Hungary, a landlocked country located in Central Europe, boasts a diverse range of bird species. With its varied landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands, Hungary is home to over 400 species of birds.
The country attracts both resident and migratory birds, making it a paradise for ornithologists and bird enthusiasts. Its position at the crossroads of different biomes makes Hungary a crucial stopover location for many migratory bird species.
From eagles to storks, hummingbirds to swallows, Hungary’s birdlife is both rare and impressive. In this article, we will explore the unique and fascinating bird species found in Hungary.
1. Sandgrouse
Sandgrouse is birds of the order Pterocliformes, found mainly in Africa and Asia. There are sixteen species belonging to two genera – Syrrhaptes from central Asia and Pterocles from Africa and other Asian countries.
They inhabit treeless areas such as deserts, steppes, scrubland, or savannas and tend to be ground-dwelling birds that feed on seeds.
Sandgrouse has adapted special features for survival in their harsh environment.
They possess well-developed feet with four toes used for walking over hot sand while keeping their body temperature cool at all times by regulating heat loss through their legs.
Their feathers also act like a sponge helping them absorb water before flying long distances back home where they then expel it using specialized glandular secretions located near the wings so that chicks can drink directly from an adult’s breast plumage.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Columbimorphae |
| Order | Pterocliformes Huxley, 1868 |
| Family | Pteroclidae Bonaparte, 1831 |
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2. Plovers
Plovers are a family of around 64-68 species of ground-dwelling birds, commonly found in open country such as fields, meadows and tundras.
They have short bills with webbed feet to help them forage through mud or shallow water.
Plover plumage is usually mottled brown though some species may have brighter colors on the head and wings.
These birds feed mainly on insects but can also eat small crustaceans and worms.
Plovers breed during springtime when they dig holes in sandy or pebbled beaches to lay their eggs which hatch after about 3 weeks incubation period.
They use distraction display behaviour by pretending an injury to the predators away from their nests if needed for protecting their young ones.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae Leach, 1820 |
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3. Gruiformes
The Gruiformes is an order of birds which contains a large variety of families, both living and extinct. They are found all over the world in many different habitats, including wetlands and grasslands.
The name comes from Latin for “crane-like” due to their similar appearance to cranes. Many members of this group have long legs adapted for wading or running on land depending on species.
They also typically have long beaks used for hunting prey such as insects and small animals like fish, frogs and lizards.
Other traits commonly shared by these birds include strong wings with broad flight feathers that help them soar through the air when migrating or searching food sources during winter months.
In addition to these physical characteristics, some Gruiformes also possess vocalizations unique among other bird orders – making them easily recognizable even at great distances.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Gruimorphae |
| Order | Gruiformes Bonaparte, 1854 |
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4. Bitterns
Bitterns are a type of heron, belonging to the Ardeidae family. They have shorter necks and tend to be more secretive than other members of this group.
These birds can usually be found near reed beds or wetlands, where they make their distinctive ‘booming’ call as part of their mating ritual.
Bitterns feed on insects, fish and amphibians which inhabit these areas – catching them with their long pointed bills.
Although bitterns are well camouflaged due to their brown-and-black striped feathers when standing still among reeds, they will fly away quickly if disturbed by humans nearby.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Subfamily | Botaurinae Reichenbach, 1850 |
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5. Saker Falcon
The saker falcon is a large species of falcon that is found across the Palearctic from central Europe all the way to Manchuria.
It typically migrates, except for in southern parts of its range where it winters in Ethiopia, Arabia, northern Pakistan and China.
This majestic bird has been designated as the national bird of Hungary, United Arab Emirates and Mongolia due to its beauty and gracefulness.
Its plumage can be brownish-grey or light grey with dark spots while they have bright yellow eyes which contrast their feathers beautifully.
