Birds are fascinating creatures that have been around for millions of years. They are found in many parts of the world, including the Taourirt region of Morocco.
The birds of Taourirt are an essential part of the local ecology and offer a unique glimpse into the local culture. Bird watching is a popular activity in Taourirt, and the region is home to various species, from rare raptors to common songbirds.
Many of these birds are migratory, with some traveling from as far away as Europe and Africa. Bird watching in Taourirt is an experience that is not to be missed, with the opportunity to observe some incredible species in their natural environment.
24 Birds to Watch in Taourirt
Taourirt is a region in eastern Morocco that is rich in natural beauty and biodiversity. It is home to many species of birds, some of which are rare and endangered.
Bird watching is a rewarding and enjoyable activity that can be done in Taourirt, as there are many sites and habitats where you can observe these amazing creatures.
Here are 24 birds that you can watch in Taourirt.
1. Red-crested Pochard
The red-crested pochard is a large diving duck species native to many world regions, such as Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is a striking bird with a very distinctive red crest on its head.
The scientific name of this species is derived from two languages: Greek and Latin. The Greek word Netta refers to the term ‘duck,’ while the Latin word Rufina refers to the term ‘golden-red.’
This is an apt description of the species since its feathers are a deep and vibrant red, giving it a striking appearance. The red-crested pochard is an essential species in the wild as it is a keystone species in many wetland habitats.
Its presence is vital to these habitats’ health as it helps maintain the balance of the ecosystem. This species is also essential for human populations as it provides food and other vital resources for our survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Netta |
| Species | N. rufina |
2. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is the most significant and most widespread species of flamingo.
Native to the Old World, this species has a vast range and can be found throughout Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East, the Levant, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe.
This sizeable geographic range allows the flamingo to live in various habitats, from wetlands to desert areas. The greater flamingo also has a long lifespan, with some living up to 40 years in the wild.
The greater flamingo is a large bird, with adults reaching up to five feet tall and weighing between eight and twelve pounds. They have long, curved necks and long pink legs. Their feathers are usually a bright pink, with a white or gray head and neck.
The bill is also pink, with a black tip. The diet of the greater flamingo consists mainly of small invertebrates, such as crustaceans and mollusks, as well as algae and plankton. They will also feed on small fish and other aquatic animals.
The greater flamingo is a social species and usually lives in large flocks. They are often seen in shallow lagoons, mudflats, and lakes. The flamingos form large colonies during the breeding season to breed and raise their young.
The greater flamingo is listed as a species of most minor concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. However, their numbers have declined in some areas due to human activities such as habitat destruction and pollution.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
3. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a species of water bird belonging to the grebe family. Its genus name is derived from the Ancient Greek takes, which means “fast,” and bap to, which means “to sink under.”
The specific name, ruficollis, is derived from the Latin words Rufus, meaning “red,” and Collis, meaning “necked.” This is further derived from the Latin collum, which means “neck.”
The little grebe is known for its ability to dive quickly into the water and escape predators. Its red neck is distinctive, making it easy to identify among other water birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
4. Common Pochard
The common pochard is a type of diving duck that is considered to be of medium size. Its scientific name, Aythya ferina, has its roots in ancient Greece. The first part of the name, Lithuania, is an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle.
The second part of the name, ferina, is derived from the Latin word fetus, which means “wild.” This is likely a reference to the common pochard’s wild nature, as it is a wild game bird.
The combination of the two words, Lithuania ferina, literally translates to “wild sea bird,” which accurately describes the common pochard.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. ferina |
5. White-headed Duck
The White-headed Duck is a unique species of small diving duck around 45 cm long. The male of the species has a white head with a black crown, a bright blue bill, and reddish-grey feathers. The female of the species has a dark bill and more drab coloring.
The duck is usually found in lakes with lots of open water and vegetation surrounding the edge. This vegetation provides a safe habitat for the ducks to breed and nest.
The White-headed Duck is an important species that needs to be protected and studied to ensure its survival in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Oxyura |
| Species | O. leucocephala |
6. Great Spotted Cuckoo
The great spotted cuckoo is a member of the Cuculiformes, a bird order that also includes the roadrunners, the anis, and the coucals. This bird species is one of the most widely distributed cuckoos in the world, being found in Africa and the Mediterranean Basin.
It is a brood parasite, meaning it does not build its own nest but instead lays its eggs in the nests of other birds, such as corvids, particularly the Eurasian magpie.
This adaptation allows the cuckoo to maximize its reproductive success by reducing parental care and ensuring its eggs hatch in a safe environment.
