Birds are one of nature’s most fascinating creatures in nearly every corner of the world. Their incredible diversity of forms, colors, and behaviors makes them a source of endless fascination. In the Lacs region, birdwatching is a popular activity.
From the majestic Bald Eagle to the tiny Hummingbird, there is a wide variety of birds to observe.
Whether you are interested in birding as a hobby or just want to learn more about the beautiful birds in the area, this introduction will provide you with some fascinating facts about the birds of the Lacs region.
18 Birds to Watch in Lacs
Lacs is a central Ivory Coast region known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. If you are a bird lover, you will find plenty of opportunities to observe and admire some of the world’s most colorful and diverse avian species.
Here are 18 birds that you should not miss when visiting Lacs.
1. Mallard
The mallard duck, also known as the wild duck, is a species of dabbling duck found in many parts of the world. It is widespread in temperate and subtropical areas of the Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa.
This duck has also been introduced to other areas, such as New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa.
Due to its widespread distribution and colorful plumage, the mallard is a widespread species amongst birdwatchers and birders. Its diet consists mainly of small invertebrates, including insects, crustaceans, mollusks, and aquatic plants.
During the breeding season, males have bright green heads and dull brown bodies, while females have brown heads and dull brown bodies. The mallard is an essential species for conservation, as it is a common sight in many wetlands and waterfowl habitats.
Its presence is a sign of a healthy ecosystem and can be used as an indicator of the health of the natural environment. It is also an important species for recreational hunting in many parts of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. platyrhynchos |
2. Pied-billed Grebe
The Pied-billed Grebe is a species of bird belonging to the Grebe family of water birds. They are the only remaining species of the genus Podilymbus after the extinction of the Atitlán grebe.
Pied-billed grebes are mainly found in ponds and other American wetland areas. Their distinct black-and-white markings can easily identify them along with their yellow bill.
The grebes have been known to inhabit a variety of wetlands, including freshwater marshes, swamps, and slow-moving streams. They often feed on small fish, frogs, and aquatic insects. The Pied-billed Grebe is a monogamous species, meaning they mate for life.
They build their nests near water, typically near shorelines or dense vegetation. The nests are made from vegetation and mud, which the female builds and maintains. During the breeding season, males perform a unique courtship dance to attract a mate.
The female will lay two to four eggs, which both parents take turns incubating. After hatching, both parents help feed and protect their young until they are ready to leave the nest. The Pied-billed Grebe is a species of conservation concern due to the loss of wetland habitats.
They are also susceptible to predation from introduced species, such as cats and rats. To help protect this species, it is essential to conserve and protect wetland habitats.
This can be done by creating and maintaining protected areas, such as wildlife sanctuaries and natural reserves. Additionally, it is essential to control the population of invasive species and to avoid activities that can damage or pollute wetland habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podilymbus |
| Species | P. podiceps |
3. Ring-necked Duck
The Ring-necked Duck is a species found commonly in North America, typically in freshwater ponds and lakes. The scientific name of the Ring-necked Duck is derived from two different languages: Greek and Latin.
The Greek word aithuia is an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors including Hesychius and Aristotle. The Latin phrase collaris means “of the neck” and comes from the Latin phrase collum meaning “neck”.
This is an appropriate name for the Ring-necked Duck as it has a distinct black ring around its neck, making it easily identifiable. The Ring-necked Duck is diving known to dive to depths of up to 18 feet in search of food.
It mainly feeds on aquatic invertebrates, aquatic plants, and seeds. It is a migratory species found in the northern parts of North America during the summer and in the southern parts of North America during the winter.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. collaris |
4. Wood Duck
The wood duck, also known as the Carolina duck, is a species of perching duck native to North America. It is one of the most visually striking waterfowl on the continent, with the male wood duck sporting a vibrant combination of colors.
The drake, or male, wood duck is adorned with a green head, white neck and chest, and brown and black back and wings. Its face is decorated with a white patch above the eyes and a reddish-orange bill.
The breasts and sides of the male are a rich chestnut color, and its sides are marked with white and black barring. The female, or hen, is much more subdued in appearance, with mainly brownish-gray feathers.
Both male and female wood ducks have a white line along the side of their face and a white patch on their wings. The wood duck is an adaptable species found in various wetland habitats, including wooded swamps, marshes, lakes, ponds, and streams.
The species is also found in urban parks and residential areas, sometimes seen perching on tree branches or lawns. Wood ducks feed on various aquatic plants, seeds, and insects. They also take corn, oats, and other grains from bird feeders.
The wood duck is an essential species for hunters, who value its beauty and its tasty meat. The species is also an essential part of the North American ecosystem, playing an essential role in the balance of wetland habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aix |
| Species | A. sponsa |
5. Osprey
The osprey is a large bird of prey belonging to the family of raptors. It has a wide range, found on every continent except Antarctica. It is also known as the sea hawk, river hawk, or fish hawk due to its specialized diet of primarily fish.
The osprey is a diurnal hunter, which is most active during the day. It has a distinct physical appearance, with brown feathers on its upperparts and predominantly greyish feathers on its head and underparts.
The osprey is a large bird, reaching more than 60 cm long and 180 cm across the wings. The osprey is an opportunistic hunter, able to take advantage of various prey sources.
Its diet consists mainly of fish but can also include small mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. It has a sharp, curved beak and talons to help it catch and hold its prey. The osprey is an adept flier, able to hover and dive into the water to catch its prey.
The osprey is a solitary bird typically found near bodies of water such as rivers and lakes. It nests near these water sources, often building a large nest on top of a dead tree or other tall structure.
The female osprey will lay 2-4 eggs, which will hatch after about a month of incubation. The young ospreys will fledge after 8-10 weeks and will soon be able to fly and hunt independently. The osprey is a unique bird of prey, with its wide range and specialized diet.
Its large size and distinct coloration make it easy to identify, and its fishing skills make it an impressive hunter. The osprey is an essential species in many ecosystems, helping to keep fish populations in balance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Pandionidae |
| Genus | Pandion |
| Species | P. haliaetus |
6. Northern Pintail
The pintail or northern pintail is a species of duck seen in many parts of the world. It breeds in the northern regions of Europe, the Palearctic region, and North America.
This species is migratory, meaning it moves to different areas during different times of the year. The northern pintail spends the breeding season in the regions of the north, then migrates southward during winter, eventually reaching as far south as the equator.
This wide range of migration ensures that the pintail can find suitable habitats and temperatures in no matter the season.
The pintail’s ability to travel such great distances has allowed the species to spread to many parts of the world and gives the bird a greater chance of survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. acuta |
7. Common Merganser
The Common Merganser, also known as the Goosander, is a large seaduck that inhabits rivers and lakes in forested areas of Europe, Asia, and North America. This duck species mainly feeds on fish and is known to nest in holes in trees.
This duck species is an essential part of the ecosystem, as it helps maintain a healthy balance between the fish population and other wildlife in the habitat. The Common Merganser is a medium-sized duck, with the males typically more significant than the females.
The males have a glossy green-black head, white neck, and a chestnut brown chest that contrasts with their white belly. The females have a brown head, white neck, and a greyish-brown body.
Both sexes have a long, slender bill with a serrated edge perfect for grabbing slippery fish. The Common Merganser is generally found in large groups and can travel up to 60 miles daily.
They feed mainly on trout, salmon, and whitefish but will also feed on other aquatic creatures such as crayfish, frogs, and aquatic insects.
They can dive up to 30 feet into the water to catch their prey—the Common Merganser nests in holes or cavities in trees near rivers and lakes.
The female typically lays 6-15 eggs, and both parents help incubate and care for the young until they leave the nest.
The fledglings can fly within a few weeks after hatching. The Common Merganser is an integral part of the ecosystem, as it helps to maintain a healthy balance between the fish population and other wildlife in the habitat.
It also provides food for other wildlife species and helps keep the rivers and lakes clean. The Common Merganser is an important species to protect and conserve for future generations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergus |
| Species | M. merganser |
8. Trumpeter Swan
The Trumpeter Swan is an iconic swan species in North America. It is the heaviest bird native to the continent and the largest species of waterfowl found anywhere in the world.
This majestic bird is recognized by their impressive wingspan, which is measured anywhere from 185 cm to 304.8 cm.
Trumpeter Swans are the largest waterfowl species in the world, and their large size and impressive wingspan make them one of the most incredible birds found in North America.
Their wingspan is vital to their survival, helping them to take off quickly when flying and allowing them to soar through the air with ease.
In addition, the size and strength of their wings enable them to navigate a variety of habitats, from lakes and rivers to wetlands and grasslands. Trumpeter Swans are also well known for their loud and elegant call, often heard echoing across the landscape.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. buccinator |
9. Herons
Herons are a type of bird that is found in both fresh and saltwater environments. They are members of the family Ardeidae, which includes 72 distinct species. Many of these species are called egrets or bitterns rather than herons.
Herons are long-legged and long-necked birds that are found in a variety of habitats. They typically feed on fish, frogs, and other small animals, supplementing their diet with plants.
Herons are usually solitary birds but can be found in small flocks during the non-breeding season. They are also known for their elaborate courtship displays and nests built in trees or tall shrubs.
Herons are an essential part of many ecosystems, as they help control small animal populations and act as indicators of water quality.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
10. Gadwall
The gadwall is a species of dabbling duck found in the family Anatidae. It is a widespread species found in most parts of the world and across many habitats.
The gadwall is a medium-sized duck with a wingspan of 25-30 inches and a body length of 18-20 inches. It has a grayish-brown head, neck, and chest, a white cheek patch and a black and white striped back.
The male gadwall has a light gray body with chestnut patches on its wings and back, while the female has a drab gray body with no chestnut patches. The gadwall eats various foods, such as aquatic insects, aquatic plants, seeds, and grains.
It also consumes a variety of invertebrates, such as clams, snails, and worms. The gadwall is a migratory species, traveling between its summer and wintering grounds.
It typically winters in southern Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia and breeds in northern Europe, northern Africa, and parts of Asia. The gadwall is a widely distributed and abundant species whose population is not currently threatened.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. strepera |
11. Eurasian Teal
The Eurasian teal is a species of duck found across a large portion of the globe, stretching from temperate regions of Eurosiberia in the north to the southern areas during the winter.
It is also commonly known as the common teal or the Eurasian green-winged teal, and it is the only species of its kind in many of the areas it inhabits.
The Eurasian teal is a dabbling duck, meaning it feeds in shallow waters by tipping its head forward and putting its beak in the water to scoop up food. It is a widespread species whose population has remained stable over the years.
The Eurasian teal is an integral part of wetland ecosystems, as it helps to control aquatic plant growth by feeding on the leaves, stems, and seeds of aquatic plants. It is also an important food source for other animals, such as fish, raptors, and mammals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. crecca |
12. Cormorants
Phalacrocoracidae is a family of aquatic birds, including both cormorants and shags. These birds are found all over the world, with around 40 species.
While various family classifications have been proposed over the years, the International Ornithologists’ Union (IOU) has recently reached a consensus of seven distinct genera.
Specifically, these genera are Phalacrocorax, Leucocarbo, Microcarbo, Nannopterum, Leucocarbo, Stictocarbo, and Phalacrocoracinus. Each genus contains several species that vary in size, habitat, and behavior.
For example, Phalacrocorax is the largest genus, with around 28 species, while Nannopterum only contains two species. The cormorants and shags of this family also differ in their behavior, with cormorants being more solitary while shags are more social.
Each species has evolved to adapt to its environment, with some specialized for diving deep into the water, while others perch in trees or hunt for food along the shoreline.
The IOU’s consensus taxonomy provides a valuable framework for understanding the diversity and evolution of these aquatic birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
13. Common Loon
The common loon, or great northern diver, is a large bird species from the loon or diver family. During breeding season, these birds have a distinctive black head and neck, which can have a greenish, purplish, or iridescent sheen.
The rest of the body is primarily white with grayish-black barring on the upper back, wings, and tail. The bill is black with a white stripe along the lower half. The eyes are yellow with a white crescent-shaped patch of feathers behind them.
The legs and feet are black, and the feet have lobed toes that help the bird to swim and dive in water. In flight, the wings appear very long and pointed, and the tail is usually held level with the back.
The common loon is a medium-sized bird, about the size of a large duck. They generally weigh between three to five pounds and measure up to 28 inches in length.
They are strong swimmers and excellent divers, using their wings to propel themselves underwater and their feet to steer. They can dive up to 200 feet below the surface in search of food, which includes fish, frogs, and aquatic insects.
The common loon is found throughout North America and is a common sight in northern lakes and rivers. They nest near the water in sheltered areas, such as shallow bays or inlets.
During the breeding season, they are very vocal and make distinctive calls across the water. The common loon is an integral part of the aquatic ecosystem, helping to keep fish populations healthy by preying on smaller species.