They are also quite agile when flying at high speeds with wingspan ranging between 1-1.5 m long – perfect for soaring.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Genus | Falco |
| Subgenus | Hierofalco |
| Species | F. cherrug |
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6. Bustard
Bustards are large, terrestrial birds that inhabit dry grassland areas and the steppes of the Old World. They range from 40-150 cm in length and belong to the family Otididae.
Bustards have an omnivorous diet consisting of leaves, buds, seeds, fruit as well as small vertebrates and invertebrates.
These birds usually live a solitary life but can be seen gathering around water sources or food during certain times of year such as mating season.
Due to their large size they are vulnerable to predation by foxes or other animals which is why they tend to remain alert at all times.
When in open spaces while relying on camouflage for protection against predators when out in tall vegetation coverings.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Otidimorphae |
| Order | Otidiformes Wagler, 1830 |
| Family | Otididae Rafinesque, 1815 |
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7. Common Kingfisher
The Common Kingfisher is a small, sparrow-sized bird that can be found across Eurasia and North Africa. It has the typical short tail and large head of kingfishers with seven different subspecies recognized in its range.
They are mainly resident birds but will migrate away during winter when rivers freeze over. The species usually live near bodies of water such as streams or lakes.
Where they hunt for fish by diving from above into the water after spotting their prey below them.
These brightly coloured birds have an unmistakable vibrant blue plumage along with orange underparts and white patches on their wings which makes them easy to recognize amongst other similar looking species.
Their call is loud and shrill making it one of the most recognizable sounds heard around wetlands throughout Europe.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Subfamily | Alcedininae |
| Genus | Alcedo |
| Species | A. atthis |
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8. Stone-Curlew
Stone-curlews, also known as dikkops or thick-knees, are a family of birds that have adapted to live in tropical and temperate regions throughout the world.
They can be found in Africa, Asia and Australia with two or more species per region. Despite being classified as waders, most prefer dry arid habitats over moist wetlands.
Stone-curlews typically have long legs which help them navigate through their preferred terrain efficiently; some species even stand at an impressive height when standing on those long legs.
Additionally they feature cryptic plumage which helps them blend into their surroundings while hunting for prey such as insects and small mammals like rodents.
These unique bird’s calls are easily recognizable; it has been said that hearing one is similar to listening to someone whistling ‘Keee Weee’.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Suborder | Chionidi |
| Family | Burhinidae Mathews, 1912 |
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9. Bee-Eater
Bee-eaters are one of the most beautiful and vibrant birds in existence. They have a slender body, long wings, down turned bills and their signature elongated central tail feathers which make them instantly recognizable from afar.
Their plumage is incredibly colorful with many shades ranging from blues to greens to reds that glisten when they fly through the air.
These stunning creatures can be found all over Africa, Asia, Southern Europe, Australia and New Guinea where they feed mainly on bees but also other insects like flies or wasps as well as small mammals such as lizards or rodents.
Bee-eaters live in colonies near rivers or wetlands so that they may easily hunt for food while staying close together for safety purposes.
Additionally it allows them to better display their impressive courtship dances during mating season.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Meropidae Rafinesque, 1815 |
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10. Shrike
Shrikes are small passerine birds of the family Laniidae, with 34 species in four genera. They get their name from Old English word “scrīc”, which refers to their shriek-like call.
These birds have earned the nickname ‘butcherbirds’ due to their feeding habits; they impale prey on thorns or barbed wire fences for later consumption.
Shrikes also tend to be aggressive predators and hunt a wide range of animals such as insects, small reptiles, rodents and even other smaller bird species.
In terms of physical appearance, these songbirds can vary greatly depending on the specific genus but usually boast a large hooked bill atop an impressive crest along with bright colors like gray, black or brownish hues across its feathers.
It’s clear shrike is quite remarkable creature that has gained notoriety for both hunting prowess and distinctive vocalizations.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Corvoidea |
| Family | Laniidae Rafinesque, 1815 |
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11. Hoopoes
Hoopoes are a fascinating species of bird, found across Africa, Asia and Europe. They have beautiful plumage with unique ‘crowns’ of feathers on their heads.
