 Kenya is among those the world’s most superb birding destinations that are a must-visit for amateur and veteran birders. There are plenty of bird species and birding here is more exciting because in the national parks you may encounter Cattle Egrets picking insects next to a Buffalo while Hyenas and Vultures fight it out on a carcass. And a photography enthusiast will appreciate the perfect opportunities with the ever-changing scenery.
The problem with planning a birding tour to Kenya is not about the availability of birds but of getting the right guide. Unfortunately many operators nowadays regard birding as a highly competitive sport aimed at getting the highest count on the checklist, never mind how it is done.
The accommodation is usually chosen for the proximity to the birding sites and also comfort. At hotels there may be extensive gardens that allow for easy birding even from the comfort of the room’s balcony.
You may start at Nairobi National Park followed by the Rift Valley Lakes with a mix of fresh water lakes (Naivasha and Baringo) and salt water lakes (Nakuru and Bogoria).
Nairobi National Park, which despite being only a few kilometers from the city, is a home to big game, like gazelles, zebras, giraffes and maybe some of the cats.
And the birds available here are Ostrich, Secretary Bird, Crowned Crane, Vulture, Cattle Egret, Great Egret, Tawny Eagle and a herd of Buffaloes should provide Red-billed Oxpecker perched on their backs. There are also Black Kite, Marabou Stork, Pied Crow and African Palm Swift in the park.
Strolling near the Hippo pools would give you first sighting of the Nile Crocodiles and the Helmeted Guinea fowl. Here in the Yellow-backed Acacia, watch for Grey Crowned Crane, Red-throated Tit and Chestnut-banded Plover.
At the Limuru Swamp you may do another bird count: Little Grebe, Yellow-billed and Maccoa Duck, Pelicans, Coots, Egrets and Herons, as well as Black Kite, Augur Buzzard and Pied Crow.
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