data.js

module.exports = [{
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Aix galericulata",
    "common_name": "Mandarin Duck",
    "wiki_name": "mandarin_duck",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/43/Pair_of_mandarin_ducks.jpg",
    "description": "The mandarin duck (Aix galericulata) is a perching duck species found in East Asia. It is medium-sized, at 41–49 cm (16–19 in) long with a 65–75 cm (26–30 in) wingspan. It is closely related to the North American wood duck, the only other member of the genus Aix. Aix is an Ancient Greek word used by Aristotle to refer to an unknown diving bird, and galericulata is the Latin for a wig, derived from galerum, a cap or bonnet."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Turdus iliacus",
    "common_name": "Redwing",
    "wiki_name": "redwing",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c1/Redwing_Turdus_iliacus.jpg",
    "description": "The redwing (Turdus iliacus) is a bird in the thrush family, Turdidae, native to Europe and Asia, slightly smaller than the related song thrush.\n\n"
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Columba livia (feral)",
    "common_name": "Feral Pigeon",
    "wiki_name": "feral_pigeon",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4d/Rock_Pigeon_Columba_livia.jpg",
    "description": "Feral pigeons (Columba livia domestica), also called city doves, city pigeons, or street pigeons, are pigeons that are derived from the domestic pigeons that have returned to the wild. The domestic pigeon was originally bred from the wild rock dove, which naturally inhabits sea-cliffs and mountains. Rock (i.e., \"wild\"), domestic, and feral pigeons are all the same species and will readily interbreed. Feral pigeons find the ledges of buildings to be a substitute for sea cliffs, have become adapted to urban life, and are abundant in towns and cities throughout much of the world."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Aythya fuligula",
    "common_name": "Tufted Duck",
    "wiki_name": "tufted_duck",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/eb/Tufted-Duck-male-female.jpg",
    "description": "The Tufted duck (Aythya fuligula) is a small diving duck with a population of close to one million birds. The scientific name is derived from Ancient Greek aithuia an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors including Hesychius and Aristotle, and Latin, fuligo \"soot\" and gula \"throat\"."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Mergus merganser",
    "common_name": "Goosander",
    "wiki_name": "common_merganser",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/be/Mergus_merganser_-Sandwell_-England_-male-8.jpg",
    "description": "The common merganser (North American) or goosander (Eurasian) (Mergus merganser) is a large duck of rivers and lakes in forested areas of Europe, northern and central Asia, and North America. The genus name is a Latin word used by Pliny and other Roman authors to refer to an unspecified waterbird, and merganser is derived from mergus and anser, Latin for \"goose\"\nThe common merganser eats fish and nests in holes in trees. John James Audubon also used the name \"Buff-breasted Merganser\" (in addition to \"goosander\") in his book The Birds of America."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Branta canadensis",
    "common_name": "Canada Goose",
    "wiki_name": "canada_goose",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e6/Kanadagans_Branta_canadensis.jpg",
    "description": "The Canada goose (Branta canadensis) is a large wild goose species with a black head and neck, white patches on the face, and a brown body. Native to arctic and temperate regions of North America, its migration occasionally reaches northern Europe. It has been introduced to the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile, and the Falkland Islands. Like most geese, the Canada goose is primarily herbivorous and normally migratory; it tends to be found on or close to fresh water.\nExtremely successful at living in human-altered areas, Canada geese have proven able to establish breeding colonies in urban and cultivated areas, which provide food and few natural predators, and are well known as a common park species. Their success has led to them often being considered a pest species because of their depredation of crops and issues with their noise, droppings, aggressive territorial behavior, and habit of begging for food, especially in their introduced range. Canada geese are also among the most commonly hunted waterfowl in North America."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Anas platyrhynchos",
    "common_name": "Mallard",
    "wiki_name": "mallard",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bf/Anas_platyrhynchos_male_female_quadrat.jpg",
    "description": "The mallard (/ˈmælɑːrd/ or /ˈmælərd/) or wild duck (Anas platyrhynchos) is a dabbling duck which breeds throughout the temperate and subtropical Americas, Europe, Asia, and North Africa, and has been introduced to New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, the Falkland Islands and South Africa. This duck belongs to the subfamily Anatinae of the waterfowl family Anatidae.\n\nThe male birds (drakes) have a glossy green head and are grey on wings and belly, while the females (hens or ducks) have mainly brown-speckled plumage. Both sexes have an area of white-bordered black speculum feathers which commonly also include iridescent blue feathers especially among males. Mallards live in wetlands, eat water plants and small animals, and are social animals preferring to congregate in groups or flocks of varying sizes. This species is the main ancestor of most breeds of domesticated ducks."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Columba palumbus",
    "common_name": "Woodpigeon",
    "wiki_name": "common_wood_pigeon",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f5/Columba_palumbus_-garden_post-8.jpg",
    "description": "The common wood pigeon (Columba palumbus) is a large species in the dove and pigeon family. It belongs to the Columba genus and, like all pigeons and doves, belongs to the family Columbidae. It is locally known in southeast England as the \"culver\"; This name has given rise to several areas known for keeping pigeons to be named after it, such as Culver Down.\nThe genus name Columba is the Latin word meaning \"pigeon, dove\", whose older etymology comes from the Ancient Greek κόλυμβος (kolumbos), \"a diver\", from κολυμβάω (kolumbao), \"dive, plunge headlong, swim\". Aristophanes (Birds, 304) and others use the word κολυμβίς (kolumbis), \"diver\", for the name of the bird, because of its swimming motion in the air. The specific epithet palumbus is derived from the Latin palumbes, \"wood pigeon\"."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Anser brachyrhynchus",
    "common_name": "Pink-footed Goose",
    "wiki_name": "pink-footed_goose",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fe/Anser_brachyrhynchus.jpg",
    "description": "The pink-footed goose (Anser brachyrhynchus) is a goose which breeds in eastern Greenland, Iceland and Svalbard. It is migratory, wintering in northwest Europe, especially Ireland, Great Britain, the Netherlands, and western Denmark. The name is often abbreviated in colloquial usage to \"pinkfoot\" (plural \"pinkfeet\"). Anser is the Latin for \"goose\", and brachyrhynchus comes from the Greek brakhus \"short\" and rhunkhos \"bill\".\nIt is a medium-sized goose, 60–75 cm (24–30 in) long, the wingspan 135–170 cm (53–67 in), and weighing 1.8–3.4 kg (4.0–7.5 lb). It has a short bill, bright pink in the middle with a black base and tip, and pink feet. The body is mid-grey-brown, the head and neck a richer, darker brown, the rump and vent white, and the tail grey with a broad white tip. The upper wing-coverts are of a somewhat similar pale bluish-grey as in the greylag goose, and the flight feathers blackish-grey. The species is most closely related to the bean goose Anser fabalis (having even been treated as a subspecies of it at times in the past), sharing a similar black-and-coloured pattern bill, but differing in having pink on the bill and legs where the bean goose is orange, and in the paler, greyer plumage tones. It is similar in size to the small rossicus subspecies of bean goose, but distinctly smaller than the nominate subspecies fabalis. It produces a medley of high-pitched honking calls, being particularly vocal in flight, with large skeins being almost deafening."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Chroicocephalus ridibundus",
    "common_name": "Black-headed Gull",
    "wiki_name": "black-headed_gull",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/29/Chroicocephalus_ridibundus_%28summer%29.jpg",
    "description": "The black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) is a small gull that breeds in much of Europe and Asia, and also in coastal eastern Canada. Most of the population is migratory and winters further south, but some birds reside in the milder westernmost areas of Europe. Some black-headed gulls also spend the winter in northeastern North America, where it was formerly known as the common black-headed gull. As is the case with many gulls, it was previously placed in the genus Larus.\nThe genus name Chroicocephalus is from Ancient Greek khroizo, \"to colour\", and kephale, \"head\". The specific ridibundus is Latin for \"laughing\", from ridere \"to laugh\"."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Pica pica",
