[dropcap]W[/dropcap]hat are the ten most beautiful birds in the world? Well, that is a matter of opinion, but here, in ascending order, is one list:
10. Hyacinth Macaw – Largest of the flying parrots, this bird is found in Brazil and there are only about 5,000 left in the world. It has cobalt blue plumage, yellow eye ring and a beautiful long tail. I especially like to see this bird in flight and to hear its raucous call.
9. Wood Duck – A most colorful waterfowl, the male has a metallic purplish-green head and crest.
8. Bohemian Waxwing – In our area, this handsome bird is usually seen in large flocks during the winter. It has a yellow stripe on the tip of its tail.
7. Blue Jay – A year-round resident and as intelligent as it is beautiful.
6. Atlantic Puffin – Also known as the sea parrot and found off the coast of the northern U.S. and Eastern Canada.
5. Keel-billed Toucan – This bird’s huge, multi-colored beak is its most outstanding feature.
4. Peacock – The male peafowl is famous for its colorful, fan-shaped tail.
3. Flamingo – A bird noted for its lovely pink color and stately, long legs.
2. Scarlet Macaw – A riot of colors, including vivid hues of red and yellow.
1. Golden Pheasant – a secretive bird found in China and considered by many the most beautiful in the world.
In my humble opinion, the Andean cock-of-the-rock, with its stately head crest and lovely scarlet color, belongs in any list of most beautiful birds, as does the resplendent quetzal, a striking bird with a marvelous long tail.
I have seen all these birds, except for the Golden Pheasant. In all honesty, I think every bird is a beauty in its own right – including the perky little titmice on my back deck.
