Madagacar - Endemics of the 8th continent
Madagascar is one of the most unique biogeographic regions on Earth. Isolated for millions of years, the island has given rise to an extraordinary number of endemic bird species — many of which belong to bird families found nowhere else. From ground rollers and vangas to mesites and couas, the diversity is as strange as it is special.
But Madagascar’s forests are disappearing at an alarming rate. What remains of its original habitats is often fragmented and under extreme pressure, making each encounter with a forest-dwelling species feel both precious and urgent.
This gallery is a glimpse into what still survives — the birdlife of Madagascar’s remaining forests, shaped by deep evolutionary history, and now facing an uncertain future.
Red Owl
Red-tailed Vanga
Van Dam's Vanga (female)
Madagascar Buttonquail
Malagasy Bulbul
Nelicourvi Weaver
Bernier's Teal
Bernier's Teal
Meller's Duck
Lesser Flamingo
Malagasy Harrier
Madagascar Jacana
Madagascar Jacana
Madagascar Fish Eagle
Broad-billed Roller
Madagascar Hoopoe
Red-capped Coua
Meller's Duck
Rufous Vanga
Madagascar Pochard
White-breasted Mesite
Madagascar Pratincole
Madagascar Magpie-Robin
Frances's Sparrowhawk
African "Madagascar" Stonechat
Madagascar Grebe
Madagascar Swamp Warbler