There are so many species of birds in the world, it’s pretty staggering. From giant birds too heavy to fly to birds not even up to 3 inches in size, there are just so many species of birds to see and watch, it’s almost impossible to count. Some of these birds, like the Penguins and Flamingos, are popularly known birds. Others, however, are more exotic and unique.

 

In this blog, we would be introducing you to a list of some of these unique ─ but absolutely wonderful ─ birds you (probably) never knew existed.

1. Helena/Bee Hummingbird: The Tiniest Bird In Existence

When you think “small bird”, you probably never think “bee-sized small bird”. This, however, is exactly what the bee or helena hummingbird happens to be.

 

The smallest bird in recorded history, the bee hummingbird is a very, very tiny species of hummingbirds we all know and have come to love. Its small size does nothing to diminish the beauty of these marvelous birds though. With its beautiful, near iridescent plumage (usually coming in blues and greens), these birds are an absolute marvel to watch.

 

Wondering where you can find these tiny beauties? Why not check out the Cuban island Ilsa de la Juventud. These birds can often be seen flying around from flower to flower. Though tiny, these birds have a ravenous appetite and can pollinate up to 1500 plants a day!

 

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2. Male Golden Pheasant: So Many Colours!

Alright, let’s face it, have you seen a bird this artistically made? Blessed with all the colors we love to see in our birds ─ the golds, reds, oranges, and blues ─ these birds are really a serious work of art.

 

The male golden pheasant looks like a chimera of sorts ─ a body almost similar to that of a chicken, feathers at the upper back that look like scales, and tail feathers that look like they belong to another, much bigger bird ─ and this probably adds even more to the bird's appeal.

 

Originally native to forests in the mountainous regions of western China, these birds have been established in other parts of the world and can be found in places like the UK, US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, Malaysia, New Zealand, France, Netherlands, etc.

3. Vulturine Guineafowl: Has There Ever Been A Vulture This Goodlooking?

Think all guinea fowls have only black feathers spotted with white, or that a bird being referred to as vulture-like would not be pretty? Well, think again. The Vulturine guineafowl is a rather beautiful looking bird with a cape of long and glossy blue and white hackles, and a breast of rich cobalt blue.

 

These birds are native to northwestern Africa and can be found in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania.

4. Roseate Spoonbill: That Spoon Has A Nose!

When you think about the different kinds of bills birds could have, you probably never think of one that looks like a spoon! That’s exactly what you see when you look at the Roseate Spoonbill, however. A large big spoon-shaped bill. If this doesn’t count as unique, what else does?

 

These birds can be found east of the Andes in South America, and are known to feed in groups.

5. Male Greater Sage-Grouse: You Have Never Seen A Bird Like Me.

Now here’s one very strange kind bird. Seriously, these birds are so strange, we don’t even know where to start. Everything about this bird is just strange. From its tail feathers which fan out and stick up behind the bird like the leaves of a plant to the two egg-like protrusions on the bird’s breast when it inflates its gular sac, this is definitely a very unique bird.

The greater sage grouse can be found in western United States and southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, Canada.

6. Marabou Stork: You Don’t Want To Mess With These Guys.

Now you might be thinking, Oh no, Birdtitude guys! Who doesn’t know the storks? Well, while this bird is a member of the stork family, it sure isn’t one of those cute little birdies delivering babies for the baby factory. In fact, this bird is not cute, or little.

Standing at about 5 feet and with one of the meanest looking bird-faces you could ever find, this bird is more likely to freak you out than to considered cute.

Marabou Storks can be found in Central-Eastern Africa.

7. Rhinoceros Hornbill: As If The Beak Wasn’t Enough

If you were told some birds had horns, you’d probably have argued that fact. In this case, though, you would have been wrong. The Rhinoceros Hornbill really does have a horn! Or more specifically, this bird has a horn-like protrusion stuck atop its bill. This “horn” looks so much like that of a rhinoceros, it could actually be a rhino’s horn glued to the top of the bird’s head!

The Rhinoceros Hornbill is black in color with a yellow-and-white-colored bill and horn. This bird is native to Southeast Asia.

8. Inca Tern: Easy On The Mustache Would You?!

When you think of things men and birds can have in common, you probably never imagine a mustache would be one of them. Well, that’s yet another thing you didn’t know about birds ─ some of them can grow some pretty dashing mustache to attract the ladies  (aren’t they just full of surprises!) The Inca tarn is one of these birds.

Native to Peru and Chile, these seabirds are pretty unique and beautiful. Red beaked with glossy black/grey feathers, yellow “lips”, and that absolutely cute mustache, these birds are a must see.

9. Magnificent Frigatebird: Gaze Upon My Magnificence And Be Amazed!

When most people think of birds, they think sleek bodies, a beak, and feathers. They definitely don’t think big red balloon-like protrusion. For the Magnificent Frigatebird though, this is part of their identity. The males of these species inflate their gular pouch, just like the Male Greater Sage-Grouse in other to attract potential mates.

These black seabirds can be found around the Pacific and Atlantic coasts.

10. Long-Wattled Umbrellabird: Just In Case It Rains.

Think you have seen it all? Well, what do you think about a bird with an umbrella attached to its chest! Ok, that’s not an umbrella. It sure looks like one though.

The Long-Wattled Umbrellabird is a completely black bird with an umbrella-like large crest that hangs down the bird’s neck. This “umbrella” isn’t the only thing unique about this bird tough… (just look at that beautiful hairstyle!)

The Long-Wattled Umbrellabird can be found in the Sub-Saharan regions Of Africa.

So there you have it ─ ten birds so unusual, you probably don’t believe it even now. But who can blame you?! Birds with mustaches and umbrellas? Birds so small, they could be mistaken for bees?!

 

Who could believe such a thing?

 

Well, here’s the good news. You don’t need to believe us ─ you simply need to see for yourself! So what are you waiting for? Book an expedition to any of the destinations listed above and keep your eyes open. Who knows, you just might get a real treat!