Three living and one extinct species exist – although for some time they were all classed as the same species: Upupa epops. Some taxonomists still believe this to be true.
These birds are often associated with royalty due to the impressive crown-like crest atop their head, adding an extra element of mystery and exoticism to these creatures.
Hoopoes can also produce loud calls which sound like “hoo-poo” hence why they’ve been given such an apt name.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Bucerotiformes |
| Family | Upupidae Leach, 1820 |
| Genus | Upupa Linnaeus, 1758 |
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12. Old World Orioles
Old World orioles are a family of passerine birds found in the Old World. It comprises four genera: piopios, figbirds, pitohuis and the original genus Oriolus.
The African black-headed species have sometimes been removed from this latter group due to their distinct characteristics as well as other proposed splits for Oriolus.
These colorful birds can be identified by their bright yellow or orange plumage that often features darker markings on wings and head areas, although some species may also display a blue hue or stripes across the body feathers.
They typically feed on insects such as caterpillars and grasshoppers but will supplement with small fruits when available too – making them beneficial additions to gardens.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Orioloidea |
| Family | Oriolidae Vigors, 1825 |
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13. Avocets
Avocets are elegant wading birds belonging to the same avian family as stilts. These birds have long and slender legs which they use for sweeping their curved bills through shallow water in order to find food like insects, crustaceans, fish eggs etc.
The name of this species is derived from Italian’s ‘avosetta’ and Latin words: recurvus (meaning ‘curved backwards’) and rostrum (‘bill’).
Avocets inhabit wetlands all over the world with some variations in color among different populations.
They build nests using mud or grasses on islands or remote areas surrounded by water bodies where they can feed safely without any disturbance from predators.
With its striking black-and-white plumage pattern along with upturned bill, these graceful creatures make an enchanting sight when seen flying together near wetland sites.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Recurvirostra Linnaeus, 1758 |
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14. Eurasian Reed Warbler
The Eurasian reed warbler (Acrocephalus scirpaceus) is a species of Old World Warbler native to the temperate parts of Europe and Asia.
It breeds in wetlands such as marshes, ponds and rivers with dense vegetation like reeds or tall grasses.
During its wintering season, it migrates southward to sub-Saharan Africa where there are milder conditions.
This small bird has streaked brown plumage on the upperparts and white underparts which makes it difficult for predators to spot among the foliage.
Its diet consists mainly of insects including aphids, caterpillars larvae and moths caught while flying over water or by gleaning from plants growing near water bodies.
The male sings an attractive song consisting of several phrases repeated one after another as part of their courtship display during breeding season in order attract females for mating purposes.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Acrocephalidae |
| Genus | Acrocephalus |
| Species | A. scirpaceus |
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15. Eurasian Spoonbill
The Eurasian spoonbill is a unique and remarkable wading bird, belonging to the ibis and spoonbill family. It has an unmistakable bill which is broad in shape, giving it its Latin name Platalea “broad”.
Its scientific name ‘leucorodia’ comes from Ancient Greek meaning literally ‘white heron’ due to its predominantly white plumage.
In England this beautiful bird was traditionally known as the ‘shoveler’ because of its distinctive beak.
This rare species can often be found near wetlands or coastal areas where they feed on fish, crustaceans, insects and aquatic invertebrates.
The Eurasian Spoonbill is truly an incredible creature that deserves our protection.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Platalea |
| Species | P. leucorodia |
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16. European Roller
The European roller is a beautiful bird belonging to the Coracias family, and it’s the only one of its kind found in Europe.
It inhabits various habitats such as dry wooded savanna, bushy plains and other areas except for treeless ones.
During wintertime they usually nest in tree holes, while their range extends into Middle East, Central Asia and Maghreb regions.
They have vibrant blue feathers with black stripes along the neck area which makes them stand out from other birds easily.
