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10 Endangered Birds |
10 Endangered Birds In The World With Names And Pictures
Most people in life are told that they realize the true value of something only when that thing disappears from their life forever. Scientists estimate that in the coming decades, the bird species living on our earth will gradually disappear.
The extinction rate of birds will be about 1000 times higher than the natural one. Because of the ever-increasing human population, the predictions of scientists may come true. Apart from this, there have already been many reports about the extinction of many beautiful bird species.
There are about 18,000 species of birds found in this world and many of these species are on the verge of extinction. A study by the University of Washington has almost doubled the previous estimates of the number of birds.
The critically endangered list of birds found in the world has about 12% of the endangered population and this list is the worst classification before extinct in the wild. Let's take a look at those 10 endangered birds which are on the verge of extinction.
1. Ultramarine Lorikeets
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Ultramarine Lorikeets |
Ultramarine Lorikeets also known as Vini Ultramarina is a spectacular species of parrot found only in the South Pacific. Ultramarine Lorikeets are famous for their bright blue and green feathers and unique look. Ultramarine Lorikeets are a popular choice for lovers who appreciate their beauty, intelligence and playful nature.
The Ultramarine Lorikeet is a small sized parrot and grows up to about 8 inches in length. Ultramarine Lorikeets have a blue body, green feathers and green tail. Ultramarine Lorikeets have a black beak and a distinctive blue eye color. Ultramarine Lorikeets have shiny feathers and the male and female look similar but there is only a slight difference in size.
This parrot is found on the islands of French Polynesia which are the Society Islands and the Marquesas Islands. Ultramarine Lorikeets inhabit habitats of forests, coconut plantations and gardens. These parrots are social birds and live in flocks of up to 20 birds. Ultramarine Lorikeets are active during the day and spend most of their time searching for food.
Ultramarine Lorikeets feed mostly on nectar and pollen but also consume fruit and insects. Ultramarine Lorikeets have a brush-tipped tongue that aids them in extracting nectar from flowers. Researchers also know that Ultramarine Lorikeets eat the bark of certain trees and plants.
Ultramarine Lorikeets are intelligent birds and are able to solve problems and use tools. Ultramarine Lorikeets are playful and curious and love to play with toys and interact with their owners. The loud call of Ultramarine Lorikeets is used to communicate with other members of their flock.
The Ultramarine Lorikeets are listed as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and the population of these birds has declined over the years due to loss of habitat and predators such as rats and cats. Conservation organizations are working to protect the bird species and their habitats.
2. Northern Bald Ibis
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Northern Bald Ibis |
The Northern Bald Ibis is a unique looking bird species and has attracted the interest of bird lovers and conservationists. The Northern Bald Ibis with its charming behavior has become a symbol of conservation efforts and the importance of protecting endangered species. The Northern Bald Ibis is a large, dark bird with a bald, pink head and a long, curved beak.
The Northern Bald Ibis is about 70-80 cm in length and has a wingspan of 125-135 cm. The body of the Northern Bald Ibis is covered with black feathers and it has long, slender legs that are pinkish-brown in color. Researchers believe that the bald head of the Northern Bald Ibis evolved due to its eating habits which makes it one of its most distinctive features.
The bald head helps the Northern Bald Ibis keep its feathers clean while feeding in muddy areas and it also helps regulate the bird's body temperature. Northern Bald Ibis birds communicate with each other using a variety of vocalizations and are used to attract mates and establish territory.
The Northern Bald Ibis bird is also known for its distinctive courtship behavior in which the male puffs out his throat and fluffs his feathers while circling around the female. Northern Bald Ibis birds used to be found throughout Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. The range of the Northern Bald Ibis has now decreased due to habitat loss, hunting, and other human activities.
Today Northern Bald Ibis are found in small populations in Morocco, Turkey, and Syria. Northern Bald Ibis prefer open, rocky habitats with access to water and feed mostly in agricultural areas and along riverbanks.
These birds are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and it is estimated that there are only about 600 birds left in the wild. The main threats to the Northern Bald Ibis population are habitat loss and hunting. To combat these threats, several conservation organizations have launched efforts to protect the Northern Bald Ibis bird.
One of the most important conservation efforts for the Northern Bald Ibis bird is the reintroduction program in southern Spain. This program began in 2004 and bred these birds in an attempt to establish a population of Northern Bald Ibis. The program has been successful so far with about 100 birds now living in the area.
Another important conservation effort is the work being done by the Souss-Massa National Park in Morocco to protect the habitat of the Northern Bald Ibis and prevent hunting. In addition, the park has established a network of protected areas and worked with local communities to raise awareness of the importance of conservation.
3. Snowy Owl
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Snowy Owl |
The Snowy Owl is a captivating and iconic bird species. The Snowy Owl has captured the hearts and minds of bird lovers and the general public. Snowy Owls are known for their striking white feathers and yellow eyes. These magnificent birds are found in the Arctic tundra and despite their popularity, the bird faces challenges that threaten their population.
