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This is a '''list of the bird species recorded in Israel'''. The avifauna of ] includes a total of 534 species, of which 5 have been ] by humans, and 138 are rare or accidental. 2 species listed are ] in Israel and are not included in the species count. 14 species are globally threatened. | |||
{{Use British English|date=October 2014}} | |||
This is a '''list of the bird species recorded in Israel'''. The avifauna of ] include a total of 591 species, of which eleven have been ] by humans. Five species are listed as ] from Israel. The ] was elected as Israel ] in a public vote in 2008.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna24875880|title=Caring, but not kosher, national bird for Israel|date=May 29, 2008|work=]|access-date=November 7, 2023}}</ref> | |||
The official checklist of birds of Israel is maintained by the Israeli Rarities and Distribution Committee (IRDC).<ref>{{Cite web |title=About The Israeli Rarities and Distribution Committee (IRDC) |url=https://www.israbirding.com/irdc/ |access-date=2022-11-07 |website=Israbirding.com}}</ref> | |||
This list's ] treatment (designation and sequence of orders, families, and species) and nomenclature (common and scientific names) follow the conventions of ]'s 5th edition. The family accounts at the beginning of each heading reflects this taxonomy, as do the species counts found in each family account. Introduced and accidental species are included in the total counts for Israel. | |||
This list's ] treatment (designation and sequence of orders, families and species) and nomenclature (common and scientific names) follow the conventions of '']'', 2022 edition. The family accounts at the beginning of each heading reflect this taxonomy, as do the species counts found in each family account. Introduced and accidental species are included in the total counts for Israel. | |||
The following tags have been used to highlight certain relevant categories. It must be noted that not all species fall into one of these categories. Those that do not are commonly occurring, native species. | |||
The following tags have been used to highlight several categories, but not all species fall into one of these categories. Those that do not are commonly occurring native species. | |||
* (A) '''Accidental''' A species that rarely or accidentally occurs in Israel. | |||
* (I) '''Introduced''' A species introduced to Israel as a consequence, direct or indirect, of human actions. | |||
* (Ex) '''Extirpated''' A species that no longer occurs in Israel although populations exist elsewhere. | |||
*(A) ] - a species that rarely or accidentally occurs in Israel | |||
__NOTOC__ | |||
*(I) ] - a species introduced to Israel as a consequence, direct or indirect, of human actions | |||
{| class="toccolours" style="margin:0 auto; width:55em; clear:both;" | |||
*(Ex) ] - a species that no longer occurs in Israel although populations exist elsewhere | |||
!Table of contents | |||
*(X) ] - a species or subspecies that no longer exists | |||
|- | |||
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'''Non-passerines''': | |||
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'''Passerines''': | |||
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''']''' ''']''' | |||
|} | |||
<br />{{horizontal TOC|nonum=yes}} | |||
==Ostriches== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Background== | |||
The Ostrich is a flightless bird native to Africa. It is the largest living species of bird. It is distinctive in its appearance, with a long neck and legs and the ability to run at high speeds. | |||
The avifauna of Israel is notable for its diversity, attributed to Israel's geographical position at the junction of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Israel is a stop on the ] for migrating birds, with over 485 species recorded throughout various seasons.<ref name="Kraft2004">{{Cite journal |journal=Biological Resources and Migration|last=Kraft |first=Martin |year=2004 |title=Israel — an Intercontinental Highway for Migrating Birds |doi=10.1007/978-3-662-06083-4_23}}</ref> The country's avian population includes both resident species and a vast number of migrants that leverage Israel's varied habitats and climatic zones. | |||
Recent observations have identified changes in Israel's breeding avifauna, including the emergence of new breeding species and expansions in the breeding ranges of existing species. From 2003 to 2016, nine species were found breeding in Israel for the first time, including the common shelduck, great cormorant, and black-winged kite.<ref name="Perlman2017">{{Cite journal |last1=Perlman |first1=Yoav |last2=Granit |first2=B. |last3=Cohen |first3=A. |year=2017 |title=Changes in the breeding avifauna of Israel during 2003–2016 |journal=Zoology in the Middle East |volume=63 |pages=16–28 |doi=10.1080/09397140.2017.1290824}}</ref> | |||
*] ''Struthio camelus'' (Ex) | |||
Israel's variety of habitats, from Mediterranean forests and deserts to wetlands and agricultural fields, supports a wide range of bird species. The ] in northern Israel, for example, offers crucial foraging, nesting, and roosting habitats for numerous species, including herons, dabbling ducks, kingfishers, and raptors.<ref name="Ashkenazi1998">{{Cite journal |last1=Ashkenazi |first1=S. |last2=Dimentman |first2=C. |year=1998 |title=Foraging, roosting, and nesting habitats of the avian fauna of the Agmon wetland, northern Israel |journal=Wetlands Ecology and Management |volume=6 |pages=169–187 |doi=10.1023/A:1008488607329}}</ref> | |||
==Loons== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Human activities have exerted both positive and negative impacts on bird populations in Israel. Habitat changes and increased food availability have benefited some species, while others have been challenged by habitat loss and agricultural conflicts. The introduction of non-indigenous bird species has further altered the avian community composition.<ref name="Roll2008">{{Cite journal |last1=Roll |first1=U. |last2=Dayan |first2=T. |last3=Simberloff |first3=D. |year=2008 |title=Non-indigenous terrestrial vertebrates in Israel and adjacent areas |journal=Biological Invasions |volume=10 |pages=659–672 |doi=10.1007/s10530-007-9160-7}}</ref> | |||
Loons, known as Divers in Europe, are group of aquatic birds found in many parts of North America and northern Europe. They are the size of a large duck or small goose, which they somewhat resembles in shape when swimming, but they completely unrelated to these waterfowl. There are 5 species worldwide and 2 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Conservation efforts are crucial to mitigate the challenges faced by birds in Israel, especially for endangered species like the great white pelican, which relies on Israel as a critical stopover during migration.<ref name="Shmueli2000">{{Cite journal |last1=Shmueli |first1=M. |last2=Izhaki |first2=I. |last3=Arieli |first3=A. |last4=Arad |first4=Z. |year=2000 |title=Energy requirements of migrating Great White Pelicans Pelecanus onocrotalus |journal=Ibis |volume=142 |pages=208–216 |doi=10.1111/J.1474-919X.2000.TB04860.X}}</ref> Protecting habitats, managing human-wildlife conflicts, and informed conservation strategies are essential for preserving Israel's rich avian diversity. | |||
*] ''Gavia stellata'' (A) | |||
*] ''Gavia arctica'' | |||
== |
==Ostriches== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The ostrich is a flightless bird native to Africa. It is the largest living species of bird. It is distinctive in its appearance, with a long neck and legs and the ability to run at high speeds. | |||
]s are small to medium-large sized freshwater diving birds. They have lobed toes, and are excellent swimmers and divers. However, they have their feet placed far back on the body, making them quite ungainly on land. There are 20 species worldwide and 5 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Struthio camelus'' (Ex) | ||
*] ''Podiceps grisegena'' (A) | |||
*] ''Podiceps cristatus'' | |||
*] ''Podiceps auritus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Podiceps nigricollis'' | |||
==Ducks, geese, and waterfowl== | |||
==Albatrosses== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Anatidae includes the ]s and most duck-like waterfowl, such as ] and ]s. These birds are adapted to an aquatic existence with webbed feet, flattened bills, and feathers that are excellent at shedding water due to an oily coating. | |||
The albatrosses are among the largest of flying birds, and the great albatrosses from the genus Diomedea have the largest wingspans of any extant birds. There are 21 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
*] ''Thalassarche cauta'' (A) | |||
*], ''Dendrocygna javanica'' (A) | |||
*], ''Anser anser'' | |||
*], ''Anser albifrons'' | |||
*], ''Anser erythropus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Anser fabalis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Anser serrirostris'' (A) | |||
*], ''Branta leucopsis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Branta ruficollis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Cygnus olor'' | |||
*], ''Cygnus columbianus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Cygnus cygnus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Alopochen aegyptiacus'' (I) | |||
*], ''Tadorna ferruginea'' | |||
*], ''Tadorna tadorna'' | |||
*], ''Spatula querquedula'' | |||
*], ''Spatula clypeata'' | |||
*], ''Mareca strepera'' | |||
*], ''Mareca penelope'' | |||
*], ''Anas platyrhynchos'' | |||
*], ''Anas capensis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Anas erythrorhyncha'' (A) | |||
*], ''Anas acuta'' | |||
*], ''Anas crecca'' | |||
*], ''Marmaronetta angustirostris'' | |||
*], ''Netta rufina'' | |||
*], ''Netta erythrophthalma'' (A) | |||
*], ''Aythya ferina'' | |||
*], ''Aythya nyroca'' | |||
*], ''Aythya fuligula'' | |||
*], ''Aythya marila'' (A) | |||
*], ''Somateria mollissima'' (A) | |||
*], ''Melanitta fusca'' (A) | |||
*], ''Clangula hyemalis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Bucephala clangula'' | |||
*], ''Mergellus albellus'' | |||
*], ''Mergus merganser'' (A) | |||
*], ''Mergus serrator'' | |||
*], ''Oxyura leucocephala'' | |||
{{colend}} | |||
== |
==Pheasants, grouse, and allies== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The Phasianidae are a family of terrestrial birds. In general, they are plump (although they vary in size) and have broad, relatively short wings. | |||
The procellariids are the main group of medium-sized 'true petrels', characterised by united nostrils with a medium septum, and a long outer functional primary. There are 75 species worldwide and 14 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Ammoperdix heyi'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Coturnix coturnix'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Alectoris chukar'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Francolinus francolinus'' | ||
*] ''Calonectris diomedea'' | |||
*] ''Puffinus carneipes'' (A) | |||
*] ''Puffinus gravis'' (A) | |||
*] ''Puffinus griseus'' | |||
*] ''Puffinus puffinus'' | |||
*] ''Puffinus mauretanicus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Puffinus yelkouan'' | |||
*] ''Puffinus assimilis'' (A) | |||
*] ''Puffinus lherminieri'' (A) | |||
*] ''Puffinus persicus'' (A) | |||
== |
==Flamingos== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
]s are gregarious wading birds, usually {{convert|3|to|5|ft|m|1}} tall, found in both the Western and Eastern Hemispheres. Flamingos filter-feed on shellfish and algae. Their oddly shaped beaks are specially adapted to separate mud and silt from the food they consume and, uniquely, are used upside-down. | |||
The ]s are relatives of the ]s, and are the smallest of sea-birds. They feed on ]ic crustaceans and small fish picked from the surface, typically while hovering. The flight is fluttering and sometimes ]-like. There are 21 species worldwide and 5 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*], ''Phoenicopterus roseus'' | |||
*] ''Oceanites oceanicus'' (A) | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Phoeniconaias minor'' (A) | ||
*] ''Oceanodroma castro'' (A) | |||
*] ''Oceanodroma leucorhoa'' | |||
*] ''Oceanodroma monorhis'' (A) | |||
== |
==Grebes== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
]s are small to medium-large freshwater diving birds. They have lobed toes and are excellent swimmers and divers. However, they have their feet placed far back on the body, making them quite ungainly on land. | |||
]s are slender white birds of tropical oceans, with exceptionally long central tail feathers. Their heads and long wings have black markings. There are 3 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Tachybaptus ruficollis'' | ||
*], ''Podiceps auritus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Podiceps grisegena'' (A) | |||
*], ''Podiceps cristatus'' | |||
*], ''Podiceps nigricollis'' | |||
==Pigeons and doves== | |||
==Pelicans== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
]s and ]s are stout-bodied birds with short necks and short slender bills with a fleshy ]. | |||
]s are large water birds with a distinctive pouch under the beak. As with other members of the order Pelecaniformes, they have webbed feet with four toes. There are 8 species worldwide and 3 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Columba livia'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Columba oenas'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Columba palumbus'' | ||
*], ''Streptopelia turtur'' | |||
*], ''Streptopelia orientalis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Streptopelia decaocto'' | |||
*], ''Streptopelia roseogrisea'' (A) | |||
*], ''Spilopelia senegalensis'' | |||
*], ''Oena capensis'' | |||
==Sandgrouse== | |||
==Boobies and gannets== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Sandgrouse have small, pigeon like heads and necks, but sturdy compact bodies. They have long pointed wings and sometimes tails and a fast direct flight. Flocks fly to watering holes at dawn and dusk. Their legs are feathered down to the toes. | |||
The sulids comprise the ]s and ]. Both groups comprise medium-to-large coastal sea-birds that plunge-dive for fish. There are 9 species worldwide and 3 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Pterocles alchata'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Pterocles senegallus'' | ||
*], ''Pterocles orientalis'' | |||
*] ''Sula leucogaster'' (A) | |||
*], ''Pterocles coronatus'' | |||
*], ''Pterocles lichtensteinii'' | |||
== |
==Bustards== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Bustards are large terrestrial birds mainly associated with dry open country and steppes in the Old World. They are omnivorous and nest on the ground. They walk steadily on strong legs and big toes, pecking for food as they go. They have long broad wings with "fingered" wingtips and striking patterns in flight. Many have interesting mating displays. | |||
The Phalacrocoracidae is a family of medium-to-large coastal, fish-eating sea-birds that includes cormorants and shags. Plumage colouration varies with the majority having mainly dark plumage, some species being black and white, and a few being colourful. There are 38 species worldwide and 3 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Otis tarda'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Chlamydotis macqueenii'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Tetrax tetrax'' | ||
== |
==Cuckoos== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The family Cuculidae includes ]s, ]s and ]. These birds are of variable size with slender bodies, long tails and strong legs. | |||
] are frequently referred to as "snake-birds" because of their long thin neck, which gives a snake-like appearance when they swim with their bodies submerged. | |||
The males have black and dark brown plumage, an erectile crest on the nape and a larger bill than the female. The females have a much paler plumage especially on the neck and underparts. The darters have completely webbed feet, and their legs are short and set far back on the body. Their plumage is somewhat permeable, like that of cormorants, and they spread their wings to dry after diving. There are 4 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
*], ''Clamator glandarius'' | |||
*] ''Anhinga melanogaster'' (A) | |||
*], ''Chrysococcyx caprius'' (A) | |||
*], ''Cuculus canorus'' | |||
*], ''Cuculus optatus'' (A) | |||
== |
==Nightjars== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
]s are medium-sized nocturnal birds that usually nest on the ground. They have long wings, short legs and very short bills. Most have small feet, of little use for walking, and long pointed wings. Their soft plumage is camouflaged to resemble bark or leaves. | |||
]s are large sea-birds usually found over tropical oceans. They are large, black and white or completely black, with long wings and deeply-forked tails. The males have inflatable coloured throat pouches. They do not swim or walk, and cannot take off from a flat surface. Having the largest wingspan to body weight ratio of any bird, they are essentially aerial, able to stay aloft for more than a week. There are 5 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Caprimulgus europaeus'' | ||
*], ''Caprimulgus aegyptius'' | |||
*], ''Caprimulgus nubicus'' | |||
==Swifts== | |||
==Bitterns, herons and egrets== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
]s are small birds which spend the majority of their lives flying. These birds have very short legs and never settle voluntarily on the ground, perching instead only on vertical surfaces. Many swifts have long swept-back wings which resemble a crescent or boomerang. | |||
The family Ardeidae contains the ]s, ]s and ]s. Herons and egrets are medium to large sized wading birds with long necks and legs. Bitterns tend to be shorter necked and more wary. Unlike other long-necked birds suck as storks, ibises and spoonbills, members of Ardeidae fly with their necks retracted. There are 61 species worldwide and 14 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Apus melba'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Apus apus'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Apus pallidus'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Apus affinis'' | ||
*] ''Ardea alba'' | |||
*] ''Egretta ardesiaca'' (A) | |||
*] ''Egretta intermedia'' (A) | |||
*] ''Egretta gularis'' | |||
*] ''Egretta garzetta'' | |||
*] ''Ardeola ralloides'' | |||
*] ''Bubulcus ibis'' | |||
*] ''Butorides striata'' | |||
*] ''Nycticorax nycticorax'' | |||
*] ''Botaurus stellaris'' | |||
==Rails, gallinules and coots== | |||
==Storks== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Rallidae is a large family of small to medium-sized birds which includes the ], ]s, ]s and ]s. Typically they inhabit dense vegetation in damp environments near lakes, swamps or rivers. In general they are shy and secretive birds, making them difficult to observe. Most species have strong legs and long toes which are well adapted to soft uneven surfaces. They tend to have short, rounded wings and to be weak fliers. | |||
Storks are large, long-legged, long-necked, wading birds with long, stout bills. Storks are mute; bill-clattering is an important mode of stork communication at the nest. Their nests can be large and may be reused for many years. Many species are migratory. There are 19 species worldwide and 4 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Rallus aquaticus'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Crex crex'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Crex egregia'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Porzana porzana'' | ||
*], ''Gallinula chloropus'' | |||
*], ''Fulica atra'' | |||