The cuckoo’s eggs are often mistaken for those of the host species, and the cuckoo’s young can compete with the host’s own for resources. This behavior is expected among birds and is integral to the great spotted cuckoo’s survival strategy.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Clamator |
| Species | C. glandarius |
7. Red-necked Nightjar
The red-necked nightjar is a species of nightjar that is native to Europe. It is the largest species of nightjar among those found in Europe, with a length of up to 28 cm and a wingspan of up to 62 cm. It has a reddish patch on its neck, which gives it its name.
The red-necked nightjar breeds in Iberia and North Africa and migrates to tropical West Africa during winter. This species is known for its remarkable ability to travel long distances during migration.
The red-necked nightjar is mainly active at night when it hunts for insects, such as moths and beetles, which it catches in mid-air. During the day, the red-necked nightjar hides in dense shrubs and trees, where its drab grey and brown feathers camouflage it.
It is also known to roost in the open during the day, using its cryptic plumage to blend in with the environment. The red-necked nightjar is considered an endangered species in Europe due to humans’ destruction of its habitat.
Efforts are being made to protect this species and its habitat to ensure its long-term survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | C. ruficollis |
8. Barbary Partridge
The Barbary partridge is a species of gamebird belonging to the pheasant family, which is part of the Galliformes order. This species is native to North Africa and is found in various habitats ranging from semi-arid to wetland regions.
It is a relatively small bird with a gray-brown body, a black stripe along the head, and white spots on its wings and tail. The Barbary partridge is a ground-dwelling species usually found in pairs or small flocks.
Its diet consists mainly of seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. The Barbary partridge is an essential game species in North Africa and is popular among hunters for its meat and attractive feathers.
Conservation efforts for this species have been implemented in recent years, as it is threatened by habitat loss and hunting pressure.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Alectoris |
| Species | A. barbara |
9. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck (Aythya nyroca) is a medium-sized diving duck found in Eurosiberia, a region stretching from western Europe to east Asia. It is also known as ferruginous pochard, common white-eye, or white-eyed pochard.
The scientific name of the duck is derived from two different sources. The first part, Aythya, comes from the Greek Lithuania, an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors including Hesychius and Aristotle. The second part, nyrok, is the Russian name for a duck.
The ferruginous duck is a strong and agile swimmer, and it feeds mainly on aquatic invertebrates found in the water. Its habitat is typically shallow bodies of water, such as marshes, ponds, and lakes. The duck is usually found in pairs or small flocks.
It nests in tree cavities or tall vegetation near water. Due to habitat destruction and hunting, the ferruginous duck is classified as a Near Threatened species.
The International Union monitors its conservation status for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). Conservation efforts are underway to protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
10. Pallid Swift
The pallid swift is a type of swift that is characterized by its pale color. It belongs to the genus Apus, which is Latin for a swift. This genus is believed to have originated from a swallow with no feet.
The pallid swift has very short legs, which it only uses for clinging to vertical surfaces. They cannot voluntarily settle on the ground, unlike other bird species. Swifts, in general, are small birds with long, narrow wings and short tails.
They are mainly active during the day and can often be seen flying in large flocks. They are well-known for their fast and acrobatic flying skills and can turn and swoop in seconds.
Swifts are typically found in open habitats such as grasslands, woodlands, and forests and are usually found close to water sources. The pallid swift is an essential species in its own right, as it plays a critical role in its ecosystem.
As a migratory species, it helps spread essential nutrients and pollen across different regions. It is also a key predator, helping to keep insect populations in check.
Despite its importance, the pallid swift is currently listed as a species of most minor concern by the IUCN, as it is not facing any significant threats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Apus |
| Species | A. pallidus |
11. Common Crane
The Common Crane is a species of bird that belongs to the family Gruidae, commonly known as cranes. It is a medium-sized bird and is the only crane widely found in Europe, apart from the Demoiselle Crane and the Siberian Crane.
The latter two species are only found in the far-eastern part of the continent. The Common Crane inhabits wetlands, grasslands, and open country, preferring habitats with shallow water.
They feed on various plants and invertebrates, such as frogs, small mammals, and insects. They typically nest on the ground and migrate long distances to reach breeding grounds.
The Common Crane is a threatened species, and its population is declining due to habitat destruction and the loss of wetlands. As a result, the species is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Conservation efforts are underway, including the designation of protected areas and the implementation of hunting restrictions. However, more needs to be done to ensure this species’s survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Grus |
| Species | G. grus |
12. Northern Lapwing
The northern lapwing is a species of bird that belongs to the lapwing subfamily. It is a widely spread species found all across temperate parts of Europe and Siberia. Other names, such as peewit, pewit, tuit, tewit, green plover, and eye wipe, also know it.
Commonly, it is referred to simply as lapwing. This bird species is known for its distinctive calls, similar to a peewit or a tuit. It also has a unique plumage pattern, with its wings having a black-and-white pattern with a greenish tinge.
The northern lapwing is a common sight in the areas it inhabits, and it is often seen foraging for food in open fields or on the banks of rivers and streams.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Vanellus |
| Species | V. vanellus |
13. Whimbrel
The Eurasian or common whimbrel is a species of wading bird belonging to the family Scolopacidae, a large family of birds that includes sandpipers, snipes, and curlews. This species is also known as the white-rumped whimbrel in North America.
It is a widespread species, breeding across much of subarctic Asia and Europe, extending as far south as Scotland.
It is one of the most widespread curlews in various habitats, including wetlands, estuaries, coastal waters, and grasslands. The Eurasian or common whimbrel is an essential species for conservation, as it is vulnerable to habitat loss and other threats.
As a result, it is essential to protect its habitats and monitor its population trends to ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Numenius |
| Species | N. phaeopus |
14. Spotted Crake
The spotted crake is a small waterbird of the family Rallidae, a family of birds consisting of rails, crakes, coots, and gallinules.
The scientific name for the spotted crake is derived from Venetian terms for small rails and birds living in wetland habitats. The spotted crake’s breeding habitat is marshes and sedge beds across temperate Europe and western Asia.
They prefer to nest in a dry location in the marsh vegetation, typically laying 6-15 eggs. Spotted crakes are generally solitary and build their nests in dense vegetation near water, such as reed beds or sedges. The spotted crake is a shy bird often heard rather than seen.
It feeds mainly on insects, small mollusks, other invertebrates, and some plant material.
During the breeding season, the spotted crake is territorial and will defend its nest against predators. The spotted crake is listed as a species of most minor concern by the IUCN, as its population is stable and widespread.
However, destroying its wetland habitats significantly threatens the species, and conservation efforts are needed to protect its breeding grounds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Porzana |
| Species | P. porzana |
15. Garganey
The Garganey is a species of small dabbling duck native to Europe and the Palearctic region. It is a very migratory species, with the entire population migrating to more southern areas during the Northern Hemisphere’s winter months.
These destinations include Africa, India, Bangladesh, and Australasia. During this time, large flocks of the Garganey can often be seen in these areas.
The Garganey typically breeds in most of the areas it migrates to, and in the autumn months, the species can be seen traveling in large flocks back to the regions in which they usually reside.
This species is an integral part of the global ecosystem, and its migratory patterns play a significant role in the balance of nature.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Spatula |
| Species | S. querquedula |
16. Great Crested Grebe
The great crested grebe is a species of water bird that is a part of the grebe family. It is a large bird found across Eurasia and parts of North Africa. It is an excellent swimmer and diver known for its distinctive mating display.
The great crested grebe has elaborate courtship rituals that involve both males and females. The male bird performs a head-shaking dance in the water, and the female responds with a head-tossing display.
Both birds will then move together in a circle, with the male bird leading and the female following. This courtship is known to include courtship feeding and mutual preening.
Once the pair has bonded, they will build a nest together and share the responsibility of incubating the eggs and caring for the chicks. The great crested grebe is an iconic bird whose display of love and devotion is a sight.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Podiceps |
| Species | P. cristatus |
17. Black-winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt is a long-legged wading bird belonging to the family of avocets and stilts. It is widely distributed worldwide and known by the scientific name H. himantopus.
This species is highly adaptable and is found in various habitats, from wetlands to coastlines. It is a solitary species, often seen in shallow water, searching for food. The black-winged stilt has long, thin legs and is dark grey above with white below.
It has a distinctive black wing patch and a long, black-tipped bill. It has a long, white-tipped tail, which is often held cocked.
During mating season, its legs may turn pinkish. This species feeds primarily on aquatic animals such as insects, crustaceans, mollusks, and small fish. It will also eat plant material and seeds.
It has various vocalizations used to communicate with other stilts, such as when interacting during the breeding season. The black-winged stilt is an important indicator species for wetland health.
It is vulnerable to human-caused disturbances, such as habitat destruction and degradation, and is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN. Therefore, it is essential to ensure the conservation of its habitat so that this species can continue to thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
18. Common Ringed Plover
The common ringed plover is a small bird found in Arctic Eurasia. It is a part of the genus Charadrius, a Late Latin word meaning a yellowish bird. This name was found in an old book called The Vulgate, written in the fourth century.
The word for this type of bird is derived from an ancient Greek word (kharadrios), which refers to a bird found in ravines and river valleys. This type of bird typically has a yellowish color to its feathers, which is why it received its name.
The common ringed plover is a small bird that can thrive in various habitats, making it a resilient species. It can be born in Eurasia and live in ravines and river valleys.
This bird has a long history; its name has been derived from Latin and Ancient Greek words.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Charadrius |
| Species | C. hiaticula |
19. Little-ringed Plover
The little ringed plover is a small type of plover bird and is part of the genus Charadrius. The name Charadrius originates from Late Latin, which was used in a fourth-century Vulgate.
This name is derived from the Ancient Greek word kharadrios, a bird found in river valleys. This type of bird has a yellowish coloration, which is thought to be the origin of the name.
Little ringed plovers generally have light brown plumage, providing excellent camouflage when resting in their habitat. They are found worldwide, typically in wetlands, grasslands, and other damp areas.
They are also migratory birds so that they can be seen in different regions depending on the season. Despite their small size, little-ringed plovers can defend themselves from predators and will make loud calls when disturbed.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Charadrius |
| Species | C. dubius |
20. Great Egret
The great egret is one of the most widely distributed species of heron, found in various regions worldwide. It is also known by other names such as the common egret, large egret, great white egret, and great white heron.
It is a large bird with four distinct subspecies native to Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe. In recent times, however, the great egret has been seen to spread more northwards into Europe.
This could be due to various factors, such as climate change or the availability of suitable habitats for the great egret.
This species will likely continue to spread north as human activities such as urbanization and industrial development create more suitable habitats.
In areas where the great egret is present, it is often seen near bodies of water, preying on small fish and other aquatic creatures. As it is a large, conspicuous bird, it is a popular subject of photography and birdwatching.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. alba |
21. Great Cormorant
The great cormorant is a wide-ranging seabird from the cormorant family known by different names in different parts of the world. In New Zealand, it is called the black shag or kawau, while in the Northern Hemisphere, it is referred to as the great black cormorant.
Australia calls it the black cormorant, while in India, it is known as the large cormorant. This species of cormorant is extensively distributed worldwide and is a common sight near bodies of water.
It is a large, black bird with a long neck and a wingspan of up to one and a half meters. It dives deep into the water to hunt for fish and can stay underwater for up to two minutes. Its waterproof feathers allow it to stay dry when it returns to the surface.
The great cormorant is an essential species in many ecosystems, and its presence indicates a healthy environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Phalacrocorax |
| Species | P. carbo |
22. Houbara Bustard
The houbara bustard, also known as the African houbara, is a bird found in North Africa. It is a relatively small species of bustard, growing to a height of approximately two feet. Its habitat is typically arid, such as desert and semi-arid regions.
The global population of the Houbara bustard is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, which is a scientific assessment of the health of the species. This assessment has been in place since 2014.
In addition to North Africa’s population, there is a population of houbara bustards in the Canary Islands, an archipelago off the coast of northwest Africa. This population was assessed as Near Threatened in 2015.
This is concerning, as it indicates that the population of Houbara Bustards is declining and could soon become extinct if conservation efforts are not made.
Protecting these birds’ habitat and creating other conservation measures that will help increase their numbers is essential. Without action, the houbara bustard could soon disappear from its native habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Chlamydotis |
| Species | C. undulata |
23. Great Bustard
The great bustard is a large bird that belongs to the bustard family. It is the only living member of the genus Otis and is found throughout much of the Old World.
The great bustard is a migratory species and breeds in open grasslands and farmland in northern Morocco, South and Central Europe, and temperate Central and East Asia. The species has an impressive wingspan of up to two meters and can weigh up to 14 kilograms.
The great bustard feeds on various plant matter, insects, small reptiles, and mammals. It prefers open grasslands and farmland, providing plenty of food sources and a safe place to raise its young.
Unfortunately, the great bustard is threatened by habitat destruction and human disturbance, leading to a decline in the species’ population. Conservation efforts are underway to help protect the great bustard and its habitat, ensuring its survival in the future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Otis |
| Species | O. tarda |
24. Little Bustard
The little bustard is a bird belonging to the bustard family, making it the only member of the genus Tetrax. The name of the genus is derived from the Ancient Greek language and references a game bird mentioned by authors such as Aristophanes in his writings.
Little bustards are found mainly in Europe and parts of Asia and North Africa, where they live in open areas with little vegetation. They feed on insects, small lizards, and other small prey and are hunted for meat.
Little bustards are declining due to habitat destruction, hunting, and other factors. Conservation efforts are being made to ensure their survival in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Tetrax |
| Species | T. tetrax |
Conclusion
Birds in Taourirt are an integral part of its culture and environment. They are a food source for many local people, provide a natural form of pest control, and contribute to the region’s beauty.
The local population is also firmly attached to the birds, with many traditional songs and stories about them.
It is clear that birds play an essential role in the daily life of Taourirt, and we should work to ensure that they remain a part of the landscape for generations to come.