    "common_name": "Magpie",
    "wiki_name": "magpie",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e7/Magpie_arp.jpg",
    "description": "Magpies are birds of the Corvidae (crow) family, including the black and white Eurasian magpie, which is considered one of the most intelligent animals in the world, and the only non-mammal species able to recognize itself in a mirror test (though a recent study suggests that giant manta rays can also recognize their own reflection). In addition to other members of the genus Pica, corvids considered as magpies are in the genera Cissa."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Aegithalos caudatus",
    "common_name": "Long-tailed Tit",
    "wiki_name": "long-tailed_tit",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0b/Long_tailed_Tit_on_a_washing_line_-_geograph.org.uk_-_1714032.jpg",
    "description": "The long-tailed tit or long-tailed bushtit (Aegithalos caudatus) is a common bird found throughout Europe and Asia. The genus name Aegithalos was a term used by Aristotle for some European tits, including the long-tailed tit. The specific caudatus is Latin and is derived from cauda, \"tail\"."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Psittacula krameri",
    "common_name": "Ring-necked Parakeet",
    "wiki_name": "rose-ringed_parakeet",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/70/Rose-ringed_Parakeets_%28Male_%26_Female%29-_During_Foreplay_at_Hodal_I_Picture_0034.jpg",
    "description": "The rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri), also known as the ring-necked parakeet, is a gregarious tropical Afro-Asian parakeet species that has an extremely large range.\nThe rose-ringed parakeet is sexually dimorphic. The adult male sports a red or black neck ring and the hen and immature birds of both sexes either show no neck rings, or display shadow-like pale to dark grey neck rings. Both sexes have a distinctive green colour. Rose-ringed parakeets measure on average 40 cm (16 in) in length, including the tail feathers, a large portion of their total length. Their average single-wing length is about 15–17.5 cm (5.9–6.9 in). In the wild, this is a noisy species with an unmistakable squawking call. It is herbivorous and not migratory.\nOne of the few parrot species that have successfully adapted to living in disturbed habitats, it has withstood the onslaught of urbanisation and deforestation. As a popular pet species, escaped birds have colonised a number of cities around the world. Since the population appears to be increasing, the species was evaluated as being of least concern by the IUCN in 2012, but its popularity as a pet and unpopularity with farmers have both reduced its numbers in some parts of its native range.\n\nThe genus name Psittacula is a diminutive of Latin psittacus, \"parrot\", and the specific krameri commemorates the Austrian naturalist Wilhelm Heinrich Kramer."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Gallinula chloropus",
    "common_name": "Moorhen",
    "wiki_name": "moorhen",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b0/Dusky_Moorhen%2C_Gallinula_tenebrosa_in_Victoria%2C_Australia.jpg",
    "description": "Moorhens — sometimes called marsh hens — are medium-sized water birds that are members of the rail family, (Rallidae). Most species are placed in the genus Gallinula, Latin for \"little hen\". They are close relatives of coots, and because of their apparently nervous behavior (frequently twitching tail, neck and grinding their backs) are sometimes called \"skitty coots\". They are often referred to as (black) gallinules.\nTwo species from the Australian region, sometimes separated in Tribonyx, are called \"nativehens\". The nativehens differ visually by shorter, thicker and stubbier toes and bills, and longer tails that lack the white signal pattern of typical moorhens."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Turdus merula",
    "common_name": "Blackbird",
    "wiki_name": "common_blackbird",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a9/Common_Blackbird.jpg",
    "description": "The common blackbird (Turdus merula) is a species of true thrush. It is also called Eurasian blackbird (especially in North America, to distinguish it from the unrelated New World blackbirds), or simply blackbird where this does not lead to confusion with a similar-looking local species. It breeds in Europe, Asia, and North Africa, and has been introduced to Canada, United States, Mexico, Peru, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, the Falkland Islands, Chile, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. It has a number of subspecies across its large range; a few of the Asian subspecies are sometimes considered to be full species. Depending on latitude, the common blackbird may be resident, partially migratory, or fully migratory.\nThe male of the nominate subspecies, which is found throughout most of Europe, is all black except for a yellow eye-ring and bill and has a rich, melodious song; the adult female and juvenile have mainly dark brown plumage. This species breeds in woods and gardens, building a neat, mud-lined, cup-shaped nest. It is omnivorous, eating a wide range of insects, earthworms, berries, and fruits.\nBoth sexes are territorial on the breeding grounds, with distinctive threat displays, but are more gregarious during migration and in wintering areas. Pairs stay in their territory throughout the year where the climate is sufficiently temperate. This common and conspicuous species has given rise to a number of literary and cultural references, frequently related to its song."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Turdus viscivorus",
    "common_name": "Mistle Thrush",
    "wiki_name": "mistle_thrush",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9e/Turdus_viscivorus_in_Baikonur-town_001.jpg",
    "description": "The mistle thrush (Turdus viscivorus) is a bird common to much of Europe, Asia and North Africa. It is a year-round resident in much of its range, but northern and eastern populations migrate south for the winter, often in small flocks. It is a large thrush with pale grey-brown upperparts, a greyish-white chin and throat, and black spots on its pale yellow and off-white underparts. The sexes are similar in plumage, and its three subspecies show only minimal differences. The male has a loud, far-carrying song which is delivered even in wet and windy weather, earning the bird the old name of \"stormcock\".\nFound in open woods, parks, hedges and cultivated land, the mistle thrush feeds on a wide variety of invertebrates, seeds and berries. Its preferred fruits including those of the mistletoe, holly and yew. Mistletoe is favoured where it is available, and this is reflected in the thrush's English and scientific names; the plant, a parasitic species, benefits from its seeds being excreted by the thrush onto branches where they can germinate. In winter, a mistle thrush will vigorously defend mistletoe clumps or a holly tree as a food reserve for when times are hard.\nThe open cup nest is built against a trunk or in a forked branch, and is fearlessly defended against potential predators, sometimes including humans or cats. The clutch, typically of three to five eggs, is incubated for 12–15 days, mainly by the female. The chicks fledge about 14–16 days after hatching. There are normally two broods. There was a large range expansion in the 18th and early 19th centuries, although there has been a small decline in recent decades, perhaps due to changes in agricultural practices. Given its high numbers and very large range, this thrush is classified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as being of least concern."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Carduelis carduelis",
    "common_name": "Goldfinch",
    "wiki_name": "european_goldfinch",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e7/Carcar.jpg",
    "description": "The European goldfinch or goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis), is a small passerine bird in the finch family that is native to Europe, North Africa and western Asia. It has been introduced to other areas including Australia, New Zealand and Uruguay.\nThe goldfinch has a red face and a black-and-white head. The back and flanks are buff or chestnut brown. The black wings have a broad yellow bar. The tail is black and the rump is white. The female is very similar to the male but has a slightly smaller red area on the face.\nThe goldfinch is often depicted in Italian renaissance paintings of the Madonna and Child."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Cyanistes caeruleus",
    "common_name": "Blue Tit",
    "wiki_name": "eurasian_blue_tit",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/86/Eurasian_blue_tit_Lancashire.jpg",
    "description": "The Eurasian blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) is a small passerine bird in the tit family Paridae. The bird is easily recognisable by its blue and yellow plumage and its size.\nEurasian blue tits, usually resident and non-migratory birds, are widespread and a common resident breeder throughout temperate and subarctic Europe and western Asia in deciduous or mixed woodlands with a high proportion of oak. They usually nest in tree holes, although they easily adapt to nest boxes where necessary. Their main rival for nests and in the search for food is the larger great tit.\nThe Eurasian blue tit prefers insects and spiders for its diet. Outside the breeding season, they also eat seeds and other vegetable-based foods. The birds are famed for their skill, as they can cling to the outermost branches and hang upside down when looking for food."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Fulica atra",
    "common_name": "Coot",
    "wiki_name": "coot",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/74/Eurasian_Coot_on_the_Thames.jpg",
    "description": "Coots are small water birds that are members of the Rallidae (rail) family. They constitute the genus Fulica, the name being the Latin for \"coot\". Coots have predominantly black plumage, and—unlike many rails—they are usually easy to see, often swimming in open water. They are close relatives of the moorhen."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Sitta europaea",
    "common_name": "Nuthatch",
    "wiki_name": "nuthatch",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f6/Sitta_europaea_wildlife_2_1.jpg",
    "description": "The nuthatches constitute a genus, Sitta, of small passerine birds belonging to the family Sittidae. Characterised by large heads, short tails, and powerful bills and feet, nuthatches advertise their territory using loud, simple songs. Most species exhibit grey or bluish upperparts and a black eye stripe.\nMost nuthatches breed in the temperate or montane woodlands of the Northern Hemisphere, although two species have adapted to rocky habitats in the warmer and drier regions of Eurasia. However, the greatest diversity is in Southern Asia, and similarities between the species have made it difficult to identify distinct species. All members of this genus nest in holes or crevices. Most species are non-migratory and live in their habitat year-round, although the North American red-breasted nuthatch migrates to warmer regions during the winter. A few nuthatch species have restricted ranges and face threats from deforestation.\nNuthatches are omnivorous, eating mostly insects, nuts and seeds. They forage for insects hidden in or under bark by climbing along tree trunks and branches, sometimes upside-down. They forage within their territories when breeding, but they may join mixed feeding flocks at other times. Their habit of wedging a large food item in a crevice and then hacking at it with their strong bills gives this group its English name."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Dendrocopos major",
    "common_name": "Great Spotted Woodpecker",
    "wiki_name": "great_spotted woodpecker",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/79/Grote_bonte_specht.JPG",
    "description": "The great spotted woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) is a bird species of the woodpecker family (Picidae).\nIt is distributed throughout Europe and northern Asia, and usually resident year-round except in the colder parts of its range. It is not considered a threatened species by the IUCN, being widely distributed and quite common. A significant recent increase in the British population has resulted in the recolonisation of Ireland."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Parus major",
    "common_name": "Great Tit",
    "wiki_name": "great_tit",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/ef/Great_tit_side-on.jpg",
    "description": "The great tit (Parus major) is a passerine bird in the tit family Paridae. It is a widespread and common species throughout Europe, the Middle East, Central and Northern Asia, and parts of North Africa where it is generally resident in any sort of woodland; most great tits do not migrate except in extremely harsh winters. Until 2005 this species was lumped with numerous other subspecies. DNA studies have shown these other subspecies to be distinctive from the great tit and these have now been separated as two distinct species, the cinereous tit of southern Asia, and the Japanese tit of East Asia. The great tit remains the most widespread species in the genus Parus.\nThe great tit is a distinctive bird with a black head and neck, prominent white cheeks, olive upperparts and yellow underparts, with some variation amongst the numerous subspecies. It is predominantly insectivorous in the summer, but will consume a wider range of food items in the winter months, including small hibernating bats. Like all tits it is a cavity nester, usually nesting in a hole in a tree. The female lays around 12 eggs and incubates them alone, although both parents raise the chicks. In most years the pair will raise two broods. The nests may be raided by woodpeckers, squirrels and weasels and infested with fleas, and adults may be hunted by sparrowhawks. The great tit has adapted well to human changes in the environment and is a common and familiar bird in urban parks and gardens. The great tit is also an important study species in ornithology."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Regulus regulus",
    "common_name": "Goldcrest",
    "wiki_name": "goldcrest",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fe/Goldcrest_1.jpg",
    "description": "The goldcrest (Regulus regulus) is a very small passerine bird in the kinglet family. Its colourful golden crest feathers gives rise to its English and scientific names, and possibly to it being called the \"king of the birds\" in European folklore. Several subspecies are recognised across the very large distribution range that includes much of Eurasia and the islands of Macaronesia. Birds from the north and east of its breeding range migrate to winter further south.\nThis kinglet has greenish upper-parts, whitish under-parts, and has two white wingbars. It has a plain face contrasting black irises and a bright head crest, orange and yellow in the male and yellow in the female, which is displayed during breeding. It superficially resembles the firecrest, which largely shares its European range, but the latter's bronze shoulders and strong face pattern are distinctive. The song is a repetition of high thin notes, slightly higher-pitched than those of its relative. Birds on the Canary Islands are now separated into two subspecies of the goldcrest, but were formerly considered to be a subspecies of the common firecrest or a separate species, Regulus teneriffae.\nThe goldcrest breeds in coniferous woodland and gardens, building its compact, three-layered nest on a tree branch. Ten to twelve eggs are incubated by the female alone, and the chicks are fed by both parents; second broods are common. This kinglet is constantly on the move as it searches for insects to eat, and in winter it is often found with flocks of tits. It may be killed by birds of prey or carry parasites, but its large range and population mean that it is not considered to present any significant conservation concerns."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Erithacus rubecula",
    "common_name": "Robin",
    "wiki_name": "european_robin",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f3/Erithacus_rubecula_with_cocked_head.jpg",
    "description": "The European robin (Erithacus rubecula), known simply as the robin or robin redbreast in the British Isles, is a small insectivorous passerine bird, specifically a chat, that was formerly classified as a member of the thrush family (Turdidae) but is now considered to be an Old World flycatcher. About 12.5–14.0 cm (5.0–5.5 inch) in length, the male and female are similar in colouration, with an orange breast and face lined with grey, brown upperparts and a whitish belly. It is found across Europe, east to Western Siberia and south to North Africa; it is sedentary in most of its range except the far north.\nThe term robin is also applied to some birds in other families with red or orange breasts. These include the American robin (Turdus migratorius), which is a thrush, and the Australasian robins of the family Petroicidae, the relationships of which are unclear."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Anas clypeata",
    "common_name": "Shoveler",
    "wiki_name": "shoveler",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c8/Fuchs-L%C3%B6ffelente_Anas_platalea_0505281_Ausschnitt.jpg",
    "description": "The shovelers (American English), or shovellers (British English), are four species of dabbling ducks with long, broad spatula-shaped beaks:\nRed shoveler, Anas platalea\nCape shoveler, Anas smithii\nAustralasian shoveler, Anas rhynchotis\nNorthern shoveler, Anas clypeata"
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Cygnus olor",
    "common_name": "Mute Swan",
    "wiki_name": "mute_swan",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/35/Mute_swan_Vrhnika.jpg",
    "description": "The mute swan (Cygnus olor) is a species of swan and a member of the waterfowl family Anatidae. It is native to much of Europe and Asia, and (as a rare winter visitor) the far north of Africa. It is an introduced species in North America, Australasia and southern Africa. The name 'mute' derives from it being less vocal than other swan species. Measuring 125 to 170 cm (49 to 67 in) in length, this large swan is wholly white in plumage with an orange beak bordered with black. It is recognisable by its pronounced knob atop the beak, which is larger in males."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Garrulus glandarius",
    "common_name": "Jay",
    "wiki_name": "jay",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6d/Garrulus_glandarius_1_Luc_Viatour.jpg",
    "description": "Jays are several species of medium-sized, usually colorful and noisy, passerine birds in the crow family, Corvidae. The names jay and magpie are somewhat interchangeable, and the evolutionary relationships are rather complex. For example, the Eurasian magpie seems more closely related to the Eurasian jay than to the Oriental blue and green magpies, whereas the blue jay is not closely related to either."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Certhia familiaris",
    "common_name": "Treecreeper",
    "wiki_name": "treecreeper",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fc/Certhia-americana-001.jpg",
    "description": "The treecreepers are a family, Certhiidae, of small passerine birds, widespread in wooded regions of the Northern Hemisphere and sub-Saharan Africa. The family contains ten species in two genera, Certhia and Salpornis. Their plumage is dull-coloured, and as their name implies, they climb over the surface of trees in search of food."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Troglodytes troglodytes",
    "common_name": "Wren",
    "wiki_name": "wren",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/40/Cistothorus_palustris_Iona.jpg",
    "description": "The wrens are mostly small, brownish passerine birds in the mainly New World family Troglodytidae. About 80 species of true wrens in roughly 20 genera are described. Only the Eurasian wren occurs in the Old World, where in Anglophone regions, it is commonly known simply as the \"wren\", as it is the originator of the name. The name wren has been applied to other, unrelated birds, particularly the New Zealand wrens (Acanthisittidae) and the Australian wrens (Maluridae).\nMost wrens are small and rather inconspicuous, except for their loud and often complex songs. Notable exceptions are the relatively large members of the genus Campylorhynchus, which can be quite bold in their behavior. Wrens have short wings that are barred in most species, and they often hold their tails upright. As far as known, wrens are primarily insectivorous, eating insects, spiders, and other small arthropods, but many species also eat vegetable matter and some take small frogs and lizards."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Corvus corone",
    "common_name": "Carrion Crow",
    "wiki_name": "carrion_crow",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a9/Corvus_corone_-near_Canford_Cliffs%2C_Poole%2C_England-8.jpg",
    "description": "The carrion crow (Corvus corone) is a passerine bird of the family Corvidae and the genus Corvus which is native to western Europe and eastern Asia."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Columba oenas",
    "common_name": "Stock Dove",
    "wiki_name": "stock_dove",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e6/Columba_oenas1.jpg",
    "description": "The stock dove (Columba oenas) is a species of bird in the family Columbidae, the doves and pigeons.\n\n"
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Turdus philomelos",
    "common_name": "Song Thrush",
    "wiki_name": "song_thrush",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/ea/Song_Thrush_%28Turdus_philomelos%29_singing_in_tree.jpg",
    "description": "The song thrush (Turdus philomelos) is a thrush that breeds across much of Eurasia. It has brown upperparts and black-spotted cream or buff underparts and has three recognised subspecies. Its distinctive song, which has repeated musical phrases, has frequently been referred to in poetry.\nThe song thrush breeds in forests, gardens and parks, and is partially migratory with many birds wintering in southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East; it has also been introduced into New Zealand and Australia. Although it is not threatened globally, there have been serious population declines in parts of Europe, possibly due to changes in farming practices.\nThe song thrush builds a neat mud-lined cup nest in a bush or tree and lays four to five dark-spotted blue eggs. It is omnivorous and has the habit of using a favourite stone as an \"anvil\" on which to break open the shells of snails. Like other perching birds (passerines), it is affected by external and internal parasites and is vulnerable to predation by cats and birds of prey."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Ardea cinerea",
    "common_name": "Grey Heron",
    "wiki_name": "grey_heron",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/09/Graureiher_Grey_Heron.jpg",
    "description": "The grey heron (Ardea cinerea) is a long-legged predatory wading bird of the heron family, Ardeidae, native throughout temperate Europe and Asia and also parts of Africa. It is resident in much of its range, but some populations from the more northern parts migrate southwards in autumn. A bird of wetland areas, it can be seen around lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes and on the sea coast. It feeds mostly on aquatic creatures which it catches after standing stationary beside or in the water or stalking its prey through the shallows.\nStanding up to a metre tall, adults weigh from 1 to 2 kg (2.2 to 4.4 lb). They have a white head and neck with a broad black stripe that extends from the eye to the black crest. The body and wings are grey above and the underparts are greyish-white, with some black on the flanks. The long, sharply pointed beak is pinkish-yellow and the legs are brown.\nThe birds breed colonially in spring in \"heronries\", usually building their nests high in trees. A clutch of usually three to five bluish-green eggs is laid. Both birds incubate the eggs for a period of about 25 days, and then both feed the chicks, which fledge when seven or eight weeks old. Many juveniles do not survive their first winter, but if they do, they can expect to live for about five years.\nIn Ancient Egypt, the deity Bennu was depicted as a heron in New Kingdom artwork. In Ancient Rome, the heron was a bird of divination. Roast heron was once a specially-prized dish; when George Neville became Archbishop of York in 1465, four hundred herons were served to the guests."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Bombycilla garrulus",
    "common_name": "Waxwing",
    "wiki_name": "waxwing",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d1/Bohemian_Wax_Wing.jpg",
    "description": "The waxwings are passerine birds classified in the genus Bombycilla. They are brown and pale grey with silky plumage, a black and white eyestripe, a crest, a square-cut tail and pointed wings. Some of the wing feathers have red tips, the resemblance of which to sealing wax gives these birds their common name. According to most authorities, this is the only genus placed in the family Bombycillidae, although Phainoptila is sometimes included. There are three species, the Bohemian waxwing (B. garrulus), the Japanese waxwing (B. japonica) and the cedar waxwing (B. cedrorum).\nWaxwings are not long-distance migrants, but move nomadically outside the breeding season. Waxwings mostly feed on fruit, but at times of year when fruits are unavailable they feed on sap, buds, flowers and insects. They catch insects by gleaning through foliage or in mid-air. They often nest near water, the female building a loose nest at the fork of a branch, well away from the trunk of the tree. She also incubates the eggs, the male bringing her food to the nest, and both sexes help rear the young. Waxwings appear in art and have been mentioned in literature."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Carduelis spinus",
    "common_name": "Siskin",
    "wiki_name": "eurasian_siskin",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9e/Carduelis_spinus_male.jpg",
    "description": "The Eurasian siskin (Spinus spinus) is a small passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae. It is also called the European siskin, common siskin or just siskin. Other (archaic) names include black-headed goldfinch, barley bird and aberdevine. It is very common throughout Europe and Asia. It is found in forested areas, both coniferous and mixed woodland where it feeds on seeds of all kinds, especially of alder and conifers.\nIt can be distinguished from other similar finches by the color of the plumage. The upper parts are greyish green and the under parts grey-streaked white. Its wings are black with a conspicuous yellow wing bar, and the tail is black with yellow sides. The male has a mainly yellow face and breast, with a neat black cap. Female and young birds have a greyish green head and no cap. It is a trusting, sociable and active bird. The song of this bird is a pleasant mix of twitters and trills. For these reasons it is often raised in captivity.\nThese birds have an unusual migration pattern as every few years in winter they migrate southwards in large numbers. The reasons for this behaviour are not known but may be related to climatic factors and above all the availability of food. In this way overwintering populations can thrive where food is abundant. This small finch is an acrobatic feeder, often hanging upside-down like a tit. It will visit garden bird feeding stations."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Sylvia atricapilla",
    "common_name": "Blackcap",
    "wiki_name": "eurasian_blackcap",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/55/Sylvia_atricapilla_-Lullington_Heath%2C_East_Sussex%2C_England_-male-8.jpg",
    "description": "The Eurasian blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla) usually known simply as the blackcap, is a common and widespread typical warbler. It has mainly olive-grey upperparts and pale grey underparts, and differences between the five subspecies are small. Both sexes have a neat coloured cap to the head, black in the male and reddish-brown in the female. The male's typical song is a rich musical warbling, often ending in a loud high-pitched crescendo, but a simpler song is given in some isolated areas, such as valleys in the Alps. The blackcap's closest relative is the garden warbler, which looks quite different but has a similar song.\nThe blackcap breeds in much of Europe, western Asia and northwestern Africa, and its preferred habitat is mature deciduous woodland. The male holds a territory when breeding, which is defended against garden warblers as well as other blackcaps. The nest is a neat cup, built low in brambles or scrub, and the clutch is typically 4–6 mainly buff eggs, which hatch in about 11 days. The chicks fledge in 11–12 days, but are cared for by both adults for some time after leaving the nest. The blackcap is a partial migrant; birds from the colder areas of its range winter in scrub or trees in northwestern Europe, around the Mediterranean and in tropical Africa. Some German birds have adapted to spending the winter in gardens in Great Britain and Ireland. Insects are the main food in the breeding season, but, for the rest of the year, blackcaps survive primarily on small fruit. Garden birds also eat bread, fat and peanuts in winter.\nDespite extensive hunting in Mediterranean countries and the natural hazards of predation and disease, the blackcap has been extending its range for several decades, and is classified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as Least Concern. Its rich and varied song has led to it being described as the \"mock nightingale\" and it has featured in literature, films and music. In Messiaen's opera Saint François d'Assise, the saint is represented by themes based on the blackcap's song."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Accipiter nisus",
    "common_name": "Sparrowhawk",
    "wiki_name": "eurasian_sparrowhawk",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e8/Accnis_edit.jpg",
    "description": "The Eurasian sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus), also known as the northern sparrowhawk or simply the sparrowhawk, is a small bird of prey in the family Accipitridae. Adult male Eurasian sparrowhawks have bluish grey upperparts and orange-barred underparts; females and juveniles are brown above with brown barring below. The female is up to 25% larger than the male – one of the largest differences between the sexes in any bird species. Though it is a predator which specialises in catching woodland birds, the Eurasian sparrowhawk can be found in any habitat and often hunts garden birds in towns and cities. Males tend to take smaller birds, including tits, finches, and sparrows; females catch primarily thrushes and starlings, but are capable of killing birds weighing 500 g (18 oz) or more.\nThe Eurasian sparrowhawk is found throughout the temperate and subtropical parts of the Old World; while birds from the northern parts of the range migrate south for winter, their southern counterparts remain resident or make dispersive movements. Eurasian sparrowhawks breed in suitable woodland of any type, with the nest, measuring up to 60 cm (2.0 ft) across, built using twigs in a tree. Four or five pale blue, brown-spotted eggs are laid; the success of the breeding attempt is dependent on the female maintaining a high weight while the male brings her food. The chicks hatch after 33 days and fledge after 24 to 28 days.\nThe probability of a juvenile surviving its first year is 34%, with 69% of adults surviving from one year to the next. Mortality in young males is greater than that of young females and the typical lifespan is four years. This species is now one of the most common birds of prey in Europe, although the population crashed after the Second World War. Organochlorine insecticides used to treat seeds before sowing built up in the bird population, and the concentrations in Eurasian sparrowhawks were enough to kill some outright and incapacitate others; affected birds laid eggs with fragile shells which broke during incubation. However, its population recovered after the chemicals were banned, and it is now relatively common, classified as being of Least Concern by BirdLife International.\nThe Eurasian sparrowhawk's hunting behaviour has brought it into conflict with humans for hundreds of years, particularly racing pigeon owners and people rearing poultry and gamebirds. It has also been blamed for decreases in passerine populations. The increase in population of the Eurasian Sparrowhawk coincides with the decline in House Sparrows in Britain. Studies of racing pigeon deaths found that Eurasian sparrowhawks were responsible for less than 1%. Falconers have utilised the Eurasian sparrowhawk since at least the 16th century; although the species has a reputation for being difficult to train, it is also praised for its courage. The species features in Teutonic mythology and is mentioned in works by writers including William Shakespeare, Alfred, Lord Tennyson and Ted Hughes."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Regulus ignicapilla",
    "common_name": "Firecrest",
    "wiki_name": "common_firecrest",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/08/Regulus_ignicapilla_Arundel.jpg",
    "description": "The common firecrest (Regulus ignicapilla) also known as the firecrest, is a very small passerine bird in the kinglet family. It breeds in most of temperate Europe and northwestern Africa, and is partially migratory, with birds from central Europe wintering to the south and west of their breeding range. Firecrests in the Balearic Islands and north Africa are widely recognised as a separate subspecies, but the population on Madeira, previously also treated as a subspecies, is now treated as a distinct species, the Madeira firecrest, Regulus madeirensis. A fossil ancestor of the firecrest has been identified from a single wing bone.\nThis kinglet is greenish above and has whitish underparts. It has two white wingbars, a black eye stripe and a white supercilium. The head crest, orange in the male and yellow in the female, is displayed during breeding, and gives rise to the English and scientific names for the species. This bird superficially resembles the goldcrest, which largely shares its European range, but the firecrest's bronze shoulders and strong face pattern are distinctive. The song is a repetition of high thin notes, slightly lower-pitched than those of its relative.\nThe common firecrest breeds in broadleaved or coniferous woodland and gardens, building its compact, three-layered nest on a tree branch. Seven to twelve eggs are incubated by the female alone. Both parents feed the chicks, which fledge 22–24 days after hatching. This kinglet is constantly on the move and frequently hovers as it searches for insects to eat, and in winter it is often found with flocks of tits. Despite some possible local declines, the species is not the subject of significant conservation concerns owing to its large European population and an expansion of its range over the last century. It may be hunted and killed by birds of prey, and can carry parasites. It is possible that this species was the original \"king of the birds\" in European folklore."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Fringilla coelebs",
    "common_name": "Chaffinch",
    "wiki_name": "common_chaffinch",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/ab/Chaffinch_%28Fringilla_coelebs%29.jpg",
    "description": "The common chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs), usually known simply as the chaffinch, is a common and widespread small passerine bird in the finch family. The male is brightly coloured with a blue-grey cap and rust-red underparts. The female is much duller in colouring but both sexes have two contrasting white wings-bars and white sides to the tail. The male bird has a strong voice and sings from exposed perches to attract a mate.\nThe chaffinch breeds in much of Europe, across Asia to Siberia and in northwest Africa. The female builds a nest with a deep cup in the fork of a tree. The clutch is typically 4–5 eggs, which hatch in about 13 days. The chicks fledge in around 14 days but are fed by both adults for several weeks after leaving the nest. Outside the breeding season chaffinches form flocks in open countryside and forage for seeds on the ground. During the breeding season they forage on trees for invertebrates, especially caterpillars, and feed these to their young. The chaffinch is a partial migrant; birds breeding in warmer regions are sedentary while those breeding in the colder northern areas of its range winter further south.\nThe eggs and nestlings of the chaffinch are taken by a variety of mammalian and avian predators. Its large numbers and huge range mean that chaffinch is classed as of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Carduelis chloris",
    "common_name": "Greenfinch",
    "wiki_name": "european_greenfinch",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/80/European_Greenfinch_male_female.jpg",
    "description": "The European greenfinch, or just greenfinch (Chloris chloris) is a small passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae.\nThis bird is widespread throughout Europe, north Africa and south west Asia. It is mainly resident, but some northernmost populations migrate further south. The greenfinch has also been introduced into both Australia and New Zealand. In Malta, it is considered a prestigious song bird, and it has been trapped for many years. It has been domesticated, and many Maltese people breed them."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Motacilla cinerea",
    "common_name": "Grey Wagtail",
    "wiki_name": "grey_wagtail",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/80/Grey_Wagtail.jpg",
    "description": "The grey wagtail (Motacilla cinerea) is a member of the wagtail family, Motacillidae, measuring around 18–19 cm overall length. The species looks somewhat similar to the yellow wagtail but has the yellow on its underside restricted to the throat and vent. Breeding males have a black throat. The species is widely distributed, with several populations breeding in Europe and Asia and migrating to tropical regions in Asia and Africa. The species is always associated with running water when breeding, although they may use man-made structures near streams for the nest. Outside the breeding season, they may also be seen around lakes, coasts and other watery habitats. Like other wagtails, they frequently wag their tail and fly low with undulations and they have a sharp call that is often given in flight.\n\n"
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Pyrrhula pyrrhula",
    "common_name": "Bullfinch",
    "wiki_name": "eurasian_bullfinch",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/de/Bullfinch_male.jpg",
    "description": "The bullfinch, common bullfinch or Eurasian bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula) is a small passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae. In Anglophone Europe it is known simply as bullfinch, as it is the original bird to bear the name bullfinch."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Turdus pilaris",
    "common_name": "Fieldfare",
    "wiki_name": "fieldfare",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/97/Turdus_pilaris2.jpg",
    "description": "The fieldfare (Turdus pilaris) is a member of the thrush family Turdidae. It breeds in woodland and scrub in northern Europe and Asia. It is strongly migratory, with many northern birds moving south during the winter. It is a very rare breeder in the British Isles, but winters in large numbers in the United Kingdom, Southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. It is omnivorous, eating a wide range of molluscs, insects and earthworms in the summer, and berries, grain and seeds in the winter.\nFieldfares often nest in small colonies, possibly for protection from predators. The nest is built in a tree where five or six eggs are laid. The chicks are fed by both parents and leave the nest after a fortnight. There may be two broods in southern parts of the range but only one further north. Migrating birds and wintering birds often form large flocks, often in the company of Redwings.\nThe fieldfare is 25 cm (10 in) long, with a grey crown, neck and rump, a plain brown back, dark wings and tail and white underwings. The breast and flanks are heavily spotted. The breast has a reddish wash and the rest of the underparts are white. The sexes are similar in appearance but the females are slightly more brown. The male has a simple chattering song and the birds have various guttural flight and alarm calls."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Periparus ater",
    "common_name": "Coal Tit",
    "wiki_name": "coal_tit",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/92/Coal_tit_UK09.JPG",
    "description": "The coal tit (Periparus ater) is a passerine bird in the tit family Paridae. It is a widespread and common resident breeder throughout temperate to subtropical Eurasia and northern Africa. The black-crested tit is now usually included in this species."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Prunella modularis",
    "common_name": "Dunnock",
    "wiki_name": "dunnock",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/72/Dunnock_crop2.jpg",
    "description": "The dunnock (Prunella modularis) is a small passerine, or perching bird, found throughout temperate Europe and into Asia. Dunnocks have also been successfully introduced into New Zealand. It is by far the most widespread member of the accentor family, which otherwise consists of mountain species. Other common names of the dunnock include the hedge accentor, hedge sparrow, or hedge warbler."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Phalacrocorax carbo",
    "common_name": "Cormorant",
    "wiki_name": "cormorant",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/75/Microcarbo_melanoleucos_Austins_Ferry_3.jpg",
    "description": "Phalacrocoracidae is a family of some 40 species of aquatic birds commonly known as cormorants and shags. Several different classifications of the family have been proposed recently, and the number of genera is disputed. There is no consistent distinction between \"cormorants\" and \"shags\" as these appellations have been assigned to different species randomly.\nCormorants and shags are medium-to-large birds, with body weight in the range of 0.35–5 kilograms (0.77–11.02 lb) and wing span of 45–100 centimetres (18–39 in). The majority of species have dark feathers. The bill is long, thin and hooked. Their feet have webbing between all four toes. All species are fish-eaters, catching the prey by diving from the surface. They are excellent divers, and under water they propel themselves with their feet with help from their wings; some cormorant species have been found to dive as deep as 45 metres. They have relatively short wings due to their need for economical movement underwater, and consequently have the highest flight costs of any bird.\nCormorants nest in colonies around the shore, on trees, islets or cliffs. They are coastal rather than oceanic birds, and some have colonised inland waters – indeed, the original ancestor of cormorants seems to have been a fresh-water bird. They range around the world, except for the central Pacific islands."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Phylloscopus collybita",
    "common_name": "Chiffchaff",
    "wiki_name": "common_chiffchaff",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cc/Chiffchaff_-_Phylloscopus_collybita.jpg",
    "description": "The common chiffchaff, or simply the chiffchaff, (Phylloscopus collybita) is a common and widespread leaf warbler which breeds in open woodlands throughout northern and temperate Europe and Asia.\nIt is a migratory passerine which winters in southern and western Europe, southern Asia and north Africa. Greenish-brown above and off-white below, it is named onomatopoeically for its simple chiff-chaff song. It has a number of subspecies, some of which are now treated as full species. The female builds a domed nest on or near the ground, and assumes most of the responsibility for brooding and feeding the chicks, whilst the male has little involvement in nesting, but defends his territory against rivals, and attacks potential predators.\nA small insectivorous bird, it is subject to predation by mammals, such as cats and mustelids, and birds, particularly hawks of the genus Accipiter. Its large range and population mean that its status is secure, although one subspecies is probably extinct.\n\n"
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Tachybaptus ruficollis",
    "common_name": "Little Grebe",
    "wiki_name": "little_grebe",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/84/Little_grebe_Zwergtaucher.jpg",
    "description": "The little grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis), also known as dabchick, is a member of the grebe family of water birds. The genus name is from Ancient Greek takhus \"fast\" and bapto \"to sink under\". The specific ruficollis is from Latin rufus \"red\" and Modern Latin -collis, \"-necked\", itself derived from Latin collum \"neck\".\nAt 23 to 29 cm (9.1 to 11.4 in) in length it is the smallest European member of its family. It is commonly found in open bodies of water across most of its range."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Streptopelia decaocto",
    "common_name": "Collared Dove",
    "wiki_name": "eurasian_collared_dove",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/06/Streptopelia_decaocto_-balcony_-two-8.jpg",
    "description": "The Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto), most often simply called the collared dove, also sometimes hyphenated as Eurasian collared-dove, is a species of dove native to warm temperate and subtropical Asia, and introduced in North America in the 1980s.\nThe genus name Streptopelia is from Ancient Greek streptos, \"collar\" and peleia, \"dove\". The specific decaocto is a latinisation of the Greek word for \"eighteen\", from deca, \"ten\", and octo, \"eight\". In Greek mythology, a servant complained bitterly about pay of just 18 pieces a year, and the gods changed her to a dove that still cries mournfully."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Sturnus vulgaris",
    "common_name": "Starling",
    "wiki_name": "starling",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/07/Lamprotornis_hildebrandti_-Tanzania-8-2c.jpg",