*], ''Porphyrio madagascariensis'' | |||
*], ''Porphyrio poliocephalus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Zapornia parva'' | |||
*], ''Zapornia pusilla'' | |||
==Cranes== | |||
==Ibises and spoonbills== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Cranes are large, long-legged and long-necked birds. Unlike the similar-looking but unrelated herons, cranes fly with necks outstretched, not pulled back. Most have elaborate and noisy courting displays or "dances". | |||
The Threskiornithidae is a family of large terrestrial and wading birds which includes the ]es and ]s. They have long, broad wings with 11 primary and about 20 secondary feathers. They are strong fliers and despite their size and weight, very capable soarers. There are 36 species worldwide and 3 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Anthropoides virgo'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Grus grus'' | ||
*] ''Platalea leucorodia'' | |||
== |
==Thick-knees== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The thick-knees are a group of largely tropical waders in the family Burhinidae. They are found worldwide within the tropical zone, with some species also breeding in temperate Europe and Australia. They are medium to large waders with strong black or yellow-black bills, large yellow eyes and cryptic plumage. Despite being classed as waders, most species have a preference for arid or semi-arid habitats. | |||
]s are gregarious wading birds, usually 3 to 5 feet high, found in both the Western and Eastern Hemispheres. They are more numerous in the latter. Flamingos filter-feed on shellfish and algae. Their oddly-shaped beaks are specially adapted to separate mud and silt from the food they consume, and are uniquely used upside-down. There are 6 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Burhinus oedicnemus'' | ||
*], ''Burhinus senegalensis'' (A) | |||
== |
==Stilts and avocets== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Recurvirostridae is a family of large wading birds, which includes the ]s and ]s. The avocets have long legs and long up-curved bills. The stilts have extremely long legs and long, thin, straight bills. | |||
The family Anatidae includes the ]s and most duck-like waterfowl, such as ] and ]s. These are birds that are modified for an aquatic existence with webbed feet, flattened bills and feathers that are excellent at shedding water due to an oily coating. There are 131 species worldwide and 35 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*], ''Himantopus himantopus'' | |||
*] ''Dendrocygna javanica'' (A) | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Recurvirostra avosetta'' | ||
*] ''Cygnus cygnus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Cygnus columbianus'' | |||
*] ''Anser albifrons'' | |||
*] ''Anser erythropus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Anser anser'' | |||
*] ''Branta ruficollis'' (A) | |||
*] ''Alopochen aegyptiacus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Tadorna ferruginea'' | |||
*] ''Tadorna tadorna'' | |||
*] ''Anas penelope'' | |||
*] ''Anas strepera'' | |||
*] ''Anas crecca'' | |||
*] ''Anas capensis'' (A) | |||
*] ''Anas platyrhynchos'' | |||
*] ''Anas acuta'' | |||
*] ''Anas erythrorhyncha'' (A) | |||
*] ''Anas querquedula'' | |||
*] ''Anas clypeata'' | |||
*] ''Marmaronetta angustirostris'' | |||
*] ''Netta rufina'' | |||
*] ''Netta erythrophthalma'' (A) | |||
*] ''Aythya ferina'' | |||
*] ''Aythya nyroca'' | |||
*] ''Aythya fuligula'' | |||
*] ''Aythya marila'' (A) | |||
*] ''Somateria mollissima'' (A) | |||
*] ''Clangula hyemalis'' (A) | |||
*] ''Melanitta fusca'' (A) | |||
*] ''Bucephala clangula'' (A) | |||
*] ''Mergellus albellus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Mergus serrator'' | |||
*] ''Mergus merganser'' (A) | |||
*] ''Oxyura leucocephala'' | |||
== |
==Oystercatchers== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The ]s are large and noisy ]-like birds, with strong bills used for smashing or prising open ]s. | |||
The Pandionidae family contains only one species, the Osprey. The Osprey is a medium large ] which is a specialist fish-eater with a worldwide distribution. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Haematopus ostralegus'' | ||
== |
==Plovers and lapwings== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The family Charadriidae includes the ]s, ]s and ]s. They are small to medium-sized birds with compact bodies, short, thick necks and long, usually pointed, wings. They are found in open country worldwide, mostly in habitats near water. | |||
Accipitridae is a family of birds of prey and include ]s, ]s, ], ] and Old World vultures. These birds have powerful hooked beaks for tearing flesh from their prey, strong legs, powerful talons, and keen eyesight. There are 233 species worldwide and 34 species which occur in Israel. | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
*] ''Pernis apivorus'' | |||
*], ''Pluvialis squatarola'' | |||
*] ''Pernis ptilorhynchus'' | |||
*], ''Pluvialis apricaria'' | |||
*] ''Elanus caeruleus'' (A) | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Pluvialis dominica'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Pluvialis fulva'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Vanellus vanellus'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Vanellus spinosus'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Vanellus tectus'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Vanellus indicus'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Vanellus gregarius'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Vanellus leucurus'' | ||
*], ''Anarhynchus atrifrons'' (A) | |||
*] ''Circaetus gallicus'' | |||
*], ''Anarhynchus mongolus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Terathopius ecaudatus'' (A) | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Anarhynchus leschenaultii'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Charadrius asiaticus'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Charadrius pecuarius'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Charadrius alexandrinus'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Charadrius hiaticula'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Charadrius dubius'' | ||
*], ''Charadrius tricollaris'' (A) | |||
*] ''Accipiter brevipes'' | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Charadrius morinellus'' | ||
{{colend}} | |||
*] ''Accipiter gentilis'' | |||
*] ''Buteo buteo'' | |||
*] ''Buteo rufinus'' | |||
*] ''Buteo lagopus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Aquila pomarina'' | |||
*] ''Aquila clanga'' | |||
*] ''Aquila rapax'' (A) | |||
*] ''Aquila nipalensis'' | |||
*] ''Aquila heliaca'' | |||
*] ''Aquila chrysaetos'' | |||
*] ''Aquila verreauxii'' (A) | |||
*] ''Aquila fasciatus'' | |||
*] ''Aquila pennatus'' | |||
==Falcons== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Painted-snipes== | |||
Falconidae is a family of diurnal birds of prey. They differ from hawks, eagles, and kites in that they kill with their beaks instead of their feet. There are 62 species worldwide and 11 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Painted-snipes are short-legged, long-billed birds similar in shape to the true snipes, but more brightly coloured. | |||
*] ''Falco naumanni'' | |||
*] ''Falco tinnunculus'' | |||
*] ''Falco vespertinus'' | |||
*] ''Falco eleonorae'' | |||
*] ''Falco concolor'' | |||
*] ''Falco columbarius'' | |||
*] ''Falco subbuteo'' | |||
*] ''Falco biarmicus'' | |||
*] ''Falco cherrug'' | |||
*] ''Falco pelegrinoides'' | |||
*] ''Falco peregrinus'' | |||
*], ''Rostratula benghalensis'' (A) | |||
==Pheasants and partridges== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Sandpipers and allies== | |||
The Phasianidae are a family of terrestrial birds which consists of ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s and ]s. In general, they are plump (although they may vary in size) and have broad, relatively short wings. There are 156 species worldwide and 4 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Scolopacidae is a large diverse family of small to medium-sized shorebirds including the ]s, ]s, ]s, ], ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s and ]s. The majority of these species eat small invertebrates picked out of the mud or soil. Variation in length of legs and bills enables multiple species to feed in the same habitat, particularly on the coast, without direct competition for food. | |||
*] ''Alectoris chukar'' | |||
*] ''Ammoperdix heyi'' | |||
*] ''Francolinus francolinus'' | |||
*] ''Coturnix coturnix'' | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
==Cranes== | |||
*], ''Numenius phaeopus'' | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Numenius hudsonicus'' (A) | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
*], ''Numenius tenuirostris'' (X) | |||
*], ''Numenius arquata'' | |||
*], ''Limosa lapponica'' | |||
*], ''Limosa limosa'' | |||
*], ''Arenaria interpres'' | |||
*], ''Calidris tenuirostris'' (A) | |||
*], ''Calidris canutus'' | |||
*], ''Calidris pugnax'' | |||
*], ''Calidris falcinellus'' | |||
*], ''Calidris ferruginea'' | |||
*], ''Calidris temminckii'' | |||
*], ''Calidris subminuta'' (A) | |||
*], ''Calidris ruficollis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Calidris alba'' | |||
*], ''Calidris alpina'' | |||
*], ''Calidris bairdii'' (A) | |||
*], ''Calidris minuta'' | |||
*], ''Calidris fuscicollis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Calidris subruficollis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Calidris melanotos'' (A) | |||
*], ''Calidris pusilla'' (A) | |||
*], ''Limnodromus scolopaceus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Lymnocryptes minimus'' | |||
*], ''Scolopax rusticola'' | |||
*], ''Gallinago media'' | |||
*], ''Gallinago gallinago'' | |||
*], ''Gallinago stenura'' (A) | |||
*], ''Xenus cinereus'' | |||
*], ''Phalaropus tricolor'' (A) | |||
*], ''Phalaropus lobatus'' | |||
*], ''Phalaropus fulicarius'' (A) | |||
*], ''Actitis hypoleucos'' | |||
*], ''Tringa ochropus'' | |||
*], ''Tringa erythropus'' | |||
*], ''Tringa nebularia'' | |||
*], ''Tringa flavipes'' (A) | |||
*], ''Tringa stagnatilis'' | |||
*], ''Tringa glareola'' | |||
*], ''Tringa totanus'' | |||
{{colend}} | |||
==Crab-plover== | |||
Cranes are large, long-legged and long-necked birds. Unlike the similar-looking but unrelated herons, cranes fly with necks outstretched, not pulled back. Most have elaborate and noisy courting displays or "dances". There are 15 species worldwide and 2 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The crab-plover is related to the waders. It resembles a plover but with very long grey legs and a strong heavy black bill similar to a tern. It has black-and-white plumage, a long neck, partially webbed feet and a bill designed for eating crabs. | |||
*] ''Anthropoides virgo'' | |||
*] ''Grus grus'' | |||
*], ''Dromas ardeola'' (A) | |||
==Rails, crakes, gallinules, and coots== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Pratincoles and coursers== | |||
Rallidae is a large family of small to medium-sized birds which includes the ], ]s, ]s, and ]s. Typically they inhabit dense vegetation in damp environments near lakes, swamps, or rivers. In general they are shy and secretive birds, difficult to observe. Most species have strong legs, and have long toes which are well adapted to soft, uneven surfaces. They tend to have short, rounded wings and be weak fliers. There are 143 species worldwide and 8 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Glareolidae is a family of wading birds comprising the ]s, which have short legs, long pointed wings and long forked tails, and the ]s, which have long legs, short wings and long, pointed bills which curve downwards. | |||
*] ''Rallus aquaticus'' | |||
*] ''Crex crex'' | |||
*] ''Porzana parva'' | |||
*] ''Porzana pusilla'' | |||
*] ''Porzana porzana'' | |||
*] ''Porphyrio porphyrio'' (A) | |||
*] ''Gallinula chloropus'' | |||
*] ''Fulica atra'' | |||
*], ''Cursorius cursor'' | |||
==Bustards== | |||
*], ''Glareola pratincola'' | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Glareola maldivarum'' (A) | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
*], ''Glareola nordmanni'' | |||
==Skuas and jaegers== | |||
Bustards are large terrestrial birds mainly associated with dry open country and steppes in the ]. They are omnivorous and nest on the ground. They walk steadily on strong legs and big toes, pecking for food as they go. They have long broad wings with "fingered" wingtips, and striking patterns in flight. Many have interesting mating displays. There are 26 species worldwide and 3 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The family Stercorariidae are, in general, medium to large birds, typically with grey or brown plumage, often with white markings on the wings. They nest on the ground in temperate and arctic regions and are long-distance migrants. | |||
*] ''Otis tarda'' (A) | |||
*] ''Chlamydotis macqueenii'' | |||
*] ''Tetrax tetrax'' | |||
*], ''Stercorarius skua'' (A) | |||
==Painted snipe== | |||
*], ''Stercorarius maccormicki'' (A) | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Stercorarius pomarinus'' | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
*], ''Stercorarius parasiticus'' | |||
*], ''Stercorarius longicaudus'' | |||
==Auks, murres, and puffins== | |||
Painted snipe are short-legged, long-billed birds similar in shape to the true snipes, but more brightly coloured. There are 2 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Alcids are superficially similar to penguins due to their black-and-white colours, their upright posture and some of their habits, however they are not related to the penguins and differ in being able to fly. Auks live on the open sea, only deliberately coming ashore to nest. | |||
*] ''Rostratula benghalensis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Fratercula arctica'' (A) | |||
==Crab Plover== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Gulls, terns, and skimmers== | |||
The Crab Plover is related to the waders. It resembles a plover but with very long grey legs and a strong heavy black bill similar to a tern. It has black and white plumage, a long neck, partially webbed feet and a bill designed for eating crabs. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Laridae is a family of medium to large seabirds, the ]s, ]s, and ]s. Gulls are typically grey or white, often with black markings on the head or wings. They have stout, longish bills and webbed feet. Terns are a group of generally medium to large seabirds typically with grey or white plumage, often with black markings on the head. Most terns hunt fish by diving but some pick insects off the surface of fresh water. Terns are generally long-lived birds, with several species known to live in excess of 30 years. Skimmers are a small family of tropical tern-like birds. They have an elongated lower mandible which they use to feed by flying low over the water surface and skimming the water for small fish. | |||
*] ''Dromas ardeola'' (A) | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
==Oystercatchers== | |||
*], ''Rissa tridactyla'' | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Xema sabini'' (A) | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
*], ''Chroicocephalus genei'' | |||
*], ''Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Chroicocephalus ridibundus'' | |||
*], ''Chroicocephalus brunnicephalus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Hydrocoloeus minutus'' | |||
*], ''Leucophaeus pipixcan'' (A) | |||
*], ''Ichthyaetus melanocephalus'' | |||
*], ''Ichthyaetus leucophthalmus'' | |||
*], ''Ichthyaetus hemprichii'' (A) | |||
*], ''Ichthyaetus ichthyaetus'' | |||
*], ''Ichthyaetus audouinii'' (A) | |||
*], ''Larus canus'' | |||
*], ''Larus argentatus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Larus michahellis'' | |||
*], ''Larus cachinnans'' | |||
*], ''Larus armenicus'' | |||
*], ''Larus fuscus'' | |||
*], ''Larus hyperboreus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Larus marinus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Onychoprion fuscatus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Onychoprion anaethetus'' | |||
*], ''Sternula albifrons'' | |||
*], ''Gelochelidon nilotica'' | |||
*], ''Hydroprogne caspia'' | |||
*], ''Chlidonias niger'' | |||
*], ''Chlidonias leucopterus'' | |||
*], ''Chlidonias hybrida'' | |||
*], ''Sterna dougallii'' (A) | |||
*], ''Sterna hirundo'' | |||
*], ''Sterna paradisaea'' (A) | |||
*], ''Sterna repressa'' | |||
*], ''Thalasseus bergii'' (A) | |||
*], ''Thalasseus sandvicensis'' | |||
*], ''Thalasseus bengalensis'' | |||
*], ''Rynchops flavirostris'' (A) | |||
{{colend}} | |||
==Tropicbirds== | |||
The ]s are large and noisy ]-like birds, with strong bills used for smashing or prising open ]s. There are 11 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
]s are slender white birds of tropical oceans, with exceptionally long central tail feathers. Their heads and long wings have black markings. | |||
*] ''Haematopus ostralegus'' | |||
*], ''Phaethon aethereus'' (A) | |||
==Avocets and stilts== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Loons== | |||
Recurvirostridae is a family of large wading birds, which includes the ]s and the ]s. The avocets have long legs and long up-curved bills. The stilts have extremely long legs and long, thin, straight bills. There are 9 species worldwide and 2 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Loons, known as divers in Europe, are a group of aquatic birds found in many parts of North America and northern Europe. They are the size of a large duck or small goose, which they somewhat resemble in shape when swimming, but to which they are completely unrelated. There are 5 species worldwide and 2 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] ''Himantopus himantopus'' | |||
*] ''Recurvirostra avosetta'' | |||
*], ''Gavia stellata'' (A) | |||
==Thick-knees== | |||
*], ''Gavia arctica'' | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Gavia pacifica'' (A) | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Albatrosses== | |||
The thick-knees are a group of largely tropical waders in the family Burhinidae. They are found worldwide within the tropical zone, with some species also breeding in temperate Europe and Australia. They are medium to large waders with strong black or yellow black bills, large yellow eyes and cryptic plumage. Despite being classed as waders, most species have a preference for arid or semi-arid habitats. There are 9 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The albatrosses are among the largest of flying birds, and the great albatrosses from the genus ''Diomedea'' have the largest wingspans of any extant birds. | |||
*] ''Burhinus oedicnemus'' | |||
*], ''Thalassarche cauta'' (A) | |||
==Pratincoles and coursers== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Southern storm-petrels== | |||
Glareolidae is a family of wading birds comprising the ]s, which have short legs, long pointed wings and long forked tails, and the ]s, which have long legs, short wings and long pointed bills which curve downwards. There are 17 species worldwide and 4 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The southern storm-petrels are relatives of the ]s and are the smallest seabirds. They feed on ]ic crustaceans and small fish picked from the surface, typically while hovering. The flight is fluttering and sometimes ]-like. | |||
*] ''Cursorius cursor'' | |||
*] ''Glareola pratincola'' | |||
*] ''Glareola maldivarum'' (A) | |||
*] ''Glareola nordmanni'' | |||
*], ''Oceanites oceanicus'' (A) | |||
==Plovers and lapwings== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Northern storm-petrels== | |||