The Snowy Owl is a large and powerful bird of prey with a wingspan of up to 67 inches and weighing between 1.6-2.9 kg. The white feathers of the Snowy Owl provide camouflage in their snowy environment. Male Snowy Owls are more white while females and young have darker markings.
Snowy Owls breed in the Arctic tundra in North America, Europe and Asia and migrate south during the winter months, sometimes reaching the northern United States. The International Union for Conservation of Nature currently lists the Snowy Owl as a species of least concern.
But Snowy Owl populations have declined in some areas and the species faces a number of threats that could negatively impact its future conservation status. Also major threats include climate change, habitat loss, and human activities.
Authorities have taken several conservation initiatives to increase the Snowy Owl bird population. These efforts include monitoring population trends, protecting critical habitats, and implementing programs to raise awareness about the species and the Snowy Owl's conservation needs. Read- Top 10 Highest Flying Birds In The Sky With Pictures
4. California Condor
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California Condor |
The California Condor, a majestic creature that graces the skies of North America, is a testament to the power of conservation efforts. One of the largest flying birds in the world, the California Condor boasts a wingspan of up to 9.5 feet. California Condors are found across North America, from Canada to Mexico.
But by the end of the 20th century, habitat loss and poaching caused the population of the California Condor to plummet. In 1987, only 27 birds remained in the wild, triggering immediate conservation action and recognizing the threat of extinction, conservationists, researchers, and government agencies collaborated to save the bird.
In addition, they captured the last remaining wild birds and began a domestic breeding program. This bold work proved to be instrumental in the recovery of the species. Other zoos, including the San Diego Zoo and the Los Angeles Zoo, played a key role in the program.
They provided an environment for breeding and raising chicks which expanded the population of these birds. As the population of California Condor grew, conservationists released these birds back into the wild and the success of conservation of these birds depends on collaboration between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and local communities.
Following these efforts, the population of these birds has recovered from its low point and as of 2021 the wild population was more than 300 birds with more than 200 birds in captivity. Despite this progress, this bird species is classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
5. African Grey Parrot
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African Grey Parrot |
The African Grey Parrot is an intelligent bird species and has captivated the hearts of bird lovers and pet owners. The African Grey Parrot is considered an endangered species in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Its ability to mimic human speech, solve problems and more have made it one of the most popular parrot species in the world.
The African Grey Parrot is found in the forests of West and Central Africa. The Congo African Grey Parrot and the Timneh are two different subspecies of African Grey parrots. The Congo African Grey Parrot is the larger of the two and has bright red tail feathers while the Timneh is smaller with dark, maroon tail feathers. The natural habitat of the African Grey Parrot is in the dense forests of Africa where it can be found at high altitudes.
African Grey Parrots live in flocks and display more social behavior. Apart from this, these parrots are considered to be one of the most intelligent bird species in the world. Apart from this, researchers have shown that they solve problems similar to chimpanzees and dolphins. African Grey Parrots have a more developed ability to imitate sounds and can learn the vocabulary of human speech.
In addition to mimicking human language, African grey parrots also have the ability to understand and use language. Researchers have known that African grey parrots associate words with objects and actions and even create new words and phrases. African grey parrots form deep bonds with their owners and can display jealousy, anger, and even depression when separated from them.
6. Hooded Grebe
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Hooded Grebe |
The Hooded Grebe is a water bird that is a critically endangered species. The Hooded Grebe is native to southern Argentina. This rare bird has faced many threats due to its attractive behavior. The Hooded Grebe is a medium-sized waterfowl that is about 12 inches long, with a thin neck and a sharp, pointed beak.
The Hooded Grebe has a brown body with a pale yellow underside. This bird species is found in freshwater lakes and ponds in the Argentine plateaus. The Hooded Grebe prefers to feed on small invertebrates such as crustaceans and aquatic insects by diving underwater to catch its prey.
The Hooded Grebe was first discovered in 1974 and is now listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Bird Species. They estimate that the Hooded Grebe population is only a few 100 birds whose numbers are declining rapidly due to facors such as habitat loss, climate change and predation by invasive species.
The American Mink and Kelp Gull are particularly destructive to the Hooded Grebe as they prey on eggs, chicks and adult birds which has caused the species population to decline. Conservation organizations such as Aves Argentinas and the Global Grebe Conservation Program are making more efforts to save the Hooded Grebe bird from extinction. Read- mosquito | Interesting Facts About Disease-Carrying Insects
7. Great Curassbird
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Great Curassow |
The Great Curassow bird rules the forests and this attractive bird attracts our attention. The Great Curassow faces serious threats. Action should be taken to protect the Great Curassow. The Great Curassow bird is up to 39 inches in length. The male and female birds differ in appearance. The male bird has shiny black feathers and has curly crests on its head.
The female bird has different colors and their crests are more subdued. They have a similar feature and that is a bright yellow knob on the beak of the Great Curassow. The Great Curassow bird calls the forests its home and it prefers to inhabit the lowlands which extend from southeastern Mexico to western Panama.
The Great Curassow takes refuge in dense forests and spends most of its time on the ground. For its safety, it builds nests in trees and this bird is an omnivorous that eats fruits, insects and small vertebrates. The Great Curassow remains elusive in the forest, forms small social groups and communicates with a variety of sounds.
The Great Curassow is classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature which means that the Great Curassow population is declining rapidly. Environmental loss is the biggest threat and deforestation is wreaking havoc on the Great Curassow's environment. Several organizations work to protect the Great Curassow bird. They strive to preserve the Great Curassow's habitat and create protected areas and reserves.
These organizations work to reduce human-wildlife conflict and implement education and awareness campaigns. These organizations teach local communities about the plight of the Great Curassow bird and encourage ecotourism which promotes development.
8. Kiwi bird
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Kiwi bird |
This unique species native to New Zealand is as interesting as it is elusive. With its long beak, short wings and flightless body, the Kiwi bird has captured the hearts and minds of people around the world. Despite its charm, the Kiwi bird faces threats from habitat loss, hunting and human encroachment.
There are 5 different species of Kiwi birds, namely the Brown Kiwi, Roivi, Tokoeka, Great Spotted Kiwi and Little Spotted Kiwi. These birds have a keen sense of smell, whisker-like feathers around their beaks and their egg-laying ability. Kiwi bird sounds such as the whistle of the male and the growl of the female are also famous.
The conservation status of the Kiwi bird species varies and some face more serious threats than others. The IUCN Red List classifies the Roivi and Haast tokoeka as critically endangered and the North Island brown kiwi and great spotted kiwi as vulnerable.
The little spotted kiwi is classified as near threatened. The introduction of invasive predators such as rats and possums has had a devastating effect on the population of these birds. These predators prey on eggs, chicks and larger birds posing a major threat to the kiwi bird population.
Various conservation initiatives have been implemented to protect these birds and their habitats. In addition, the New Zealand government in collaboration with the local Maori tribe, non-governmental organizations and community groups has set up programs to control predators, restore habitats and educate the public about the importance of kiwi bird conservation.
9. Fruit Dove
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Fruit Dove |
Fruit Dove This pigeon species is a bird species found in Southeast Asia and Oceania that has been attracting ornithologists and bird lovers with its attractive colors and fascinating habits. Fruit Dove plays an important role in beach dispersal and Fruit Dove is a genus of birds that includes more than 50 species, characterized by their wings and small to medium size.
As the name of this bird suggests, fruit doves eat fruits in their diet and mostly prefer the fruit of the fig tree. The powerful gizzard of Fruit Dove helps them digest large seeds which they spread throughout the forest. The conservation status of Fruit Dove varies considerably. Some of them are classified as least concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species while others are at greater risk of extinction.
Conservationists are working diligently to protect Fruit Dove and their habitats. Apart from this, major strategies include habitat restoration, captive breeding programs, and control of invasive species. Additionally, the establishment of protected areas such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries helps preserve important habitats for the Fruit Dove.
10. Kakapo
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Kakapo |
The Kakapo is a nocturnal, flightless parrot from New Zealand and is a mysterious and unique bird species. Known for its charming and bizarre behavior, the Kakapo bird faces a tough battle to survive. The Kakapo is a large and round parrot weighing between 2-4 kilograms and up to 60 centimeters in length.
The Kakapo has a beautiful layer of green feathers with yellow and black markings that aid in camouflage. The Kakapo cannot fly due to its short wings and heavy body compared to other parrots. But the Kakapo relies on strong legs to move and climb trees.
These parrots are nocturnal and solitary birds and search for native plants, seeds and bark at night. During the breeding season, the deep and resonant sound of the Kakapo can be heard from miles away. Male Kakapo create and maintain mating territories where they display their singing abilities to attract females.
The Kakapo bird is currently classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The primary threat to the Kakapo population is habitat loss and predation by invasive species such as rats, stoats, and possums. The introduction of these predators in New Zealand has caused a massive decline in the Kakapo population which has now reached about 200 birds.
The New Zealand Department of Conservation established the Kakapo Recovery Program in 1990 and the program focuses on several key strategies. In addition, conservationists equip each Kakapo with a radio transmitter to monitor their movements and health.
Efforts are underway to eliminate invasive predators from the habitat of these birds, providing the birds with a safe environment for breeding and feeding. Conservationists raise the chicks in a predator-free environment and release them back into the wild when they are able to fend for themselves.