49 Maldives Birds

The Maldives is a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse wildlife. Among the many species of flora and fauna found in the Maldives, the island nation is also home to some of the world’s most fascinating and beautiful birds.

From the vibrant red-footed Booby to the stately White-tailed Tropicbird, the Maldives is a bird-lover’s paradise, boasting a variety of species that make it a perfect destination for bird-watchers.

1. Crow Family

The Crow family is a cosmopolitan group of birds that contains crows, ravens, rooks, jackdaws, jays, magpies and more.

Altogether there are 133 members in this bird family which all share similar characteristics such as large beaks and feet.

The genus Corvus alone makes up over a third of the entire crow family population with species like the common crow or blackbird being some of its most recognizable members.

All these birds have strong social bonds so they often travel in groups to find food sources or build nests together for protection against predators.

With their intelligence and adaptation skills they are able to survive almost anywhere on Earth from mountains to cities making them one of the world’s most successful families of avian creatures.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Corvoidea
Family	Corvidae Leach, 1820

2. Shorebirds

Shorebirds, a diverse group of birds in the Charadriiformes order, are found near water on every continent except Antarctica.

These small to medium-sized birds feed mainly on invertebrates and other small animals but can also be pelagic seabirds or inhabit deserts.

Shorebirds use their long bills to probe mudflats for food like worms and mollusks while some species plunge into the ocean’s depths in search of crustaceans such as crabs and shrimp.

They have strong legs equipped with webbed feet which allow them to move quickly when searching for prey across wetlands, sandbars, beaches and swamps.

Their feathers make them well adapted to life by land or sea due to its hydrophobic nature which helps reduce drag during swimming or flying through windy conditions making it easier for shorebirds survive tough environments around the world.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Infraclass	Neognathae
Clade	Neoaves
Clade	Gruimorphae
Order	Charadriiformes Huxley, 1867

3. White-Tailed Tropicbird

The White-tailed Tropicbird is a beautiful seabird that lives in the tropical waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.

It is the smallest member of its order Phaethontiformes, measuring only 28 inches from head to tail.

Its wingspan can reach up to 45 inches wide. The bird has white plumage with black markings on its wings and tail feathers.

It also has an unmistakable long streamer which trails out behind them when they are in flight – a characteristic feature for all tropicbirds.

They nest mainly on remote islands throughout their range but have recently begun nesting on Little Tobago as well.

These birds feed primarily off flying fish or squid near the ocean’s surface during daylight hours before returning back home at nightfall.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Phaethontiformes
Family	Phaethontidae
Genus	Phaethon
Species	P. lepturus

4. Crab-Plover

The crab-plover is an exceptional bird which belongs to its own family, Dromadidae. It appears to be closely related to the waders and other Charadriiformes such as auks, gulls and thick-knees.

This species of bird has a unique look; it is white with black markings on its head and wings. Its long bill helps them dig for food in sand or mudflats.

They can also fly up into the air when disturbed by predators or people too close for comfort.

The crab plover spends most of its life near beaches where they feed on crabs, fish eggs and small insects found there.

These birds are highly social during breeding season but solitary at other times throughout their annual cycle making them difficult creatures to spot out in the wild but well worth trying.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Suborder	Lari
Family	Dromadidae GR Gray, 1840
Genus	Dromas Paykull, 1805
Species	D. ardeola

5. Grey Plover

The Grey Plover is a large plover bird which breeds in the Arctic regions. It then migrates over long distances, and can be found on coastlines around the world when not breeding.

The species was first described by Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus in 1758 under its binomial name “Tringa squatarola”.

In addition to being known as grey plovers or black-bellied plovers, they are also sometimes referred to as “black-breasted lapwings” due to their distinctive plumage that features white underneath with dark greys above.