Its diet consists mainly of insects like grasshoppers or beetles that are hunted by catching them mid-air during flight; this feature adds an extra charm to these magnificent creatures.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Coraciidae |
| Genus | Coracias |
| Species | C. garrulus |
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17. Eurasian Nuthatch
The Eurasian nuthatch is a small passerine bird found in the Palearctic region, most commonly in Europe. It has blue-gray upper parts, an orange-buff underbelly, and a black eye stripe.
The distinctive characteristic of this species is its loud dwip call which can be heard throughout its range.
This species has more than 20 subspecies divided into three main groups based on their geographical ranges.
Those from western regions having the buffest coloration while eastern birds are greyer overall.
They usually feed on insects and spiders but also eat nuts and seeds when available, often storing them for later use by wedging them into bark crevices or similar places to retrieve later as needed.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. europaea |
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18. Great Tit
The Great Tit is a small passerine bird found in woodlands throughout Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia. Its beautiful black and white plumage with bold yellow or green patches make it easily distinguishable from other species of its family.
It generally does not migrate except for harsh winters but will stay resident in any kind of woodland area.
The diet consists mainly on insects, seeds and nuts which are found by searching through trees or scavenging from feeders placed near gardens.
Great Tits are also known to be clever problem solvers; they can open milk bottles left out unattended as well as cracking sunflower seeds that provide them essential nutrients during winter months when food is scarce.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Parus |
| Species | P. major |
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19. Bearded Reedling
The Bearded Reedling is a small passerine bird found in reed-beds across Europe, Asia and North Africa.
It is easily identified by its distinct black and white plumage with males having yellow faces.
This species belongs to the only family of birds known as Panuridae and was first described by Carl Linnaeus back in 1758.
They feed on insects such as beetles, flies, moths among others but also consume seeds from plants like sedges or rushes during winter months when food availability decreases significantly.
These birds are territorial meaning that they have their own area where they live which can vary from 8 to 12 hectares depending on the seasonality of insect abundance within these areas making them an important part for maintaining healthy ecosystems in wetlands around their range.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Panuridae Des Murs, 1860 |
| Genus | Panurus Koch, 1816 |
| Species | P. biarmicus |
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20. Eurasian Jay
The Eurasian jay is a beautiful passerine bird of the crow family, Corvidae. It has bright pinkish brown plumage with white throat and two black stripes on each side.
The upper wings have an eye-catching blue panel while its tail is all black in color. This species mainly resides in woodlands, spanning over vast regions from western Europe to India and even north-west Africa.
Its diet consists of small invertebrates like insects as well as fruits, seeds and nuts making it quite adaptable when it comes to food sources.
With its loud calls echoing through the forests they inhabit, this amazing creature will definitely make your day brighter if you ever get the chance to spot one.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Garrulus |
| Species | G. glandarius |
21. Cormorants
Cormorants are a family of aquatic birds found around the world. They include 40 species, such as great cormorants and common shags.
In Britain, these two species are the most commonly seen in their natural habitats.
Cormorants have long necks, webbed feet and can be identified by their glossy black feathers which they use to help them swim through water with ease as they hunt for food like fish or crustaceans.
They have an impressive wingspan often reaching up to five feet across when fully extended.
Despite being strong swimmers, these birds also enjoy spending time perched on rocks near rivers or shorelines where they will preen themselves in order to keep clean and dry during cooler weather conditionsScientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae Reichenbach, 1850 |
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22. Spoonbills
Spoonbills are large wading birds belonging to the genus Platalea. Characterized by their long legs and distinctive spoon-shaped beaks, these birds can be found all over the world except Antarctica.
The name of this genus derives from Ancient Greek meaning “broad”, referring to their bill’s shape.
There are six species of Spoonbill recognized – though they usually form a single group, sometimes it is divided into three genera.
These graceful creatures feed mainly on small aquatic organisms such as insects and fish which they catch with an open-mouth technique while sweeping through shallow waters in search for food.
