​Birds – Rubondo Island NP

Philip Briggs
Expert
By Philip Briggs

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many guidebooks to African destinations, including the Bradt guide to Tanzania.

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Bradt guidebook to Tanzania.

Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Tanzania.

With almost 300 species listed, Rubondo Island National Park is a promising birding destination. For many, the abundance of waterbirds is most alluring. Several bird islands host huge colonies of egrets, ibises and cormorants and you’ll hear the distinctive calls of the African fish eagle throughout the day. Also listen out for screeching grey parrots. In 2000, about 40 of these iconic birds were confiscated from the illegal pet trade and released on Rubondo Island. Seeing flocks of these highly sociable creatures flying freely is one of the many highlights Rubondo has to offer.

Notable Birds in Rubondo Island NP
› ‹
Black kite
Common
Grey parrot
Occasional
Little egret
Common
Reed cormorant
Abundant
Tambourine dove
Occasional

Birding Rating

Birding Specials –Treats for Avid Birders

Facts & Figures

Birds in Rubondo Island NP
Bird Species
300
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

The birdlife on Rubondo Island is good year-round, but is at its best from November to April when the Palearctic and intra-African migrants are present. At this time, many resident birds are nesting and are in breeding plumage. However, the conditions for birding can be less favorable in April, the peak of the Wet season, as rainfall might interfere with activities. Chimp trekking is better from June to September (the Dry season runs from June to October). Note that the only private lodge in the park is closed from April to May (National Park accommodation remains open).

Want To Visit Rubondo Island NP?

Rubondo Island Safaris

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Rubondo Island NP
Bird Species
300
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr