How many types of birds are there?

According to the latest estimate by BirdLife International in 2022, there are approximately 11,700 known bird species in the world. This number includes all species of living birds, from tiny hummingbirds to large ostriches.

These bird species are classified into more specific taxonomic groups, including orders, families, and genera. Some well-known orders of birds include passerines (perching birds), waterfowl, raptors (birds of prey), shorebirds, and seabirds.

New bird species continue to be discovered and described occasionally, contributing to the ongoing study of avian diversity.