They typically breed near water bodies during springtime when there’s plenty of food available around them.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Subfamily | Plataleinae |
| Genus | Platalea Linnaeus, 1758 |
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23. Great Bustard
The Great Bustard is a large bird found in open grasslands and farmland across Europe, Central Asia and northern Morocco.
It has a distinctive appearance – its feathers are grey-brown with white below the neck while its head is dark brown.
The species was listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List in 1996 due to population declines caused by habitat loss, overhunting and illegal trade of eggs or chicks.
Conservation efforts provide hope for this majestic creature’s future – some European countries have reintroduced them back into their native habitats through captive breeding programs.
There’s no doubt that we must protect these beautiful birds if they’re to continue soaring majestically above our landscapes for years to come.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Otis |
| Species | O. tarda |
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24. Falcons And Caracaras
Falcons and caracaras are birds of prey that belong to the family Falconidae. They have impressive sharp talons, hooked beaks and keen eyesight which makes them excellent hunters.
Falcons can reach speeds up to 200 mph when diving for their prey while caracaras use a combination of running and flying to hunt small mammals such as rabbits or rats.
Both falcons and caracaras live in various areas around the world from grasslands, deserts, forests, wetlands or even urban areas where they nest on cliffs or tall buildings.
The diet mainly consists insects but also includes larger animals like reptiles or other birds which they catch by surprise with fast dives out of the sky.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae Leach, 1820 |
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25. Glossy Ibis
The Glossy Ibis is a water bird that belongs to the family Threskiornithidae. It has an unique bill in the shape of a sickle, which gave it its scientific name – Plegadis falcinellus.
It can be found widely across Europe, Asia and Africa, with scattered nesting sites in warm regions.
Its feathers are black-brown on top and chestnut brown from below; their wings have glossy greenish-purple sheen when seen from afar.
They mainly feed on small insects like grasshoppers, spiders or earthworms as well as crustaceans or amphibians caught while wading through shallow waters.
During breeding season they also consume plant material such as rice grains or corn kernels provided by humans near habitat areas where they nest.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Plegadis |
| Species | P. falcinellus |
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26. Coraciiformes
Coraciiformes birds are a group of beautiful and vibrant species, including kingfishers, bee-eaters, rollers, motmots and todies. They have syndactyly feet with three forward pointing toes (with their third and fourth fused at the base).
However in some kingfisher species one toe is absent. This order of bird has an interesting behavior known as ‘slamming’ which links them all together.
These amazing creatures can be seen across many parts of the world from forests to deserts.
Their colorful feathers make them stand out amongst other birds making sure they don’t go unnoticed.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Picodynastornithes |
| Order | Coraciiformes Forbes, 1884 |
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27. Middle Spotted Woodpecker
The Middle Spotted Woodpecker is a species of woodpecker native to Europe. It was formally described by the Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus in 1758 and given the binomial name Picus medius, with “medius” meaning intermediate – referring to its size compared to other woodpeckers.
They have black-and-white plumage with a distinctive red patch on their crowns, and are usually found around woodland areas where they feed on insects such as ants and beetles.
The males make loud drumming noises during mating season which can be heard for up to 500 meters away.
These birds generally live in tree cavities but will also nest inside old walls or buildings if available.
Conservation efforts are underway across Europe due to decreasing populations caused by habitat loss and fragmentation from human activity, making it an important species worth protecting.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dendrocoptes |
| Species | D. medius |
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28. Syrian Woodpecker
The Syrian woodpecker is a species of the Picidae family, first described in 1833 by Wilhelm Hemprich and Christian Gottfried Ehrenberg.
It resides throughout southeastern Europe to Iran and has recently expanded its range into northwest Europe.
This bird usually breeds in woodland areas with plenty of dead trees for it to feed on insects inhabiting them.
Its most distinguishing features include an olive-green back and black wings; white feathers line the sides while red covers its head crown down to its nape.
They are characterized as being highly vocal birds, often making loud tapping noises when searching for food under tree bark or branches.
