​Birds – Skeleton Coast NP

Anthony Ham
Expert
By Anthony Ham

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

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of the 'Botswana & Namibia' Lonely Planet guide.

Anthony is the author of the 'Botswana & Namibia' Lonely Planet guide.

Skeleton Coast National Park is a rewarding birding destination. Marine birds, as well as wetland birds that inhabit the river deltas, are the specialty here. However, accessibility in the park is limited and most species can be found more easily south of the park. Jaegers and skuas are a common sight around the seal colonies, and the gracious Cape gannets can be seen diving into the sea to catch their meal. Cormorants, gulls and herons are commonly seen along the beach, and migratory birds are present from November to April.

Notable Birds in Skeleton Coast NP
Northern black korhaan
Locally common
Black crake
Common
Egyptian goose
Common
Great white pelican
Common
Common ostrich
Common

Birding Rating

Birding Specials Treats for Avid Birders

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

Facts & Figures

Birds in Skeleton Coast NP
Bird Species
300
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Summer (November to April) is an ideal time to visit the Skeleton Coast for birding. This is when migratory birds arrive from Europe and Asia, greatly increasing the variety of species that can be seen compared to the rest of the year.

Want To Visit Skeleton Coast NP?

15 Skeleton Coast Safaris

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Skeleton Coast NP
Bird Species
300
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr