip. The swan goose typically breeds in small ponds and marshes and builds its nest on the water’s edge. It feeds mainly on aquatic plants, grasses, and grains and takes insects and small fish.
The swan goose is a vital game bird for hunters across its range and is hunted for its meat and eggs.
It is considered a pest in some areas, as it can damage crops. Overall, the swan goose is a unique species, with its striking appearance, impressive migration pattern, and importance to hunters and farmers.
It is an integral part of the ecosystem across its range, and its conservation should be a priority.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Anser |
Species | A. cygnoides |
21. Greater Flamingo
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The greater flamingo is the most well-known and most prominent species of flamingo.
It is found in many areas in the Old World, including 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.
These countries span a vast area home to a wide variety of climates and landscapes. The greater flamingo is highly adaptable and can survive in various habitats.
They can be found in saline wetlands, shallow lakes, estuaries, mudflats, and more unusual habitats such as mangroves and rice paddies.
They primarily feed on small aquatic creatures such as shrimp, snails, and crustaceans. The greater flamingo is an impressive bird with a wingspan of up to 1.5 meters and a height of up to 1.2 meters.
It has a bright pink-orange coloration with a white neck, head, and black beak. They are social birds and often live in large colonies of up to several hundred birds. The greater flamingo is an important species for conservation.
It is vulnerable to habitat destruction and pollution, and its population is decreasing in some parts of its range. It is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List and is protected in many countries where it is found.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
Family | Phoenicopteridae |
Genus | Phoenicopterus |
Species | P. roseus |
22. White-Winged Duck
The white-winged duck, also known as the white-winged wood duck, is a species of large duck. It was formerly classified in the Cairina genus and the Muscovy duck. This indicates that the white-winged duck is closely related to the dabbling ducks.
It is generally more prominent than other duck species, reaching a length of up to 25 inches with a wingspan of up to 40 inches. The white-winged duck is a striking bird with a white patch on its wings and a bright green head.
Its body is typically grey, with barred flanks and a black tail. These ducks inhabit wetlands, lakes, and rivers, feeding on aquatic plants, insects, and mollusks.
They are strong swimmers capable of making long migrations and even taking off from water. The white-winged duck is found in parts of Asia and Africa and is considered to be near threatened due to hunting and habitat loss.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Anseriformes |
Family | Anatidae |
Genus | Asarcornis |
Species | A. scutulata |
23. White-Bellied Green Pigeon
The white-bellied green pigeon is a species of bird in the family Columbidae, found across various parts of Asia, such as China, Japan, South Korea, Laos, Russia, Taiwan, Thailand, India, and Vietnam.
The pigeon prefers to inhabit temperate forests, a species adapted to moderate climates. The white-bellied green pigeon is unique among birds in its unusual habit of drinking saltwater, an adaptation that aids in the bird’s ability to survive in its natural habitat.
This behavior adapts to the limited availability of freshwater in some regions where the pigeon is found. The bird can stay hydrated and replenish its electrolytes by consuming saltwater without relying solely on freshwater sources.
The white-bellied green pigeon is essential for conserving temperate forests in Asia and beyond. The bird plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem in which it lives, helping to disperse seeds and pollinate plants.
Birds also help preserve the forests’ biodiversity by providing a home for many other species, such as insects and small mammals. Overall, the white-bellied green pigeon is essential for conserving temperate forests in Asia and beyond.
The bird’s unusual habit of drinking saltwater is an adaptation that allows it to survive in its natural habitat while also playing a vital role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
Therefore, protecting the bird and its habitat is essential to preserve its unique behavior and contribution to the environment.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Columbiformes |
Family | Columbidae |
Genus | Treron |
Species | T. sieboldii |
24. Blue-Breasted Quail
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The King Quail is an Old World quail belonging to the genus Synoicus and Phasianidae family. It has many names, including Blue-breasted Quail, Asian Blue Quail, Chinese Painted Quail, and Chung-Chi.
This species is native to a variety of countries in Asia, such as India, China, and Japan. This quail species is small, about 16 to 18 centimeters long, weighing just over 70 grams.
It has a distinctive blue-grey coloration on its head, wings, and breast and a white patch on its neck and belly. Its tail is reddish-brown with a black stripe at the tip.
King Quail is also known for its unique call, a loud, single-syllable “Chung-Chi.”The King Quail is mainly ground-dwelling, preferring open grassland and scrubland habitats.
It feeds on small insects, seeds, and grains and has consumed small lizards and snakes. This species usually nests in small colonies, laying a clutch of 4 to 12 eggs, which are incubated for approximately 18 days.
This species is not considered threatened in the wild, although it is threatened by habitat loss and hunting. It is also kept as a pet, especially in Asia, where it is prized for its beauty and tameness.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Galliformes |
Family | Phasianidae |
Genus | Synoicus |
Species | S. chinensis |
Conclusion
The birds of Uthai Thani are a diverse and fascinating group of creatures. From the spectacularly long-tailed Green Peafowl to the tiny and endangered Black-headed Bulbul, the birds of Uthai Thani are indeed a marvel to behold.
Not only are they beautiful, but they also contribute to the ecological balance of the region. With a little effort and care, these birds can continue to thrive in this special place for many years.