The Syrian Woodpecker is a delightful addition to any avian landscape.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dendrocopos |
| Species | D. syriacus |
29. Eurasian Pygmy Owl
The Eurasian pygmy owl is an adorable, tiny bird species native to the boreal forests of Northern and Central Europe as well as Siberia.
It has a distinct dark reddish-grey brown coloration with spotted sides and half white ring around its neck.
These birds are considered sedentary, meaning that adult populations will remain in their range for most of the year except during seasonal migrations or dispersals.
They prefer coniferous woodland habitats where they can hunt small prey like insects, lizards and rodents from perches located on tree branches or trunks.
During breeding season male pygmy owls have been observed performing aerial displays involving jumps from one branch to another while calling out loudly in order to attract potential mates.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Strigidae |
| Genus | Glaucidium |
| Species | G. passerinum |
30. European Bee-Eater
The European Bee-Eater is a stunningly beautiful bird, boasting an array of bright colors. Its head and neck are light blue with greenish ear coverts and its back is chestnut brown.
The wings have yellow primaries bordered in black, while the rest of the feathers contain hues of pink, russet orange, grayish-blue and olive green.
This species can be found breeding throughout Southern Europe to Central Asia as well as Northern Africa to South Africa where it likes to inhabit open country near rivers or streams with bare banks for nesting purposes.
It migrates during winter months down into tropical areas within both Africa and India but will occasionally overshoot northwards which may result in rare sightings elsewhere on occasion too.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Meropidae |
| Genus | Merops |
| Species | M. apiaster |
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31. Eurasian Penduline Tit
The Eurasian penduline tit is a passerine bird of the genus Remiz which can be found widely across the western Palearctic.
It migrates to more northern parts in summer, while staying resident in its southern range during winter months.
This species experienced an expansion of its breeding grounds throughout Western Europe between 1980s and 1990s, thus increasing its population significantly.
The Penduline Tit has various striking features like bright yellow underparts with black streaks on sides.
Greyish-brown upper part with white underside and pale eye line along head sides as well as distinctive tail nest made from fibers and mosses hanging from trees or shrubs like a pendulum hence their name ‘Penduline’.
These birds feed mainly on insects but also eat some seeds especially sunflower seeds making them popular garden visitors for many people.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Remizidae |
| Genus | Remiz |
| Species | R. pendulinus |
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32. Sylviid Warblers
The Sylviid warblers are a family of passerine birds found in Eurasia and Africa. They include the typical warblers as well as babblers that were formerly part of the Old World babbler family.
These birds have slender bodies, pointed wings, long tails and strong legs adapted for ground-dwelling habits like running or hopping along branches.
The male often has bright colors while females are usually duller in coloration with more muted plumage patterns than males.
Some species also show sexual dimorphism where one sex may be larger or smaller than its counterpart; for instance some species may have longer tail feathers on the female side compared to their male counterparts.
Many members of this group feed on insects but some specialize on seeds, fruits, nectar or even frogs.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Sylvioidea |
| Family | Sylviidae Leach, 1820 |
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33. Treecreepers
Treecreepers are small passerine birds found in wooded areas of the Northern Hemisphere and sub-Saharan Africa.
They have dull colored plumage, long curved bills, stiff tails and strong feet that help them to climb up tree trunks while searching for food such as insects and spiders.
The two genera Certhia and Salpornis include eleven species which can be identified by their distinct call – a high pitched ‘tsee-tsit’.
Treecreepers build cup shaped nests on trees usually near the base or middle trunk using mosses, lichens, grasses with leaves inside them to provide insulation from cold temperatures.
These birds also use bark crevices during winter months when they shelter in groups together against extreme weather conditions.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Certhioidea |
| Family | Certhiidae Leach, 1820 |
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34. Eastern Imperial Eagle
The Eastern Imperial Eagle is a majestic bird of prey, with striking features and sharp eyesight.
It breeds in southeastern Europe and throughout West and Central Asia, before migrating south to winter in Africa, the Middle East or South/East Asia.