    "description": "Starlings are small to medium-sized passerine birds in the family Sturnidae. The name \"Sturnidae\" comes from the Latin word for starling, sturnus. Many Asian species, particularly the larger ones, are called mynas, and many African species are known as glossy starlings because of their iridescent plumage. Starlings are native to Europe, Asia and Africa, as well as northern Australia and the islands of the tropical Pacific. Several European and Asian species have been introduced to these areas as well as North America, Hawaii and New Zealand, where they generally compete for habitats with native birds and are considered to be invasive species. The starling species familiar to most people in Europe and North America is the common starling, and throughout much of Asia and the Pacific, the common myna is indeed common.\nStarlings have strong feet, their flight is strong and direct, and they are very gregarious. Their preferred habitat is fairly open country, and they eat insects and fruit. Several species live around human habitation and are effectively omnivores. Many species search for prey such as grubs by \"open-bill probing\", that is, forcefully opening the bill after inserting it into a crevice, thus expanding the hole and exposing the prey; this behaviour is referred to by the German verb zirkeln (pronounced [ˈtsɪɐ̯kl̩n]).\nPlumage of many species is typically dark with a metallic sheen. Most species nest in holes and lay blue or white eggs.\nStarlings have diverse and complex vocalizations and have been known to embed sounds from their surroundings into their own calls, including car alarms and human speech patterns. The birds can recognize particular individuals by their calls and are currently the subject of research into the evolution of human language."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Larus canus",
    "common_name": "Common Gull",
    "wiki_name": "common_gull",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/de/Larus_canus1.jpg",
    "description": "For the common gull butterfly, see Cepora nerissa.\n\nThe common gull (Larus canus) is a medium-sized gull which breeds in northern Asia, northern Europe and northwestern North America. The North American subspecies is commonly referred to as the mew gull, although that name is also used by some authorities for the whole species. It migrates further south in winter. There are differing accounts as to how the species acquired its vernacular name (see Etymology section below).\n\n"
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Corvus monedula",
    "common_name": "Jackdaw",
    "wiki_name": "western_jackdaw",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b1/Coloeus_monedula_-Ham_Common%2C_London_Borough_of_Richmond_upon_Thames%2C_England-8.jpg",
    "description": "The western jackdaw (Corvus monedula), also known as the Eurasian jackdaw, European jackdaw, or simply jackdaw, is a passerine bird in the crow family. Found across Europe, western Asia and North Africa, it is mostly resident, although northern and eastern populations migrate south in winter. Four subspecies are recognised, which mainly differ in the colouration of the plumage on the head and nape. Linnaeus first described it formally, giving it the name Corvus monedula. Later analysis of its DNA suggests that it, along with its closest relative, the Daurian jackdaw, is an early offshoot from the genus Corvus, and possibly distinct enough to warrant reclassification in a separate genus, Coloeus. The common name derives from the word \"jack\", meaning \"small\", and \"daw\", the native English name for the bird.\nMeasuring 34–39 centimetres (13–15 in) in length, the western jackdaw is a black-plumaged bird with a grey nape and distinctive pale-grey irises. It is gregarious and vocal, living in small groups with a complex social structure in farmland, open woodland, on coastal cliffs, and in urban settings. Like its relatives, Jackdaws are intelligent birds, and have been observed using tools. An omnivorous and opportunistic feeder, it eats a wide variety of plant material and invertebrates, as well as food waste from urban areas. Western jackdaws are monogamous and build simple nests of sticks in cavities in trees, cliffs, or buildings. About five pale blue or blue-green eggs with brown speckles are laid and incubated by the female. The young fledge in four to five weeks."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Passer domesticus",
    "common_name": "House Sparrow",
    "wiki_name": "house_sparrow",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6e/Passer_domesticus_male_%2815%29.jpg",
    "description": "The house sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a bird of the sparrow family Passeridae, found in most parts of the world. A small bird, it has a typical length of 16 cm (6.3 in) and a mass of 24–39.5 g (0.85–1.39 oz). Females and young birds are coloured pale brown and grey, and males have brighter black, white, and brown markings. One of about 25 species in the genus Passer, the house sparrow is native to most of Europe, the Mediterranean region, and much of Asia. Its intentional or accidental introductions to many regions, including parts of Australia, Africa, and the Americas, make it the most widely distributed wild bird.\nThe house sparrow is strongly associated with human habitations, and can live in urban or rural settings. Though found in widely varied habitats and climates, it typically avoids extensive woodlands, grasslands, and deserts away from human development. It feeds mostly on the seeds of grains and weeds, but it is an opportunistic eater and commonly eats insects and many other foods. Its predators include domestic cats, hawks, owls, and many other predatory birds and mammals.\nBecause of its numbers, ubiquity, and association with human settlements, the house sparrow is culturally prominent. It is extensively, and usually unsuccessfully, persecuted as an agricultural pest, but it has also often been kept as a pet, as well as being a food item and a symbol of lust and sexual potency and commonness and vulgarity. Though it is widespread and abundant, its numbers have declined in some areas. The animal's conservation status is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Muscicapa striata",
    "common_name": "Spotted Flycatcher",
    "wiki_name": "spotted_flycatcher",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/25/Muscicapa_striata_1_%28Martin_Mecnarowski%29.jpg",
    "description": "The spotted flycatcher (Muscicapa striata) is a small passerine bird in the Old World flycatcher family. It breeds in most of Europe and western Asia, and is migratory, wintering in Africa and south western Asia. It is declining in parts of its range.\nThis is an undistinguished looking bird with long wings and tail. The adults have grey-brown upperparts and whitish underparts, with a streaked crown and breast, giving rise to the bird's common name. The legs are short and black, and the bill is black and has the broad but pointed shape typical of aerial insectivores. Juveniles are browner than adults and have spots on the upperparts."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Motacilla alba yarrellii",
    "common_name": "Pied Wagtail",
    "wiki_name": "wagtail",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f3/White-browed_Wagtail_I_MG_9376.jpg",
    "description": "The wagtails form the passerine bird genus Motacilla. The forest wagtail belongs to the monotypic genus Dendronanthus which is closely related to Motacilla and sometimes included herein. The common name and genus names are derived from their characteristic tail pumping behaviour. Together with the pipits and longclaws they form the family Motacillidae.\nThe willie wagtail (Rhipidura leucophrys) of Australia is an unrelated bird similar in coloration and shape to the Japanese wagtail. It belongs to the fantails."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Anser anser",
    "common_name": "Greylag Goose",
    "wiki_name": "greylag_goose",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/57/Greylag_Goose_-_St_James%27s_Park%2C_London_-_Nov_2006.jpg",
    "description": "The greylag goose (Anser anser) is a bird in the waterfowl family Anatidae. It has mottled and barred grey and white plumage and an orange beak and legs. A large bird, it measures between 74 and 91 centimetres (29 and 36 in) in length, with an average weight of 3.3 kilograms (7.3 lb). Its distribution is widespread, with birds from the north of its range in Europe and Asia migrating southwards to spend the winter in warmer places. It is the type species of the genus Anser and is the ancestor of the domestic goose, having been domesticated at least as early as 1360 BC. The genus name is from anser, the Latin for \"goose\".\nGreylag geese travel to their northerly breeding grounds in spring, nesting on moorlands, in marshes, around lakes and on coastal islands. They normally mate for life and nest on the ground among vegetation. A clutch of three to five eggs is laid; the female incubates the eggs and both parents defend and rear the young. The birds stay together as a family group, migrating southwards in autumn as part of a flock, and separating the following year. During the winter they occupy semi-aquatic habitats, estuaries, marshes and flooded fields, feeding on grass and often consuming agricultural crops."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Aythya ferina",
