​Birds – Arabuko Sokoke FR

Philip Briggs
Expert
By Philip Briggs

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many guidebooks to African destinations, including the DK Eyewitness Guide to Kenya.

Philip is an expert for SafariBookings and author of the DK Eyewitness Guide to Kenya.

Philip is the author of the DK Eyewitness Guide to Kenya.

Around 280 bird species have been recorded in Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve. The area is a stronghold for several globally threatened species, including the endemic Clarke’s weaver and near-endemic Sokoke scops owl. Other notable birds include Sokoke pipit, Amani sunbird, spotted ground thrush, east coast akalat and chestnut-fronted helmet-shrike. These specials need to be actively looked for with a specialist guide (available at the entrance gate). Other more noticeable forest birds include Fischer’s turaco, trumpeter hornbill and silvery-cheeked hornbill.

Notable Birds in Arabuko Sokoke FR
Crested guineafowl
Common
Mangrove kingfisher
Locally common
Red-capped robin-chat
Common
Silvery-cheeked hornbill
Common
Trumpeter hornbill
Common

Birding Rating

Birding Specials Treats for Avid Birders

(E) endemic = only lives in Kenya
(NE) near-endemic = also lives in neighboring countries

Facts & Figures

Birds in Arabuko Sokoke FR
Bird Species
280
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Arabuko Sokoke is a bird-watcher’s paradise throughout the year. A lot of the more unusual forest species are resident, and can be spotted at any time. The migratory birds are added to the mix from November to April. November and April are peak months for the short and long rains – heavy rain can interfere with bird-watching activities.

Want To Visit Arabuko Sokoke FR?

Arabuko Sokoke Operators

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Arabuko Sokoke FR
Bird Species
280
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr