North Hamgyong is a province in North Korea known for its lush forests and stunning mountain vistas. It is also home to a diverse array of birds, from large raptors to tiny songbirds.
Birdwatchers from all over the world flock to North Hamgyong to catch a glimpse of the many species of birds that can be found there. In addition to the many resident species, North Hamgyong is visited by migratory birds from all over the world.
This makes it an ideal place to observe the fantastic diversity of the avian world.
22 Birds to Watch in North Hamgyong
North Hamgyong is a province in North Korea known for its lush forests and stunning mountain vistas. It is also home to a diverse array of birds, from large raptors to tiny songbirds.
Birdwatchers from all over the world flock to North Hamgyong to catch a glimpse of the many species of birds that can be found there.
Here are 22 birds that you can watch in North Hamgyong.
1. Long-tailed Tit
The long-tailed tit is a small bird that can be seen in many places across Europe and the Palearctic. Its scientific name is Aegithalos, and this term was used by the famous philosopher Aristotle to describe certain European species of tits, including the long-tailed tit.
This bird is a common sight in gardens and parks, and it has a distinctive long tail that sets it apart from other species of birds. The long-tailed tit is a small, round bird that is usually grey, with white or yellowish markings on its head and wings.
It has a short, thin bill and short legs, which it uses to cling onto branches and shrubs. It is usually seen in small flocks, foraging for insects and other small invertebrates in the trees.
Long-tailed tits are also known to build intricate nests out of moss and lichen and to use spider webs to bind them together. They are social birds, living and breeding in small groups of up to 15 individuals.
They make a loud, high-pitched call, often heard throughout the day.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Aegithalidae |
| Genus | Aegithalos |
| Species | A. caudatus |
2. Coal Tit
The coal tit, also known as the coal tit, is a small passerine bird belonging to the Paridae family, commonly referred to as the tit family.
It is a common and widespread resident breeder in forests throughout the temperate to subtropical Palearctic region, including North Africa.
The black-crested tit is a subspecies of the coal tit and is now usually included in the same species. The coal tit is a small bird, usually measuring around 12-13 cm in length, and is identifiable by its distinctive black head and white cheeks.
Its wings, back, and tail are usually dark grey, and the chest is lighter grey. The underside of the tail is a creamy yellow-white color.
The black-crested tit has a black crest on its head, which is absent from other subspecies. The coal tit is a friendly bird and can often be seen in flocks. They feed mainly on small insects, seeds, and berries.
They also visit bird feeders and are known to take sunflower seeds. They often nest in holes in trees or nest boxes and build their nests using moss, grass, and feathers. Overall, the coal tit is a small and common bird found throughout the Palearctic region.
The black-crested tit is a subspecies of the coal tit and is usually included in the same species. They are friendly birds and feed mainly on insects, seeds, and berries. They also visit bird feeders and build their nests in tree holes or nest boxes.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Periparus |
| Species | P. ater |
3. Mallard
The mallard, or wild duck, is a common species of dabbling duck that can be found inhabiting temperate and subtropical regions of the Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa.
Due to its wide range has been introduced in many other locations, including New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa.
In its natural habitat, the mallard can be found in various wetlands, from rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds to marshes, swamps, and even estuaries. It prefers shallow, vegetated areas with plenty of invertebrates to feed on.
Its diet includes various aquatic plants and animals, such as small crustaceans, mollusks, insects, and even some aquatic plants. The mallard has adapted well to the presence of humans and can often be found around parks and other urban areas.
It is also an important game species widely hunted for sport and food. The mallard is easily recognized by its distinctive yellow bill, brownish-green body, and white speculum on its wings.
It is also relatively easy to identify in flight, as its call is easily recognizable. The mallard is a prevalent and versatile species that has adapted to many habitats.
It is an important game species, and its introduction to many new locations has helped to spread its range even further.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. platyrhynchos |
4. Common Merganser
The Common Merganser, also known as the Goosander, is a large species of duck found in rivers, lakes, and other aquatic areas worldwide.
