1️⃣ 🐦 Introduction: Why Sir Bani Yas Island Is a Birdwatcher’s Haven
Sir Bani Yas Island, located off the western coast of Abu Dhabi, stands as one of the region’s most successful wildlife conservation stories. Created as part of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s Greening of the Desert initiative, the island today hosts thriving ecosystems that attract resident and migratory birds throughout the year.
Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts visit the island to observe its remarkable diversity of species. Among the thriving wildlife, the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island have become a centerpiece for eco-tourism and photography tours. With over 170 recorded bird species, the island offers a combination of coastal lagoons, salt flats, open forests, and freshwater lakes—each home to unique birdlife.
In this detailed 2025 guide, we explore the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island while maintaining complete accuracy and ensuring every listed species is confirmed through official records.
2️⃣ 🦅 Steppe Eagle and Raptors: The Island’s Powerful Predators
Raptors hold a special place in the region’s natural heritage, and Sir Bani Yas Island provides reliable habitats for several species.
Verified Raptors Seen on the Island
- Steppe Eagle (migratory visitor in winter)
- Eastern Imperial Eagle
- Greater Spotted Eagle
- Common Kestrel
- Peregrine Falcon
- Osprey
These species appear in annual migration seasons and have been recorded by field surveys.
For many birdwatchers, raptors are among the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island during cooler months. Their ability to soar above the island’s open landscapes makes them easy to spot. The Steppe Eagle, in particular, is often photographed roosting near elevated structures or hunting over semi-open plains.
Ospreys remain one of the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island along the coastline. They nest on man-made platforms and dive dramatically into shallow waters to catch fish.
3️⃣ 🕊️ Doves and Pigeons: Peaceful Residents Across the Island
Doves and pigeons are widespread across the Arabian Peninsula, and several species thrive on the island.
Confirmed Dove and Pigeon Species
- Laughing Dove
- Collared Dove
- Rock Pigeon
- Namaqua Dove
These are among the most birds on Sir Bani Yas Island, especially around lodges, farms, and open woodland spaces. The Laughing Dove is often seen walking confidently near footpaths and grazing areas. Its calm presence and distinctive cooing make it one of the Common birds on Sir Bani Yas Island encountered year-round.
4️⃣ 🐦⬛ Waders and Shorebirds: Highlights of the Coastal Lagoons
The lagoons and mangrove-rich coastal areas host several wading species, especially during migration seasons.
Verified Shorebirds Seen Regularly
- Grey Heron
- Western Reef Heron
- Black-winged Stilt
- Common Redshank
- Eurasian Curlew
- Kentish Plover
- Flamingos (Greater Flamingo)
Waders are among the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island because the tidal flats create ideal feeding grounds. The Black-winged Stilt, with its tall legs and striking black-white contrast, is particularly visible in shallow waters. The Greater Flamingo appears in groups in certain seasons and is one of the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island, often photographed by visitors.
Grey Herons—known for their patience while hunting—remain consistent sightings and add to the richness of the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island.
5️⃣ 🐤 Songbirds and Small Passerines: Tiny Birds with Big Voices
Small passerines form an important part of the island’s bird population. They thrive in the planted woodlands and protected environments.
Confirmed Small Birds
- Graceful Prinia
- White-spectacled Bulbul
- House Sparrow
- Red-vented Bulbul
- Common Myna
These species are among the everyday birds on Sir Bani Yas Island, especially near trees, shrubs, and lodge gardens. The Graceful Prinia is energetic, hopping through reeds and bushes while singing a distinctive high-pitched tune. The White-spectacled Bulbul is one of the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island, recognized by its yellow vent and cheerful call.
The Common Myna, widely adapted in the UAE, thrives in open areas and has become one of the most commonly observed birds on Sir Bani Yas Island observed frequently.
6️⃣ 🦆 Waterbirds at Lakes and Wetlands
Sir Bani Yas Island includes several artificially managed lakes that now support growing waterbird populations.
Verified Waterbirds
- Mallard
- Coot
- Little Grebe
- Teal (Garganey during migration)
- Eurasian Moorhen
These freshwater species are not as abundant as coastal birds, yet they remain consistent sightings, contributing to the diversity of the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island.
The Little Grebe, a compact diver, is often seen in the quieter lakes. Coots and moorhens are also counted among the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island, especially in winter.
7️⃣ 🐓 Introduced and Managed Species on the Island
Because Sir Bani Yas Island functions as a protected wildlife reserve, certain bird species have been intentionally introduced or have adapted well to the environment.
Verified Managed Species
- Guineafowl
- Peafowl (Indian Peafowl)
Both species are openly acknowledged by wildlife managers on the island. They roam freely and have become familiar to visitors.
The Indian Peafowl—with its vibrant plumage—has become one of the striking birds on Sir Bani Yas Island, especially near lodges. Guineafowl, known for their spotted feathers, forage in groups and are regularly observed.
8️⃣ 🐥 Migratory Species Frequently Seen
Sir Bani Yas Island’s position along migratory pathways brings several species during specific seasons.
Commonly Recorded Migrants
- Barn Swallow
- Common Swift
- Yellow Wagtail
- Red-throated Pipit
Although seasonal, these species contribute to the list of birds on Sir Bani Yas Island during spring and autumn. Swallows glide above open plains, while wagtails visit wet areas in large numbers.
The Barn Swallow is among the most recognizable birds on Sir Bani Yas Island during migration with its sweeping, acrobatic flight.
9️⃣ 🧭 Best Spots to See the Common Birds on Sir Bani Yas Island
Birdwatchers often explore these verified hotspots:
Top Locations
- Coastal Lagoons – ideal for herons, flamingos, and plovers.
- Mangrove Areas – reef herons, curlews, and waders.
- Inland Lakes – coot, moorhen, grebe.
- Wooded Areas – bulbuls, sparrows, prinias.
- Rocky and Elevated Terrain – Raptors such as eagles and kestrels.
- Resort Surroundings – doves, mynas, peafowl.
These areas consistently reflect the richness of the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island and offer excellent photography opportunities.
🔟 🌿 Conservation Efforts Ensuring the Birds Thrive
Sir Bani Yas Island’s bird population benefits from long-term conservation programs such as habitat management, anti-poaching enforcement, scientific monitoring, and controlled tourism.
These efforts have a direct impact on the abundance of the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island, ensuring species safety and environmental stability.
🔚 Conclusion
Sir Bani Yas Island remains one of the UAE’s most remarkable destinations for nature enthusiasts. Its diverse landscapes create habitats where resident and migratory bird species flourish. From raptors patrolling the skies to waders feeding along the coast and lively songbirds filling the woodlands with sound, the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island represent a thriving natural heritage worth protecting.
Whether you are a photographer, researcher, or traveler, exploring the birds on Sir Bani Yas Island offers insight into the region’s ecological success and provides an enriching, authentic experience in 2025 and beyond.
Also Read: Powerful Wildlife Wonders: Fascinating Wildlife Facts About Sir Bani Yas Island – 2025 Guide
Image Credits: The featured image has been taken from Travel to Dubai 2025