Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the Botswana & Namibia guide.
With over 550 recorded species, Botswana is a superb birding destination. It doesn't have endemic species (birds that only occur in Botswana), but several have limited distribution. The habitat ranges from wet delta to desert bush, and both waterbirds and dry-country specials can be seen. Great numbers of migratory birds are present from October to April.
Notable Birds in Botswana
Common
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Endemic & Near-endemic Birds
(NE) near-endemic = also lives in neighboring countriesOther Birding Specials–Treats for Avid Birders
Facts & Figures
Best Time for Bird Watching
The birdlife in Botswana is good year-round, but at its best in the Wet season, from November to April, when the migratory birds from Europe and northern Africa are present. At this time, many resident bird species are nesting and in breeding plumage. Except for January and February, rains are mostly short showers in the afternoon and seldom have a negative impact on your trip. For wildlife viewing, the Dry season is better.
Best Parks for Birding –Includes Birding Rating
Birdlife is especially rich in the northern parks, where permanent water is present. The other semi-arid parks still offer reasonable birding and the opportunity to see dry-country specials.
- Chobe NP 4.5/5 162 Birding Ratings
- Okavango Delta 4.6/5 139 Birding Ratings
- Moremi GR 4.5/5 86 Birding Ratings
- Makgadikgadi Pans NP 3.7/5 33 Birding Ratings
Recommended Birding Books
Want To Visit Botswana?
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Facts & Figures
