Welcome to Yasothon, a province in northeast Thailand known for its vast array of bird species. With over 200 species of birds, Yasothon is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
From the critically endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper to the vibrant Green Peafowl, Yasothon is home to various species. Birdwatchers worldwide come to Yasothon to experience the beauty of these birds in their natural habitat.
The diverse and unique habitats in Yasothon allow for various birds to thrive. From the lowland rainforest to the wetlands of the Mekong River, Yasothon is a haven for bird life.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced birdwatcher, Yasothon is the perfect destination to explore and observe birds.
21 Birds Found of Yasothon
If you are a bird lover, you might want to visit Yasothon, a province in northeastern Thailand. Yasothon is home to many species of birds, some of which are rare and endangered.
Here are 21 birds that you can find in Yasothon, and tell you where and when to see them.
1. Chestnut-Winged Cuckoo
The chestnut-winged cuckoo is a species of cuckoo found in Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia. It is a relatively large bird with a glossy black head, a long crest, and chestnut-colored wings. Its back is also shiny black, and its underside is dusky.
This bird also has a narrow white nuchal half collar, a distinctive feature that helps differentiate it from other cuckoos. Its long, graduated tail is also glossy black.
This cuckoo species is an impressive sight, with its striking combination of colors and long crest. It is a common sight in its native habitat, where it can be seen foraging for food in the undergrowth or the trees.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Clamator |
| Species | C. coromandus |
2. Pink-Necked Green Pigeon
The pink-necked green pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the pigeon and dove family, Columbidae. This species is mainly found in Southeast Asia, having a range that stretches from Myanmar and Vietnam to the major islands of Indonesia and the Philippines.
It is a widespread species in this region and can be seen in many habitats, such as forests, woodlands, and gardens. Its neck and upper chest have distinctive pink plumage, and its overall body is green.
It is a small bird, growing up to 12 inches long and weighing approximately 5 ounces. The pink-necked green pigeon feeds mainly on fruits, buds, and grains and eats insects and small lizards.
It is an arboreal species and can often be seen perched in trees, flying from one tree to another in search of food. It is a gregarious species seen in flocks of up to 20 or more birds. It builds nests in trees, usually at a height of around 10-20 feet.
The female lays 2-3 eggs per clutch, which males and females incubate for around 12 days. The chicks fledge after around four weeks and become independent at around eight weeks.
The pink-necked green pigeon is an essential species in Southeast Asia, providing food, income, and natural beauty to the area’s people. It is also an important species to the local environment, helping to disperse seeds and maintain healthy forests.
Despite its importance, the species faces increasing threats from habitat destruction, hunting, and trapping. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the long-term survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Treron |
| Species | T. vernans |
3. Great Egret
The great egret is a large, widely distributed bird species in many parts of the world. It is also known by other names such as the common egret, large egret, great white egret, or great white heron.
Four subspecies of the great egret are found in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe.
The species has expanded its range in recent years and is now seen in more northern parts of Europe. The great egret is a majestic bird with a distinctive silhouette. It is primarily white, with long legs, a long neck, and a black beak.
Its wingspan can reach up to 1.7 meters, making it one of the larger wading birds. The great egret is an opportunistic feeder, consuming various small animals and fish.
It also has an extended breeding season, generally lasting from late spring to late summer. The great egret is an essential species in many parts of the world.
It is an iconic species in wetlands, marshlands, and coastal areas, and it plays a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. The great egret is also an important cultural symbol, with many Native American legends and stories featuring it as a central character.
Unfortunately, the species is threatened by habitat destruction and overhunting, making it essential to preserve its habitats for future generations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. alba |
4. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a small aquatic bird belonging to the family of grebes. It is widely distributed worldwide and can be found in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America.
The genus name for the little grebe, Takhus, comes from Ancient Greek and translates to “fast” and “to sink under.” This is because grebes can move quickly through the water and even submerge themselves.
The species ruficollis is derived from Latin and means “red-necked.” This refers to the reddish plumage found on the neck of the bird. The last part, Collis, literally means “neck” in Latin.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
5. Large-Tailed Nightjar
The large-tailed nightjar is a species of nightjar belonging to the Caprimulgidae family. This species is found in many locations, including the southern Himalayan foothills, eastern South Asia, Southeast Asia, and northern Australia.
The large-tailed nightjar has distinct plumage, a combination of browns, tans, and greys, and a prominent long tail. The large-tailed nightjar is a nocturnal bird, typically roosting during the day and actively hunting at night.
Its diet consists of insects, which it catches while flying. The large-tailed nightjar is a vital species in its various habitats, as it is an essential part of the local food chain.
As such, conserving the large-tailed nightjar’s habitats is essential to ensure its continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | C. macrurus |
6. White-Breasted Waterhen
The white-breasted waterhen is a waterbird species belonging to the Rallidae family. It is native to South and Southeast Asia and is commonly seen in these areas. These birds have a unique dark slaty coloration, with a white face, breast, and belly.
This makes them relatively easy to identify amongst other waterbirds. The white-breasted waterhen is quite a hardy species and can survive in various habitats, ranging from freshwater marshes to estuarine mudflats.
They are opportunistic feeders and eat whatever food is available, including small creatures, vegetation, and grains. They also feed on insects, such as grasshoppers and dragonflies.
The white-breasted waterhen is quite an adaptable species and can often be seen near human settlements, where it is sometimes seen scavenging for food. These birds also form large flocks, which can contain hundreds of birds.
They migrate short distances for better food sources and more suitable habitats. The white-breasted waterhen is an important species in many areas, as it is an important part of the food chain in its native habitats.
It is also an essential part of the local culture in many areas, as it is often hunted for its flesh, eggs, and feathers. Due to its importance, white-breasted water is protected by law in some areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Amaurornis |
| Species | A. phoenicurus |
7. Black-Winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt, scientifically known as H. Himantopus, is a species of wader that belongs to the avocet and stilt family. It is found in various habitats distributed across many world regions.
This species is distinguished by its long legs, which enable it to wade through shallow waters in search of food. The black-winged stilt is one of the most widely distributed wader species, with its range spanning almost the entire globe.
Its cosmopolitan range has made it an essential species in wetlands and coastal areas, where it plays a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Although the black-winged stilt is often exposed to human activities, it is still a common species in many parts of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
8. Bronze-Winged Jacana
The Bronze-winged Jacana is a unique species of wading bird in the family Jacanidae. It is native to South and Southeast Asia and is the only species in its genus, Metopidius.
This species is a master of adaptation, with long feet that help it to forage on lilies and other floating aquatic vegetation. The jacana can walk across the water’s surface without sinking by spreading its weight.
This allows it to reach plants that may be inaccessible to other birds. The jacana’s remarkable adaptations make it well-suited to its aquatic environment and an integral part of its native ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Jacanidae |
| Genus | Metopidius |
| Species | M. indicus |
9. Large Hawk-Cuckoo
The large hawk-cuckoo is a species of bird found within the family Cuculidae. Found in temperate regions of Asia, it is known for its wide breeding distribution, stretching from the Himalayas to East Asia.
Many of these populations migrate further south during the winter months, allowing them to find more temperate climates. This species has adapted to the diverse climates of its range and can be found in forests and open fields.
Its diet consists primarily of insects but will also eat small reptiles and amphibians. Its call, which can be heard early mornings and evenings, is a loud and distinctive “kuk-kuk-kuk.”
The large hawk-cuckoo is a unique species that plays a vital role in maintaining balance within its habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Hierococcyx |
| Species | H. sparverioides |
10. Orange-Breasted Green Pigeon
The orange-breasted green pigeon is found in tropical areas of Asia south of the Himalayas, including the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia. This pigeon species is mainly a frugivore, primarily feeding on small fruits.
Orange-breasted green pigeons can usually be seen in pairs or small flocks, searching for food in a quiet, unhurried manner in trees.
This pigeon species is a part of the green pigeon family, composed of species found mainly in tropical areas of Africa, Asia, and Australia. These pigeons are generally relatively small, with plump bodies and a short, square tail.
The coloration of the orange-breasted green pigeon is mainly green and grey, with orange patches on the breast and the throat.
The orange-breasted green pigeon is a unique and intriguing species of pigeon, which can be observed in its natural habitat in many areas of tropical Asia.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Treron |
| Species | T. bicinctus |
11. Ruddy-Breasted Crake
The ruddy-breasted crake, also known as the ruddy crake, is a species of waterbird belonging to the Rallidae family. It is a widely distributed species, with its breeding habitat being swamps and wetlands across South Asia.
This includes the Indian subcontinent, South China, Japan, and Indonesia. The ruddy-breasted crake is a medium-sized bird, measuring up to 23 cm in length and having a wingspan of around 43 cm.
It is primarily dark brown, with a lighter brown back and pale rufous chest, which gives it its name.
Its bill is yellow, and its legs and feet are grey. The ruddy-breasted crake is a highly aquatic species, spending most of its time in wetland areas, such as marshes, lakes, and lagoons.
It is an omnivorous species, with its diet consisting of various aquatic invertebrates, small fish, frogs, and seeds. It is usually found singly or in pairs but can occasionally form small flocks. The breeding season of the ruddy-breasted crake varies across its range.
In India, it breeds from April to August, while in China, it breeds from May to September. The female lays a clutch of four eggs in a nest of grass and leaves, which she builds in a shallow depression on the ground near water.
Males and females incubate the eggs and hatch after about three weeks. The young are cared for by both parents for around two months before they fledge. The ruddy-breasted crake is a widely distributed species expected to be abundant in most of its range.
Its population is believed to be stable, and it is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Zapornia |
| Species | Z. fusca |
12. Black-Crowned Night Heron
The black-crowned night heron is a medium-sized heron found in many parts of the world. It is also known as the black-capped night heron or simply night heron in Eurasia. It can be found in Europe, Asia, and North and South America.
It has a long, thin neck and legs and a black crown on the back of its head. Its body is grey or brown, with a yellow bill and red eyes. It is a carnivorous bird, primarily preying on fish, amphibians, and small mammals.
It is a solitary bird but can sometimes be seen in small groups. It is an adaptive species that can survive in various habitats, from wetlands to grasslands to woodlands. It nests in tree hollows or on the ground; its eggs are greenish-white.
The black-crowned night heron is an integral part of the ecosystem, helping to keep the balance of nature.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Nycticorax |
| Species | N. nycticorax |
13. Himalayan Swiftlet
The Himalayan swiftlet is a small species of swift mainly found in the Himalayas and Southeast Asia. It is a colonial breeder, meaning it will form large groups or colonies with other swiftlets to breed.
Some populations of the Himalayan swiftlet are migratory, meaning they will move from one place to another to find food or protection.
This swiftlet species used to be placed in the genus Collocalia, a genus of swifts found mainly in tropical and subtropical areas.
However, further research has shown that the Himalayan swiftlet is more closely related to other species of swifts, causing it to be moved to a different genus.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Aerodramus |
| Species | A. brevirostris |
14. Cinnamon Bittern
The Cinnamon Bittern is a small bird species belonging to the Old World Bittern family, found in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, from India to China and Indonesia.
This bird is mainly a resident species, but some northern populations may undertake a short-distance migration. Its primary habitat is wetlands, including swamps, marshes, and lakes.
It feeds on small fish, small invertebrates, and other aquatic prey. The Cinnamon Bittern is a medium-sized bird with a length ranging from 33 to 38 cm and a 46 to 51 cm wingspan. Its upperparts are cinnamon-brown, while its underparts are white with black streaks.
It has a black crown and a white neck, with a white stripe running along its back. Its wings are distinctive, with long primary feathers extending down to its tail. The Cinnamon Bittern is a solitary bird, with the males having a loud, deep, croaking call.
Breeding takes place during the wet season from April to September. The nests are typically concealed in dense vegetation near shallow water. The female normally lays three to seven eggs, which she incubates alone.
The chicks can fly within three weeks of hatching. The Cinnamon Bittern is listed as a species of most minor Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Although human activities do not threaten them, their population is declining due to habitat loss and disturbance. As such, conservation efforts should be undertaken to protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ixobrychus |
| Species | I. cinnamomeus |
15. Purple Heron
The purple heron is a wading bird species belonging to the heron family Ardeidae. It is native to many areas, including Africa, Europe, and Asia.
The scientific name of the purple heron comes from the Latin ardea and purpure, which mean “heron” and “colored purple,” respectively. In Africa, the purple heron breeds in central and southern regions, while in Europe, it breeds in southern and eastern areas.
In Asia, the species breeds throughout the southern region. It is a wide-ranging species, meaning it is found in many different places worldwide. The purple heron is a distinctive species due to its purple-colored plumage.
It is a relatively large bird, measuring up to 90 centimeters in length. The species typically inhabits swamps, wetlands, and other shallow water bodies, feeding on fish, frogs, and other aquatic creatures. The purple heron is a shy and solitary bird.
It is also a migratory species, which means it travels to different areas depending on the season. During the winter, they migrate to the world’s warmer regions, while during the summer, they migrate to the more excellent areas.
The purple heron is considered a species of minor concern, as it is not threatened in most parts of its range. However, protecting and conserving its natural habitats is still essential, as this will ensure the species continues to thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. purpurea |
16. Blue-Breasted Quail
The king quail is a bird species belonging to the family Phasianidae of the Old World. Several names, including blue-breasted quail, Asian blue quail, Chinese painted quail, and Chung-Chi, know this species.
It is a small bird, typically only around 20 centimeters long, with various colors, including brown, gray, white, and black. The most distinctive feature of the king quail is its bright blue breast, which gives it its name.
It is a ground-dwelling bird in grasslands, scrublands, and open woodlands. The king quail is a sociable bird, often found in small flocks, and is territorial during the breeding season. They feed mainly on insects, seeds, and some plants.
The king quail is a famous aviary bird, due to its beautiful plumage and its relatively easy care.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Synoicus |
| Species | S. chinensis |
17. Himalayan Cuckoo
The Himalayan cuckoo is a bird known as a cuckoo belonging to the genus Cuculus. It can be found throughout the Himalayan mountains, eastwards into southern China and Taiwan.
During the winter, the cuckoo migrates to Southeast Asia and the Greater Sunda Islands, where it remains until spring. In the past, the Himalayan cuckoo was known as the “Oriental cuckoo” and was made up of several different subspecies found in many parts of Asia.
The Himalayan cuckoo is a beautiful bird with feathers ranging from light buff to dark brown, depending on the subspecies. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring up to about 28 cm in length, with a long, pointed bill.
Its call is a loud “cu-cu-cu” and can often be heard in the forests of its native range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Cuculus |
| Species | C. saturatus |
18. Red-Wattled Lapwing
The red-wattled lapwing is a species of bird belonging to the Charadriidae family, commonly found in Asia. It is a type of large plover, also known as a wader.
This type of bird is unique in that it cannot perch like other birds but instead relies on being able to walk on the ground. It has adapted to a more terrestrial lifestyle and can survive in more terrestrial habitats.
It is also a ground-dwelling bird, meaning it does not fly high in the air like other birds but prefers to stay close to the ground. The red-wattled lapwing is a distinctive bird species characterized by the red wattle on its forehead.
This wattle is made up of skin and feathers, which adds to the bird’s unique appearance and helps distinguish it from other species.
The red-wattled lapwing also has a brightly colored bill to feed on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates.
The red-wattled lapwing is a resilient species of bird that can survive in various habitats, including wetlands and grasslands. It is an important bird species in its native range, providing food and shelter for other animals in the area.
It is also an essential part of the food chain, as it feeds on small invertebrates, a vital food source for other animals. Overall, the red-wattled lapwing is an essential bird species found in Asia.
It is an adaptable species that can survive in various habitats and is an integral part of the food chain. Its distinctive red wattle and brightly colored bill make it a unique and beautiful bird species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Vanellus |
| Species | V. indicus |
19. Malaysian Night Heron
The Malayan night heron, also known as the Malaysian night heron and tiger bittern, is a mid-sized heron species in southern and eastern Asia.
It is a medium-sized bird, typically standing at around 25-31 inches in height and weighing between 2.2 and 3.3 pounds. Its plumage is primarily dark gray to black, with a white throat and upper breast and dark barring on the wings and tail.
It has a long yellow-green bill and yellow legs. The Malayan night heron is mainly nocturnal, resting during the day and becoming active at night. It is a solitary bird, typically found alone, although it may form small flocks during the non-breeding season.
Its diet consists mainly of small fish, frogs, and crustaceans, which it catches by standing still in shallow water.
It is a sedentary species, with some populations being migratory. The Malayan night heron typically breeds from March to June, with nests built in the branches of trees, usually near water. The female lays up to six eggs, which are incubated for around 22-24 days.
The chicks are born precocial, meaning they can move around and feed themselves shortly after hatching. The chicks are typically ready to fledge after around 35-40 days.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Gorsachius |
| Species | G. melanolophus |
20. Moustached Hawk-Cuckoo
The mustached hawk-cuckoo is a cuckoo species found in several Southeast Asian countries, including Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand.
It is home to evergreen and secondary forests, which have grown up after a disturbance such as a fire, windstorm, or logging.
Unfortunately, this species is threatened by habitat loss due to human activities such as logging and deforestation, and it has been assessed as a near-threatened species. This means it is in danger of becoming extinct if its habitat continues to be destroyed.
It’s essential to protect these areas so that this species can survive and thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Hierococcyx |
| Species | H. vagans |
21. White-Browed Crake
The white-browed crake is an interesting species of bird found in various countries worldwide. It is part of the Rallidae family, which includes numerous species of water birds that can be seen around wetlands, lakes, and rivers.
This particular species is native to Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, Fiji, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, India, Malaysia, Micronesia, New Caledonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Thailand, and Vanuatu.
The white-browed crake is a small to medium-sized bird with a long body and a short tail. It has a white eyebrow and a black beak. Its back and wings are grayish-brown, while its underparts are white with black and brownish-black markings.
Its legs are yellowish-brown. The white-browed crake prefers to inhabit areas with dense vegetation, such as dense grassland, reeds, and marshes. It feeds on insects, mollusks, and other invertebrates. It can also be seen foraging for food in shallow water.
This species is not considered to be threatened. However, it is affected by habitat destruction due to agricultural and urban development and pollution.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Poliolimnas |
| Species | P. cinereus |
Conclusion
The birds of Yasothon are a diverse and fascinating group of creatures. They can be found in various habitats, from wetlands to forests. With careful observation, it is possible to spot a variety of species.
Their bright feathers and melodic songs make them a joy to observe and appreciate. The birds of Yasothon are a reminder of the natural beauty and diversity of the province.