These birds inhabit beaches, mudflats and saltmarshes where they feed mainly on small invertebrates such as worms and insects.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Charadriidae
Genus	Pluvialis
Species	P. squatarola

6. Lesser Frigatebird

The Lesser Frigatebird is a seabird of the Fregatidae family and is known to be the smallest species in this group. It has brownish-black plumage, long narrow wings, and a forked tail.

This bird inhabits tropical and subtropical regions across the Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean as well as off Brazil’s Atlantic Coast.

It feeds on fish taken from surface water or by plunge diving while flying low over shallow waters.

Its primary breeding grounds are located around islands with steep cliffs where it builds its nests out of twigs and grasses high up near ledges or crevices.

The lesser frigatebird can live for about 25 years due to their strong aerodynamic abilities which allow them to glide through air currents effortlessly thus conserving energy during flights that last days at a time.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Suliformes
Family	Fregatidae
Genus	Fregata
Species	F. ariel

7. Wilson’s Storm Petrel

Wilson’s storm petrel is a small seabird of the Oceanitidae family. A circumpolar species, it can be found in both northern and southern hemispheres during summertime.

It has an abundance population estimated to be around 20 million birds as of 2022 making it one of the most populous bird species on Earth.

This nocturnal creature loves to feed on crustaceans, fish eggs and larval fishes that they catch while flying at night over open waters near coasts or islands.

During daylight hours Wilson’s Storm Petrel will rest in large groups and form colonies with fellow members for protection against predators like gulls and skuas which steal their food supplies if given opportunity.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Procellariiformes
Family	Oceanitidae
Genus	Oceanites
Species	O. oceanicus

8. Masked Booby

The Masked Booby is a large seabird belonging to the booby and gannet family. It was first described by French naturalist René-Primevère Lesson in 1831, making it one of six species of boobies within its genus Sula.

It has an impressive aerodynamic body shape with pale grey or white plumage on its head and neck, while the rest of its body is blackish brown.

Its wingspan can reach up to 1 metre wide. The bill is yellowish and pointed at the end, whilst they have bright blue skin around their eyes – this is why they are also known as ‘blue-faced’ boobies.

They use their strong wings for soaring over oceans in search of fish which makes them excellent fishers who feed mainly on flying fish near tropical waters but can occasionally be found off coasts in temperate regions too.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Suliformes
Family	Sulidae
Genus	Sula
Species	S. dactylatra

9. Skuas

Skuas are a group of predatory seabirds with seven species, all belonging to the genus Stercorarius.

They are also known as “Jaegers” in North America and their name originates from the Faroese word for Great Skua – skúgvur.

These birds typically inhabit coastal areas or open oceans where they feed on fish, krill and other marine creatures.

Skuas can be distinguished by their pointed wings which help them fly long distances while hunting food.

Their distinctive colouration varies depending on age and habitat but generally includes greyish brown upperparts and white underparts with black streaks along its belly area.

The overall size ranges from 24-40 cm making these one of the larger sea bird species.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Suborder	Lari
Family	Stercorariidae Gray, 1871
Genus	Stercorarius Brisson, 1760

10. 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

11. Frigatebird

Frigatebirds are a beautiful and mysterious family of seabirds, found in all tropical and subtropical oceans. The five extant species have glossy black plumage, long forked tails, and lengthy hooked bills.

During the breeding season males display a bright red gular pouch which they inflate to attract mates. Females have white underbellies year-round giving them an elegant contrast against their darker feathers.

They spend most of their lives soaring with minimal effort over warm ocean waters seeking food such as fish or squid taken from the surface or plucked out of midair by other birds.

Frigatebirds often nest on isolated islands due to lack of predators yet still manage to travel incredibly large distances between feeding grounds every day making them truly remarkable creatures.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Suliformes
Family	Fregatidae Degland & Gerbe, 1867
Genus	Fregata Lacépède, 1799

12. House Crow

The House Crow (Corvus splendens) is a member of the crow family which originated in Asia and has spread to many other parts of the world.

It is medium-sized, measuring 40 cm long, with a slimmer body than most crows.

The forehead, crown, throat and upper breast are all black while its back and wings are greyish brown.

Its tail feathers have white tips that create an attractive pattern when seen from below during flight. The beak is strong like that of other corvid birds but slightly curved downwards towards its tip.

They can often be found around towns scavenging for food or gathering at roosts near buildings where they congregate to sleep overnight before going out again in search of sustenance.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Corvidae
Genus	Corvus
Species	C. splendens

13. Lesser Whistling Duck

The Lesser Whistling Duck is a species of whistling duck found in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

It has an unmistakable appearance, with its brown body, white-streaked wings and distinctive black tail feathers.

The adult ducks have red bills, eyes and legs with yellowish webbed feet for swimming.

They are generally nocturnal feeders but during the day they can be seen around lakes or wet paddy fields in flocks perching on trees or even building their nest inside tree hollows.

Their diet mainly consists of seeds from aquatic plants as well as small fish, mollusks and insects occasionally taken while wading or diving into water bodies to find food sources.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae
Genus	Dendrocygna
Species	D. javanica

14. Indian Cormorant

The Indian Cormorant is a beautiful bird found in the inland waters of India, stretching from Sind to Thailand and Cambodia.

It belongs to the cormorant family and has an unmistakable blue eye which sets it apart from other birds like its size-similar little cormorant.

The head is small with sloping forehead while there’s a long narrow neck connecting it to its body.

These birds are gregarious by nature, usually seen together in groups near water bodies or on land banks closeby.

They have powerful webbed feet for swimming as well as diving under water for their food – mainly fish along with some aquatic invertebrates and frogs too.

All these features make this species truly unique so keep your eyes peeled if you’re lucky enough spot them.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Suliformes
Family	Phalacrocoracidae
Genus	Phalacrocorax
Species	P. fuscicollis

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15. Accipitridae

Accipitridae birds are a diverse family of raptors ranging in size from small to large. They have powerful hooked beaks which they use for hunting and tearing apart their prey, such as insects, medium-sized mammals and carrion.

Some species even feed on fruit. These birds can be found all over the world, making them an incredibly successful group of predators.

Accipitridae are adaptable hunters with keen eyesight that helps them spot potential meals from far away distances.

Their sharp talons assist them in grasping onto their victims while feeding or defending themselves against enemies.

Not only do these avian creatures provide us with visual beauty but also help keep our ecosystems healthy by keeping pest populations under control.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae Vieillot, 1816

16. Lesser Noddy

The Lesser Noddy is a seabird found near the coastlines of several countries in the Indian Ocean.

It has distinctive black feathers and was once thought to be related to its cousin, the Black Noddy.

The two share many similarities such as appearance, behavior and habitat preferences but have been confirmed as separate species.

They typically feed on small fish or invertebrates near shoreline areas like coral reefs or mangroves forests.

Breeding season usually occurs during springtime when they build nests out of plant material high up in trees close to water sources.

These birds are important for maintaining balance within their local ecosystems by helping recycle nutrients from sea creatures into land organisms via droppings released onto coastal vegetation systems which can help regenerate new growths over time.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Laridae
Genus	Anous
Species	A. tenuirostris

17. Swifts

Swifts are small, aerial birds that belong to the Apodidae family. They look similar to swallows but they aren’t related in any way.

Swifts have evolved differently from other passerines and instead share an order with hummingbirds – the Apodiformes.

The Hemiprocnidae also shares a close relationship with swifts, being referred to as ‘treeswift’ due to their affinity for perching on trees rather than flying through the air like regular swifts do.

While these two species may appear quite similar at first glance, closer inspection will reveal vast differences between them which has come about over time via convergent evolution.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Apodiformes
Family	Apodidae Hartert, 1897

18. Black-Naped Tern

The beautiful Black-naped Tern is a seabird found in tropical and subtropical areas of the Pacific and Indian Oceans.

These terns measure around 30 cm long, with a wing span of 21 to 23 cm, black beaks and legs, yellow bill tips, long forked tails and white faces.

The breast has grayish-white feathers that extend down its back – forming an elegant nape hence their name.

They are rarely seen inland but they can stay close to coastal waters or even venture further out depending on seasonal changes.

Their diet consists mainly of fish which they hunt from above by hovering before plunging into the sea at high speed after prey. They also feed on crustaceans sometimes too.

All in all these birds have an interesting lifestyle; incredibly graceful when airborne yet ferocious hunters underwater making them quite a sight.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Laridae
Genus	Sterna
Species	S. sumatrana

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19. Gulls

Gulls are a type of seabird in the family Laridae found worldwide. They are highly adaptable, often seen soaring above shorelines or near bodies of water.

Gulls have strong wings and long bills and vary greatly in size, colouration and behaviour from one species to another.

Some gull species feed on fish while others scavenge for food such as insects, small mammals or discarded human refuse.

Despite their different dietary habits they all share common traits including webbed feet which enable them to swim gracefully through the water after prey items like crabs or molluscs.

Gulls generally nest close to the shoreline where there is an abundance of available food sources making them excellent hunters that can live comfortably both on land and at sea.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Suborder	Lari
Family	Laridae Rafinesque, 1815

20. Northern Storm Petrels

Northern storm petrels are one of the smallest seabirds, inhabiting oceans all over the world.

They have a unique ability to hover over water and pick planktonic crustaceans and small fish from the surface.

Northern storm petrels belong to the genus Hydrobates in family Hydrobatidae, part of Procellariiformes order.

This species was once lumped with austral storm petrel but recent studies show that they weren’t related closely which led them being split into two distinct species now.

These birds can be identified by their dark grey upperparts and wings along with white underparts when seen from afar while feeding on ocean’s surface.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Procellariiformes
Family	Hydrobatidae Mathews, 1912
Genus	Hydrobates F. Boie, 1822

21. 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

22. South Polar Skua

The South polar skua is a large seabird of the Stercorariidae family, also known as MacCormick’s skua after explorer and naval surgeon Robert McCormick.

It has an impressive wingspan of up to 110 cm and can weigh up to 1 kg.

It loves cold climates such as Antarctica or Southern Ocean islands where it breeds on rocky slopes in summer months.

These birds feed mainly on fish which they catch by plunge-diving from mid-air into the ocean surface; they will even scavenge food scraps left behind by other sea creatures.

The South Polar Skua is classified as “Near Threatened” due to its decreasing population numbers over recent years, primarily caused by human activity such as fishing practices and climate change.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Stercorariidae
Genus	Stercorarius
Species	S. maccormicki

23. 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

24. Greater Crested Tern

The Greater crested tern is a large bird of the family Laridae, found in tropical and subtropical regions across the Old World.

It has five subspecies which breed from South Africa to Australia, before migrating away for winter.

The distinctive crest feathers on its head give it its name and set it apart from other species like gulls or skuas.

They have wide wingspans that allow them to fly swiftly over oceans or coasts with ease – they are known as swift terns because of this.

The greater crested tern feeds mainly off fish caught at sea by plunge-diving into waters up to 10m deep; an impressive feat indeed.

With their bright white plumage, black caps and long yellow bills they stand out against any landscape – even on land these birds can be seen enjoying life along coastlines.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Laridae
Genus	Thalasseus
Species	T. bergii

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25. Stilts And Avocets

Stilts and avocets are two distinct groups of birds belonging to the family Recurvirostridae. They range in length from 30-46 cm (12-18 inches) and weigh between 140 – 435 g (4.9 – 15.3 ounces).

Males usually have slightly larger bodies than females, with long thin legs, necks and bills.

Avocet bills curve upwards uniquely while stilt beaks remain straight most times.

These wading birds live mainly near shorelines or wetlands where they feed on aquatic invertebrates like brine shrimp, insects etc., occasionally supplementing their diet with seeds or small fish too.

Stilts also inhabit open fields in search of food sources such as earthworms or grasshoppers during the non-breeding season.

Both groups migrate over large distances for warmer weathers when it gets cold outside.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Suborder	Charadrii
Family	Recurvirostridae Bonaparte, 1854

26. Glareolidae

Glareolidae is a family of wading birds, consisting of four genera and 17 species. They are distinguished from other charadrii by their long bills which have a slight downward curve.

Glareolidae live around open grasslands and deserts, where they hunt for insects using the bill to probe into soil or vegetation.

Most species are found in Africa but two pratincoles inhabit parts of Europe and Asia as well.

Coursers tend to be larger than pratincoles with longer legs allowing them to run quickly across sandy dunes while feeding on small animals like lizards or spiders.

Pratincoles feed mainly on flying insects, snatching them out of midair with great agility during flight.

All glareolids share unique features such as large eyes that help it spot prey at night easily making this group one interesting bird family.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Suborder	Lari
Family	Glareolidae CL Brehm, 1831

27. Procellariidae

Procellariidae is a diverse family of seabirds belonging to the bird order Procellariiformes.

These birds are commonly referred to as tubenoses and include fulmarine petrels, gadfly petrels, diving petrels, prions, and shearwaters.

They range in size from the small storm-petrel which measures around 18cm long to the giant albatross which can reach up to 3 meters in length.

Generally found near oceans or coasts where they feed on fish as well as squid and other marine life depending on species.

Many procellariids will also nest inland during breeding season before returning back out at sea for most of their lives.

Their wings have specially adapted feathers that give them incredible gliding abilities allowing them literally fly with minimal effort over vast distances across oceanic regions.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Procellariiformes
Family	Procellariidae Leach, 1820

28. Sooty Tern

The Sooty Tern is a bird that lives in the tropics of all three major oceans. It is found mostly on remote islands where it returns to nest and breed during its seasonal journeys.

This member of the Laridae family has been described by Carl Linnaeus as Sterna fuscata, though more recently it was given its current name Onychoprion fuscatus.

The sooty tern has dark grey wings and back, with white underneath for camouflage against predators when flying over open ocean waters; they are also adept at diving underwater in search of food such as fish or crustaceans which make up their diet.

They live in colonies and usually lay two eggs each year which incubate for about four weeks before hatching into fluffy little chicks.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Laridae
Genus	Onychoprion
Species	O. fuscatus

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29. Brown-Headed Gull

The Brown-headed Gull is a small species of gull that breeds in the high plateaus of Central Asia, from Tajikistan to Inner Mongolia.

During winter it migrates southward and can be seen along coastal areas and large inland lakes throughout the Indian Subcontinent.

They usually breed in colonies within reedbeds or marshes, constructing nests out of sticks on top of trees or among tall vegetation.

These birds have brown heads while their bodies are white with black wing tips; they also feature bright yellow eyes which give them an intense yet endearing look.

Their diet consists mainly fish but they’ll also consume insects, molluscs, crustaceans as well as other invertebrates and even plant matter during seasons when food is scarce.

Despite their shy nature towards humans these amazing birds make for wonderful wildlife watching opportunities.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Laridae
Genus	Chroicocephalus
Species	C. brunnicephalus

30. 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

31. Larks

Larks are small passerine birds that belong to the Alaudidae family. These birds have a cosmopolitan distribution and can be found in many different habitats, including dry regions.

The largest number of lark species is located in Africa, while only one species (horned lark) inhabits North America and another one (Horsfield’s bush lark) lives in Australia.

These beautiful creatures usually appear during dawn or dusk as they sing their melodious songs high up into the sky.

Larks possess impressive flying skills which make them capable of reaching heights far above most other bird species.

Despite this skill, they prefer living close to the ground where there are plenty of seeds and insects for them to feed on.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Sylvioidea
Family	Alaudidae Vigors, 1825

32. Thrush

Thrushes are small to medium-sized birds belonging to the Turdidae family, and found all over the world. They live on or near the ground and feed on insects, other invertebrates and fruit.