It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and is most often found in areas with plenty of trees and foliage. The Common Merganser primarily feeds on fish, making it a fierce and formidable predator in the water. It also hunts for frogs, insects, and other small animals.
The Common Merganser can dive deeply into the water in pursuit of its prey and fly great distances in search of food. The Common Merganser is a cavity nester, building its nest in tree holes.
It will sometimes use a rock crevice or an abandoned nest of another bird species. The female will lay anywhere from 5 to 13 eggs in the nest, which will then be incubated for about 28 days.
The young will stay with the female for around two months before they are ready to venture out on their own. The Common Merganser is an integral part of the global aquatic ecosystem and is essential to the food chain.
It is also an important species for recreational hunters and birdwatchers alike.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergus |
| Species | M. merganser |
5. Far Eastern Curlew
The Far Eastern curlew is a large shorebird that is most similar in appearance to the long-billed curlew. This curlew is slightly larger than its cousin and has a predominantly brown color.
This bird is easily distinguishable from other curlews because its underwing is unpatterned and plain, making it stand out from other birds.
This bird is most commonly found in the coastal areas of the Far East and is an integral part of the region’s unique wildlife. Its brown coloration may help it blend in with its habitat, as well as help it avoid predators.
It is a shorebird that often feeds in the shallows, using its long bill to probe for food. The Far Eastern curlew is an integral part of the Far East’s natural beauty and an important species to remember when discussing the region’s biodiversity.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Numenius |
| Species | N. madagascariensis |
6. Whooper Swan
The whooper swan, known as the common swan, is a giant swan found in the northern hemisphere. It is an iconic species in various habitats, from wetlands to lakes and rivers.
It is the Eurasian counterpart of the North American trumpeter swan, meaning it is the same species but found in different parts of the world.
The whooper swan is also the type species for the genus Cygnus, a group of swans that also includes the Bewick’s swan and the Black Swan.
The whooper swan is one of the most recognizable species, with its long neck, large wingspan, and yellow bill.
Though it has a wide range, it is still considered a vulnerable species due to habitat destruction and overhunting. Conservation efforts have been put in place to protect this species and ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. cygnus |
7. Great Spotted Woodpecker
The great spotted woodpecker is a medium-sized bird of the woodpecker family, known for its striking black and white plumage and red markings on the underside of its belly.
Males and younger birds also have red markings on their heads or necks, making them even more distinctive.
This species is widespread throughout the Palearctic region, which includes parts of North Africa. Its habitats vary from woodlands to parkland and even gardens, though it is most commonly found in coniferous forests.
It feeds on a variety of insects, larvae, and small invertebrates, as well as tree sap and nuts. Its diet is quite varied; it can use its strong beak to break through bark and find food.
Great spotted woodpeckers can often be seen perched on trees, tapping away with their beak. They are also adept at flying and often soar high in the sky, looking for food.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dendrocopos |
| Species | D. major |
8. Red-throated Loon
The red-throated loon, also known as the red-throated diver, is a migratory aquatic bird in the northern hemisphere. It is the most widespread among the loon or diver family, and it can be found breeding in Arctic regions during summer.
During the winter, it migrates to northern coastal waters, where it can be found in large numbers. It is a medium-sized bird with a large, round head and a long, pointed bill. Its body is black and white, with a reddish-brown throat.
It has webbed feet and is an excellent swimmer, able to dive and swim underwater for long distances. Its diet consists mainly of small fish, aquatic insects, and mollusks.
It is an essential species in the Arctic, helping to control the population of its prey species and maintaining a healthy aquatic ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gaviiformes |
| Family | Gaviidae |
| Genus | Gavia |
| Species | G. stellata |
9. Falcated Duck
The falcated duck, also known as falcated teal, is a dabbling duck native to the east Palearctic. It is a medium-sized duck, about the same size as a gadwall, a dabbling duck found across Europe and Asia.
This duck has long, pointed tail feathers and a crest on its head, giving it a distinctive appearance. Its head and neck are dark greyish-brown, and its body is lighter brown. Its wings are a darker brown, with white spots near the tips.
The falcated duck is an adaptable bird found in wetlands, wet grasslands, and even agricultural areas. It feeds mainly on aquatic plants and eats seeds, insects, and mollusks.
During the breeding season, this duck builds its nest on the ground, usually close to water. The female lays up to twelve eggs, which both parents incubate. After hatching, the young ducks are cared for by both parents until they are ready to leave the nest.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mareca |
| Species | M. falcata |
10. Smew
The smew is a species of duck that is the sole survivor of the genus Mergellus. This genus is related to the Mergus genus and is sometimes included as a part of it. The name of the genus is a diminutive of Mergus, derived from the Latin albus, which means ‘white.’
The smew is thought to be biologically closer to the goldeneyes than it is to the Mergus genus. The smew is a small species of duck that is easily identifiable thanks to its unique coloration. It has a white head, neck, black back, and wings.
It has a unique white pattern on its breast with black spots.
The smew is mainly found near rivers and lakes in Europe and Asia. The smew is an essential species for conservationists, as it is at risk of extinction due to human activities such as hunting and habitat destruction.
Efforts are being made to protect the smew and its habitat to ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergellus |
| Species | M. albellus |
11. Tufted Duck
The tufted duck, also known as the tufted pochard, is a small diving duck that is native to areas of northern Eurasia. It has a population of nearly one million birds, making it one of the more common duck species in the region.
Its scientific name, Aythya fuligula, is derived from the Ancient Greek Lithuania, an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle.
The Latin portion of the name, logo, and gula translates to “soot” and “throat,” respectively, referring to the duck’s distinctive black throat feathers.
Tufted ducks have an extensive range of habitat types, including freshwater lakes, rivers, estuaries, marshes, and coastal lagoons. They feed mainly on aquatic invertebrates, such as aquatic insects, mollusks, crustaceans, and some aquatic plants.
During the breeding season, they form small colonies on small bodies of water, building nests and laying eggs. The female incubates the eggs for up to three weeks, and chicks hatch fully feathered and able to swim.
The tufted duck is a protected species listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Its population is increasing, though it is still threatened by the destruction of its habitats due to human activities, such as water pollution, drainage of wetlands, and overhunting.
Conservation efforts are being made to ensure the continued survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. fuligula |
12. Eurasian Kestrel
The common kestrel is a type of bird of prey in the falcon family Falconidae. It is also known as the European, Eurasian, or Old World kestrel. This bird is found in many parts of the world but is especially common in the United Kingdom.
The common kestrel is the only species found in the UK, so it is referred to as the “Kestrel.” The common kestrel is a smallish bird with a wingspan of up to 44 cm and a length of up to 28 cm.
It has distinctive rusty red-brown coloring, lighter upper parts, and a black-streaked white underside. The wings are long and narrow, and the tail is long and deeply forked. The head is relatively small, with a prominent black eye stripe and a small bill.
The common kestrel is a hunter, preying on small mammals, insects, and other invertebrates. It is an opportunistic feeder and will take whatever prey is available. It usually hunts from a perch, watching for movement on the ground and then swooping to catch its prey.
It is a vocal bird with a distinctive call often heard in its habitat. The common kestrel is a valuable species, as its presence in an area can help control rodent and insect populations.
It is also an important species for birdwatchers, as its distinctive coloration and calls make it easy to spot and identify.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Genus | Falco |
| Species | F. tinnunculus |
13. Bar-tailed Godwit
The bar-tailed godwit is a large wader bird belonging to the family Scolopacidae. It is a strongly migratory species with remarkable breeding plumage of red feathers.
Its long legs are well suited to its preferred habitat of coastal mudflats and estuaries, where it feeds on bristle worms and shellfish. Its most distinctive feature is its long, upturned bill, which it uses to probe the mud for food.
The bar-tailed godwit is a unique species that is beautiful and fascinating to watch as it forages.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Limosa |
| Species | L. lapponica |
14. Common Snipe
The common snipe is a small, stocky wader bird native to the Old World. This species is a shorebird in wetlands, marshes, and other wetland areas. The bird is approximately 25-30 cm long and has a wingspan of around 40 cm.
It has mottled brown and grey plumage, which provides camouflage against the ground and vegetation. The bill is long and thin, and the legs are long and brown. The common snipe feeds on insects, larvae, worms, and other invertebrates.
It forages by probing in mud and wet soil with its bill and can fly to catch insects in the air. The bird is migratory and breeds in temperate regions of Europe and Asia and parts of Africa.
In winter, they migrate to warmer regions in Africa, India, Southeast Asia, and Australia. The common snipe is a famous bird for recreational bird-watching. It is also hunted for sport in some countries, though it is a protected species in some areas, and hunting is illegal.
The population of this species is currently stable, but it is threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, and hunting. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the survival of this species in the future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Gallinago |
| Species | G. gallinago |
15. Hoopoes
Hoopoes are a bird found in many habitats across three continents. These birds have a unique feathery “crown” that sets them apart from other species. Currently, three living species of hoopoe are recognized, with the fourth species being extinct.
Before the three distinct species were recognized, all hoopoes were classified as a single species, Upupa epops. These birds are known for their bold patterns and colors, with a bright white and black striped crown, a white neck, and a light brown chest.
They also have a long, curved beak and long legs. Hoopoes are generally relatively small, with a length of around 7-11 inches and a wingspan of about 14-17 inches.
Hoopoes feed mainly on insects, with their long beaks allowing them to reach into tight crevices and holes for food. They also feed on fruits and berries and can be seen hopping around, looking for food in open areas.
They are pretty vocal birds, often making various calls and noises. In Europe, hoopoes are a protected species and are considered a symbol of good luck.
These birds are a popular subject of folklore and have been featured in various works of literature and art throughout history. Overall, hoopoes are a fascinating species of bird, with their unique appearance and behavior.
They can be seen in various habitats across Europe, Asia, and Africa and are a joy to watch.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Bucerotiformes |
| Family | Upupidae |
| Genus | Upupa |
16. Baikal Teal
The Baikal teal is a species of duck found in eastern Russia and East Asia. It is also known by two other names: bimaculate duck and squawk duck.
This species of duck is a dabbling duck, meaning it feeds in shallow water by tipping its body forward and upending itself to reach food beneath the surface.
It is a migratory bird, breeding in eastern Russia and then migrating to East Asia for the winter season. Its scientific name is Sibirionetta Formosa, a small duck with a narrow, pointed bill.
It has a grey bill and grey-brown head and neck, with a white throat patch that can be seen in flight. Its body is grey-brown, with fine white spots and a white line on the sides.
The Baikal teal is an essential species for conservation, as it is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Sibirionetta |
| Species | S. formosa |
17. Common Goldeneye
The Common Goldeneye is a sea duck belonging to the genus Bucephala, also called the goldeneyes. This duck species is closely related to the Barrow’s Goldeneye, which is similar in appearance.
The name Bucephala is derived from the Ancient Greek word boukephalos, a reference to the rounded head of the Bufflehead species. The Common Goldeneye has a wide range in size, being medium compared to other sea ducks.
These ducks are found in freshwater and saltwater habitats, including lakes, ponds, rivers, and coastal areas. They mainly feed on small fish, aquatic insects, mollusks, and crustaceans.
The Common Goldeneye is a migratory species traveling south during winter to escape cold temperatures. They can often be seen in large flocks, with a few hundred to thousands in one group.
The Common Goldeneye is a widespread species among bird watchers, providing a colorful and exciting addition to their outdoor experience.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Bucephala |
| Species | B. clangula |
18. Eastern Spot-Billed Duck
The eastern spot-billed duck, also called the Chinese spot-billed duck, is a dabbling duck native to East and Southeast Asia.
It is closely related to the Indian spot-billed duck, and for many years, the two species were grouped and referred to as simply the spot-billed duck.
The species’ name is derived from the distinctive yellow spot on the duck’s bill, a unique identifying feature.
Both species have a similar range and exhibit similar behavior, but this yellow spot can easily distinguish them.
