In October, we marked Migratory Bird Day, a celebration of the incredible journeys made by migratory species.
Southern Africa, with its diverse ecosystems, is a prime location for birdwatchers hoping to spot both migratory and resident birds.
This guide explores some of the region’s rare and unique species, as well as where and when to find them, while answering common questions about Africa’s avian treasures.
1. Amur Falcon
- Where to spot it: Botswana, South Africa
- Best time to visit: October to March
The Amur Falcon is a small, migratory raptor that travels 22,000 kilometers from Siberia to Southern Africa for the summer. Flocking in large numbers, they can be seen hunting insects over open grasslands in countries like South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia. While not the rarest bird, their long journey makes spotting them special for birdwatchers.
2. European Bee-eater
- Where to spot it: Kruger National Park, South Africa; Chobe National Park, Botswana
- Best time to visit: October to April
Known for their vibrant colors, European Bee-eaters migrate from Europe to Southern Africa, where they catch bees mid-flight. Their eye-catching plumage and acrobatic flight make them a favorite sight in Kruger National Park and Botswana’s Chobe National Park. Though not rare, they are undeniably striking.
3. Barn Swallow
- Where to spot it: Okavango Delta, Botswana; Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
- Best time to visit: September to April
The Barn Swallow is another well-known migratory bird, traveling from Europe to Southern Africa. Famed for their agile flight, they can be spotted skimming over wetlands and grasslands in places like the Okavango Delta and Victoria Falls. Despite their abundance, their migration from Europe to Africa makes them a birdwatching highlight.
4. White Stork
- Where to spot it: Namibia, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
- Best time to visit: November to March
The White Stork, with its white plumage and long red legs, is a symbol of migration. These large birds travel from Europe to Southern Africa, particularly Namibia and South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal region. Though not unique to Africa, they are a magnificent sight, especially in wetlands and grasslands.
5. Eurasian Roller
- Where to spot it: Kruger National Park, South Africa; Zambezi River, Zambia
- Best time to visit: November to March
The Eurasian Roller, with its bright turquoise feathers, is a vivid addition to the Southern African birdwatching experience. Migrating from Europe, these colorful birds are best spotted in open woodlands and savannas, especially in parks like Kruger and along the Zambezi River.
What is the rarest bird in Southern Africa?
One contender is the Taita Falcon, found in small numbers around Victoria Falls and some parts of Zimbabwe. This elusive bird is a prized sighting for birders in Southern Africa.
What bird is only found in Africa?
The Southern Ground Hornbill, native to sub-Saharan Africa, is one of the continent’s unique species. Known for its deep booming call and striking black and red appearance, this bird is only found in Africa’s grasslands and savannas.
What is the biggest bird in Africa?
That honor goes to the Ostrich, which is not only Africa’s largest bird but also the world’s. It’s a common sight across Southern Africa’s savannas.
Where and When to Go Birdwatching
For the best birdwatching in Southern Africa, visit between October and March when migratory species arrive from Europe and Asia. Parks like Kruger, Chobe, and the Okavango Delta offer prime opportunities to witness these spectacular species, especially near wetlands, savannas, and riverbanks.
Book Your Trip with Us Today
Southern Africa is a treasure trove for birdwatchers, whether you’re tracking the colorful European Bee-eater, marveling at the Barn Swallow, or searching for the rare Taita Falcon. With October marking Migratory Bird Day, it’s the perfect time to plan your birdwatching adventure.
Let Explorer Safari arrange your trip to prime birding spots like the Okavango Delta and Kruger National Park. Pack your binoculars and get ready to experience the rich avian life that awaits you!
