Birds have wings, beaks, feathers, and lay hard-shelled eggs, making them a kind of animal. Hummingbirds, for example, can be as little as 2 inches (5 cm) in size. Large flightless birds, such as ostriches, may reach heights of 9 ft (2.75 m) on the other end of the spectrum. In their natural habitats, all birds play an essential function, and many individuals enjoy having domestic birds as pets.
The phylum Chordata contains all types of birds, which are classified as animals. Birds live on every continent in the world and there are an estimated 18,000 species. Birds are warm-blooded vertebrates with two legs, feathers, wings, and bills. They are classified based on this characteristics. Birds aren’t a sort of mammal since they don’t have mammary glands and can’t give birth to their young.
The similarities that individual bird species have with one other are used to categorize them. Birds, for example, have excellent navigational abilities. Hundreds of thousands of miles are traveled by migratory birds to reach a common nesting location each year.
The chirping noises or song-like melodies of certain birds have been recognized. Some parrots and blue jays, for example, may imitate noises and human speech with ease. The characteristics of several common bird species will be described in this article. You’ll learn how to differentiate between various kinds of birds and why they’re different.
Types of Birds With Their Picture, Common Names and Species
Let’s take a closer look at a variety of wild and domesticated birds that may be seen in gardens, woodland, parks, and open areas.
Sparrows
This bird is known as Passerellidae and is a tiny brown-gray bird. The bird family that all sparrow species belong to is named after this bird. Sparrows are little brown or gray birds that resemble finches in appearance. The black streaked patterns on their backs, tiny chubby size, and spherical head help you identify sparrows.
The bicolored, conical beak of American tree sparrows (scientific name Spizelloides arborea) is distinctive. In Europe, the common house sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a frequent sight. House sparrows are recognized for their chirping noises and hopping movements while seeking seeds and grains, as are most species of sparrow.
Bird identification:
- Plumage of little fat-looking birds ranges in tone from gray-brown to black.
- Perches on small bushes and trees in backyards.
- Little flocks of sparrows are common.
Hummingbirds
The hummingbirds are some of the tiniest birds on the planet, with lovely iridescent feathers and a long, slender beak. The sound of hummingbirds’ wings beating up to 80 times per second gives them their name. Hummingbirds may be identified by their dazzling iridescent colors on the neck and chest, in addition to their tiny size.
Hummingbirds have slender beaks that enable them to extract nectar from plants. Hummingbirds migrate from North America to Mexico and Central America in most species.
Bird identification:
- Little birds that drink sap and pollen from various flowering plants while hovering.
- Many species have multi-colored iridescent feathers, and their feathers are vibrant in color.
Pigeons
Pigeons, also known as doves, are a popular kind of medium-sized bird. Pigeons come in over 310 different species and 42 genera. One of the earliest domesticated birds is the domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica). Pigeons, which weigh between 2 and 4 pounds (900 grams and 2 kilograms) are frequently seen in cities. The tiniest pigeons (house sparrows) may be tiny, while the biggest (crowned pigeon of New Guinea) is near-enormous in size.
Bird identification:
- Gray and black feathers, as well as iridescent patterns around the neck, are common characteristics of this kind of bird.
Doves – a type of pigeon
Dove is a popular term for certain kinds of pigeons that are smaller than the common pigeon and are named as doves. Love, purity, and fresh beginnings are all represented by white doves. The Mourning dove, with its tearful cooing noises and long tapered tails, is another kind of lovely bird.
Bluebirds
Bluebirds belong to the genus Sialia, which includes thrushes, and they are little birds with blue heads and wings. Bluebirds’ blue-colored feathers and light brown chest are among the distinguishing features of the species. One of the most popular species of birds gardeners want to attract is bluebirds. They eat flies and may help keep common garden pests under control.
Bird identification:
- Beautiful blue plumage and brown or white chests distinguish small birds the size of a sparrow.
- The majority of them are found on the west coast of North America.
Northern Cardinal
The northern cardinal (scientific name Cardinalis cardinalis) is a tiny bird with a crimson head and body, as well as a black face. The male cardinal has crimson plumage around its beak, with a black mask surrounding it. When you see photographs of this bird, it’s simple to understand why it’s called “redbird.” The olive-brown color of female cardinals is dominant. The practice of keeping Cardinals as pets has been outlawed.
Bird identification:
- The beaks of Cardinals are brilliant, with a crimson head crest that stands out.
- This birdsongbird species is both sexes and sexes.
American Robin
Turdus migratorius, a member of the family Turdidae and similar to the bluebird, is a kind of songbird prevalent in North America. The European robin (Erithacus rubecula) is a different species of bird than this songbird, which has a brownish-orange breast.
These lovely birds, especially in the spring, are frequently heard participating in the dawn chorus. One of the most plentiful land birds in North America is the American robin.
Bird identification:
- The underparts of both sexes are brown-orange, while the upperparts are dark gray to black. The males have brighter colors than the females.
- White striped markings on the neck of American robins may help you identify them.
American Goldfinch
The scientific name for a kind of finch known as the American goldfinch is Spinus tristis. It is a small yellow and black bird. The brilliant yellow plumage of this little bird (goldfinch) becomes even more vivid during the summer, giving it its name. The goldfinch breeds in northern states in the United States and Canada and migrates to the south. They can spend the winter as far south as Central America.
Bird identification:
- Male goldfinches have golden yellow plumage, while female goldfinches have yellowish-brown plumage in the summer.
- Dark brown to black wings and short tails characterize goldfinches.
Warbler birds
The pine warbler is a little songbird with a bright yellow throat and belly, and it belongs to the Passeriformes (perching birds) family. The ability to sing is a common feature of these tiny birds. Yet, individual species of bird are difficult to identify due to the diversity of their family, the Parulidae.
Bird identification:
- The tail length, chest color, and wing markings are used to identify warblers.
- Warbler songs may be used to identify different bird species.
Herons
Herons belong to the Ardeidae family of scientific names, and there are approximately 64 species of these long-legged birds found across North and Central America. Herons feed on small amphibians, crustaceans, and fish in freshwater lakes or rivers where they are frequently seen.
Herons are mostly big birds, with some growing to be over 5 feet (1.5 meters) tall. The gray heron (Ardea cinerea), which grows to be around 3 feet (1 metre) tall, is the most frequent heron in Europe. Great blue herons (Ardea herodias) may be found in marshes and around freshwater bodies in the United States.
Bird identification:
- Birds with broad wings, long legs, and a pointed yellow beak.
- The heads of most herons are adorned with a black crest.
Geese and Ducks
Ducks and geese are both members of the Anatidae family, and they come in a variety of colors including white, gray, or black feathers. This family of geese and ducks includes a variety of species.
The female birds are referred to as geese, while the male birds are known as ganders. Geese are bigger than ducks and may be seen on both land and water. The gray goose, black goose, and white goose are the three types of geese birds.
Ducks come in a variety of colors, and they spend practically all of their lives on water, unlike geese, which are considerably larger. Fish, insects, grasses, and worms are all foods that ducks consume. The Indian Runner duck is one of the most unusual ducks.
These ducks have a pristine white body and seem to stand tall, with their heads in the air. Domestic birds such as geese and ducks are used for their eggs, meat, and feathers.
Woodpeckers
Woodpeckers are a group of flying birds known as Picidae that have black and white feathers and a crimson crest. Over 240 species of woodpecker bird exist in 35 genera of woodpeckers. The neck of the most common woodpecker is adorned with white markings.
The red-colored crest of many woodpecker species is visible on their black and white striped heads. Woodpecker species with zebra-like patterns on their wings include some, while others have dark brown and tan streaks.
Bird identification:
- Woodpeckers are easily recognized by their habit of hammering trees until they get grubs and insects.
- Most nations in the Northern Hemisphere have woodpeckers, who prefer woodlands and forests.
Swallows
Little birds called swallows have long wings and short legs, and are migratory birds. Martins or saw-wings are other names for these summer birds. Swallows migrate to warmer climes in the fall from northern Europe and North America. Swallow species have slenderer bodies and pointed wings that allows them to zip through the summer sky.
The common house martin (Delichon urbicum) is the most frequent swallow species. The underparts of this bird are white, and its wings and head are deep blue to black. The purple martin (Progne subis) is a magnificent swallow with a lustrous, glossy black body.
Bird identification:
- Mud nests are commonly built by little migratory birds in the eaves of homes.
- When they fly around looking for insects to eat, they have a unique forked tail.
Swifts
Swift is a little gray bird that flies quickly and has a reputation for catching insects. Swifts are completely unrelated to swallows, despite their appearance and behavior. Swifts, unlike house martins, are related to hummingbirds and not to the family Apodidae.
Swifts can fly at speeds of up to 105 mph (169 km/h) and cruise at 70 mph (112 km/h), making them the fastest flying birds! Some species have white bellies or orange-red colors around their throat, and swifts have dark-colored wings.
Bird identification:
- Forked tails and long swept-back wings characterize these small graceful birds.
Eagles
Eagles are well-known for their keen eyesight and hunting acumen. They have a black body with a white head and tail. The Accipitridae family of birds encompasses roughly 60 species. Eagles are members of this family. The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is one of the most well-known varieties, with its dark brown or black feathers and brilliant white head.
The big golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), with its 7 ft. 8 in. (2.34 m) wingspan, is another well-known eagle species. Fish eagles, harpy eagles, booted eagles, and snake eagles are the four types of Eagles.
Bird identification:
- Large talons, hook-shaped beaks, and huge wingspans characterize these predatory birds.
- When eagles are hunting for prey, they often fly high in the sky on thermals.
Gulls and Seabirds
Large white and gray sea birds in the family Laridae are known as seagulls, which are medium-large grey or white birds with black markings on their wings. Gulls feed on fish, mice, and human leftovers in coastal areas, where they are a frequent sight.
They have gray and black wings, as well as fat plump white bodies. Herring gulls (Larus argentatus and Larus smithsonianus), kittiwakes (Rissa), and the big black-headed gull (Ichthyaetus ichthyaetus) are just a few of the types of gulls found in the area.
Bird identification:
- The voices of seagulls, webbed feet, long yellow beaks, and mobbing behavior are all used to identify them.
Terns, the big albatross, penguins, gannets, pelicans, and cormorants are some of the other marine birds. A vast array of distinct bird species, genera, and groups are all included under the term “seabird.”
Cuckoos
The migratory bird known as the common cuckoo has a gray and white striped belly, making it one of the most identifiable bird sounds. Cuckoo birds are medium-sized birds that make a distinctive “cu-ckoo” sound, and their scientific name is Cuculidae.
When it comes to species coloring, cuckoos are some of the most diverse types of birds. With dark gray or black wings and a gray head, the common cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) has a striped underpart. Bright iridescent colors, vibrant oranges and greens, or jet black with striking yellow eyes may be seen in other species of cuckoo.
Bird identification:
- Birds that are solitary and seldom seen in groups or pairs.
- They make a characteristic cu-ckoo sound that is frequently heard in woodlands.
Types of Pet Birds With Pictures and Common Name
Many wild birds have been domesticated and make wonderful pets. The following are some of the most common types of pet birds:
Parrots
Parrots (Psittacines) are one of the most popular tropical birds kept as house pets, and they come in a variety of colors. Parrots are colorful birds with large hooked beaks and long tails that are often brightly colored. Amazons, cockatoos, and parakeets are some of the most popular types of parrots kept in cages at home.
Yellow Canary
Yellow canaries (Crithagra flaviventris) are a good option if you’re looking for low-maintenance, easy-to-care-for pet birds. Canaries are little, lovely birds that sing and are members of the finch family. It’s also critical to understand that males sing to attract females, which is why it’s essential.
So, purchase a male and keep the female out of sight if you want to hear delightful bird songs. The male will not search for a mate and will not sing if you keep the pair together.
Budgies (Parakeets)
Parakeets (Melopsittacus undulatus) are a popular pet bird because of their colorful plumage, which includes yellow, green, blue, and grey. They are wonderful birds to have at home because of their small size, delicate chirps, and lovely green, yellow, and blue plumage. Long tail feathers of varying blues may also be seen.
Lovebirds
When you see two lovebirds together, it’s simple to see how they earned their moniker: they’re both little pet birds with green and orange-red feathers. The affectionate pair (Agapornis) is named appropriately and stays together for life. Green-colored birds with red head flushed and red or cream-colored beaks are the most common kind.
Finches
Finches come in a variety of colors, so it’s a good idea to purchase them in pairs or more if you want to keep them as pets. Finches are tiny birds that may be kept in one cage with little care. Finches come in a variety of hues, designs, and sizes, with over 220 species to choose from.
Blue and orange, red and blue, rosy-pink and black, and yellow and dark violet are some of the most striking finch bird color combinations.