Birding in Amboseli: Swamps, Plains and Acacia Woodland Birds

Amboseli is usually described through its elephants and the view of Kilimanjaro, but the swamps fed by mountain water also make it one of Kenya's most productive places for birds. The contrast between green wetland and pale, dry plains concentrates birdlife in small, easily viewed areas.

The park is flat, open and relatively easy to bird from a vehicle, which makes it a good choice for newer birders as well as photographers who want close views in good light.

This guide is part of our animals of Uganda and East Africa guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

The Swamps

The swamp edges hold the greatest variety. Look for pelicans, yellow-billed storks, sacred ibis, glossy ibis, hamerkop, grey and goliath herons, spur-winged and blacksmith lapwings, Egyptian geese and several kinds of duck. Crowned cranes feed in wet grassland, and African jacanas pick across floating vegetation. Wading birds move with the water, so ask your guide where the best pools are that day. The wetlands are also where elephants gather, so approach quietly and let the animals set the pace. See the Amboseli wildlife guide for the mammals.

Plains and Grassland Birds

On the open plains you may find kori bustard, one of the heaviest flying birds, striding through short grass, along with secretary bird, ostrich, Fischer's sparrow-lark and various larks and pipits. Pygmy falcons perch on acacia branches, often near sociable weavers' nests. The dust and short grass provide clear views, but also heat shimmer by midday, so early drives are the most productive. For the secretary bird itself, read the secretary bird species profile.

Woodland and Bush Birds

Acacia woodland near Ol Tukai and the park fringes holds birds typical of dry East African bush. Watch for Von der Decken's hornbill, northern white-crowned shrike, white-bellied go-away-bird, superb and Hildebrandt's starlings, red-and-yellow barbet and the Taveta golden weaver, a bright species of Kenya and Tanzania. Bee-eaters and rollers hunt from exposed perches, including lilac-breasted rollers, which are easy to photograph at close range. Be patient when scanning thicker bush, where small birds hide.

Raptors

Amboseli is good for raptors. Tawny and martial eagles, bateleur, augur buzzard, lappet-faced and white-backed vultures, black-chested snake eagle and several falcons and kites can be seen from the vehicle. Vultures often lead you to a carcass and to predators. Migrant raptors, including steppe eagles and harriers, pass through in the northern winter, so the raptor list grows between about October and April.

Best Months

Resident birds are present all year, and the dry months of June to October give easier viewing and concentrated wildlife near water. From roughly November the short rains bring green growth, breeding activity and migrants from Europe and Asia, making this a rewarding birding window even though clouds can hide the mountain. The long rains from March to May are quieter, with wet tracks in places. Compare the options in best time to visit Amboseli.

Birding Practicalities

Game drives follow park tracks, and walking away from the vehicle is not permitted, so your vehicle is your hide. Choose a roof-hatch vehicle and a guide who is happy to stop for small birds, not only big game. Bring binoculars, a field guide and a scarf or mask for dust. For gear advice see best binoculars for safari and safari photography tips. Reach the park using the Nairobi to Amboseli route.

Combining Amboseli With Other Stops

Amboseli fits neatly before or after Tsavo, where the habitats change to red-soil bush, or before the Masai Mara for grassland birds. A short stay of two nights suits keen birders who want a few full mornings. See the Amboseli to Tsavo West route, the Masai Mara birding guide and the Kenya birding itinerary planner.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team