Birding in Samburu: Dry-Country Specialities Along the Ewaso Nyiro River

Many of the birds that draw visitors here are northern or dry-country species that do not occur on the southern savannah circuit. The river is the lifeline of the reserve, lined with doum palms and tall acacia, and birds crowd along it, particularly in the dry months when water is scarce elsewhere.

Samburu is better known for elephants and the so-called special five mammals, but it is a rewarding birding stop and the species are often close to the track. This guide covers habitats, notable birds, timing and how to make the most of a short visit.

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.

Habitats Along the River

The river is the best place to start. Early in the day birds are active along the banks, and a patient vehicle stop beside the water often reveals more than constant driving. Move into the scrub as the sun rises to look for ground feeders.

Northern Specialities

Several birds draw visitors to Samburu in particular. Vulturine guineafowl, with its long neck and blue-and-white plumage, walks in groups across the open ground and is one of the most striking birds in the country. Golden-breasted starling, white-headed buffalo weaver and the Somali ostrich are also associated with the dry north. Pygmy falcons often perch on acacia branches, and small groups of sparrow-weavers build untidy nests. See the guineafowl profile and ostrich profile for related background.

Raptors and Larger Birds

The dry country is good for birds of prey. Martial and tawny eagles, bateleur, gabar goshawk and various vultures can be seen, and African fish eagles call from the riverside trees. Kori bustards walk through the grass, and secretary birds hunt along the plains. Look for large nests in tall acacias and watch for birds soaring on thermals during late morning. See the secretary bird profile and fish eagle profile.

Colourful Small Birds

Dry scrub is not short of colour. Look for lilac-breasted rollers on exposed perches, various bee-eaters hawking insects from the bushes, and hornbills such as red-billed and yellow-billed species. Weavers and waxbills flit through the grass, and kingfishers fish along the river. Keep an eye on small bushes, because birds often sit still in shade during the heat of the day. See the lilac-breasted roller profile and bee-eater profile.

Best Months to Visit

Resident birds are present all year, but the dry months from June to October concentrate animals and birds along the river and make viewing easier. The rains, which can fall in short bursts, green the scrub and encourage breeding, and migrants from Europe and Asia swell the list from about November to April. See Samburu best time to visit for the wider seasonal picture.

How to Bird Samburu

Game drives with a guide who knows the birds are the standard approach. Ask your driver to stop frequently, to cut the engine and to point out nests, perches and waterholes. Short guided walks may be possible on the reserve edges or in neighbouring conservancies, subject to local rules. Keep a respectful distance from elephants along the river, since they can be unpredictable. See Samburu activities and Samburu wildlife guide for context.

Photography and Practical Tips

The open habitat and low vegetation help photographers because birds are often visible and close to the track. A long lens and a beanbag for the vehicle window keep shots steady. The light is bright for much of the day, so shoot early and late for colour, and carry a cloth for dust. Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water. For a longer trip combine the reserve with the highlands, using Nairobi to Samburu to plan the journey and Mount Kenya birding for the contrasting forest birds.

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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