Rosy-faced lovebird (Agapornis roseicollis): From wild parrot to “mango bird”

Rosy-faced lovebird (Agapornis roseicollis)

The rosy-faced lovebird (Agapornis roseicollis) is a small, social parrot native to southwestern Africa, known for its strong monogamous pair bonds and adaptability to arid environments. While wild populations have a green body with a rosy-pink face, selective breeding in captivity has produced various color mutations, including the popular lutino variety, sometimes informally referred to […]

32 of the world’s ugliest and creepiest birds, and why they look so strange

Jabiru (Jabiru mycteria)

Some birds look more like nightmares than nature’s creations. The marabou stork, with its hunched vulture-like stance and bald, wrinkled head, is one of the ugliest scavengers in the animal kingdom, while the shoebill’s eerie, unblinking stare makes it downright scary. The wide-eyed potoo looks permanently creepy, and the southern screamer is both goofy and […]

Antioquia brushfinch (Atlapetes blancae): From extinction fears to second chance

Antioquia brushfinch (Atlapetes blancae)

The Antioquia brushfinch (Atlapetes blancae) is a medium-sized passerine bird endemic to Colombia, inhabiting montane shrubland and forest edges in the northern Andes. Known only from a few collected specimens, it was long considered extinct until its rediscovery in 2018 near San Pedro de los Milagros. Recent surveys estimate a total population of up to […]

Great Indian bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps): Vanishing giant of the grasslands

male great Indian bustard

The great Indian bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) is one of the heaviest flying birds and a critically endangered species native to the dry grasslands of India and Pakistan. Once widespread, its population has plummeted to fewer than 200 individuals due to habitat loss, hunting, and human encroachment. Conservation efforts are underway, but the species remains on […]

Cone-billed tanager (Conothraupis mesoleuca): Rediscovered rarity at risk

male cone-billed tanager (Conothraupis mesoleuca)

The cone-billed tanager (Conothraupis mesoleuca) is a rare and elusive bird species endemic to Brazil. First described in 1939, it remained undetected for 65 years before its rediscovery in 2003 in Emas National Park, Goiás. Additional populations have since been identified, but its distribution remains highly fragmented. Due to habitat destruction and limited known populations, […]

New bird species discovered in the last 25 years (Ongoing report)

Over the last 25 years, advancements in field research, bioacoustics, and genetic analysis have significantly enhanced our ability to identify and classify new bird species. Since 2000, ornithologists have documented a remarkable number of previously unrecognized species, expanding our understanding of avian biodiversity across diverse ecosystems, from isolated mountain ranges and dense rainforests to understudied […]

18 smartest birds in the world and how their intelligence is measured

New Caledonian crow handling a twig

Bird intelligence reveals remarkable abilities in problem-solving, tool use, complex communication, and even self-awareness. Scientists measure this through behavioral experiments like problem-solving tasks, memory tests, and social interactions. Among the most intelligent birds are corvids (crows, ravens, magpies), parrots (African greys, keas), and surprising species like pigeons and woodpecker finches. Their cognitive feats in both […]

Crow spiritual meaning and symbolism in world’s folklore

crow illustration

The crow has long been a symbol of intelligence, transformation, and mystery in folklore across various cultures. Often associated with omens, trickery, and messages from the spirit world, the crow’s distinctive appearance and behavior have inspired countless myths that reflect both reverence and superstition. In this article, we will explore the most significant stories and […]