They are also an essential part of the culture of many northern communities, where they are seen as symbols of wilderness and freedom.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gaviiformes |
| Family | Gaviidae |
| Genus | Gavia |
| Species | G. immer |
14. Herring Gull
The European herring gull is a large gull growing up to 66 cm long. This gull species is a common sight in coastal regions of Western Europe, although it was historically more abundant.
The European herring gull breeds in various locations, including Northern Europe, Western Europe, Central Europe, Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and the Baltic states.
This gull species is highly adaptable and can be found in various habitats, from estuaries and marshlands to urban areas. This gull species is a scavenger, feeding on a wide range of food sources, such as fish, small mammals, and even garbage.
The European herring gull is a protected species, and populations are monitored to ensure that numbers remain stable..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Genus | Larus |
| Species | L. argentatus |
15. Tree Swallow
The Tree Swallow is a migratory bird belonging to the family Hirundinidae. It is found throughout the Americas and was first identified in 1807 by French ornithologist Louis Vieillot as Hirundo bicolor. Since then, it has been reclassified into the genus Tachycineta.
However, scientists still still debate its exact phylogenetic placement within this genus. The Tree Swallow is a small bird, usually measuring 5 and 6 inches in length and having a wingspan of around 8 inches.
It has a glossy blue-green back and white belly, with a distinctive white patch near the base of its tail.
It is a highly adaptable species found in various habitats, from open fields to woodlands. The Tree Swallow is a long-distance migrant, with some individuals traveling thousands of miles to reach their wintering grounds in the south.
It feeds mainly on insects, which it catches on the wing, and occasionally eats berries and other fruits.
During the breeding season, it forms monogamous pairs and builds an open cup nest from grass and other materials. The Tree Swallow is a common species with a stable population.
It is often seen in flocks, flying in tight formations and making a distinctive twittering call. It is a protected species in many countries and is an integral part of the ecosystem, helping to control insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Tachycineta |
| Species | T. bicolor |
16. Eurasian Wigeon
The Eurasian wigeon, also known as the European wigeon, the widgeon, or simply the wigeon, is a species of dabbling duck. It is a member of the genus Mareca, composed of three wigeon species.
This particular wigeon species is found throughout the Palearctic region, which encompasses most of the Eurasian continent. It is abundant and widespread throughout its range, making it one of the most common ducks in the region.
The Eurasian wigeon is an easy-to-identify species due to its distinct markings. It has a white crown, forehead, bright chestnut head, and neck. Its back and wings are gray, while its breast and belly are light brown.
This species of wigeon feeds mainly on aquatic plants, as well as some insects and invertebrates. They can be seen in saltwater and freshwater habitats, typically in smaller bodies of water such as shallow ponds or slow-moving rivers.
During the breeding season, the males of this species can be seen displaying their bright plumage to attract a mate. They are known to have a loud and distinct call, which can be heard throughout their range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. penelope |
17. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a type of water bird that belongs to the grebe family. The scientific name for the little grebe is ‘Tachybaptus ruficollis,’ derived from ancient Greek words.
The genus’ Tachybaptus’ derives from the words ‘takhus’ meaning ‘fast’ and ‘bapto’ meaning ‘to sink under.’
The species name ‘ruficollis’ is derived from the Latin words ‘Rufus,’ meaning ‘red,’ and ‘Collis,’ meaning ‘necked,’ derived from the Latin word ‘collum,’ meaning ‘neck.’
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
18. Ring-billed Gull
The ring-billed gull is a medium-sized seabird that is found in many areas around the world. It belongs to the genus Larus, derived from the Latin word for gull or other large seabird.
The species name Delawarensis is derived from the Delaware River, the location where the species was first recorded. Ring-billed gulls typically have gray and white feathers, a yellow bill with a black ring near the tip, and red legs.
They are often seen in large groups around coastal areas, feeding on small fish and shellfish. They are considered one of North America’s most common gull species and are known for their loud, distinctive calls.
Ring-billed gulls are highly adaptable, often living near human settlements and using human food sources.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Laridae |
| Genus | Larus |
| Species | L. delawarensis |
Conclusion
Birds in Lacs are an important part of the local ecosystem. They provide essential ecosystem services such as pollination, pest control, and seed dispersal. They also offer food and enjoyment for people who take the time to observe them.
With their declining numbers, we must take action to conserve and protect these birds and their habitats so that they can continue to thrive in Lacs for generations.