Their feathers range from greyish browns to deep blues in colour with spotted wings that help them blend into their natural habitats such as forests, woodlands and shrubs.

Thrushes have distinctive songs which they sing during spring mating season; many species also perform complex flight displays for courtship rituals.

These birds may be solitary creatures but can often be seen foraging together in groups or pairs when searching for food sources like worms, snails or berries.

A healthy thrush population is an indication of a balanced environment since they require clean water sources as well as plenty of vegetation cover – making them important indicators of ecosystem health worldwide.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Suborder	Passeri
Family	Turdidae Rafinesque, 1815

33. Darters

Darters are tropical waterbirds from the family Anhingidae, which includes four species. Three of these species are common and found in multiple locations while one is rarer and classified as near-threatened by IUCN.

Their most notable feature is their long neck which they use to dive into shallow waters for prey such as fish or frogs.

They have a slim body with large wings allowing them to soar high in the sky at great speeds making it difficult for predators to catch them during flight.

Darters also make regular visits to land where they bask in the sun on tree branches or rocky outcroppings.

These birds can be easily identified by their dark feathers, yellowish eyes, and orangey beak – all features that help distinguish them from other birds of similar size and coloration.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Suliformes
Family	Anhingidae Reichenbach, 1849[1]
Genus	Anhinga Brisson, 1760

34. 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

35. American Sparrows

American sparrows are small passerine birds found in North and South America. They can range from 4 to 8 inches in length with a wingspan of 6 to 9 inches long.

These birds have brownish-gray feathers, white breast patches, and distinctive black stripes on their heads.

Their bills are short and conical shaped which they use for feeding on insects, seeds, berries, or grains that they find scattered around the ground or low shrubbery.

American sparrows prefer open habitats such as grassy fields and marshlands but will also inhabit wooded areas if available food sources are plentiful enough.

During breeding season these birds become quite territorial about their nests so it is best not to disturb them during this time if possible.

36. Phasianidae

The Phasianidae family of birds is one that contains many popular gamebirds, with a total of 185 species divided across 54 genera.

These heavy ground-living birds include pheasants, partridges, junglefowl, chickens, and turkeys among others like Old World quail and peafowl.

This large family was formerly split into two subfamilies known as the Phasianinae and Perdicinae but this classification has since been changed to reflect more current scientific findings on them.

All these different types of birds have certain things in common such as their strong legs for scratching through leaves or soil looking for food items including insects, seeds, and other vegetation which makes up most of their diet.

They also all tend to be quite colorful in order to attract mates during breeding season when males will often display vibrant feathers or do dances around females in an attempt at courtship ritual displays.

The majority are monogamous creatures too although some may form short-term pair bonds before going off alone again once mating has taken place – either way.

There tends to be very little parental care given by adults after eggs have hatched so chicks need to fend for themselves right away.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Galliformes
Superfamily	Phasianoidea
Family	Phasianidae Horsfield, 1821

37. Indian Golden Oriole

The Indian golden oriole is a species of oriole found in the Indian subcontinent and Central Asia.

It has been identified as a full distinct species from Eurasian golden Oriole by its black eye stripe which extends behind the eyes.

With its bright yellow body, black wings and tail with white patches, this bird stands out among other birds in its region.

The males are more brightly colored than females but both share similar features such as long pointed bills and strong legs for perching or hopping through trees.

They feed mainly on insects, fruits and nectar while their diet may also include small reptiles like lizards depending on availability of food sources around them.

This beautiful songbird can often be spotted during spring when they migrate to find suitable breeding grounds where they build nests high up in tree branches to lay eggs.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Oriolidae
Genus	Oriolus
Species	O. kundoo

38. Motacillidae

Motacillidae is a family of small passerine birds consisting of around 70 species. They are found across Europe, Africa, Asia and even Alaska with two migratory breeding species.