The eastern spot-billed duck is a medium-sized duck usually found in areas close to bodies of water, such as lakes, ponds, and marshes. It is a highly social bird often found in large flocks and can be seen dabbling and foraging for food in shallow water.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. zonorhyncha |
19. Common Greenshank
The common greenshank is a type of water from the Scolopacidae family. This family, also known as the typical waders, comprises a wide variety of bird species.
The genus Tringa is a Neo-Latin name given to the green sandpiper by Aldrovandus in 1599. This name was taken from the Ancient Greek word ‘trunks,’ which referred to a type of wading bird with a white-rumped tail and a size similar to that of a thrush.
Aristotle first mentioned this bird. The common greenshank is a widespread bird species in many parts of the world. They can often be found in coastal areas, wetlands, and other shallow water areas.
They feed primarily on small invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. Their long legs and long beaks are adapted for probing in shallow water for food.
The common greenshank is an integral part of the food chain, and its presence is vital for the health of wetland ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Tringa |
| Species | T. nebularia |
20. White-naped Crane
The white-naped crane is an iconic species of the crane family. It is a large, majestic bird with an impressive stature and wingspan. It measures between 112-125 cm in length and approximately 130 cm tall and weighs a hefty 5.6 kg.
Its unique features include pinkish legs, a grey-and-white-striped neck, and a striking red face patch.
All of these characteristics make the white-naped crane an attractive and distinctive species. The species is found across much of East Asia, ranging from China to Japan and even as far south as the Philippines.
It prefers wetland and grassland habitats, which provide plenty of vegetation for the bird to feed on.
It is usually seen in pairs or small groups and can often be heard calling during the breeding season. The white-naped crane is considered vulnerable to extinction due to habitat loss, hunting, and other human disturbances.
Its population has declined significantly in recent years, and conservation efforts are underway to try and protect this species from further decline.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Antigone |
| Species | A. vipio |
21. Mute swan
The mute swan is an iconic species native to parts of Europe, Siberia, and northern Africa. It is a member of the Anatidae family, which includes ducks, geese, and swans. They can be found in various habitats, including lakes, ponds, rivers, and estuaries.
They are usually found in large flocks but can also be seen in pairs or small family groups. The mute swan is easily identifiable by its long neck, white plumage, and orange-black bill.
They are pretty large birds, with an average wingspan of up to 1.5 meters and a body length of approximately 1.2 meters.
The mute swan is mainly herbivorous, and its diet consists of aquatic plants, small fish, insects, and crustaceans. Mute swans are social birds and live in large communities. They mate for life and typically build their nest close to the water’s edge.
They are highly territorial and can become aggressive towards intruders. They are also known to be quite vocal and can make a wide range of grunts, honks, and whistles. The mute swan is integral to many cultures and symbolizes grace and beauty.
It is seen as a symbol of love, loyalty, and fidelity in many countries worldwide. Unfortunately, the mute swan is classified as a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and hunting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. olor |
22. Lesser White-fronted Goose
The lesser white-fronted goose is a species closely related to the more giant white-fronted goose.
This goose species breeds in the Palearctic’s northernmost regions, a biogeographic region that encompasses much of Europe, northern parts of Asia, and parts of North Africa.
Despite its presence across the Palearctic, the lesser white-fronted goose is a scarce breeder in Europe.
This scarcity of the species has led conservationists to initiate a reintroduction attempt in Fennoscandia, a region that includes parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and northwestern Russia.
The goal of the reintroduction program is to increase the species’ population and help it thrive in its natural habitat. Hopefully, with the help of conservation efforts, the lesser white-fronted goose will become more abundant in the region.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anser |
| Species | A. erythropus |
Conclusion
North Hamgyong is an essential area for bird conservation, as it is home to many species that are endemic to the region or are at risk of extinction.
The region also serves as an essential habitat for migratory species, and its diverse habitats are critical for maintaining biodiversity.
Therefore, protecting the remaining bird populations in North Hamgyong is essential, as well as ensuring their long-term survival by protecting their habitats and providing adequate resources for them to thrive.