Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many guidebooks to African destinations, including the Bradt guide to Malawi.
Malawi offers over 650 bird species, which is an impressive number for a small country. Lake Malawi is great for general waterbirds such as kingfishers, cormorants and egrets, and fish eagles, impressive creatures with a two-meter wingspan, are never far away. Of greater interest to birders are the high-mountain plateaus of Nyika and Viphya, as well as the woodlands of Dzalanyama. Liwonde offers common country specials like Böhm’s bee-eater and Pel’s fishing-owl. Migratory birds are present from October to April.
Notable Birds in Malawi
Common
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Endemic & Near-endemic Birds
(NE) near-endemic = also lives in neighboring countriesOther Birding Specials–Treats for Avid Birders
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Best Time for Bird Watching
Bird watching in Malawi is excellent throughout the year. The best time however is the Wet season, from November to April – this is when migratory birds are present. Wildlife viewing, however, is better in the Dry season (May to October).
Best Parks for Birding –Includes Birding Rating
Liwonde NP is very good for general water and woodland birds, as well as some of the Malawi specials. Nyika NP has a different range of specials, many of which are associated with the grassland and forest habitats. Nkhotakota WR is less developed but its miombo woodland is very rewarding birding territory and raptors are especially well represented.
- Liwonde NP 3.6/5 10 Birding Ratings
- Nkhotakota WR 1.8/5 4 Birding Ratings
- Nyika NP 3.7/5 7 Birding Ratings
Recommended Birding Books
Want To Visit Malawi?
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