This eagle belongs to the Accipitridae family – known for their well-feathered legs – allowing them great agility when hunting their prey which includes rabbits, hares and small mammals among other birds.
They have brown wings bordered by white feathers which gives it an elegant appearance that stands out from its environment.
In recent years there has been some concern about declining numbers due to loss of habitat or illegal poaching; however conservation efforts are underway to ensure this beautiful species continues into future generations.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Aquila |
| Species | A. heliaca |
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35. Kentish Plover
The Kentish plover is an elegant shorebird found around the world in coastal areas, saline lakes and lagoons. Both males and females have pale plumages with a white underside, grey/brown back, dark legs and a black bill.
The male birds however feature one extra distinction; they sport chestnut crowns on their heads.
During mating season the males are known to perform elaborate courtship displays – flying up high into the air before diving rapidly towards its partner while singing loudly.
They can be seen nesting among rocks or sand dunes close to water bodies where they use broken shells as building material for their nests.
This species of bird provides many benefits including controlling insect populations near coasts as well as providing food sources for larger predators such as raptors during migration times when prey is scarce.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Charadrius |
| Species | C. alexandrinus |
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36. Eurasian Golden Oriole
The Eurasian golden oriole is a beautiful bird belonging to the Old World oriole family of passerine birds that breed in temperate climates of the Northern Hemisphere.
It migrates from Europe and Palearctic during summer season, and spends its winter months in central and southern Africa.
These birds have an impressive range with large populations which appear to be stable or increasing across much of their range due to conservation efforts.
They are mostly found near forests, woodlands, riverbanks and meadows where they feed on fruits as well as insects such as caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers etc.
The males can easily be identified by their bright yellow plumage while females are more olive coloured.
All in all these stunningly colourful creatures add vibrancy to our environment.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Oriolidae |
| Genus | Oriolus |
| Species | O. oriolus |
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37. Dalmatian Pelican
The Dalmatian pelican is an impressive bird, the largest of its family and one of the largest freshwater birds in the world.
Its wingspan rivals even those of albatrosses and it flies gracefully with other members in synchrony.
It has a wide range across Central Eurasia stretching from Mediterranean to India and Southeast Asia, as well as parts of Russia.
This large species has white feathers which are generally lightly tinged with grey or yellow around their head; they have long beaks that can reach up to 40cm in length.
Their unique physical characteristics make them stand out among other waterbirds – so if you ever get lucky enough to spot one while exploring nature, take some time to appreciate this majestic creature.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Pelecanidae |
| Genus | Pelecanus |
| Species | P. crispus |
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38. Short-Toed Snake Eagle
The Short-toed Snake Eagle is a medium sized bird of prey that belongs to the Accipitridae family. It has a wide distribution across Europe, Asia and Africa.
The species name ‘gallicus’ refers to Gallia, which was an ancient region in Western Europe corresponding mostly to what is now France.
This raptor feeds mainly on snakes but also preys upon lizards and small mammals like rodents and bats.
Its diet allows it to thrive even in areas with limited food resources as its main source of nourishment are easily found reptiles.
The short-toed eagle prefers open habitats such as grasslands or steppes where they can hunt more efficiently using their sharp vision combined with agile flight manoeuvres which allow them to quickly snatch up their prey from long distances away.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Circaetus |
| Species | C. gallicus |
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39. Lesser Spotted Eagle
The Lesser Spotted Eagle is a large Eastern European bird of prey that belongs to the Accipitridae family. It has an overall slender body shape, with males averaging around 3kg in weight and females weighing up to 4kg.
Its wingspan can reach up to 180 cm, making it one of the largest birds of prey in Europe. It has a distinctive dark brown upper plumage, pale beige under parts and yellow legs which have black ‘tiger’ stripes running along them.
The head is covered with white feathers while its eyes are yellowish-brown or orangey-red coloured depending on age.
They feed mainly on small mammals such as voles but also takes other smaller animals like reptiles or amphibians if available nearby.
In recent years their population numbers have declined due to habitat loss caused by human activities thus conservation measures for this species must be taken into account so as not only preserve these majestic creatures but also protect our environment at the same timeScientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Clanga |
| Species | C. pomarina |
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40. Garganey
The Garganey is a small dabbling duck that breeds in much of Europe and across the Palearctic. During winter, it migrates to southern Africa, India (Santragachi), Bangladesh (in Sylhet district) and Australasia where large flocks can be seen.
It has an unmistakable appearance with its brownish head and grey body covered by white patches on both sides along with blue speculum feathers at the back of wings.
Its diet mostly consists of aquatic vegetation such as grasses, sedges or pondweeds which are usually collected from shallow waters like marshes or ponds while swimming.
The species is vulnerable due to loss of wetland habitats caused by drainage for agriculture purposes or urban development making them increasingly rarer throughout their range.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Spatula |
| Species | S. querquedula |
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41. Snow Bunting
The snow bunting is a small and colourful passerine bird found in the Arctic regions of the northern hemisphere.
With its bright white feathers, black markings on its wings and tail, it stands out amongst other birds that inhabit these cold climates.
This species has adapted well to surviving in this harsh environment; they nest under boulders or rocks so their eggs are shielded from predators and blizzards alike.
They feed mainly on insects during summer months but switch to seeds when winter arrives as they seek food sources which will not freeze over with ice.
The snow bunting is an important part of the local ecosystem due to providing sustenance for larger animals such as foxes and owls who rely upon them for survival throughout wintertime.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Calcariidae |
| Genus | Plectrophenax |
| Species | P. nivalis |
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42. Lesser Grey Shrike
The lesser grey shrike is a migratory bird that breeds in parts of Europe and Asia. During the autumn, it travels to southern Africa for the winter season and returns in the spring.
It is a rare sight in western Europe, often seen as an erratic during the spring or autumn. This shrike is similar in appearance to the great grey shrike, another member of its family.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Laniidae |
| Genus | Lanius |
| Species | L. minor |
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43. Flamingos
Flamingos are a type of water bird that belong to the Phoenicopteriformes group. They are known for their distinctive pink coloring and long, thin legs.
Flamingos are closely related to grebes and are part of the Mirandornithes clade. These birds are well-documented in the fossil record, with some of their extinct relatives dating back millions of years.
In fact, the first known member of the Phoenicopteridae family was a bird called Elornis. Flamingos are known for their unique feeding habits, which involve using their beaks to filter food from the water.
They are also social creatures that typically live in large groups called colonies.
Overall, flamingos are fascinating creatures with a long history on our planet.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Mirandornithes |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes Fürbringer, 1888 |
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44. Sittidae
The Sittidae bird family, also known as nuthatches, consists of small, agile birds found throughout the world.
These birds typically have short tails and powerful legs that allow them to climb up and down trees with ease.
Nuthatches are omnivorous, feeding on insects, nuts, seeds, and berries. They are known for their unique habit of wedging nuts and seeds into cracks and crevices in trees and then using their bills to hammer them open.
Nuthatches typically form monogamous pairs and breed in cavities, such as those found in dead trees.
Some species of nuthatches are also known for their ability to coat the entrance of their nests with resin or other sticky substances to deter potential predators.
Overall, these adaptable and resilient birds are a fascinating part of the avian world.
45. Common Rock Thrush
The Common rock thrush is a species of chat that belongs to the family Muscicapidae. Formerly placed in the family Turdidae, this bird is also known as the rufous-tailed rock thrush or simply rock thrush.
Its scientific name, Monticola saxatilis, is derived from Latin, with Monticola meaning “mountain dweller” and saxatilis meaning “rock-frequenting”.
The Common rock thrush can be found breeding in southern Europe, where it frequents mountainous areas and rocky terrain.
With its distinctive rufous tail and blue-grey plumage, this bird is a beautiful addition to any observation list.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Muscicapidae |
| Genus | Monticola |
| Species | M. saxatilis |
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