​Birds – Bangweulu Wetlands

Philip Briggs
Expert
By Philip Briggs

Philip has traveled through Zambia several times and is the author of more than 20 guidebooks to various African destinations.

Philip is the Zambia expert for SafariBookings and author of more than 20 guidebooks to Africa.

Philip is our Zambia expert and author of more than 20 guidebooks to Africa.

Bangweulu Wetlands is an amazing birding destination with over 400 species recorded. From December to March, when floodwaters are high, the area is an important stopover and food source for migrating birds. However, many alluring marsh specials can be seen throughout the year, and the star attraction is the endangered shoebill. Thanks to the ‘shoebill guardian program’, which employs local fishers to monitor nests, these elusive birds thrive here. Shoebill Island Camp is the perfect base for bird-watching drives, walks and boat trips.

Notable Birds in Bangweulu Wetlands
› ‹
African marsh harrier
Common
Black heron
Common
Blue-breasted bee-eater
Common
Shoebill
Rare
Spur-winged lapwing
Common

Birding Rating

Birding Specials –Treats for Avid Birders

Facts & Figures

Birds in Bangweulu Wetlands
Bird Species
400+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Bangweulu Wetlands is a great birding destination throughout the year. However, the best time is in the wet summer months – December to March – when floodwaters spill across the plains providing a feeding ground for migratory birds. Although mokoro (canoe) trips might still be available during the rains, the area becomes inaccessible at this time. Therefore, November tends to be a better compromise.

Want To Visit Bangweulu Wetlands?

Bangweulu Wetlands Safaris

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Bangweulu Wetlands
Bird Species
400+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr