​Birds – Etosha NP

Anthony Ham
Expert
By Anthony Ham

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the 'Botswana & Namibia' guide.

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of the 'Botswana & Namibia' Lonely Planet guide.

Anthony is the author of the 'Botswana & Namibia' Lonely Planet guide.

About one-third of the 340 bird species recorded in Etosha National Park are migratory birds. This includes a good number of waders, which are attracted to the Etosha Pan in the Wet season (November to April). The pan is an important breeding ground for lesser and greater flamingos. The desert habitat is also excellent for seeing a wide variety of birds of prey. Etosha has up to 35 species of raptor, including many hawks, vultures, eagles and falcons.

Notable Birds in Etosha NP
› ‹
Double-banded courser
Common
Lesser flamingo
Seasonally common
Monteiro’s hornbill
Locally common & near-endemic
Pale chanting goshawk
Common
White-quilled bustard
Locally common

Birding Rating

Birding Specials –Treats for Avid Birders

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

Facts & Figures

Birds in Etosha NP
Bird Species
340
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Etosha is a very seasonal park. The months of the Dry season (May to October) are better for wildlife viewing, while the Wet season (November to April) makes for more successful bird watching. This is mainly due to the arrival of summer migrants from Europe and Asia. After heavy rains, the water becomes deep enough for the pan to act as a breeding ground for greater and lesser flamingo. Most birds of prey are resident throughout the year.

Want To Visit Etosha NP?

150 Etosha Safaris

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Etosha NP
Bird Species
340
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr