For some reason or other, birding and birdwatching are often looked at as hobbies for weirdos, eccentrics, or otherwise unpopular people. But that stereotype is far from being true. First of all, there are incredible global communities and conventions dedicated to that subject, and secondly, birds are fierce. It’s almost as if those who started the stereotype were just jealous because birds can fly and they can’t. Now, most of the time we know the local variety of common birds where we live, but once you travel to a different country, the destination’s urban birds appear exotic to you. The following four birds might seem pretty bland to those who see them all the time, but for you, the traveler, they will look like an exciting piece of nature you get to experience.
Kererū in New Zealand
The kererū is a type of local pigeon living in New Zealand. Other than its glossy, regal coat of feathers, this beautiful, chubby bird also plays a great part in the local ecosystem, by dispersing the seeds of local fauna. The best thing about this pigeon is the effect that its diet has on its behavior. You see, after it eats its regular fruit, it likes to soak up some sun, which in turn, causes the eaten fruit to ferment in the bird’s digestive system, produce alcohol, and effectively get the kererū drunk. Just like that one friend from college, those drunk birds will have a hard time walking straight and might even fall off their perch. It’s adorable.
Rose-ringed parakeet in Israel
Interestingly, the rose-ringed parakeet is not native to Israel. It’s incredibly common in this Middle Eastern country, though as an invasive species. Those beautiful green parrots came to Israel decades ago and now take over the trees where the local birds live in enormous packs. Travelers who aren’t in the know of the power play can happily gaze at those green beauties as they flutter around the big central cities and popular parks.
Great kiskadee in Argentina
Look for some great kiskadees on your next trip to Argentina. In fact, you don’t really have to look for them. They will find you. Sure, you have more chances of encountering one if you go on a hike, preferably near a body of water, but these little guys are also common in the cities and suburbs. If you’d like to attract some of these to where you’re staying, try setting up a bird feeder outside your window, and stock it up with banana, peanut butter, or even just plain bread.
Black drongo in Malaysia
Don’t let the forked tail fool you — this is not your plain old swallow. The black drongo is common in Malaysia, and if you happen to be around an area that has farmlands or livestock, you are sure to see lots of them. Much smaller than a crow, they will absolutely give on a run for its money in terms of aggression. You don’t want to get blacklisted by a black drongo!
