Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the 'Botswana & Namibia' guide.
With nearly 700 species recorded, many of them seasonal, Namibia doesn’t have as many resident birds as some other African destinations. However, the arid habitat is home to a high number of dry-country specials that can be hard to see elsewhere. Although the dune lark is Namibia’s only endemic species, there are many near-endemics, which are easier to see here than in neighboring countries. The Palearctic migrants are present from November to April.
Notable Birds in Namibia
Locally common
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Endemic & Near-endemic Birds
(E) endemic = only lives in Namibia(NE) near-endemic = also lives in neighboring countries
Other Birding Specials–Treats for Avid Birders
Facts & Figures
Best Time for Bird Watching
The birdlife in Namibia is at its best from November to April, when migratory birds from Europe and Asia are present. At this time, many resident species are nesting and displaying their breeding plumage. After good rains, the pans in Etosha National Park and elsewhere in the Kalahari Desert become a hot spot for waterbirds, including flocks of flamingo. Rains are mostly short showers in the afternoon and rarely have a negative impact on your trip. For general wildlife viewing, the Dry season (May to October) is better.
Best Parks for Birding –Includes Birding Rating
Etosha National Park is home to 340 bird species and is one of Namibia’s birding hot spots. The parks in the Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi Strip) offer bird-rich habitats, with an impressive selection of Okavango Delta specials.
- Etosha NP 4.2/5 116 Birding Ratings
- Waterberg Plateau 3.5/5 23 Birding Ratings
- Skeleton Coast NP 3.2/5 31 Birding Ratings
- Nkasa Rupara NP 4.5/5 8 Birding Ratings
- Namib-Naukluft NP 3.2/5 61 Birding Ratings
- Zambezi Region 4.6/5 19 Birding Ratings
Recommended Birding Books
Want To Visit Namibia?
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Facts & Figures