The family Charadriidae includes the ]s, ]s, and ]s. They are small to medium-sized birds with compact bodies, short, thick necks and long, usually pointed, wings. They are found in open country worldwide, mostly in habitats near water, although there are some exceptions. There are 66 species worldwide and 17 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The northern storm-petrels are relatives of the ]s and are the smallest seabirds. They feed on ]ic crustaceans and small fish picked from the surface, typically while hovering. The flight is fluttering and sometimes ]-like. | |||
*] ''Vanellus vanellus'' | |||
*] ''Vanellus spinosus'' | |||
*] ''Vanellus tectus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Vanellus indicus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Vanellus gregarius'' | |||
*] ''Vanellus leucurus'' | |||
*] ''Pluvialis fulva'' | |||
*] ''Pluvialis apricaria'' | |||
*] ''Pluvialis squatarola'' | |||
*] ''Charadrius hiaticula'' | |||
*] ''Charadrius dubius'' | |||
*] ''Charadrius pecuarius'' (A) | |||
*] ''Charadrius alexandrinus'' | |||
*] ''Charadrius mongolus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Charadrius leschenaultii'' | |||
*] ''Charadrius asiaticus'' | |||
*] ''Charadrius morinellus'' | |||
*], ''Hydrobates (pelagicus) melitensis'' (A) | |||
==Sandpipers and allies== | |||
*], ''Hydrobates leucorhous'' (A) | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Hydrobates monorhis'' | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
*], ''Hydrobates castro'' (A) | |||
==Shearwaters and petrels== | |||
The Scolopacidae are a large diverse family of small to medium sized shorebirds including the ]s, ]s, ]s, ], ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s and ]s. The majority of species eat small invertebrates picked out of the mud or soil. Variation in length of legs and bills enable different species to feed in the same habitat, particularly on the coast, without direct competition for food. There are 89 species worldwide and 38 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The procellariids are the main group of medium-sized "true petrels", characterised by united nostrils with medium septum and a long outer functional primary. | |||
*] ''Scolopax rusticola'' | |||
*] ''Lymnocryptes minimus'' | |||
*] ''Gallinago stenura'' (A) | |||
*] ''Gallinago media'' | |||
*] ''Gallinago gallinago'' | |||
*] ''Limnodromus scolopaceus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Limosa limosa'' | |||
*] ''Limosa lapponica'' | |||
*] ''Numenius phaeopus'' | |||
*] ''Numenius tenuirostris'' (A) | |||
*] ''Numenius arquata'' | |||
*] ''Tringa erythropus'' | |||
*] ''Tringa totanus'' | |||
*] ''Tringa stagnatilis'' | |||
*] ''Tringa nebularia'' | |||
*] ''Tringa flavipes'' (A) | |||
*] ''Tringa ochropus'' | |||
*] ''Tringa glareola'' | |||
*] ''Xenus cinereus'' | |||
*] ''Actitis hypoleucos'' | |||
*] ''Arenaria interpres'' | |||
*] ''Calidris tenuirostris'' (A) | |||
*] ''Calidris canutus'' | |||
*] ''Calidris alba'' | |||
*] ''Calidris pusilla'' (A) | |||
*] ''Calidris ruficollis'' (A) | |||
*] ''Calidris minuta'' | |||
*] ''Calidris temminckii'' | |||
*] ''Calidris subminuta'' (A) | |||
*] ''Calidris fuscicollis'' (A) | |||
*] ''Calidris bairdii'' (A) | |||
*] ''Calidris melanotos'' (A) | |||
*] ''Calidris ferruginea'' | |||
*] ''Calidris alpina'' | |||
*] ''Limicola falcinellus'' | |||
*] ''Philomachus pugnax'' | |||
*] ''Phalaropus lobatus'' | |||
*] ''Phalaropus fulicarius'' (A) | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
==Skuas== | |||
*], ''Pterodroma feae'' (A) | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Pterodroma mollis'' (A) | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
*], ''Pterodroma incerta'' (A) | |||
*], ''Calonectris leucomelas'' (A) | |||
*], '' Calonectris borealis'' | |||
*], ''Calonectris diomedea'' | |||
*], ''Ardenna carneipes'' (A) | |||
*], ''Ardenna gravis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Ardenna griseus'' | |||
*], ''Puffinus puffinus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Puffinus yelkouan'' | |||
*], ''Puffinus mauretanicus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Puffinus baroli'' (A) | |||
*], ''Puffinus bailloni'' (A) | |||
*], ''Puffinus lherminieri'' (A) | |||
*], ''Puffinus persicus'' (A) | |||
{{colend}} | |||
==Storks== | |||
The family Stercorariidae are, in general, medium to large birds, typically with grey or brown plumage, often with white markings on the wings. They nest on the ground in temperate and arctic regions and are long-distance migrants. There are 7 species worldwide and 5 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
] (spring 2017).]] | |||
*] ''Stercorarius maccormicki'' (A) | |||
Storks are large, long-legged, long-necked, wading birds with long, stout bills. Storks are mute, but bill-clattering is an important mode of communication at the nest. Their nests can be large and may be reused for many years. Many species are migratory. | |||
*] ''Stercorarius skua'' (A) | |||
*] ''Stercorarius pomarinus'' | |||
*] ''Stercorarius parasiticus'' | |||
*] ''Stercorarius longicaudus'' | |||
*], ''Ciconia nigra'' | |||
==Gulls== | |||
*], ''Ciconia ciconia'' | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Leptoptilos crumenifer'' (A) | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
*], ''Mycteria ibis'' (A) | |||
==Frigatebirds== | |||
Laridae is a family of medium to large birds seabirds and includes ]s and ]s. They are typically grey or white, often with black markings on the head or wings. They have stout, longish bills and webbed feet. There are 55 species worldwide and 22 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
]s are large seabirds usually found over tropical oceans. They are large, black-and-white or completely black, with long wings and deeply forked tails. The males have coloured inflatable throat pouches. They do not swim or walk and cannot take off from a flat surface. Having the largest wingspan-to-body-weight ratio of any bird, they are essentially aerial, able to stay aloft for more than a week. | |||
*] ''Larus leucophthalmus'' | |||
*] ''Larus hemprichii'' (A) | |||
*] ''Larus canus'' | |||
*] ''Larus audouinii'' (A) | |||
*] ''Larus marinus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Larus hyperboreus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Larus argentatus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Larus fuscus'' | |||
*] ''Larus heuglini'' | |||
*] ''Larus cachinnans'' | |||
*] ''Larus armenicus'' | |||
*] ''Larus michahellis'' | |||
*] ''Larus ichthyaetus'' | |||
*] ''Larus brunnicephalus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Larus cirrocephalus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Larus ridibundus'' | |||
*] ''Larus genei'' | |||
*] ''Larus melanocephalus'' | |||
*] ''Larus pipixcan'' (A) | |||
*] ''Larus minutus'' | |||
*] ''Xema sabini'' (A) | |||
*] ''Rissa tridactyla'' | |||
*], ''Fregata ariel'' (A) | |||
==Terns== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Boobies and gannets== | |||
]s are a group of generally general medium to large sea-birds typically with grey or white plumage, often with black markings on the head. Most terns hunt fish by diving but some pick insects off the surface of fresh water. Terns are generally long-lived birds, with several species now known to live in excess of 25 to 30 years. There are 44 species worldwide and 16 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The sulids comprise the ]s and ]. Both groups are medium to large coastal seabirds that plunge-dive for fish. | |||
*] ''Sterna nilotica'' | |||
*] ''Sterna caspia'' | |||
*] ''Sterna bengalensis'' | |||
*] ''Sterna sandvicensis'' | |||
*] ''Sterna bergii'' (A) | |||
*] ''Sterna dougallii'' (A) | |||
*] ''Sterna hirundo'' | |||
*] ''Sterna paradisaea'' | |||
*] ''Sterna albifrons'' | |||
*] ''Sterna saundersi'' (A) | |||
*] ''Sterna repressa'' | |||
*] ''Sterna anaethetus'' | |||
*] ''Sterna fuscata'' (A) | |||
*] ''Chlidonias hybridus'' | |||
*] ''Chlidonias leucopterus'' | |||
*] ''Chlidonias niger'' | |||
*], ''Sula dactylatra'' (A) | |||
==Skimmers== | |||
*], ''Sula leucogaster'' | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Morus bassanus'' | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Anhingas== | |||
]s are a small family of tropical tern-like birds. They have an elongated lower mandible which they use to feed by flying low over the water surface and skimming the water for small fish. There are 3 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Anhingas or darters are often called "snake-birds" because of their long thin neck, which gives a snake-like appearance when they swim with their bodies submerged. The males have black and dark-brown plumage, an erectile crest on the nape and a larger bill than the female. The females have much paler plumage especially on the neck and underparts. The darters have completely webbed feet and their legs are short and set far back on the body. Their plumage is somewhat permeable, like that of cormorants, and they spread their wings to dry after diving. | |||
*] ''Rynchops flavirostris'' (A) | |||
*], ''Anhinga melanogaster'' (A) | |||
==Sandgrouse== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Cormorants and shags== | |||
Sandgrouse have small, pigeon like heads and necks, but sturdy compact bodies. They have long pointed wings and sometimes tails and a fast direct flight. Flocks fly to watering holes at dawn and dusk. Their legs are feathered down to the toes. There are 16 species worldwide and 5 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Phalacrocoracidae is a family of medium to large coastal, fish-eating seabirds that includes cormorants and shags. Plumage colouration varies, with the majority having mainly dark plumage, some species being black-and-white and a few being colourful. | |||
*] ''Pterocles alchata'' | |||
*] ''Pterocles senegallus'' | |||
*] ''Pterocles orientalis'' | |||
*] ''Pterocles coronatus'' | |||
*] ''Pterocles lichtensteinii'' | |||
*], ''Microcarbo pygmeus'' | |||
==Pigeons and doves== | |||
*], ''Phalacrocorax carbo'' | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Gulosus aristotelis'' (A) | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Pelicans== | |||
]s and ]s are stout-bodied birds with short necks and short slender bills with a fleshy ]. There are 308 species worldwide and 9 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
]s are large water birds with a distinctive pouch under their beak. As with other members of the order Pelecaniformes, they have webbed feet with four toes. | |||
*] ''Columba livia'' | |||
*] ''Columba oenas'' | |||
*] ''Columba palumbus'' | |||
*] ''Streptopelia turtur'' | |||
*] ''Streptopelia orientalis'' (A) | |||
*] ''Streptopelia decaocto'' | |||
*] ''Streptopelia roseogrisea'' (A) | |||
*] ''Streptopelia senegalensis'' | |||
*] ''Oena capensis'' | |||
*], ''Pelecanus onocrotalus'' | |||
==Parrots== | |||
*], ''Pelecanus rufescens'' (A) | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Pelecanus crispus'' (A) | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Herons, egrets, and bitterns== | |||
]s are small to large birds with a characteristic curved beak shape. Their upper mandibles have slight mobility in the joint with the skull and the have a generally erect stance. All parrots are zygodactyl, having the four toes on each foot placed two at the front and two back. There are 335 species worldwide and 2 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The family Ardeidae contains the ]s, ]s and ]s. Herons and egrets are medium to large wading birds with long necks and legs. Bitterns tend to be shorter necked and more wary. Members of Ardeidae fly with their necks retracted, unlike other long-necked birds such as storks, ibises and spoonbills. | |||
*] ''Psittacula krameri'' (I) | |||
*] ''Myiopsitta monachus'' (I) | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
==Cuckooss== | |||
*], ''Botaurus stellaris'' | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Ixobrychus minutus'' | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
*], ''Ardea cinerea'' | |||
*], ''Ardea melanocephala'' (A) | |||
*], ''Ardea goliath'' (A) | |||
*], ''Ardea purpurea'' | |||
*], ''Ardea alba'' | |||
*], ''Egretta intermedia/Ardea brachyrhyncha'' (A) | |||
*], ''Egretta garzetta'' | |||
*], ''Egretta gularis'' | |||
*], ''Egretta ardesiaca'' (A) | |||
*], ''Ardea ibis'' | |||
*], ''Ardeola ralloides'' | |||
*], ''Ardeola bacchus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Butorides striata'' | |||
*], ''Nycticorax nycticorax'' | |||
{{colend}} | |||
==Ibises and spoonbills== | |||
The family Cuculidae includes ]s, ]s and ]. These birds are of variable size with slender bodies, long tails and strong legs. There are 138 species worldwide and 4 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Threskiornithidae is a family of large terrestrial and wading birds which includes the ]es and ]s. They have long, broad wings with 11 primary and about 20 secondary feathers. They are strong fliers and despite their size and weight, very capable soarers. | |||
*] ''Clamator glandarius'' | |||
*] ''Cuculus canorus'' | |||
*] ''Cuculus horsfieldi'' (A) | |||
*] ''Chrysococcyx caprius'' (A) | |||
*], ''Plegadis falcinellus'' | |||
==Barn owls== | |||
*], ''Geronticus eremita'' (Ex/A)<ref>{{cite iucn |author=BirdLife International. |year=2018 |title=''Geronticus eremita'' |volume=2018 |page=e.T22697488A130895601 |doi=10.2305/IUCN.UK.2018-2.RLTS.T22697488A130895601.en |access-date=20 June 2021}}</ref> | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Platalea leucorodia'' | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Osprey== | |||
]s are medium to large sized owls with large heads and characteristic heart-shaped faces. They have long strong legs with powerful talons. There are 16 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The family Pandionidae contains only one species, the osprey. The osprey is a medium-large ] which is a specialist fish-eater with a worldwide distribution. | |||
*] ''Tyto alba'' | |||
*], ''Pandion haliaetus'' | |||
==Typical owls== | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
==Hawks, eagles, and kites== | |||
]s are small to large solitary nocturnal birds of prey. They have large forward-facing eyes and ears, a hawk-like beak, and a conspicuous circle of feathers around each eye called a facial disk. There are 195 species worldwide and 12 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Accipitridae is a family of birds of prey, which includes ]s, ]s, ], ] and Old World vultures. These birds have powerful hooked beaks for tearing flesh from their prey, strong legs, powerful talons and keen eyesight. | |||
*] ''Otus brucei'' | |||
*] ''Otus senegalensis'' | |||
*] ''Otus scops'' | |||
*] ''Otus sunia'' | |||
*] ''Bubo bubo'' | |||
*] ''Bubo ascalaphus'' | |||
*] ''Ketupa zeylonensis'' (Ex) | |||
*] ''Strix aluco'' | |||
*] ''Strix butleri'' | |||
*] ''Athene noctua'' | |||
*] ''Asio otus'' | |||
*] ''Asio flammeus'' | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
==Nightjars== | |||
*], ''Elanus caeruleus'' | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
*], ''Gypaetus barbatus'' (Ex/A) | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
*], ''Neophron percnopterus'' | |||
*], ''Pernis apivorus'' | |||
*], ''Pernis ptilorhynchus'' | |||
*], ''Aegypius monachus'' | |||
*], ''Torgos tracheliotos'' (Ex/A) | |||
*], ''Gyps africanus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Gyps rueppelli'' (A) | |||
*], ''Gyps fulvus'' | |||
*], ''Terathopius ecaudatus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Circaetus gallicus'' | |||
*], ''Clanga pomarina'' | |||
*], ''Clanga clanga'' | |||
*], ''Hieraaetus pennatus'' | |||
*], ''Aquila rapax'' (A) | |||
*], ''Aquila nipalensis'' | |||
*], ''Aquila heliaca'' | |||
*], ''Aquila chrysaetos'' | |||
*], ''Aquila verreauxii'' (Ex/A) | |||
*], ''Aquila fasciata'' | |||
*], ''Melierax metabates'' (A) | |||
*], ''Circus aeruginosus'' | |||
*], ''Circus cyaneus'' | |||
*], ''Circus macrourus'' | |||
*], ''Circus pygargus'' | |||
*], ''Tachyspiza badia'' (A) | |||
*], ''Tachyspiza brevipes'' | |||
*], ''Accipiter nisus'' | |||
*], ''Accipiter gentilis'' | |||
*], ''Milvus milvus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Milvus migrans'' | |||
*], ''Haliaeetus albicilla'' | |||
*], ''Buteo lagopus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Buteo buteo'' | |||
*], ''Buteo rufinus'' | |||
{{colend}} | |||
==Barn-owls== | |||
]s are medium-sized nocturnal birds with long wings, short legs and very short bills that usually nest on the ground. Most have small feet, of little use for walking, and long pointed wings. Their soft plumage is camouflaged to resemble bark or leaves. There are 86 species worldwide and 3 species which occur in Israel. | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
]s are medium to large owls with large heads and characteristic heart-shaped faces. They have long strong legs with powerful talons. | |||
*] ''Caprimulgus europaeus'' | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Tyto alba'' | ||
*] ''Caprimulgus nubicus'' | |||
== |
==Owls== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The ]s are small to large solitary nocturnal birds of prey. They have large forward-facing eyes and ears, a hawk-like beak and a conspicuous circle of feathers around each eye called a facial disk. | |||
]s are small aerial birds, spending the majority of their lives flying. These birds have very short legs and never settle voluntarily on the ground, perching instead only on vertical surfaces. Many swifts have long swept-back wings that resemble a crescent or a boomerang. There are 98 species worldwide and 4 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Otus scops'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Otus brucei'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Bubo bubo'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Bubo ascalaphus'' | ||
*], ''Ketupa zeylonensis'' (Ex) | |||
*], ''Athene noctua'' | |||
*], ''Strix aluco'' | |||
*], ''Strix hadorami'' | |||
*], ''Asio otus'' | |||
*], ''Asio flammeus'' | |||
==Hoopoes== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Hoopoes have black, white and orangey-pink colouring with a large erectile crest on their head. | |||
*], ''Upupa epops'' | |||
==Kingfishers== | ==Kingfishers== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Kingfishers are medium-sized birds with large heads, long pointed bills, short legs |
Kingfishers are medium-sized birds with large heads, long, pointed bills, short legs and stubby tails. | ||
*] ''Alcedo atthis'' | *], ''Alcedo atthis'' | ||
*] ''Halcyon smyrnensis'' | *], ''Halcyon smyrnensis'' | ||
*] ''Ceryle rudis'' | *], ''Ceryle rudis'' | ||
==Bee-eaters== | ==Bee-eaters== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The bee-eaters are a group of ] birds in the family Meropidae. Most species are found in Africa but others occur in southern Europe, Madagascar, Australia and New Guinea. They are characterised by richly coloured plumage, slender bodies and usually elongated central tail feathers. All are |
The bee-eaters are a group of ] birds in the family Meropidae. Most species are found in Africa but others occur in southern Europe, Madagascar, Australia and New Guinea. They are characterised by richly coloured plumage, slender bodies and usually elongated central tail feathers. All are colourful and have long downturned bills and pointed wings, which give them a swallow-like appearance when seen from afar. | ||
*] ''Merops |
*], ''Merops albicollis'' (A) | ||
*] ''Merops |
*], ''Merops cyanophrys'' | ||
*] ''Merops |
*], ''Merops persicus'' | ||
*], ''Merops apiaster'' | |||
== |
==Rollers== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Rollers resemble ]s in size and build, but are more closely related to the ]s and ]s. They share the colourful appearance of those groups with blues and browns predominating. The two inner front toes are connected, but the outer toe is not |
Rollers resemble ]s in size and build, but are more closely related to the ]s and ]s. They share the colourful appearance of those groups with blues and browns predominating. The two inner front toes are connected, but the outer toe is not. | ||
*] ''Coracias garrulus'' | *], ''Coracias garrulus'' | ||
*], ''Eurystomus glaucurus'' (A) | |||
== |
==Woodpeckers== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Woodpeckers are small to medium-sized birds with chisel-like beaks, short legs, stiff tails and long tongues used for capturing insects. Some species have feet with two toes pointing forward and two backward, while several species have only three toes. Many woodpeckers have the habit of tapping noisily on tree trunks with their beaks. | |||
Hoopoes have black, white and orangey-pink colouring with a large erectile crest on their head. There is only 1 species worldwide, which occurs in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Jynx torquilla'' | ||
*], ''Dendrocopos syriacus'' | |||
== |
==Falcons and caracaras== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Falconidae is a family of diurnal birds of prey. They differ from hawks, eagles and kites in that they kill with their beaks instead of their talons. | |||
Woodpeckers are small to medium sized birds with chisel like beaks, short legs, stiff tails and long tongues used for capturing insects. Some species have feet with two toes pointing forward, and two backward, while several species have only three toes. Many woodpeckers have the habit of tapping noisily on tree trunks with their beaks. There are 218 species worldwide and 2 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Falco naumanni'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Falco tinnunculus'' | ||
*], ''Falco vespertinus'' | |||
*], ''Falco eleonorae'' | |||
*], ''Falco concolor'' | |||
*], ''Falco columbarius'' | |||
*], ''Falco subbuteo'' | |||
*], ''Falco biarmicus'' | |||
*], ''Falco cherrug'' | |||
*], ''Falco peregrinus'' | |||
*], ''Falco (peregrinus) pelgerinoides'' | |||
==Old World parrots== | |||
==Larks== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Characteristic features of parrots include a strong curved bill, an upright stance, strong legs, and clawed ] feet. Many parrots are vividly colored, and some are multi-colored. In size they range from {{convert|8|cm|in|1|abbr=on}} to {{convert|1|m|ft|1|abbr=on}} in length. Old World parrots are found from Africa east across south and southeast Asia and Oceania to Australia and New Zealand. | |||
Larks are small terrestrial birds with often extravagant songs and display flights. Most larks are fairly dull in appearance. Their food is insects and seeds. There are 91 species worldwide and 18 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Psittacula krameri'' (I) | ||
*], ''Psittacula eupatria'' (I) | |||
*] ''Eremopterix signata'' (A) | |||
*] ''Ammomanes cincturus'' | |||
*] ''Ammomanes deserti'' | |||
*] ''Alaemon alaudipes'' | |||
*] ''Ramphocoris clotbey'' (A) | |||
*] ''Melanocorypha calandra'' | |||
*] ''Melanocorypha bimaculata'' | |||
*] ''Calandrella brachydactyla'' | |||
*] ''Calandrella acutirostris'' (A) | |||
*] ''Calandrella rufescens'' | |||
*] ''Eremalauda dunni'' | |||
*] ''Galerida cristata'' | |||
*] ''Lullula arborea'' | |||
*] ''Alauda arvensis'' | |||
*] ''Alauda gulgula'' | |||
*] ''Eremophila alpestris'' | |||
*] ''Eremophila bilopha'' | |||
== |
==African and new world parrots== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Order''': ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
]s are small to large birds with a characteristic curved beak. Their upper mandibles have slight mobility in the joint with the skull and they have a generally erect stance. All parrots are zygodactyl, having the four toes on each foot placed two at the front and two to the back. Most of the species in this family are found in the New World. | |||
The Hirundinidae family is a group of passerines characterized by their adaptation to aerial feeding. Their adaptations include a slender streamlined body, long pointed wings and short bills with wide gape. The feet are designed for perching rather than walking, and the front toes are partially joined at the base. There are 75 species worldwide and 8 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Myiopsitta monachus'' (I) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Aratinga nenday'' (I) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Poicephalus senegalus'' (I) | ||
*] ''Ptyonoprogne fuligula'' | |||
*] ''Hirundo rustica'' | |||
*] ''Hirundo aethiopica'' (A) | |||
*] ''Cecropis daurica'' | |||
*] ''Delichon urbica'' | |||
== |
==Old World orioles== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The Old World orioles are colourful passerine birds. They are not related to the New World orioles. | |||
The Motacillidae are a family of small passerine birds with medium to long tails. They include the wagtails, longclaws and pipits. They are slender, ground feeding insectivores of open country. There are 54 species worldwide and 14 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Oriolus oriolus'' | ||
*] ''Motacilla citreola'' | |||
*] ''Motacilla flava'' | |||
*] ''Motacilla cinerea'' | |||
*] ''Anthus richardi'' | |||
*] ''Anthus campestris'' | |||
*] ''Anthus godlewskii'' (A) | |||
*] ''Anthus similis'' | |||
*] ''Anthus trivialis'' | |||
*] ''Anthus hodgsoni'' | |||
*] ''Anthus pratensis'' | |||
*] ''Anthus cervinus'' | |||
*] ''Anthus spinoletta'' | |||
*] ''Anthus rubescens'' | |||
== |
==Drongos== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The drongos are mostly black or dark grey in colour, sometimes with metallic tints. They have long forked tails, and some Asian species have elaborate tail decorations. They have short legs and sit very upright when perched, like a shrike. They flycatch or take prey from the ground. | |||
Bulbuls are medium-sized songbirds. Some are colourful with yellow, red or orange vents, cheeks, throat or supercilia, but most are drab, with uniform olive brown to black plumage. Some species have distinct crests.There are 130 species worldwide and 2 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*], ''Dicrurus leucophaeus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Pycnonotus xanthopygos'' | |||
*] ''Pycnonotus leucogenys'' (A) | |||
== |
==Shrikes== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Shrikes are passerine birds known for their habit of catching other birds and small animals and impaling the uneaten portions of their bodies on thorns. A typical shrike's beak is hooked, like a bird of prey. | |||
The kinglets or crests are a small group of birds often included in the Old World warblers, but frequently given family status because they also resemble the ]. There are 7 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Lanius collurio'' | ||
*], ''Lanius phoenicuroides'' (A) | |||
*], ''Lanius isabellinus'' | |||
*], ''Lanius schach'' (A) | |||
*], ''Lanius excubitor'' | |||
*], ''Lanius minor'' | |||
*], ''Lanius nubicus'' | |||
*], ''Lanius senator'' | |||
==Crows, jays, and magpies== | |||
==Waxwings== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The family Corvidae includes ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s and ]s. Corvids are above average in size among the Passeriformes, and some of the larger species show high levels of intelligence. | |||
The ]s are a group of passerine birds characterized by soft silky plumage and unique red tips to some of the wing feathers. In the Bohemian and Cedar Waxwings, these tips look like sealing wax, and give the group its name. These are arboreal birds of northern forests. They live on insects in summer and berries in winter. There are 3 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Garrulus glandarius'' | ||
*], ''Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax'' (A) | |||
*], ''Pyrrhocorax graculus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Corvus monedula'' | |||
*], ''Corvus splendens'' (I) | |||
*], ''Corvus frugilegus'' | |||
*], ''Corvus cornix'' | |||
*], ''Corvus ruficollis'' | |||
*], ''Corvus rhipidurus'' | |||
*], ''Corvus corax'' | |||
==Tits, chickadees, and titmice== | |||
==Grey Hypocolius== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The Paridae are mainly small stocky woodland species with short stout bills. Some have crests. They are adaptable birds, with a mixed diet including seeds and insects. | |||
The Grey Hypocolius is a small Middle Eastern bird. They are mainly a uniform grey color, with males having a black triangular mask around the eyes, and with the shape and soft plumage of the waxwings. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Periparus ater'' (A) | ||
*], ''Poecile lugubris'' | |||
*], ''Parus major'' | |||
== |
==Penduline-tits== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The |
The penduline tits are a group of small passerine birds related to the true tits. They are insectivores. There are 13 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Remiz pendulinus'' | ||
== |
==Larks== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Larks are small terrestrial birds with often extravagant songs and display flights. Most larks are fairly dull in appearance. Their food is insects and seeds. | |||
The accentors are in the only bird family, Prunellidae, which is completely endemic to the ]. They are small, fairly drab species superficially similar to ]s. There are 13 species worldwide and 4 species which occur in Israel. | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
*] ''Prunella collaris'' | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Alaemon alaudipes'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Ramphocoris clotbey'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Ammomanes cincturus'' | ||
*], ''Ammomanes deserti'' | |||
*], ''Eremopterix nigriceps'' (A) | |||
*], ''Eremopterix signata'' (A) | |||
*], ''Eremophila alpestris'' | |||
*], ''Eremophila bilopha'' | |||
*], ''Calandrella brachydactyla'' | |||
*], ''Calandrella acutirostris'' (A) | |||
*], ''Melanocorypha bimaculata'' | |||
*], ''Melanocorypha calandra'' | |||
*], ''Eremalauda eremodites'' | |||
*], ''Alaudala rufescens'' | |||
*], ''Alaudala heinei'' (A) | |||
*], ''Lullula arborea'' | |||
*], ''Alauda arvensis'' | |||
*], ''Alauda gulgula'' | |||
*], ''Galerida cristata'' | |||
{{colend}} | |||
== |
==Bearded reedling== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
This species, the only one in its family, is found in reed beds throughout temperate Europe and Asia. | |||
The ] are a group of passerine birds that occur mainly in the Old World. They are plump, soft plumaged, small to medium-sized insectivores or sometimes omnivores, often feeding on the ground. Many have attractive songs. There are 335 species worldwide and 11 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Panurus biarmicus'' (A) | ||
*] ''Monticola solitarius'' | |||
*] ''Turdus torquatus'' | |||
*] ''Turdus merula'' | |||
*] ''Turdus obscurus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Turdus ruficollis'' (A) | |||
*] ''Turdus naumanni'' (A) | |||
*] ''Turdus pilaris'' | |||
*] ''Turdus iliacus'' | |||
*] ''Turdus philomelos'' | |||
*] ''Turdus viscivorus'' | |||
==Cisticolas and allies== | ==Cisticolas and allies== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The Cisticolidae are warblers found mainly in warmer southern regions of the Old World. They are generally very small birds of drab brown or grey appearance found in open country such as grassland or scrub |
The Cisticolidae are warblers found mainly in warmer southern regions of the Old World. They are generally very small birds of drab brown or grey appearance found in open country such as grassland or scrub. | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Prinia gracilis'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Cisticola juncidis'' | ||
*] ''Prinia gracilis'' | |||
== |
==Reed warblers and allies== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The members of this family are usually rather large for "warblers". Most are rather plain olivaceous brown above with much yellow to beige below. They are usually found in open woodland, reedbeds, or tall grass. The family occurs mostly in southern to western Eurasia and surroundings, but it also ranges far into the Pacific, with some species in Africa. | |||
The family Sylviidae is a group of small insectivorous passerine birds. The Sylviidae mainly occur as breeding species, as the common name implies, in Europe, Asia and, to a lesser extent Africa. Most are of generally undistinguished appearance, but many have distinctive songs. There are 291 species worldwide and 45 species which occur in Israel. | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
*] ''Cettia cetti'' | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Iduna caligata'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Iduna rama'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Iduna pallida'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Hippolais languida'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Hippolais olivetorum'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Hippolais icterina'' | ||
*] ''Acrocephalus |
*], ''Acrocephalus melanopogon'' | ||
*] ''Acrocephalus |
*], ''Acrocephalus schoenobaenus'' | ||
*] ''Acrocephalus |
*], ''Acrocephalus agricola'' (A) | ||
*] ''Acrocephalus |
*], ''Acrocephalus dumetorum'' (A) | ||
*] ''Acrocephalus |
*], ''Acrocephalus palustris'' | ||
*] ''Acrocephalus |
*], ''Acrocephalus scirpaceus'' | ||
*] ''Acrocephalus |
*], ''Acrocephalus griseldis'' (A) | ||
*] ''Acrocephalus |
*], ''Acrocephalus arundinaceus'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Acrocephalus orientalis'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Acrocephalus stentoreus'' | ||
{{colend}} | |||
*] ''Hippolais languida'' | |||
*] ''Hippolais olivetorum'' | |||
*] ''Hippolais icterina'' | |||
*] ''Phylloscopus trochilus'' | |||
*] ''Phylloscopus collybita'' | |||
*] ''Phylloscopus sindianus'' | |||
*] ''Phylloscopus orientalis'' | |||
*] ''Phylloscopus sibilatrix'' | |||
*] ''Phylloscopus fuscatus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Phylloscopus schwarzi'' (A) | |||
*] ''Phylloscopus proregulus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Phylloscopus inornatus'' | |||
*] ''Phylloscopus humei'' | |||
*] ''Phylloscopus trochiloides'' (A) | |||
*] ''Sylvia atricapilla'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia borin'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia communis'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia curruca'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia nana'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia nisoria'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia crassirostris'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia leucomelaena'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia rueppelli'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia cantillans'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia melanocephala'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia melanothorax'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia mystacea'' | |||
*] ''Sylvia conspicillata'' | |||
==Grassbirds and allies== | |||
==Old World flycatchers== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Locustellidae are a family of small insectivorous songbirds found mainly in Eurasia, Africa, and the Australian region. They are smallish birds with tails that are usually long and pointed, and tend to be drab brownish or buffy all over. | |||
Old World flycatchers are a large group of small passerine birds native to the Old World. They are mainly small arboreal insectivores. The appearance of these birds is very varied, but they mostly have weak songs and harsh calls. There 274 species worldwide and 35 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*], ''Helopsaltes certhiola'' (A) | |||
*] ''Muscicapa striata'' | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Locustella fluviatilis'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Locustella luscinioides'' | ||
*], ''Locustella naevia'' (A) | |||
*] ''Ficedula semitorquata'' | |||
*] ''Ficedula parva'' | |||
*] ''Erithacus rubecula'' | |||
*] ''Luscinia luscinia'' | |||
*] ''Luscinia megarhynchos'' | |||
*] ''Luscinia svecica'' | |||
*] ''Tarsiger cyanurus'' (A) | |||
*] ''Irania gutturalis'' | |||
*] ''Cercotrichas galactotes'' | |||
*] ''Cercotrichas podobe'' | |||
*] ''Phoenicurus erythronota'' (A) | |||
*] ''Phoenicurus ochruros'' | |||
*] ''Phoenicurus phoenicurus'' | |||
*] ''Saxicola maura'' | |||
*] ''Saxicola rubetra'' | |||
*] ''Saxicola rubicola'' | |||
*] ''Saxicola caprata'' (A) | |||
*] ''Oenanthe leucopyga'' | |||
*] ''Oenanthe monacha'' | |||
*] ''Oenanthe leucura'' (A) | |||
*] ''Oenanthe oenanthe'' | |||
*] ''Oenanthe lugens'' | |||
*] ''Oenanthe finschii'' | |||
*] ''Oenanthe picata'' (A) | |||
*] ''Oenanthe moesta'' | |||
*] ''Oenanthe pleschanka'' | |||
*] ''Oenanthe cypriaca'' | |||
*] ''Oenanthe hispanica'' | |||
*] ''Oenanthe xanthoprymna'' (A) | |||
*] ''Oenanthe deserti'' | |||
*] ''Oenanthe isabellina'' | |||
*] ''Cercomela melanura'' | |||
== |
==Swallows== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The family Hirundinidae is adapted to aerial feeding. They have a slender streamlined body, long pointed wings and a short bill with a wide gape. The feet are adapted to perching rather than walking, and the front toes are partially joined at the base. | |||
The babblers or timaliids are somewhat diverse in size and coloration, but are characterised by soft fluffy plumage. There are 270 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Riparia chinensis'' (A) | ||
*], ''Riparia riparia'' | |||
*], ''Ptyonoprogne rupestris'' | |||
*], ''Ptyonoprogne fuligula'' | |||
*], ''Hirundo rustica'' | |||
*], ''Hirundo aethiopica'' (A) | |||
*], ''Cecropis daurica'' | |||
*], ''Delichon urbicum'' | |||
*], ''Delichon dasypus'' (A) | |||
== |
==Bulbuls== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Bulbuls are medium-sized songbirds. Some are colourful with yellow, red or orange vents, cheeks, throats or supercilia, but most are drab, with uniform olive-brown to black plumage. Some species have distinct crests. | |||
The parrotbills are a group of birds native to East and Southeast Asia, though feral populations are known from elsewhere. They are generally small, long-tailed birds which inhabit reedbeds and similar habitats. There are 20 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
*], ''Pycnonotus xanthopygos'' | |||
*] ''Panurus biarmicus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Pycnonotus leucotis'' (A) | |||
== |
==Leaf warblers== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Leaf warblers are a family of small insectivorous birds found mostly in Eurasia and ranging into Wallacea and Africa. The species are of various sizes, often green-plumaged above and yellow below, or more subdued with greyish-green to greyish-brown colours. | |||
The Paridae are mainly small stocky woodland species with short stout bills. Some have crests. They are adaptable birds, with a mixed diet including seeds and insects. There are species 59 worldwide and 3 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Phylloscopus sibilatrix'' | ||
*], ''Phylloscopus orientalis'' | |||
*] ''Periparus ater'' (A) | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Phylloscopus inornatus'' | ||
*], ''Phylloscopus humei'' | |||
*], ''Phylloscopus proregulus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Phylloscopus schwarzi'' (A) | |||
