Birding in Serengeti is one of the most rewarding activities for nature lovers visiting Serengeti National Park. With over 500 recorded bird species, the park is one of the best bird watching destinations in East Africa. Both resident and migratory birds can be seen throughout the year, making birding in Serengeti possible in all seasons.
The wide range of habitats in Serengeti National Park supports this large number of bird species. Open savannah plains with scattered acacia trees provide space for ground birds and raptors. The Lobo area in the north eastern region has woodland habitats that attract forest and woodland birds. Riverine forests along the Grumeti River in the western corridor support water birds and tree dwelling species. The southern grassland plains are also important feeding and breeding areas for many birds.
Birding in Serengeti is special because the park has several endemic and near endemic bird species. These birds are mostly found only in this region and nearby areas. Some of the Serengeti endemic and near endemic bird species include Fischer’s lovebird, Rufous tailed weaver, Grey throated spurfowl, Schalow’s wheatear, Grey crested helmet shrike, and Usambiro barbet. Seeing these birds is a highlight for many bird watchers.
There are also many well known bird species that are easy to spot while birding in Serengeti. These include ostriches, African fish eagle, Kori bustard, lilac breasted roller, secretary bird, and many types of vultures. Other common sightings include superb starling, southern ground hornbill, Schalow’s turaco, silverbird, red capped robin chat, grey backed fiscal, and black headed gonolek.
Water birds are also present in large numbers, especially near rivers and seasonal pools. You may see white faced whistling duck, Egyptian goose, African pygmy goose, maccoa duck, and knob billed duck. Flamingoes, storks, pelicans, herons, and egrets are also seen in suitable areas.
Birding in Serengeti also offers chances to see quails, francolins, pigeons, eagles, owls, kingfishers, barbets, falcons, and many more species. With binoculars and a guide, birding in Serengeti becomes a rich and enjoyable experience for beginners and serious bird watchers alike.
