The world is full of amazing birds, each with its own unique charm. Here are ten of the most unusual birds from around the globe, known for their distinctive looks and interesting behaviors.
The Tufted Puffin is the biggest puffin species. They grow golden feather tufts during mating season. These skilled hunters can carry up to 20 fish in their beaks at once to feed their chicks.
This rare macaw from Brazil was discovered in 1819 and has suffered greatly from hunting, trapping, and habitat loss. By 2019, it was extinct in the wild, but breeding efforts continue with limited success.
A large bird with a unique helmet-like casque on its head, the Helmeted Hornbill has been heavily hunted for its casque, used to make jewelry. This has driven the species close to extinction.
With striking blue and black feathers and red eyes, the Vulturine Guineafowl is hard to miss. It's a fast runner and prefers running to flying.
This tiny hummingbird is found only in Honduras and is vulnerable due to its shrinking habitat. Its survival is threatened by ongoing habitat loss.
Native to China, the Golden Pheasant is known for its vibrant colors. Many people consider it a sign of good luck. Despite their bright appearance, these birds prefer to stay on the ground as they are not strong fliers.
Peru's national bird, the Andean Cock-of-the-rock, is easily recognized by its bright colors and prominent head crest. They inhabit the rocky rainforests of South America.
Frigatebirds are known for their long beaks and the large, red throat pouches males inflate to attract females. They nest in mangrove cays and low trees on islands.
The Kakapo is a critically endangered, flightless parrot from New Zealand. It's the heaviest parrot species and has a unique nocturnal lifestyle.
Native to the Amazon, the Hoatzin is also known as the "skunk bird" because of its strong smell, which comes from its herbivorous diet. This odor helps deter predators.