*], ''Phylloscopus fuscatus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Phylloscopus trochilus'' | |||
*], ''Phylloscopus sindianus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Phylloscopus collybita'' | |||
*], ''Phylloscopus nitidus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Phylloscopus borealis'' (A) | |||
==Bush warblers and allies== | |||
==Nuthatches== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The members of this family are found throughout Africa, Asia, and Polynesia. Their taxonomy is in flux, and some authorities place some genera in other families.<ref name=IOC>Gill, F. and D. Donsker (Eds). 2019. IOC World Bird List (v 9.2). {{doi|10.14344/IOC.ML.9.2}}. http://www.worldbirdnames.org/ retrieved 22 June 2019.</ref> | |||
Nuthatches are small woodland birds. They have the unusual ability to climb down trees head first, unlike other birds which can only go upwards. Nuthatches have big heads, short tails and powerful bills and feet. There are 24 species worldwide and 2 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Scotocerca inquieta'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Cettia cetti'' | ||
==Sylviid warblers, parrotbills, and allies== | |||
==Wallcreeper== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The family Sylviidae is a group of small insectivorous passerine birds. They mainly occur as breeding species, as the common name implies, in Europe, Asia and, to a lesser extent, Africa. Most are of generally undistinguished appearance, but many have distinctive songs. | |||
The Wallcreeper is a small bird with stunning crimson, grey and black plumage, related to the ] family. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Sylvia atricapilla'' | ||
*], ''Sylvia borin'' | |||
*], ''Curruca deserti'' (A) | |||
*], ''Curruca nana'' | |||
*], ''Curruca nisoria'' | |||
*], ''Curruca curruca'' | |||
*], ''Curruca leucomelaena'' | |||
*], ''Curruca crassirostris'' | |||
*], ''Curruca melanothorax'' | |||
*], ''Curruca mystacea'' (A) | |||
*], ''Curruca ruppeli'' | |||
*], ''Curruca cantillans'' | |||
*], ''Curruca melanocephala'' | |||
*], ''Curruca communis'' | |||
*], ''Curruca conspicillata'' | |||
==Laughingthrushes and allies== | |||
==Penduline tits== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The members of this family are diverse in size and colouration, though those of genus ''Turdoides'' tend to be brown or greyish. The family is found in Africa, India, and southeast Asia. | |||
The penduline tits are a group of small passerine birds, related to the true tits. They are insectivores. There are 13 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Argya squamiceps'' | ||
==Kinglets== | |||
==Sunbirds and spiderhunters== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The kinglets, also called crests, are a small group of birds often included in the Old World warblers, but frequently given family status because they also resemble the ]. | |||
The sunbirds and spiderhunters are very small passerine birds which feed largely on nectar, although they will also take insects, especially when feeding young. Flight is fast and direct on their short wings. Most species can take nectar by hovering like a hummingbird, but usually perch to feed. There are 131 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Regulus regulus'' | ||
*], ''Regulus ignicapilla'' (A) | |||
==Wallcreeper== | |||
==Old World orioles== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The wallcreeper is a small bird related to the ] family, which has stunning crimson, grey and black plumage. | |||
The Old World Orioles are colourful passerine birds. They are not related to the New World orioles. There are 29 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Tichodroma muraria'' | ||
== |
==Nuthatches== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Nuthatches are small woodland birds. They have the unusual ability to climb down trees head first, unlike other birds which can only go upwards. Nuthatches have big heads, short tails and powerful bills and feet. | |||
Shrikes are passerine birds known for their habit of catching other birds and small animals and impaling the uneaten portions of their bodies on thorns. A typical shrike's beak is hooked, like a bird of prey. There are 31 species worldwide and 7 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Sitta neumayer'' | ||
*] ''Lanius isabellinus'' | |||
*] ''Lanius schach'' (A) | |||
*] ''Lanius meridionalis'' | |||
*] ''Lanius minor'' | |||
*] ''Lanius nubicus'' | |||
*] ''Lanius senator'' | |||
==Wrens== | |||
==Crows, jays, ravens and magpies== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The ]s are mainly small and inconspicuous except for their loud songs. These birds have short wings and thin down-turned bills. Several species often hold their tails upright. All are insectivorous. | |||
The Corvidae family includes ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, ]s, and ]s. Corvids are above average in size for the bird order Passeriformes. Some of the larger species show high levels of learning behavior. There are 120 species worldwide and 10 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Troglodytes troglodytes'' | ||
*] ''Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax'' (A) | |||
*] ''Pyrrhocorax graculus'' | |||
*] ''Corvus monedula'' | |||
*] ''Corvus splendens'' | |||
*] ''Corvus frugilegus'' | |||
*] ''Corvus ruficollis'' | |||
*] ''Corvus rhipidurus'' | |||
*] ''Corvus corax'' | |||
*] ''Corvus cornix'' | |||
==Starlings== | ==Starlings== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Starlings are small to medium-sized passerine birds. Their flight is strong and direct |
Starlings are small to medium-sized passerine birds. Their flight is strong and direct and they are very gregarious. Their preferred habitat is fairly open country. They eat insects and fruit. Plumage is typically dark with a metallic sheen. | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Sturnus vulgaris'' | ||
*], ''Pastor roseus'' | |||
*] ''Acridotheres burmannicus'' (I) | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Acridotheres tristis'' (I) | ||
*], ''Acridotheres leucocephalus'' (I) | |||
*] ''Sturnus vulgaris'' | |||
*] ''Onychognathus tristramii'' | *], ''Onychognathus tristramii'' | ||
==Thrushes and allies== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The ] are a group of passerine birds that occur mainly in the Old World. They are plump, soft plumaged, small to medium-sized insectivores or sometimes omnivores, often feeding on the ground. Many have attractive songs. | |||
*], ''Turdus viscivorus'' | |||
*], ''Turdus philomelos'' | |||
*], ''Turdus iliacus'' | |||
*], ''Turdus merula'' | |||
*], ''Turdus obscurus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Turdus pilaris'' | |||
*], ''Turdus torquatus'' | |||
*], ''Turdus atrogularis'' (A) | |||
*], ''Turdus eunomus'' (A) | |||
==Old World flycatchers== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
Old World flycatchers are a large group of small passerine birds native to the Old World. They are mainly small arboreal insectivores. The appearance of these birds is highly varied, but they mostly have weak songs and harsh calls. | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
*], ''Muscicapa striata'' | |||
*], ''Cercotrichas podobe'' | |||
*], ''Cercotrichas galactotes'' | |||
*], ''Erithacus rubecula'' | |||
*], ''Irania gutturalis'' | |||
*], ''Luscinia luscinia'' | |||
*], ''Luscinia megarhynchos'' | |||
*], ''Luscinia svecica'' | |||
*], ''Tarsiger cyanurus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Ficedula parva'' | |||
*], ''Ficedula semitorquata'' | |||
*], ''Ficedula hypoleuca'' | |||
*], ''Ficedula albicollis'' | |||
*], ''Phoenicurus erythronota'' (A) | |||
*], ''Phoenicurus phoenicurus'' | |||
*], ''Phoenicurus ochruros'' | |||
*], ''Monticola saxatilis'' | |||
*], ''Monticola solitarius'' | |||
*], ''Saxicola rubetra'' | |||
*], ''Saxicola rubicola'' | |||
*], ''Saxicola maurus'' | |||
*], ''Saxicola caprata'' (A) | |||
*], ''Oenanthe oenanthe'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe isabellina'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe monacha'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe deserti'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe pleschanka'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe melanoleuca'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe cypriaca'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe moesta'' (A) | |||
*], ''Oenanthe melanura'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe leucopyga'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe finschii'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe lugens'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe warriae'' (A) | |||
*], ''Oenanthe xanthoprymna'' | |||
*], ''Oenanthe chrysopygia'' (A) | |||
{{colend}} | |||
==Waxwings== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The ]s are a group of birds with soft silky plumage and unique red tips to some of the wing feathers. In the Bohemian and cedar waxwings, these tips look like ] and give the group its name. These are arboreal birds of northern forests. They live on insects in summer and berries in winter. | |||
*], ''Bombycilla garrulus'' (A) | |||
==Hypocolius== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The grey hypocolius is a small Middle Eastern bird with the shape and soft plumage of a ]. They are mainly a uniform grey colour except the males have a black triangular mask around their eyes. | |||
*], ''Hypocolius ampelinus'' (A) | |||
==Sunbirds and spiderhunters== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The sunbirds and spiderhunters are very small passerine birds which feed largely on nectar, although they will also take insects, especially when feeding young. Flight is fast and direct on their short wings. Most species can take nectar by hovering like a hummingbird, but usually perch to feed. | |||
*], ''Cinnyris oseus'' | |||
==Waxbills and allies== | ==Waxbills and allies== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The ]es are small passerine birds of the Old World tropics and ]. They are gregarious and often colonial seed |
The ]es are small passerine birds of the Old World tropics and ]. They are gregarious and often colonial seed eaters with short thick but pointed bills. They are all similar in structure and habits, but have wide variation in plumage colours and patterns. | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Estrilda astrild'' (I) | ||
*], ''Euodice malabarica'' (I) | |||
== |
==Accentors== | ||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
The accentors are in the only bird family, Prunellidae, which is completely endemic to the ]. They are small, fairly drab species superficially similar to ]s. | |||
The emberizids are a large family of passerine birds. They are seed-eating birds with a distinctively shaped bill. In Europe, most species are named as buntings. In North America, most of the species in this family are known as Sparrows, but these birds are not closely related to the Old World sparrows which are in the family Passeridae. Many emberizid species have distinctive head patterns. There are species 275 worldwide and 14 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Prunella collaris'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Prunella ocularis'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Prunella atrogularis'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Prunella modularis'' | ||
*] ''Emberiza hortulana'' | |||
*] ''Emberiza caesia'' | |||
*] ''Emberiza striolata'' | |||
*] ''Emberiza pusilla'' | |||
*] ''Emberiza rustica'' | |||
*] ''Emberiza aureola'' (A) | |||
*] ''Emberiza melanocephala'' | |||
*] ''Emberiza bruniceps'' (A) | |||
*] ''Emberiza schoeniclus'' | |||
*] ''Emberiza calandra'' | |||
==Old World sparrows== | |||
==Finches== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Old World sparrows are small passerine birds. In general, sparrows tend to be small, plump, brown or grey birds with short tails and short powerful beaks. Sparrows are seed eaters, but they also consume small insects. | |||
]es are seed-eating passerine birds, that are small to moderately large and have a strong beak, usually conical and in some species very large. All have 12 tail feathers and 9 primaries. These birds have a bouncing flight with alternating bouts of flapping and gliding on closed wings, and most sing well. There are 137 species worldwide and 16 species which occur in Israel. | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Passer domesticus'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Passer hispaniolensis'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Passer moabiticus'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Passer montanus'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Gymnoris xanthocollis'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Petronia petronia'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Carpospiza brachydactyla'' | ||
*] ''Carduelis carduelis'' | |||
*] ''Carduelis cannabina'' | |||
*] ''Serinus pusillus'' | |||
*] ''Serinus serinus'' | |||
*] ''Serinus syriacus'' | |||
*] ''Coccothraustes coccothraustes'' | |||
*] ''Rhodopechys sanguinea'' | |||
*] ''Bucanetes githaginea'' | |||
*] ''Rhodospiza obsoleta'' | |||
==Wagtails and pipits== | |||
==Sparrows== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
'''Family''': ] | |||
Motacillidae is a family of small passerine birds with medium to long tails. They include the wagtails, longclaws and pipits. They are slender, ground feeding insectivores of open country. | |||
*], ''Motacilla cinerea'' | |||
*], ''Motacilla flava'' | |||
*], ''Motacilla citreola'' | |||
*], ''Motacilla alba'' | |||
*], ''Anthus richardi'' | |||
*], ''Anthus similis'' | |||
*], ''Anthus godlewskii'' (A) | |||
*], ''Anthus campestris'' | |||
*], ''Anthus pratensis'' | |||
*], ''Anthus trivialis'' | |||
*], ''Anthus hodgsoni'' | |||
*], ''Anthus cervinus'' | |||
*], ''Anthus spinoletta'' | |||
*], ''Anthus japonicus'' | |||
==Finches, euphonias, and allies== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
]es are seed-eating passerine birds, that are small to moderately large and have a strong beak, usually conical and in some species very large. All have twelve tail feathers and nine primaries. These birds have a bouncing flight with alternating bouts of flapping and gliding on closed wings, and most sing well. | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
*], ''Fringilla coelebs'' | |||
*], ''Fringilla montifringilla'' | |||
*], ''Coccothraustes coccothraustes'' | |||
*], ''Carpodacus erythrinus'' | |||
*], ''Carpodacus synoicus'' | |||
*], ''Rhodopechys sanguineus'' | |||
*], ''Bucanetes githaginea'' | |||
*], ''Rhodospiza obsoleta'' | |||
*], ''Chloris chloris'' | |||
*], ''Linaria cannabina'' | |||
*], ''Loxia curvirostra'' (A) | |||
*], ''Carduelis carduelis'' | |||
*], ''Serinus serinus'' | |||
*], ''Serinus pusillus'' (A) | |||
*], ''Serinus syriacus'' | |||
*], ''Spinus spinus'' | |||
{{colend}} | |||
==Longspurs and snow buntings== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The Calcariidae are a group of passerine birds which had been traditionally grouped with the New World sparrows, but differ in a number of respects and are usually found in open grassy areas. | |||
*], ''Plectrophenax nivalis'' (A) | |||
==Old World buntings== | |||
Order: ]{{nbsp|3}}Family: ] | |||
The emberizids are a large family of passerine birds. They are seed-eating birds with distinctively shaped bills. Many emberizid species have distinctive head patterns. | |||
]s are small passerine birds. In general, sparrows tend to be small, plump, brown or grey birds with short tails and short powerful beaks. Sparrows are seed-eaters, and they also consume small insects. There are 35 species worldwide and 7 species which occur in Israel. | |||
{{colbegin}} | |||
*] ''Passer domesticus'' | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Emberiza melanocephala'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Emberiza bruniceps'' (A) | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Emberiza calandra'' | ||
*], ''Emberiza cia'' | |||
*] ''Petronia xanthocollis'' (A) | |||
*] '' |
*], ''Emberiza citrinella'' | ||
*] '' |
*], ''Emberiza leucocephalos'' | ||
*], ''Emberiza cineracea'' | |||
*], ''Emberiza hortulana'' | |||
*], ''Emberiza caesia'' | |||
*], ''Emberiza striolata'' | |||
*], ''Emberiza schoeniclus'' | |||
*], ''Emberiza aureola'' (A) | |||
*], ''Emberiza pusilla'' | |||
*], ''Emberiza rustica'' | |||
*], ''Emberiza spodocephala'' (A) | |||
*], ''Emberiza rutila'' (A) | |||
{{colend}} | |||
==See also== | ==See also== | ||
Line 1,179: | Line 1,128: | ||
==References== | ==References== | ||
{{Reflist}} | |||
*{{cite web | |||
| last = Lepage | |||
| first = Denis | |||
| authorlink = | |||
| coauthors = | |||
| year = | |||
| url = http://www.bsc-eoc.org/avibase/avibase.jsp?region=il&pg=checklist&list=clements | |||
| title = Checklist of birds of Israel | |||
| format = | |||
| work = Bird Checklists of the World | |||
| publisher = Avibase | |||
| accessdate = 26 April | |||
| accessyear = 2007 | |||
}} | |||
*{{cite book | *{{cite book | ||
| title=Birds of the World: |
| title=Birds of the World: A Checklist | ||
| first= James F. | | first= James F. | ||
| last = Clements | | last = Clements | ||
| publisher = Cornell University Press | | publisher = Cornell University Press | ||
| |
| year = 2000 | ||
| |
| isbn = 0-934797-16-1 | ||
| pages = 880 | | pages = 880 | ||
}} | |||
*{{cite book | |||
| language=Hebrew, English | |||
| title=Birds of Israel | |||
| first= Paula | |||
| last = Arnold | |||
| publisher = Shalit Publishers Ltd., Haifa, Israel pp. 106 | |||
| year = 1962 | |||
| pages = | |||
}} | |||
{{Asia topic|List of birds of |title=]}} | |||
] | |||
] | ] | ||
] | ] | ||
] | |||
] | ] |
Latest revision as of 07:24, 10 December 2024
This is a list of the bird species recorded in Israel. The avifauna of Israel include a total of 591 species, of which eleven have been introduced by humans. Five species are listed as extirpated from Israel. The Eurasian hoopoe was elected as Israel national bird in a public vote in 2008.
The official checklist of birds of Israel is maintained by the Israeli Rarities and Distribution Committee (IRDC).
This list's taxonomic treatment (designation and sequence of orders, families and species) and nomenclature (common and scientific names) follow the conventions of The Clements Checklist of Birds of the World, 2022 edition. The family accounts at the beginning of each heading reflect this taxonomy, as do the species counts found in each family account. Introduced and accidental species are included in the total counts for Israel.
The following tags have been used to highlight several categories, but not all species fall into one of these categories. Those that do not are commonly occurring native species.
- (A) Accidental - a species that rarely or accidentally occurs in Israel
- (I) Introduced - a species introduced to Israel as a consequence, direct or indirect, of human actions
- (Ex) Extirpated - a species that no longer occurs in Israel although populations exist elsewhere
- (X) Extinct - a species or subspecies that no longer exists
Background
The avifauna of Israel is notable for its diversity, attributed to Israel's geographical position at the junction of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Israel is a stop on the Black Sea–Mediterranean Flyway for migrating birds, with over 485 species recorded throughout various seasons. The country's avian population includes both resident species and a vast number of migrants that leverage Israel's varied habitats and climatic zones.