The three genera they belong to include wagtails which typically have medium to long tails; longclaws that can only be spotted in the Afrotropics; and pipits which possess the most cosmopolitan distribution worldwide.

These birds feed on insects as well as seeds for their diets and are usually seen in open habitats such grasslands or wetlands where food sources like invertebrates can easily be accessed.

Most Motacillidae species also use mud nests during breeding season making them easy targets for predators so it’s important we protect these beautiful creatures.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Passeroidea
Family	Motacillidae Horsfield, 1821

39. Old World Flycatchers

The Old World Flycatcher is a family of small passerine birds, native to Europe, Africa and Asia. They are mainly insectivorous arboreal birds that feed on insects they catch in the air or trees.

Their wingspan ranges from 5-11 inches long with males usually being slightly larger than females.

The coloration of these birds can range greatly depending on species but typically have dull greyish brown upperparts and pale undersides which help them blend into their environment for hunting purposes.

Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica) and Northern Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe) are two exceptions as they can be found in North America too.

These charming little creatures make fun additions to birdwatching lists all over the world because of their vibrant colors and interesting behaviors.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Muscicapoidea
Family	Muscicapidae Fleming J., 1822

40. Blue-Cheeked Bee-Eater

The Blue-cheeked Bee-eater (Merops persicus) is a stunningly beautiful bird belonging to the Meropidae family. It has an unmistakeable blue coloring on its cheeks and neck, which stands out against its yellow body plumage.

This species of bee-eater can be found in Northern Africa, Middle East countries from Turkey eastwards till Kazakhstan, and India as well.

During winter they migrate south to tropical regions of Africa while some populations remain put for breeding purposes year round.

They are adept at catching insects midair with their long curved bills which makes them excellent predators in open grasslands or savannas where bees and other insects thrive abundantly.

So if you ever happen across these vibrant beauties make sure to take a moment pause and appreciate nature’s wonders.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Coraciiformes
Family	Meropidae
Genus	Merops
Species	M. persicus

41. Cuckooshrike

Cuckooshrikes are small to medium-sized passerine birds found mainly in the subtropical and tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australasia. They are usually arboreal, feeding on insects or fruit near foliage.

They have a stout bill with long wings and tails that can be used for balancing while perched on branches.

Cuckooshrike plumage is mostly grayish brown but some species may also feature black spots or stripes. The juvenile cuckooshrikes typically show more yellowish coloration than adults do.

These birds form monogamous pairs which often remain together year round defending their territory from other species as well as potential rivals within their own family group.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Infraorder	Corvides
Family	Campephagidae Vigors, 1825

42. Collared Pratincole

The Collared Pratincole is a small wader bird native to the Old World. It has distinctive long wings that are reddish-brown in color and have white tips, which give it its name.

Its body is mostly dark brown with some lighter spots along its back and sides. The bill of this species is short and pointed, making it a specialist for eating insects from mudflats or shallow waters.

During breeding season, they form loud flocks that can be heard from miles away when calling out their distinct song; during non-breeding time they disperse into smaller groups while searching for food sources in drier regions such as grasslands or fields.

This species relies heavily on open habitats where there are plenty of places to hunt for food throughout the year.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Glareolidae
Genus	Glareola
Species	G. pratincola

43. Brown Shrike

The Brown Shrike is a beautiful bird belonging to the shrike family, found mainly in Asia. It has a distinctive crest which gives it its Latin name ‘cristatus’.

They feed on insects and small vertebrates like lizards and mice, hence they are also called ‘butcher birds’.

These birds have brown upperparts with rufous wings, tail tipped white along with black mask through the eyes giving them an impressive look.

Despite their predatory nature these birds still remain quite popular amongst birdwatchers due to their vibrant colors and wide-ranging habitats across much of South East Asia making them easy targets for photography enthusiasts too.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Laniidae
Genus	Lanius
Species	L. cristatus

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44. Eyebrowed Thrush

The Eyebrowed Thrush is a beautiful species of bird belonging to the Turdidae family. With its distinctive eyebrows, this thrush can be found in dense coniferous forests and taiga regions from Siberia eastwards towards Japan.