    "common_name": "Pochard",
    "wiki_name": "common_pochard",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5c/Aythya_ferina_Sandwell_2.jpg",
    "description": "The common pochard (/ˈpɒtʃə(r)d/) (Aythya ferina) is a medium-sized diving duck. The scientific name is derived from Greek aithuia an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors including Hesychius and Aristotle, and Latin ferina, \"wild game\", from ferus, \"wild\".\n\n"
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Podiceps cristatus",
    "common_name": "Great Crested Grebe",
    "wiki_name": "great_crested grebe",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/27/Podiceps_cristatus_2_-_Lake_Dulverton.jpg",
    "description": "The great crested grebe (Podiceps cristatus) is a member of the grebe family of water birds noted for its elaborate mating display. The scientific name comes from Latin. Podiceps is from podicis, \"vent\" and pes, \"foot\", and is a reference to the placement of a grebe's legs towards the rear of its body, and the species name, cristatus means \"crested\"."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Strix aluco",
    "common_name": "Tawny Owl",
    "wiki_name": "tawny_owl",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d9/Waldkauz-Strix_aluco.jpg",
    "description": "The tawny owl or brown owl (Strix aluco) is a stocky, medium-sized owl commonly found in woodlands across much of Eurasia. Its underparts are pale with dark streaks, and the upperparts are either brown or grey. Several of the eleven recognised subspecies have both variants. The nest is typically in a tree hole where it can protect its eggs and young against potential predators. This owl is non-migratory and highly territorial. Many young birds starve if they cannot find a vacant territory once parental care ceases.\nThis nocturnal bird of prey hunts mainly rodents, usually by dropping from a perch to seize its prey, which it swallows whole; in more urban areas its diet includes a higher proportion of birds. Vision and hearing adaptations and silent flight aid its night hunting. The tawny owl is capable of catching smaller owls, but is itself vulnerable to the eagle owl or northern goshawk.\nAlthough many people believe this owl has exceptional night vision, its retina is no more sensitive than a human's and its asymmetrically placed ears are key to its hunting by giving it excellent directional hearing. Its nocturnal habits and eerie, easily imitated call, have led to a mythical association of the tawny owl with bad luck and death."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Phylloscopus trochilus",
    "common_name": "Willow Warbler",
    "wiki_name": "willow_warbler",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5b/Willow_Warbler_Phylloscopus_trochilus.jpg",
    "description": "The willow warbler (Phylloscopus trochilus) is a very common and widespread leaf warbler which breeds throughout northern and temperate Europe and Asia, from Ireland east to the Anadyr River basin in eastern Siberia. It is strongly migratory, with almost all of the population wintering in Sub-Saharan Africa.\nIt is a bird of open woodlands with trees and ground cover for nesting, including most importantly birch, alder, and willow habitats. The nest is usually built in close contact with the ground, often in low vegetation. Like most Old World warblers (Sylviidae), this small passerine is insectivorous. In northern Europe, it is one of the first warblers to return in the spring though is later than the closely related chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita.\n\n"
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Fringilla montifringilla",
    "common_name": "Brambling",
    "wiki_name": "brambling",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c9/Fringilla_montifringilla_-Poland_-male-8.jpg",
    "description": "The brambling (Fringilla montifringilla) is a small passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae. It has also been called the cock o' the north and the mountain finch."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Larus fuscus",
    "common_name": "Lesser Black-backed Gull",
    "wiki_name": "lesser_black-backed gull",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5e/Larus-fuscus-taxbox.jpg",
    "description": "The lesser black-backed gull (Larus fuscus) is a large gull that breeds on the Atlantic coasts of Europe. The scientific name is from Latin. Larus appears to have referred to a gull or other large seabird, and fuscus meant black or brown.\nIt is migratory, wintering from the British Isles south to West Africa. It is a regular winter visitor to the east coast of North America, probably from the breeding population in Iceland.\n\n"
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Larus argentatus",
    "common_name": "Herring Gull",
    "wiki_name": "european_herring_gull",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f2/Larus_argentatus01.jpg",
    "description": "The European herring gull (Larus argentatus) is a large gull (up to 26 in (66 cm) long). One of the best known of all gulls along the shores of western Europe, it was once abundant. It breeds across Northern Europe, Western Europe, Central Europe, Eastern Europe, Scandinavia and the Baltic states. Some European herring gulls, especially those resident in colder areas, migrate further south in winter, but many are permanent residents, e.g. in the British Isles, Iceland, or on the North Sea shores. European herring gulls have a varied diet, including fish, crustaceans and dead animals as well as some plants.\nWhile herring gull numbers appear to have been harmed in recent years, possibly by fish population declines and competition, they have proved able to survive in human-adapted areas and can often be seen in towns acting as scavengers.\n\n"
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Sylvia borin",
    "common_name": "Garden Warbler",
    "wiki_name": "garden_warbler",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/07/Sylvia_borin_%28%C3%96rebro_County%29.jpg",
    "description": "The garden warbler (Sylvia borin) is a common and widespread small bird that breeds in most of Europe and in western Asia. It is a plain, long-winged and long-tailed typical warbler with brown upperparts and dull white underparts; the sexes are similar and juveniles resemble the adults. Its two subspecies differ only slightly and interbreed where their ranges overlap. Due to its lack of distinguishing features, this species can be confused with a number of other unstreaked warblers. The garden warbler's rich melodic song is similar to that of the blackcap, its closest relative, which competes with it for territory when nesting in the same woodland.\nThe preferred breeding habitat in Eurasia is open woodland with dense low cover for nesting; despite its name, gardens are rarely occupied by this small passerine bird. The clutch of four or five blotched cream or white eggs is laid in a robust cup-shaped nest built near the ground and concealed by dense vegetation. The eggs are incubated for 11–12 days. The chicks are altricial, hatching naked and with closed eyes, and are fed by both parents. They fledge about 10 days after hatching. Only about a quarter of young birds survive their first year. The garden warbler is strongly migratory, wintering in sub-Saharan Africa. A wide range of habitats are used in Africa, but closed forest and treeless Sahel are both shunned. Insects are the main food in the breeding season, although fruit predominates when birds are fattening prior to migration, figs being a particular favourite where available. These warblers have a mixed diet of insects and fruit in their African wintering grounds.\nThe garden warbler is hunted by Eurasian sparrowhawks and domestic cats, and its eggs and nestlings are taken by a variety of mammalian and avian predators. It may be host to various fleas, mites and internal parasites, and it is a host of the common cuckoo, a brood parasite. The large and fairly stable numbers and huge range of the garden warbler mean that it is classed as least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Despite a small population decline in much of its European range, the bird's breeding distribution is expanding northwards in Scandinavia."
}, {
    "taxon_group": "Bird",
    "latin_name": "Apus apus",
    "common_name": "Swift",
    "wiki_name": "swift",
    "photo": "https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/dd/Apus_apus_01.jpg",
    "description": "The swifts are a family, Apodidae, of highly aerial birds. They are superficially similar to swallows, but are not closely related to any of the passerine species. Swifts are placed in the order Apodiformes, which they share with hummingbirds. The treeswifts are closely related to the true swifts, but form a separate family, the Hemiprocnidae .\nResemblances between swifts and swallows are due to convergent evolution, reflecting similar life styles based on catching insects in flight.\nThe family name, Apodidae, is derived from the Greek ἄπους (ápous), meaning \"footless\", a reference to the small, weak legs of these most aerial of birds. The tradition of depicting swifts without feet continued into the Middle Ages, as seen in the heraldic martlet.\nSome species of swifts are among the fastest animals on the planet, with some of the fastest measured flight speeds of any bird."
}]