Recent observations have identified changes in Israel's breeding avifauna, including the emergence of new breeding species and expansions in the breeding ranges of existing species. From 2003 to 2016, nine species were found breeding in Israel for the first time, including the common shelduck, great cormorant, and black-winged kite.
Israel's variety of habitats, from Mediterranean forests and deserts to wetlands and agricultural fields, supports a wide range of bird species. The Agmon wetland in northern Israel, for example, offers crucial foraging, nesting, and roosting habitats for numerous species, including herons, dabbling ducks, kingfishers, and raptors.
Human activities have exerted both positive and negative impacts on bird populations in Israel. Habitat changes and increased food availability have benefited some species, while others have been challenged by habitat loss and agricultural conflicts. The introduction of non-indigenous bird species has further altered the avian community composition.
Conservation efforts are crucial to mitigate the challenges faced by birds in Israel, especially for endangered species like the great white pelican, which relies on Israel as a critical stopover during migration. Protecting habitats, managing human-wildlife conflicts, and informed conservation strategies are essential for preserving Israel's rich avian diversity.
Ostriches
Order: Struthioniformes Family: Struthionidae
The ostrich is a flightless bird native to Africa. It is the largest living species of bird. It is distinctive in its appearance, with a long neck and legs and the ability to run at high speeds.
- Common ostrich, Struthio camelus (Ex)
Ducks, geese, and waterfowl
Order: Anseriformes Family: Anatidae
Anatidae includes the ducks and most duck-like waterfowl, such as geese and swans. These birds are adapted to an aquatic existence with webbed feet, flattened bills, and feathers that are excellent at shedding water due to an oily coating.
- Lesser whistling-duck, Dendrocygna javanica (A)
- Graylag goose, Anser anser
- Greater white-fronted goose, Anser albifrons
- Lesser white-fronted goose, Anser erythropus (A)
- Taiga bean-goose, Anser fabalis (A)
- Tundra Bean-goose, Anser serrirostris (A)
- Barnacle goose, Branta leucopsis (A)
- Red-breasted goose, Branta ruficollis (A)
- Mute swan, Cygnus olor
- Tundra swan, Cygnus columbianus (A)
- Whooper swan, Cygnus cygnus (A)
- Egyptian goose, Alopochen aegyptiacus (I)
- Ruddy shelduck, Tadorna ferruginea
- Common shelduck, Tadorna tadorna
- Garganey, Spatula querquedula
- Northern shoveler, Spatula clypeata
- Gadwall, Mareca strepera
- Eurasian wigeon, Mareca penelope
- Mallard, Anas platyrhynchos
- Cape teal, Anas capensis (A)
- Red-billed duck, Anas erythrorhyncha (A)
- Northern pintail, Anas acuta
- Green-winged teal, Anas crecca
- Marbled teal, Marmaronetta angustirostris
- Red-crested pochard, Netta rufina
- Southern pochard, Netta erythrophthalma (A)
- Common pochard, Aythya ferina
- Ferruginous duck, Aythya nyroca
- Tufted duck, Aythya fuligula
- Greater scaup, Aythya marila (A)
- Common eider, Somateria mollissima (A)
- Velvet scoter, Melanitta fusca (A)
- Long-tailed duck, Clangula hyemalis (A)
- Common goldeneye, Bucephala clangula
- Smew, Mergellus albellus
- Common merganser, Mergus merganser (A)
- Red-breasted merganser, Mergus serrator
- White-headed duck, Oxyura leucocephala
Pheasants, grouse, and allies
Order: Galliformes Family: Phasianidae
The Phasianidae are a family of terrestrial birds. In general, they are plump (although they vary in size) and have broad, relatively short wings.
- Sand partridge, Ammoperdix heyi
- Common quail, Coturnix coturnix
- Chukar, Alectoris chukar
- Black francolin, Francolinus francolinus
Flamingos
Order: Phoenicopteriformes Family: Phoenicopteridae
Flamingos are gregarious wading birds, usually 3 to 5 feet (0.9 to 1.5 m) tall, found in both the Western and Eastern Hemispheres. Flamingos filter-feed on shellfish and algae. Their oddly shaped beaks are specially adapted to separate mud and silt from the food they consume and, uniquely, are used upside-down.
- Greater flamingo, Phoenicopterus roseus
- Lesser flamingo, Phoeniconaias minor (A)
Grebes
Order: Podicipediformes Family: Podicipedidae
Grebes are small to medium-large freshwater diving birds. They have lobed toes and are excellent swimmers and divers. However, they have their feet placed far back on the body, making them quite ungainly on land.
- Little grebe, Tachybaptus ruficollis
- Horned grebe, Podiceps auritus (A)
- Red-necked grebe, Podiceps grisegena (A)
- Great crested grebe, Podiceps cristatus
- Eared grebe, Podiceps nigricollis
Pigeons and doves
Order: Columbiformes Family: Columbidae
Pigeons and doves are stout-bodied birds with short necks and short slender bills with a fleshy cere.
- Rock pigeon, Columba livia
- Stock dove, Columba oenas
- Common wood-pigeon, Columba palumbus
- European turtle-dove, Streptopelia turtur
- Oriental turtle-dove, Streptopelia orientalis (A)
- Eurasian collared-dove, Streptopelia decaocto
- African collared-dove, Streptopelia roseogrisea (A)
- Laughing dove, Spilopelia senegalensis
- Namaqua dove, Oena capensis
Sandgrouse
Order: Pterocliformes Family: Pteroclidae
Sandgrouse have small, pigeon like heads and necks, but sturdy compact bodies. They have long pointed wings and sometimes tails and a fast direct flight. Flocks fly to watering holes at dawn and dusk. Their legs are feathered down to the toes.
- Pin-tailed sandgrouse, Pterocles alchata
- Spotted sandgrouse, Pterocles senegallus
- Black-bellied sandgrouse, Pterocles orientalis
- Crowned sandgrouse, Pterocles coronatus
- Lichtenstein's sandgrouse, Pterocles lichtensteinii
Bustards
Order: Otidiformes Family: Otididae
Bustards are large terrestrial birds mainly associated with dry open country and steppes in the Old World. They are omnivorous and nest on the ground. They walk steadily on strong legs and big toes, pecking for food as they go. They have long broad wings with "fingered" wingtips and striking patterns in flight. Many have interesting mating displays.
- Great bustard, Otis tarda (A)
- MacQueen's bustard, Chlamydotis macqueenii
- Little bustard, Tetrax tetrax
Cuckoos
Order: Cuculiformes Family: Cuculidae
The family Cuculidae includes cuckoos, roadrunners and anis. These birds are of variable size with slender bodies, long tails and strong legs.
- Great spotted cuckoo, Clamator glandarius
- Dideric cuckoo, Chrysococcyx caprius (A)
- Common cuckoo, Cuculus canorus
- Oriental cuckoo, Cuculus optatus (A)
Nightjars
Order: Caprimulgiformes Family: Caprimulgidae
Nightjars are medium-sized nocturnal birds that usually nest on the ground. They have long wings, short legs and very short bills. Most have small feet, of little use for walking, and long pointed wings. Their soft plumage is camouflaged to resemble bark or leaves.
- Eurasian nightjar, Caprimulgus europaeus
- Egyptian nightjar, Caprimulgus aegyptius
- Nubian nightjar, Caprimulgus nubicus
Swifts
Order: Caprimulgiformes Family: Apodidae
Swifts are small birds which spend the majority of their lives flying. These birds have very short legs and never settle voluntarily on the ground, perching instead only on vertical surfaces. Many swifts have long swept-back wings which resemble a crescent or boomerang.
- Alpine swift, Apus melba
- Common swift, Apus apus
- Pallid swift, Apus pallidus
- Little swift, Apus affinis
Rails, gallinules and coots
Order: Gruiformes Family: Rallidae
Rallidae is a large family of small to medium-sized birds which includes the rails, crakes, coots and gallinules. Typically they inhabit dense vegetation in damp environments near lakes, swamps or rivers. In general they are shy and secretive birds, making them difficult to observe. Most species have strong legs and long toes which are well adapted to soft uneven surfaces. They tend to have short, rounded wings and to be weak fliers.
- Water rail, Rallus aquaticus
- Corn crake, Crex crex
- African crake, Crex egregia (A)
- Spotted crake, Porzana porzana
- Eurasian moorhen, Gallinula chloropus
- Eurasian coot, Fulica atra
- African swamphen, Porphyrio madagascariensis
- Gray-headed swamphen, Porphyrio poliocephalus (A)
- Little crake, Zapornia parva
- Baillon's crake, Zapornia pusilla
Cranes
Order: Gruiformes Family: Gruidae
Cranes are large, long-legged and long-necked birds. Unlike the similar-looking but unrelated herons, cranes fly with necks outstretched, not pulled back. Most have elaborate and noisy courting displays or "dances".
- Demoiselle crane, Anthropoides virgo
- Common crane, Grus grus
Thick-knees
Order: Charadriiformes Family: Burhinidae
The thick-knees are a group of largely tropical waders in the family Burhinidae. They are found worldwide within the tropical zone, with some species also breeding in temperate Europe and Australia. They are medium to large waders with strong black or yellow-black bills, large yellow eyes and cryptic plumage. Despite being classed as waders, most species have a preference for arid or semi-arid habitats.
- Eurasian thick-knee, Burhinus oedicnemus
- Senegal thick-knee, Burhinus senegalensis (A)
Stilts and avocets
Order: Charadriiformes Family: Recurvirostridae
Recurvirostridae is a family of large wading birds, which includes the avocets and stilts. The avocets have long legs and long up-curved bills. The stilts have extremely long legs and long, thin, straight bills.
- Black-winged stilt, Himantopus himantopus
- Pied avocet, Recurvirostra avosetta
Oystercatchers
Order: Charadriiformes Family: Haematopodidae
The oystercatchers are large and noisy plover-like birds, with strong bills used for smashing or prising open molluscs.
- Eurasian oystercatcher, Haematopus ostralegus
Plovers and lapwings
Order: Charadriiformes Family: Charadriidae
The family Charadriidae includes the plovers, dotterels and lapwings. They are small to medium-sized birds with compact bodies, short, thick necks and long, usually pointed, wings. They are found in open country worldwide, mostly in habitats near water.
- Black-bellied plover, Pluvialis squatarola
- European golden-plover, Pluvialis apricaria
- American golden-plover, Pluvialis dominica (A)
- Pacific golden-plover, Pluvialis fulva
- Northern lapwing, Vanellus vanellus
- Spur-winged lapwing, Vanellus spinosus
- Black-headed lapwing, Vanellus tectus (A)
- Red-wattled lapwing, Vanellus indicus (A)
- Sociable lapwing, Vanellus gregarius
- White-tailed lapwing, Vanellus leucurus
- Tibetan sand-plover, Anarhynchus atrifrons (A)
- Siberian sand-plover, Anarhynchus mongolus (A)
- Greater sand-plover, Anarhynchus leschenaultii
- Caspian plover, Charadrius asiaticus
- Kittlitz's plover, Charadrius pecuarius (A)
- Kentish plover, Charadrius alexandrinus
- Common ringed plover, Charadrius hiaticula
- Little ringed plover, Charadrius dubius
- Three-banded plover, Charadrius tricollaris (A)
- Eurasian dotterel, Charadrius morinellus
Painted-snipes
Order: Charadriiformes Family: Rostratulidae
Painted-snipes are short-legged, long-billed birds similar in shape to the true snipes, but more brightly coloured.
- Greater painted-snipe, Rostratula benghalensis (A)
Sandpipers and allies
Order: Charadriiformes Family: Scolopacidae
Scolopacidae is a large diverse family of small to medium-sized shorebirds including the sandpipers, curlews, godwits, shanks, tattlers, woodcocks, snipes, dowitchers and phalaropes. The majority of these species eat small invertebrates picked out of the mud or soil. Variation in length of legs and bills enables multiple species to feed in the same habitat, particularly on the coast, without direct competition for food.
- Eurasian whimbrel, Numenius phaeopus
- Hudsonian whimbrel, Numenius hudsonicus (A)
- Slender-billed curlew, Numenius tenuirostris (X)
- Eurasian curlew, Numenius arquata
- Bar-tailed godwit, Limosa lapponica
- Black-tailed godwit, Limosa limosa
- Ruddy turnstone, Arenaria interpres
- Great knot, Calidris tenuirostris (A)
- Red knot, Calidris canutus
- Ruff, Calidris pugnax
- Broad-billed sandpiper, Calidris falcinellus
- Curlew sandpiper, Calidris ferruginea
- Temminck's stint, Calidris temminckii
- Long-toed stint, Calidris subminuta (A)
- Red-necked stint, Calidris ruficollis (A)
- Sanderling, Calidris alba
- Dunlin, Calidris alpina
- Baird's sandpiper, Calidris bairdii (A)
- Little stint, Calidris minuta
- White-rumped sandpiper, Calidris fuscicollis (A)
- Buff-breasted sandpiper, Calidris subruficollis (A)
- Pectoral sandpiper, Calidris melanotos (A)
- Semipalmated sandpiper, Calidris pusilla (A)
- Long-billed dowitcher, Limnodromus scolopaceus (A)
- Jack snipe, Lymnocryptes minimus
- Eurasian woodcock, Scolopax rusticola
- Great snipe, Gallinago media
- Common snipe, Gallinago gallinago
- Pin-tailed snipe, Gallinago stenura (A)
- Terek sandpiper, Xenus cinereus
- Wilson's phalarope, Phalaropus tricolor (A)
- Red-necked phalarope, Phalaropus lobatus
- Red phalarope, Phalaropus fulicarius (A)
- Common sandpiper, Actitis hypoleucos
- Green sandpiper, Tringa ochropus
- Spotted redshank, Tringa erythropus
- Common greenshank, Tringa nebularia
- Lesser yellowlegs, Tringa flavipes (A)
- Marsh sandpiper, Tringa stagnatilis
- Wood sandpiper, Tringa glareola
- Common redshank, Tringa totanus
Crab-plover
Order: Charadriiformes Family: Dromadidae
The crab-plover is related to the waders. It resembles a plover but with very long grey legs and a strong heavy black bill similar to a tern. It has black-and-white plumage, a long neck, partially webbed feet and a bill designed for eating crabs.
- Crab plover, Dromas ardeola (A)
Pratincoles and coursers
Order: Charadriiformes Family: Glareolidae
Glareolidae is a family of wading birds comprising the pratincoles, which have short legs, long pointed wings and long forked tails, and the coursers, which have long legs, short wings and long, pointed bills which curve downwards.
- Cream-colored courser, Cursorius cursor
- Collared pratincole, Glareola pratincola
- Oriental pratincole, Glareola maldivarum (A)
- Black-winged pratincole, Glareola nordmanni
Skuas and jaegers
Order: Charadriiformes Family: Stercorariidae
The family Stercorariidae are, in general, medium to large birds, typically with grey or brown plumage, often with white markings on the wings. They nest on the ground in temperate and arctic regions and are long-distance migrants.
- Great skua, Stercorarius skua (A)
- South polar skua, Stercorarius maccormicki (A)
- Pomarine jaeger, Stercorarius pomarinus
- Parasitic jaeger, Stercorarius parasiticus
- Long-tailed jaeger, Stercorarius longicaudus
Auks, murres, and puffins
Order: Charadriiformes Family: Alcidae
Alcids are superficially similar to penguins due to their black-and-white colours, their upright posture and some of their habits, however they are not related to the penguins and differ in being able to fly. Auks live on the open sea, only deliberately coming ashore to nest.
- Atlantic puffin, Fratercula arctica (A)
Gulls, terns, and skimmers
Order: Charadriiformes Family: Laridae
Laridae is a family of medium to large seabirds, the gulls, terns, and skimmers. Gulls are typically grey or white, often with black markings on the head or wings. They have stout, longish bills and webbed feet. Terns are a group of generally medium to large seabirds typically with grey or white plumage, often with black markings on the head. Most terns hunt fish by diving but some pick insects off the surface of fresh water. Terns are generally long-lived birds, with several species known to live in excess of 30 years. Skimmers are a small family of tropical tern-like birds. They have an elongated lower mandible which they use to feed by flying low over the water surface and skimming the water for small fish.
- Black-legged kittiwake, Rissa tridactyla
- Sabine's gull, Xema sabini (A)
- Slender-billed gull, Chroicocephalus genei
- Gray-hooded gull, Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus (A)
- Black-headed gull, Chroicocephalus ridibundus
- Brown-headed gull, Chroicocephalus brunnicephalus (A)
- Little gull, Hydrocoloeus minutus
- Franklin's gull, Leucophaeus pipixcan (A)
- Mediterranean gull, Ichthyaetus melanocephalus
- White-eyed gull, Ichthyaetus leucophthalmus
- Sooty gull, Ichthyaetus hemprichii (A)
- Pallas's gull, Ichthyaetus ichthyaetus
- Audouin's gull, Ichthyaetus audouinii (A)
- Common gull, Larus canus
- European herring gull, Larus argentatus (A)
- Yellow-legged gull, Larus michahellis
- Caspian gull, Larus cachinnans
- Armenian gull, Larus armenicus
- Lesser black-backed gull, Larus fuscus
- Glaucous gull, Larus hyperboreus (A)
- Great black-backed gull, Larus marinus (A)
- Sooty tern, Onychoprion fuscatus (A)
- Bridled tern, Onychoprion anaethetus
- Little tern, Sternula albifrons
- Gull-billed tern, Gelochelidon nilotica
- Caspian tern, Hydroprogne caspia
- Black tern, Chlidonias niger
- White-winged tern, Chlidonias leucopterus
- Whiskered tern, Chlidonias hybrida
- Roseate tern, Sterna dougallii (A)
- Common tern, Sterna hirundo
- Arctic tern, Sterna paradisaea (A)
- White-cheeked tern, Sterna repressa
- Great crested tern, Thalasseus bergii (A)
- Sandwich tern, Thalasseus sandvicensis
- Lesser crested tern, Thalasseus bengalensis
- African skimmer, Rynchops flavirostris (A)
Tropicbirds
Order: Phaethontiformes Family: Phaethontidae
Tropicbirds are slender white birds of tropical oceans, with exceptionally long central tail feathers. Their heads and long wings have black markings.
- Red-billed tropicbird, Phaethon aethereus (A)
Loons
Order: Gaviiformes Family: Gaviidae
Loons, known as divers in Europe, are a group of aquatic birds found in many parts of North America and northern Europe. They are the size of a large duck or small goose, which they somewhat resemble in shape when swimming, but to which they are completely unrelated. There are 5 species worldwide and 2 species which occur in Israel.
- Red-throated loon, Gavia stellata (A)
- Arctic loon, Gavia arctica
- Pacific loon, Gavia pacifica (A)
Albatrosses
Order: Procellariiformes Family: Diomedeidae
The albatrosses are among the largest of flying birds, and the great albatrosses from the genus Diomedea have the largest wingspans of any extant birds.
- Shy albatross, Thalassarche cauta (A)
Southern storm-petrels
Order: Procellariiformes Family: Oceanitidae
The southern storm-petrels are relatives of the petrels and are the smallest seabirds. They feed on planktonic crustaceans and small fish picked from the surface, typically while hovering. The flight is fluttering and sometimes bat-like.
- Wilson's storm-petrel, Oceanites oceanicus (A)
Northern storm-petrels
Order: Procellariiformes Family: Hydrobatidae
The northern storm-petrels are relatives of the petrels and are the smallest seabirds. They feed on planktonic crustaceans and small fish picked from the surface, typically while hovering. The flight is fluttering and sometimes bat-like.
- Mediterranean storm-petrel, Hydrobates (pelagicus) melitensis (A)
- Leach's storm-petrel, Hydrobates leucorhous (A)
- Swinhoe's storm-petrel, Hydrobates monorhis
- Band-rumped storm-petrel, Hydrobates castro (A)
Shearwaters and petrels
Order: Procellariiformes Family: Procellariidae
The procellariids are the main group of medium-sized "true petrels", characterised by united nostrils with medium septum and a long outer functional primary.
- Fea's petrel, Pterodroma feae (A)
- Soft-plumaged petrel, Pterodroma mollis (A)
- Atlantic petrel, Pterodroma incerta (A)
- Streaked shearwater, Calonectris leucomelas (A)
- Cory's shearwater, Calonectris borealis
- Scopoli's shearwater, Calonectris diomedea
- Flesh-footed shearwater, Ardenna carneipes (A)
- Great shearwater, Ardenna gravis (A)
- Sooty shearwater, Ardenna griseus
- Manx shearwater, Puffinus puffinus (A)
- Yelkouan shearwater, Puffinus yelkouan
- Balearic shearwater, Puffinus mauretanicus (A)
- Barolo shearwater, Puffinus baroli (A)
- Tropical shearwater, Puffinus bailloni (A)
- Audubon's shearwater, Puffinus lherminieri (A)
- Persian shearwater, Puffinus persicus (A)
Storks
Order: Ciconiiformes Family: Ciconiidae
Storks are large, long-legged, long-necked, wading birds with long, stout bills. Storks are mute, but bill-clattering is an important mode of communication at the nest. Their nests can be large and may be reused for many years. Many species are migratory.
- Black stork, Ciconia nigra
- White stork, Ciconia ciconia
- Marabou stork, Leptoptilos crumenifer (A)
- Yellow-billed stork, Mycteria ibis (A)
Frigatebirds
Order: Suliformes Family: Fregatidae
Frigatebirds are large seabirds usually found over tropical oceans. They are large, black-and-white or completely black, with long wings and deeply forked tails. The males have coloured inflatable throat pouches. They do not swim or walk and cannot take off from a flat surface. Having the largest wingspan-to-body-weight ratio of any bird, they are essentially aerial, able to stay aloft for more than a week.
- Lesser frigatebird, Fregata ariel (A)
Boobies and gannets
Order: Suliformes Family: Sulidae
The sulids comprise the gannets and boobies. Both groups are medium to large coastal seabirds that plunge-dive for fish.
- Masked booby, Sula dactylatra (A)
- Brown booby, Sula leucogaster
- Northern gannet, Morus bassanus
Anhingas
Order: Suliformes Family: Anhingidae
Anhingas or darters are often called "snake-birds" because of their long thin neck, which gives a snake-like appearance when they swim with their bodies submerged. The males have black and dark-brown plumage, an erectile crest on the nape and a larger bill than the female. The females have much paler plumage especially on the neck and underparts. The darters have completely webbed feet and their legs are short and set far back on the body. Their plumage is somewhat permeable, like that of cormorants, and they spread their wings to dry after diving.
- African darter, Anhinga melanogaster (A)
Cormorants and shags
Order: Suliformes Family: Phalacrocoracidae
Phalacrocoracidae is a family of medium to large coastal, fish-eating seabirds that includes cormorants and shags. Plumage colouration varies, with the majority having mainly dark plumage, some species being black-and-white and a few being colourful.
- Pygmy cormorant, Microcarbo pygmeus
- Great cormorant, Phalacrocorax carbo
- European shag, Gulosus aristotelis (A)
Pelicans
Order: Pelecaniformes Family: Pelecanidae
Pelicans are large water birds with a distinctive pouch under their beak. As with other members of the order Pelecaniformes, they have webbed feet with four toes.
- Great white pelican, Pelecanus onocrotalus
- Pink-backed pelican, Pelecanus rufescens (A)
- Dalmatian pelican, Pelecanus crispus (A)
Herons, egrets, and bitterns
Order: Pelecaniformes Family: Ardeidae
The family Ardeidae contains the bitterns, herons and egrets. Herons and egrets are medium to large wading birds with long necks and legs. Bitterns tend to be shorter necked and more wary. Members of Ardeidae fly with their necks retracted, unlike other long-necked birds such as storks, ibises and spoonbills.
- Great bittern, Botaurus stellaris
- Little bittern, Ixobrychus minutus
- Gray heron, Ardea cinerea
- Black-headed heron, Ardea melanocephala (A)
- Goliath heron, Ardea goliath (A)
- Purple heron, Ardea purpurea
- Great egret, Ardea alba
- Intermediate egret, Egretta intermedia/Ardea brachyrhyncha (A)
- Little egret, Egretta garzetta
- Western reef-heron, Egretta gularis
- Black heron, Egretta ardesiaca (A)
- Western cattle egret, Ardea ibis
- Squacco heron, Ardeola ralloides
- Chinese pond-heron, Ardeola bacchus (A)
- Striated heron, Butorides striata
- Black-crowned night-heron, Nycticorax nycticorax
Ibises and spoonbills
Order: Pelecaniformes Family: Threskiornithidae
Threskiornithidae is a family of large terrestrial and wading birds which includes the ibises and spoonbills. They have long, broad wings with 11 primary and about 20 secondary feathers. They are strong fliers and despite their size and weight, very capable soarers.
- Glossy ibis, Plegadis falcinellus
- Northern bald ibis, Geronticus eremita (Ex/A)
- Eurasian spoonbill, Platalea leucorodia
Osprey
Order: Accipitriformes Family: Pandionidae
The family Pandionidae contains only one species, the osprey. The osprey is a medium-large raptor which is a specialist fish-eater with a worldwide distribution.
- Osprey, Pandion haliaetus
Hawks, eagles, and kites
Order: Accipitriformes Family: Accipitridae
Accipitridae is a family of birds of prey, which includes hawks, eagles, kites, harriers and Old World vultures. These birds have powerful hooked beaks for tearing flesh from their prey, strong legs, powerful talons and keen eyesight.
- Black-winged kite, Elanus caeruleus
- Bearded vulture, Gypaetus barbatus (Ex/A)
- Egyptian vulture, Neophron percnopterus
- European honey-buzzard, Pernis apivorus
- Oriental honey-buzzard, Pernis ptilorhynchus
- Cinereous vulture, Aegypius monachus
- Lappet-faced vulture, Torgos tracheliotos (Ex/A)
- White-backed vulture, Gyps africanus (A)
- Rüppell's griffon, Gyps rueppelli (A)
- Eurasian griffon, Gyps fulvus
- Bateleur, Terathopius ecaudatus (A)
- Short-toed snake-eagle, Circaetus gallicus
- Lesser spotted eagle, Clanga pomarina
- Greater spotted eagle, Clanga clanga
- Booted eagle, Hieraaetus pennatus
- Tawny eagle, Aquila rapax (A)
- Steppe eagle, Aquila nipalensis
- Imperial eagle, Aquila heliaca
- Golden eagle, Aquila chrysaetos
- Verreaux's eagle, Aquila verreauxii (Ex/A)
- Bonelli's eagle, Aquila fasciata
- Dark chanting-goshawk, Melierax metabates (A)
- Western marsh-harrier, Circus aeruginosus
- Hen harrier, Circus cyaneus
- Pallid harrier, Circus macrourus
- Montagu's harrier, Circus pygargus
- Shikra, Tachyspiza badia (A)
- Levant sparrowhawk, Tachyspiza brevipes
- Eurasian sparrowhawk, Accipiter nisus
- Eurasian goshawk, Accipiter gentilis
- Red kite, Milvus milvus (A)
- Black kite, Milvus migrans
- White-tailed eagle, Haliaeetus albicilla
- Rough-legged hawk, Buteo lagopus (A)
- Common buzzard, Buteo buteo
- Long-legged buzzard, Buteo rufinus
Barn-owls
Order: Strigiformes Family: Tytonidae
Barn-owls are medium to large owls with large heads and characteristic heart-shaped faces. They have long strong legs with powerful talons.
- Western barn owl, Tyto alba
Owls
Order: Strigiformes Family: Strigidae
The typical owls are small to large solitary nocturnal birds of prey. They have large forward-facing eyes and ears, a hawk-like beak and a conspicuous circle of feathers around each eye called a facial disk.
- Eurasian scops-owl, Otus scops
- Pallid scops-owl, Otus brucei
- Eurasian eagle-owl, Bubo bubo
- Pharaoh eagle-owl, Bubo ascalaphus
- Brown fish-owl, Ketupa zeylonensis (Ex)
- Little owl, Athene noctua
- Tawny owl, Strix aluco
- Desert owl, Strix hadorami
- Long-eared owl, Asio otus
- Short-eared owl, Asio flammeus
Hoopoes
Order: Bucerotiformes Family: Upupidae
Hoopoes have black, white and orangey-pink colouring with a large erectile crest on their head.
- Eurasian hoopoe, Upupa epops
Kingfishers
Order: Coraciiformes Family: Alcedinidae
Kingfishers are medium-sized birds with large heads, long, pointed bills, short legs and stubby tails.
- Common kingfisher, Alcedo atthis
- White-throated kingfisher, Halcyon smyrnensis
- Pied kingfisher, Ceryle rudis
Bee-eaters
Order: Coraciiformes Family: Meropidae
The bee-eaters are a group of near passerine birds in the family Meropidae. Most species are found in Africa but others occur in southern Europe, Madagascar, Australia and New Guinea. They are characterised by richly coloured plumage, slender bodies and usually elongated central tail feathers. All are colourful and have long downturned bills and pointed wings, which give them a swallow-like appearance when seen from afar.
- White-throated bee-eater, Merops albicollis (A)
- Arabian green bee-eater, Merops cyanophrys
- Blue-cheeked bee-eater, Merops persicus
- European bee-eater, Merops apiaster
Rollers
Order: Coraciiformes Family: Coraciidae
Rollers resemble crows in size and build, but are more closely related to the kingfishers and bee-eaters. They share the colourful appearance of those groups with blues and browns predominating. The two inner front toes are connected, but the outer toe is not.
- European roller, Coracias garrulus
- Broad-billed roller, Eurystomus glaucurus (A)
Woodpeckers
Order: Piciformes Family: Picidae
Woodpeckers are small to medium-sized birds with chisel-like beaks, short legs, stiff tails and long tongues used for capturing insects. Some species have feet with two toes pointing forward and two backward, while several species have only three toes. Many woodpeckers have the habit of tapping noisily on tree trunks with their beaks.
- Eurasian wryneck, Jynx torquilla
- Syrian woodpecker, Dendrocopos syriacus
Falcons and caracaras
Order: Falconiformes Family: Falconidae
Falconidae is a family of diurnal birds of prey. They differ from hawks, eagles and kites in that they kill with their beaks instead of their talons.
- Lesser kestrel, Falco naumanni
- Eurasian kestrel, Falco tinnunculus
- Red-footed falcon, Falco vespertinus
- Eleonora's falcon, Falco eleonorae
- Sooty falcon, Falco concolor
- Merlin, Falco columbarius
- Eurasian hobby, Falco subbuteo
- Lanner falcon, Falco biarmicus
- Saker falcon, Falco cherrug
- Peregrine falcon, Falco peregrinus
- Barbary falcon, Falco (peregrinus) pelgerinoides
Old World parrots
Order: Psittaciformes Family: Psittaculidae
Characteristic features of parrots include a strong curved bill, an upright stance, strong legs, and clawed zygodactyl feet. Many parrots are vividly colored, and some are multi-colored. In size they range from 8 cm (3.1 in) to 1 m (3.3 ft) in length. Old World parrots are found from Africa east across south and southeast Asia and Oceania to Australia and New Zealand.
- Rose-ringed parakeet, Psittacula krameri (I)
- Alexanderine parakeet, Psittacula eupatria (I)
African and new world parrots
Order: Psittaciformes Family: Psittacidae
Parrots are small to large birds with a characteristic curved beak. Their upper mandibles have slight mobility in the joint with the skull and they have a generally erect stance. All parrots are zygodactyl, having the four toes on each foot placed two at the front and two to the back. Most of the species in this family are found in the New World.
- Monk parakeet, Myiopsitta monachus (I)
- Nanday parakeet, Aratinga nenday (I)
- Senegal parrot, Poicephalus senegalus (I)
Old World orioles
Order: Passeriformes Family: Oriolidae
The Old World orioles are colourful passerine birds. They are not related to the New World orioles.
- Eurasian golden oriole, Oriolus oriolus
Drongos
Order: Passeriformes Family: Dicruridae
The drongos are mostly black or dark grey in colour, sometimes with metallic tints. They have long forked tails, and some Asian species have elaborate tail decorations. They have short legs and sit very upright when perched, like a shrike. They flycatch or take prey from the ground.
- Ashy drongo, Dicrurus leucophaeus (A)
Shrikes
Order: Passeriformes Family: Laniidae
Shrikes are passerine birds known for their habit of catching other birds and small animals and impaling the uneaten portions of their bodies on thorns. A typical shrike's beak is hooked, like a bird of prey.
- Red-backed shrike, Lanius collurio
- Red-tailed shrike, Lanius phoenicuroides (A)
- Isabelline shrike, Lanius isabellinus
- Long-tailed shrike, Lanius schach (A)
- Great gray shrike, Lanius excubitor
- Lesser gray shrike, Lanius minor
- Masked shrike, Lanius nubicus
- Woodchat shrike, Lanius senator
Crows, jays, and magpies
Order: Passeriformes Family: Corvidae
The family Corvidae includes crows, ravens, jays, choughs, magpies, treepies, nutcrackers and ground jays. Corvids are above average in size among the Passeriformes, and some of the larger species show high levels of intelligence.
- Eurasian jay, Garrulus glandarius
- Red-billed chough, Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax (A)
- Yellow-billed chough, Pyrrhocorax graculus (A)
- Eurasian jackdaw, Corvus monedula
- House crow, Corvus splendens (I)
- Rook, Corvus frugilegus
- Hooded crow, Corvus cornix
- Brown-necked raven, Corvus ruficollis
- Fan-tailed raven, Corvus rhipidurus
- Common raven, Corvus corax
Tits, chickadees, and titmice
Order: Passeriformes Family: Paridae
The Paridae are mainly small stocky woodland species with short stout bills. Some have crests. They are adaptable birds, with a mixed diet including seeds and insects.
- Coal tit, Periparus ater (A)
- Sombre tit, Poecile lugubris
- Great tit, Parus major
Penduline-tits
Order: Passeriformes Family: Remizidae
The penduline tits are a group of small passerine birds related to the true tits. They are insectivores. There are 13 species worldwide and 1 species which occurs in Israel.
- Eurasian penduline-tit, Remiz pendulinus
Larks
Order: Passeriformes Family: Alaudidae
Larks are small terrestrial birds with often extravagant songs and display flights. Most larks are fairly dull in appearance. Their food is insects and seeds.
- Greater hoopoe-lark, Alaemon alaudipes
- Thick-billed lark, Ramphocoris clotbey
- Bar-tailed lark, Ammomanes cincturus
- Desert lark, Ammomanes deserti
- Black-crowned sparrow-lark, Eremopterix nigriceps (A)
- Chestnut-headed sparrow-lark, Eremopterix signata (A)
- Horned lark, Eremophila alpestris
- Temminck's lark, Eremophila bilopha
- Greater short-toed lark, Calandrella brachydactyla
- Hume's short toed lark, Calandrella acutirostris (A)
- Bimaculated lark, Melanocorypha bimaculata
- Calandra lark, Melanocorypha calandra
- Arabian lark, Eremalauda eremodites
- Mediterranean short-toed lark, Alaudala rufescens
- Turkestan short-toed lark, Alaudala heinei (A)
- Wood lark, Lullula arborea
- Eurasian skylark, Alauda arvensis
- Oriental skylark, Alauda gulgula
- Crested lark, Galerida cristata
Bearded reedling
Order: Passeriformes Family: Panuridae
This species, the only one in its family, is found in reed beds throughout temperate Europe and Asia.
- Bearded reedling, Panurus biarmicus (A)
Cisticolas and allies
Order: Passeriformes Family: Cisticolidae
The Cisticolidae are warblers found mainly in warmer southern regions of the Old World. They are generally very small birds of drab brown or grey appearance found in open country such as grassland or scrub.
- Graceful prinia, Prinia gracilis
- Zitting cisticola, Cisticola juncidis
Reed warblers and allies
Order: Passeriformes Family: Acrocephalidae
The members of this family are usually rather large for "warblers". Most are rather plain olivaceous brown above with much yellow to beige below. They are usually found in open woodland, reedbeds, or tall grass. The family occurs mostly in southern to western Eurasia and surroundings, but it also ranges far into the Pacific, with some species in Africa.
- Booted warbler, Iduna caligata (A)
- Sykes's warbler, Iduna rama (A)
- Eastern olivaceous warbler, Iduna pallida
- Upcher's warbler, Hippolais languida
- Olive-tree warbler, Hippolais olivetorum
- Icterine warbler, Hippolais icterina
- Moustached warbler, Acrocephalus melanopogon
- Sedge warbler, Acrocephalus schoenobaenus
- Paddyfield warbler, Acrocephalus agricola (A)
- Blyth's reed warbler, Acrocephalus dumetorum (A)
- Marsh warbler, Acrocephalus palustris
- Eurasian reed warbler, Acrocephalus scirpaceus
- Basra reed warbler, Acrocephalus griseldis (A)
- Great reed warbler, Acrocephalus arundinaceus
- Oriental reed warbler, Acrocephalus orientalis (A)
- Clamorous reed warbler, Acrocephalus stentoreus
Grassbirds and allies
Order: Passeriformes Family: Locustellidae
Locustellidae are a family of small insectivorous songbirds found mainly in Eurasia, Africa, and the Australian region. They are smallish birds with tails that are usually long and pointed, and tend to be drab brownish or buffy all over.
- Pallas's grasshopper warbler, Helopsaltes certhiola (A)
- River warbler, Locustella fluviatilis
- Savi's warbler, Locustella luscinioides
- Common grasshopper-warbler, Locustella naevia (A)
Swallows
Order: Passeriformes Family: Hirundinidae
The family Hirundinidae is adapted to aerial feeding. They have a slender streamlined body, long pointed wings and a short bill with a wide gape. The feet are adapted to perching rather than walking, and the front toes are partially joined at the base.
- Gray-throated martin, Riparia chinensis (A)
- Bank swallow, Riparia riparia
- Eurasian crag-martin, Ptyonoprogne rupestris
- Rock martin, Ptyonoprogne fuligula
- Barn swallow, Hirundo rustica
- Ethiopian swallow, Hirundo aethiopica (A)
- European red-rumped swallow, Cecropis daurica
- Common house-martin, Delichon urbicum
- Asian house-martin, Delichon dasypus (A)
Bulbuls
Order: Passeriformes Family: Pycnonotidae
Bulbuls are medium-sized songbirds. Some are colourful with yellow, red or orange vents, cheeks, throats or supercilia, but most are drab, with uniform olive-brown to black plumage. Some species have distinct crests.
- White-spectacled bulbul, Pycnonotus xanthopygos
- White-eared bulbul, Pycnonotus leucotis (A)
Leaf warblers
Order: Passeriformes Family: Phylloscopidae
Leaf warblers are a family of small insectivorous birds found mostly in Eurasia and ranging into Wallacea and Africa. The species are of various sizes, often green-plumaged above and yellow below, or more subdued with greyish-green to greyish-brown colours.
- Wood warbler, Phylloscopus sibilatrix
- Eastern Bonelli's warbler, Phylloscopus orientalis
- Yellow-browed warbler, Phylloscopus inornatus
- Hume's warbler, Phylloscopus humei
- Pallas's leaf warbler, Phylloscopus proregulus (A)
- Radde's warbler, Phylloscopus schwarzi (A)
- Dusky warbler, Phylloscopus fuscatus (A)
- Willow warbler, Phylloscopus trochilus
- Mountain chiffchaff, Phylloscopus sindianus (A)
- Common chiffchaff, Phylloscopus collybita
- Green warbler, Phylloscopus nitidus (A)
- Arctic warbler, Phylloscopus borealis (A)
Bush warblers and allies
Order: Passeriformes Family: Scotocercidae
The members of this family are found throughout Africa, Asia, and Polynesia. Their taxonomy is in flux, and some authorities place some genera in other families.
- Scrub warbler, Scotocerca inquieta
- Cetti's warbler, Cettia cetti
Sylviid warblers, parrotbills, and allies
Order: Passeriformes Family: Sylviidae
The family Sylviidae is a group of small insectivorous passerine birds. They mainly occur as breeding species, as the common name implies, in Europe, Asia and, to a lesser extent, Africa. Most are of generally undistinguished appearance, but many have distinctive songs.
- Eurasian blackcap, Sylvia atricapilla
- Garden warbler, Sylvia borin
- African desert warbler, Curruca deserti (A)
- Asian desert warbler, Curruca nana
- Barred warbler, Curruca nisoria
- Lesser whitethroat, Curruca curruca
- Arabian warbler, Curruca leucomelaena
- Eastern Orphean warbler, Curruca crassirostris
- Cyprus warbler, Curruca melanothorax
- Menetries's warbler, Curruca mystacea (A)
- Rüppell's warbler, Curruca ruppeli
- Eastern subalpine warbler, Curruca cantillans
- Sardinian warbler, Curruca melanocephala
- Greater whitethroat, Curruca communis
- Spectacled warbler, Curruca conspicillata
Laughingthrushes and allies
Order: Passeriformes Family: Leiothrichidae
The members of this family are diverse in size and colouration, though those of genus Turdoides tend to be brown or greyish. The family is found in Africa, India, and southeast Asia.
- Arabian babbler, Argya squamiceps
Kinglets
Order: Passeriformes Family: Regulidae
The kinglets, also called crests, are a small group of birds often included in the Old World warblers, but frequently given family status because they also resemble the titmice.
- Goldcrest, Regulus regulus
- Common firecrest, Regulus ignicapilla (A)
Wallcreeper
Order: Passeriformes Family: Tichodromidae
The wallcreeper is a small bird related to the nuthatch family, which has stunning crimson, grey and black plumage.
- Wallcreeper, Tichodroma muraria
Nuthatches
Order: Passeriformes Family: Sittidae
Nuthatches are small woodland birds. They have the unusual ability to climb down trees head first, unlike other birds which can only go upwards. Nuthatches have big heads, short tails and powerful bills and feet.
- Western rock nuthatch, Sitta neumayer
Wrens
Order: Passeriformes Family: Troglodytidae
The wrens are mainly small and inconspicuous except for their loud songs. These birds have short wings and thin down-turned bills. Several species often hold their tails upright. All are insectivorous.
- Eurasian wren, Troglodytes troglodytes
Starlings
Order: Passeriformes Family: Sturnidae
Starlings are small to medium-sized passerine birds. Their flight is strong and direct and they are very gregarious. Their preferred habitat is fairly open country. They eat insects and fruit. Plumage is typically dark with a metallic sheen.
- European starling, Sturnus vulgaris
- Rosy starling, Pastor roseus
- Common myna, Acridotheres tristis (I)
- Vinous-breasted myna, Acridotheres leucocephalus (I)
- Tristram's starling, Onychognathus tristramii
Thrushes and allies
Order: Passeriformes Family: Turdidae
The thrushes are a group of passerine birds that occur mainly in the Old World. They are plump, soft plumaged, small to medium-sized insectivores or sometimes omnivores, often feeding on the ground. Many have attractive songs.
- Mistle thrush, Turdus viscivorus
- Song thrush, Turdus philomelos
- Redwing, Turdus iliacus
- Eurasian blackbird, Turdus merula
- Eyebrowed thrush, Turdus obscurus (A)
- Fieldfare, Turdus pilaris
- Ring ouzel, Turdus torquatus
- Black-throated thrush, Turdus atrogularis (A)
- Dusky thrush, Turdus eunomus (A)
Old World flycatchers
Order: Passeriformes Family: Muscicapidae
Old World flycatchers are a large group of small passerine birds native to the Old World. They are mainly small arboreal insectivores. The appearance of these birds is highly varied, but they mostly have weak songs and harsh calls.
- Spotted flycatcher, Muscicapa striata
- Black scrub-robin, Cercotrichas podobe
- Rufous-tailed scrub-robin, Cercotrichas galactotes
- European robin, Erithacus rubecula
- White-throated robin, Irania gutturalis
- Thrush nightingale, Luscinia luscinia
- Common nightingale, Luscinia megarhynchos
- Bluethroat, Luscinia svecica
- Red-flanked bluetail, Tarsiger cyanurus (A)
- Red-breasted flycatcher, Ficedula parva
- Semicollared flycatcher, Ficedula semitorquata
- European pied flycatcher, Ficedula hypoleuca
- Collared flycatcher, Ficedula albicollis
- Rufous-backed redstart, Phoenicurus erythronota (A)
- Common redstart, Phoenicurus phoenicurus
- Black redstart, Phoenicurus ochruros
- Rufous-tailed rock-thrush, Monticola saxatilis
- Blue rock-thrush, Monticola solitarius
- Whinchat, Saxicola rubetra
- European stonechat, Saxicola rubicola
- Siberian stonechat, Saxicola maurus
- Pied bushchat, Saxicola caprata (A)
- Northern wheatear, Oenanthe oenanthe
- Isabelline wheatear, Oenanthe isabellina
- Hooded wheatear, Oenanthe monacha
- Desert wheatear, Oenanthe deserti
- Pied wheatear, Oenanthe pleschanka
- Eastern black-eared wheatear, Oenanthe melanoleuca
- Cyprus wheatear, Oenanthe cypriaca
- Red-rumped wheatear, Oenanthe moesta (A)
- Blackstart, Oenanthe melanura
- White-crowned wheatear, Oenanthe leucopyga
- Finsch's wheatear, Oenanthe finschii
- Mourning wheatear, Oenanthe lugens
- Basalt wheatear, Oenanthe warriae (A)
- Kurdish wheatear, Oenanthe xanthoprymna
- Persian wheatear, Oenanthe chrysopygia (A)
Waxwings
Order: Passeriformes Family: Bombycillidae
The waxwings are a group of birds with soft silky plumage and unique red tips to some of the wing feathers. In the Bohemian and cedar waxwings, these tips look like sealing wax and give the group its name. These are arboreal birds of northern forests. They live on insects in summer and berries in winter.
- Bohemian waxwing, Bombycilla garrulus (A)
Hypocolius
Order: Passeriformes Family: Hypocoliidae
The grey hypocolius is a small Middle Eastern bird with the shape and soft plumage of a waxwing. They are mainly a uniform grey colour except the males have a black triangular mask around their eyes.
- Hypocolius, Hypocolius ampelinus (A)
Sunbirds and spiderhunters
Order: Passeriformes Family: Nectariniidae
The sunbirds and spiderhunters are very small passerine birds which feed largely on nectar, although they will also take insects, especially when feeding young. Flight is fast and direct on their short wings. Most species can take nectar by hovering like a hummingbird, but usually perch to feed.
- Palestine sunbird, Cinnyris oseus
Waxbills and allies
Order: Passeriformes Family: Estrildidae
The estrildid finches are small passerine birds of the Old World tropics and Australasia. They are gregarious and often colonial seed eaters with short thick but pointed bills. They are all similar in structure and habits, but have wide variation in plumage colours and patterns.
- Common waxbill, Estrilda astrild (I)
- Indian silverbill, Euodice malabarica (I)
Accentors
Order: Passeriformes Family: Prunellidae
The accentors are in the only bird family, Prunellidae, which is completely endemic to the Palearctic. They are small, fairly drab species superficially similar to sparrows.
- Alpine accentor, Prunella collaris (A)
- Radde's accentor, Prunella ocularis
- Black-throated accentor, Prunella atrogularis (A)
- Dunnock, Prunella modularis
Old World sparrows
Order: Passeriformes Family: Passeridae
Old World sparrows are small passerine birds. In general, sparrows tend to be small, plump, brown or grey birds with short tails and short powerful beaks. Sparrows are seed eaters, but they also consume small insects.
- House sparrow, Passer domesticus
- Spanish sparrow, Passer hispaniolensis
- Dead Sea sparrow, Passer moabiticus
- Eurasian tree sparrow, Passer montanus (A)
- Yellow-throated sparrow, Gymnoris xanthocollis (A)
- Rock sparrow, Petronia petronia
- Pale rockfinch, Carpospiza brachydactyla
Wagtails and pipits
Order: Passeriformes Family: Motacillidae
Motacillidae is a family of small passerine birds with medium to long tails. They include the wagtails, longclaws and pipits. They are slender, ground feeding insectivores of open country.
- Gray wagtail, Motacilla cinerea
- Western yellow wagtail, Motacilla flava
- Citrine wagtail, Motacilla citreola
- White wagtail, Motacilla alba
- Richard's pipit, Anthus richardi
- Long-billed pipit, Anthus similis
- Blyth's pipit, Anthus godlewskii (A)
- Tawny pipit, Anthus campestris
- Meadow pipit, Anthus pratensis
- Tree pipit, Anthus trivialis
- Olive-backed pipit, Anthus hodgsoni
- Red-throated pipit, Anthus cervinus
- Water pipit, Anthus spinoletta
- Siberian pipit, Anthus japonicus
Finches, euphonias, and allies
Order: Passeriformes Family: Fringillidae
Finches are seed-eating passerine birds, that are small to moderately large and have a strong beak, usually conical and in some species very large. All have twelve tail feathers and nine primaries. These birds have a bouncing flight with alternating bouts of flapping and gliding on closed wings, and most sing well.
- Common chaffinch, Fringilla coelebs
- Brambling, Fringilla montifringilla
- Hawfinch, Coccothraustes coccothraustes
- Common rosefinch, Carpodacus erythrinus
- Sinai rosefinch, Carpodacus synoicus
- Crimson-winged finch, Rhodopechys sanguineus
- Trumpeter finch, Bucanetes githaginea
- Desert finch, Rhodospiza obsoleta
- European greenfinch, Chloris chloris
- Eurasian linnet, Linaria cannabina
- Red crossbill, Loxia curvirostra (A)
- European goldfinch, Carduelis carduelis
- European serin, Serinus serinus
- Fire-fronted serin, Serinus pusillus (A)
- Syrian serin, Serinus syriacus
- Eurasian siskin, Spinus spinus
Longspurs and snow buntings
Order: Passeriformes Family: Calcariidae
The Calcariidae are a group of passerine birds which had been traditionally grouped with the New World sparrows, but differ in a number of respects and are usually found in open grassy areas.
- Snow bunting, Plectrophenax nivalis (A)
Old World buntings
Order: Passeriformes Family: Emberizidae
The emberizids are a large family of passerine birds. They are seed-eating birds with distinctively shaped bills. Many emberizid species have distinctive head patterns.
- Black-headed bunting, Emberiza melanocephala
- Red-headed bunting, Emberiza bruniceps (A)
- Corn bunting, Emberiza calandra
- Rock bunting, Emberiza cia
- Yellowhammer, Emberiza citrinella
- Pine bunting, Emberiza leucocephalos
- Cinereous bunting, Emberiza cineracea
- Ortolan bunting, Emberiza hortulana
- Cretzschmar's bunting, Emberiza caesia
- Striolated bunting, Emberiza striolata
- Reed bunting, Emberiza schoeniclus
- Yellow-breasted bunting, Emberiza aureola (A)
- Little bunting, Emberiza pusilla
- Rustic bunting, Emberiza rustica
- Black-faced bunting, Emberiza spodocephala (A)
- Chestnut bunting, Emberiza rutila (A)
See also
References
- "Caring, but not kosher, national bird for Israel". NBC News. May 29, 2008. Retrieved November 7, 2023.
- "About The Israeli Rarities and Distribution Committee (IRDC)". Israbirding.com. Retrieved 2022-11-07.
- Kraft, Martin (2004). "Israel — an Intercontinental Highway for Migrating Birds". Biological Resources and Migration. doi:10.1007/978-3-662-06083-4_23.
- Perlman, Yoav; Granit, B.; Cohen, A. (2017). "Changes in the breeding avifauna of Israel during 2003–2016". Zoology in the Middle East. 63: 16–28. doi:10.1080/09397140.2017.1290824.
- Ashkenazi, S.; Dimentman, C. (1998). "Foraging, roosting, and nesting habitats of the avian fauna of the Agmon wetland, northern Israel". Wetlands Ecology and Management. 6: 169–187. doi:10.1023/A:1008488607329.
- Roll, U.; Dayan, T.; Simberloff, D. (2008). "Non-indigenous terrestrial vertebrates in Israel and adjacent areas". Biological Invasions. 10: 659–672. doi:10.1007/s10530-007-9160-7.
- Shmueli, M.; Izhaki, I.; Arieli, A.; Arad, Z. (2000). "Energy requirements of migrating Great White Pelicans Pelecanus onocrotalus". Ibis. 142: 208–216. doi:10.1111/J.1474-919X.2000.TB04860.X.
- BirdLife International. (2018). "Geronticus eremita". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2018: e.T22697488A130895601. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2018-2.RLTS.T22697488A130895601.en. Retrieved 20 June 2021.
- Gill, F. and D. Donsker (Eds). 2019. IOC World Bird List (v 9.2). doi:10.14344/IOC.ML.9.2. http://www.worldbirdnames.org/ retrieved 22 June 2019.
- Clements, James F. (2000). Birds of the World: A Checklist. Cornell University Press. p. 880. ISBN 0-934797-16-1.
- Arnold, Paula (1962). Birds of Israel (in Hebrew and English). Shalit Publishers Ltd., Haifa, Israel pp. 106.