It undertakes long migrations during winter when it heads south to China and Southeast Asia as far down as India.

While not common, there have been rare sightings of these birds in western Europe too. This songbird builds nests high up on trees where they lay 4-6 eggs each time.

These shy birds are beautifully patterned with shades ranging from greyish browns to blackish blues all over their bodies making them stand out against the darker hues of nature’s lush green backgrounds.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Turdidae
Genus	Turdus
Species	T. obscurus

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45. Pallid Scops Owl

The Pallid Scops Owl is a small, nocturnal bird found in the Middle East and parts of Asia. Its body features grey-brown feathers with white streaks on its back, while its face has prominent dark eyes surrounded by light feathering.

The wings are short but broad, enabling it to move silently through the night searching for prey like insects and small rodents.

It nests in hollow trees or old buildings where it can hide during daylight hours; sometimes even building its own nest from sticks if necessary.

This owl’s distinct call – described as a repetitive ‘hoo hoo’ sound – makes them easy to identify amongst other owls in the region.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Otus
Species	O. brucei

46. 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

47. Monarch Flycatcher

The Monarch flycatcher is a small passerine bird, belonging to the family Monarchidae. It inhabits forest or woodland areas across sub-Saharan Africa, south-east Asia, Australasia and various Pacific islands.

Only some species migrate seasonally. This beautiful little bird has a long tail and feeds mainly on insects it catches in its beak.

Its cup shaped nest can often be found hanging from branches high up in trees where they are safe from predators while incubating their eggs – usually between two to four of them at once.

The adult birds have attractive plumage with hues of blues and greens along with white patches near their tails which make for stunning displays when they take flight during mating season or migratory times.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Corvoidea
Family	Monarchidae Bonaparte, 1854

48. Ashy Woodswallow

The Ashy Woodswallow is a small bird found in South Asia. It has a short, curved bill and long wings that make it appear stocky when perched.

This species of woodswallow typically spends time high on power lines or tall bare trees but can often be seen around palm tree-dominated areas too.

Their ashy gray coloration allows them to blend into the canopy making them difficult to spot at times.

They travel in groups and are very social birds who rely heavily on one another for protection from predators such as owls and falcons.

Despite their shyness, these fascinating little creatures are incredibly important pollinators of various plants across the region which makes protecting their habitats all the more essential.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Artamidae
Genus	Artamus
Species	A. fuscus

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49. Chestnut-Winged Cuckoo

The Chestnut-winged cuckoo is a beautiful bird found in Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia.

It has glossy black head with long crest, chestnut wings, rufous throat and dusky underside as well as narrow white nuchal half collar which make it distinct from other birds.

It breeds along the Himalayas during summer season and migrates south to Sri Lanka during winter season.

This species prefers dense forest habitat but can also be seen in open woodlands or grassland areas where they feed on small invertebrates such insects and worms.

They are known for their loud calls that are heard throughout the day especially early morning when they seek mates or announce territory presence.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Cuculiformes
Family	Cuculidae
Genus	Clamator
Species	C. coromandus

Conclusion

The Maldives, despite its small size and predominantly oceanic environment, hosts a diverse range of bird species, totaling 49 known varieties.

From coastal shorebirds like the Whimbrel to seabirds such as the Lesser Noddy, these avian inhabitants play crucial roles in the archipelago’s ecosystem.

Their presence adds to the biodiversity and natural charm of the Maldives, contributing to its allure as a destination for ecotourism and birdwatching enthusiasts.

As custodians of this fragile ecosystem, it is imperative to continue conservation efforts aimed at preserving habitats, mitigating human-induced threats, and raising awareness about the importance of these birds in maintaining the environmental balance of the Maldives.