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Discover the World of Birds

Your comprehensive guide to identifying and learning about birds from around the world. Explore thousands of species with detailed information and stunning images.

Browse all birds

Featured Birds

Explore our handpicked selection of remarkable bird species from around the globe.

Bald Eagle perched on a branch
FeaturedLeast Concern
Birds of Prey

Bald Eagle

Haliaeetus leucocephalus

The national bird of the United States, known for its white head and powerful build.

70-102 cm
Golden Eagle in flight
FeaturedLeast Concern
Birds of Prey

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

One of the best-known birds of prey in the Northern Hemisphere.

66-102 cm
Peregrine Falcon on a perch
FeaturedLeast Concern
Birds of Prey

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

The fastest bird in the world, capable of speeds over 240 mph.

34-58 cm
Barn Owl in flight
FeaturedLeast Concern
Nocturnal Birds

Barn Owl

Tyto alba

The most widely distributed species of owl.

32-40 cm
Snowy Owl on snow
FeaturedVulnerable
Nocturnal Birds

Snowy Owl

Bubo scandiacus

A large, white owl native to Arctic regions.

52-71 cm
Greater Flamingo standing in water
FeaturedLeast Concern
Water Birds

Greater Flamingo

Phoenicopterus roseus

The most widespread species of flamingo.

110-150 cm
Indian Peafowl displaying feathers
FeaturedLeast Concern
Tropical Birds

Indian Peafowl

Pavo cristatus

Known for its spectacular iridescent tail feathers.

100-115 cm
Toco Toucan on a branch
FeaturedLeast Concern
Tropical Birds

Toco Toucan

Ramphastos toco

The largest and most recognizable toucan species.

55-65 cm
Scarlet Macaw on a tree
FeaturedLeast Concern
Tropical Birds

Scarlet Macaw

Ara macao

One of the most beautiful parrots in the world.

81-96 cm
Emperor Penguin on ice
FeaturedNear Threatened
Flightless Birds

Emperor Penguin

Aptenodytes forsteri

The tallest and heaviest of all living penguin species.

100-122 cm
Wood Duck on water
FeaturedLeast Concern
Water Birds

Wood Duck

Aix sponsa

One of the most stunningly colorful of all waterfowl.

47-54 cm
Northern Cardinal perched
FeaturedLeast Concern
Songbirds

Northern Cardinal

Cardinalis cardinalis

A popular and easily recognized songbird.

21-23 cm
Atlantic Puffin
FeaturedVulnerable
Water Birds

Atlantic Puffin

Fratercula arctica

The "sea parrot" of the North Atlantic.

26-29 cm
Kakapo on the ground
FeaturedCritically Endangered
Flightless Birds

Kakapo

Strigops habroptilus

A unique, flightless parrot from New Zealand.

58-64 cm

How to Identify Birds

Learn key features and characteristics that help identify different bird species.

1

Observe Size and Shape

Note the bird's overall size, body shape and proportions. Compare it to familiar birds to get a sense of scale.

2

Look for Colors and Patterns

Pay attention to the bird's plumage colors, patterns and any distinctive markings on the head, wings or tail.

3

Watch Behavior and Habitat

Notice how the bird moves, feeds and interacts with its environment. Habitat can also provide important clues.

4

Listen to Calls and Songs

Many birds can be identified by their unique vocalizations. Learn to recognize common calls and songs.

Start Your Birding Journey

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced birder, our comprehensive database has something for everyone.