​Birds – Okavango Delta

Anthony Ham
Expert
By Anthony Ham

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

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

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

The Okavango Delta is a world-class birding destination with more than 400 bird species recorded. Due to the constant water presence, this is a prime area for waders and waterbirds, although raptors and other species are common on dry land and on the floodplains. Birding here is often extra productive because walking is one of the main activities in the Okavango Delta, and the Delta’s guides are generally knowledgeable. Sliding through the channels in a mokoro is a great way to get close to many species, such as malachite kingfisher and Pel’s fishing-owl.

Notable Birds in Okavango Delta
› ‹
African fish eagle
Common
African green pigeon
Common
Bateleur
Common
Hamerkop
Common
Saddle-billed stork
Common

Birding Rating

Birding Specials –Treats for Avid Birders

Facts & Figures

Birds in Okavango Delta
Bird Species
400+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

The Okavango Delta is excellent for birding throughout the year. However, the ideal time is in the rainy summer months, from November to April, when migrants swoop in from Europe and North Africa. April might be the best month, as from January to March many areas become inaccessible and some lodges close. General wildlife viewing is better during the dry months from July to October.

Want To Visit Okavango Delta?

238 Okavango Delta Safaris

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Okavango Delta
Bird Species
400+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr