​Birds – Nairobi NP

Anthony Ham
Expert
By Anthony Ham

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guide to Kenya.

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

Anthony is the author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

With more than 520 bird species recorded, Nairobi National Park gives Kenya’s capital one of the longest bird lists of any city in the world. The park’s substantial area of undisturbed grassland is of great importance for species such as the range-restricted Jackson’s widowbird, which breeds here regularly after good rains. Other grassland species include common ostrich, secretary bird and a variety of bustards. Waterbirds often gather around Hyena Dam and Nagolomon Dam. Nairobi NP is a popular birding destination, and it’s easy to book a full- or half-day guided birding trip at short notice.

Notable Birds in Nairobi NP
› ‹
Common ostrich
Common
Grey crowned crane
Common
Northern pied babbler
Common
Purple grenadier
Common
Superb starling
Common

Birding Rating

Birding Specials –Treats for Avid Birders

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

Facts & Figures

Birds in Nairobi NP
Bird Species
520+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Nairobi NP offers good bird watching throughout the year, but the best time is November to April when the migrants from Europe and North Africa are present. Many species are nesting at this time as it coincides with the breeding season. The spectacular Jackson’s widowbird displays from March to May. Although April is a good month for birding, it may be difficult to get around because it can be very wet.

Want To Visit Nairobi NP?

58 Nairobi NP Safaris

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Nairobi NP
Bird Species
520+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr