EAST AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS: KENYA & TANZANIA · EAST AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS: KENYA & TANZANIA September 4,...

TRIPLIST

Guided by

EAST AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS: KENYA & TANZANIASeptember 4, 2010 to September 24, 2010

Terry Stevenson

Previously known as the East African Sampler we have now remodeled this tour to have less driving, but also include the fabulous Lake Baringo where well over 500 species of birds have been seen - the new tour is renamed East African Highlights: Kenya & Tanzania; and many highlights this tour certainly produced. Beginning in Nairobi National Park, we saw Ostrich (the world's largest living bird), our first Hamerkop and Secretary-bird (both African single species families), the very local Brown-backed Woodpecker, Red-billed and Yellow-billed oxpeckers (now in their own family), and the gorgeous Purple Grenadier; Giraffe, Zebra, Warhog and Eland gave us a taste of the many species of African mammals that were soon to come our way. We then headed to Tanzania and stayed at the delightful Gibb's Farm on the outer slopes of Ngorongoro Crater. Schalow's Turaco and a displaying African Broadbill where the highlights here, before we headed to our new lodge on the crater rim - and one of the planets most spectacular views. A full day in the crater brought us many memorable encounters with Africa's famed big game, from Wildebeest, Hartebeest, Buffalo and Zebra on the plains, to Vervet Monkeys in the woodland, and Hippos in the mud holes. Early in the morning Spotted Hyaenas were still active looking for their next meal, and four lions finished theirs - they'd killed a zebra during the previous night. Birds of course were another highlights here - our first flamingos on the sparkling Lake Magadi, Bateleur crossing the skies, no less than 30 Kori Bustards, Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, Rosy-throated Longclaw, and the endemic Rufous-tailed Weaver. Heading further west, we then spent three days in the Serengeti where the 'big cats' were just exceptional, with no less than 48 lions (including large-maned males, and females and cubs of all different sizes), 3 different leopards, and a lone Cheetah feeding on a freshly killed gazelle. Gray-breasted Francolin (another endemic), White-headed and Lappet-faced vultures, Temminck's Courser, Fischer's Lovebird, Lilac-breasted Roller, Magpie Shrike, Sulphur-breasted Bushshrike and Silverbird were all great additions to our bird list. From here it was now time to back-track to Kenya, but not without a two night stop at Tarangire National Park - a wonderful area of bush country, baobabs, and riverine vegetation. This was without doubt the best area for Elephant, and we had repeated encounters with many herds of these magnificent beasts. As always the birdlife was wonderful, with just a few of the highlights being Martial Eagle, Buff-crested Bustard, Yellow-collared Lovebird, Southern Ground-Hornbill, Northern Pied-Babbler, Ashy Starling and Blue-capped Cordon-bleu. We then returned to Kenya (and the main part of our tour there), which took us to the Great Rift Valley and the alkaline waters of Lake Nakuru. Here, hundreds of thousands of mainly Lesser (but also some Greater) flamingos were the photographers dream. But, the rare Gray-crested Helmetshrike, a huge male lion in a tree, and a mother and her baby Black Rhino were equally well enjoyed. Continuing further northwest we then spent three nights at the famous Kakamega Forest. As expected we added many new birds (after all it was our only visit to an area of Central Africa type rain forest) and just a few of the favorites were Gray Parrot (rare here), Great Blue Turaco (really big), Blue-headed Bee-eater (another rare and local species), Yellow-billed Barbet, Jameson's and Yellow-bellied wattle-eyes (seriously cute), Black-faced Rufous-Warbler, Banded Prinia, Snowy-crowned Robin-Chat, and Red-headed Bluebill. Changing direction (and yet another different habitat) we returned to the Rift Valley, but now at a lower altitude, with dry bush country and the fresh waters of Lake Baringo. Amazingly five species of owls were seen (all in daylight) including, the small and well camouflaged African Scops-Owl, the local Northern White-faced Owl, and the massive Verreaux's Eagle-Owl. The other local specials ranged from Hemprich's Hornbill and Bristle-crowned Starling to the tiny Mouse-colored Penduline-Tit and breeding Northern Masked-Weavers. Of course we then finished the tour back at Nairobi, but not before a night on the slopes of Mt. Kenya at Mountain Lodge. Here Slender Mongoose became our 50th species of mammal for the trip, Red-fronted Parrots flew overhead, an African Emerald Cuckoo showed well, and Tropical Boubous repeatedly performed their amazing duetting calls. Finally though a fabulous male Narina Trogon gave us all good long looks - a true highlight to finish this first 'Highlights' tour. Terry

Field Guides Incorporated 800-728-4953 512-263-7295 [email protected] www.fieldguides.com

Previously known as the East African Sampler we have now remodeled this tour to have less driving, but also include the fabulous Lake Baringo where well over 500 species of birds have been seen - the new tour is renamed East African Highlights: Kenya & Tanzania; and many highlights this tour certainly produced. Beginning in Nairobi National Park, we saw Ostrich (the world's largest living bird), our first Hamerkop and Secretary-bird (both African single species families), the very local Brown-backed Woodpecker, Red-billed and Yellow-billed oxpeckers (now in their own family), and the gorgeous Purple Grenadier; Giraffe, Zebra, Warhog and Eland gave us a taste of the many species of African mammals that were soon to come our way. We then headed to Tanzania and stayed at the delightful Gibb's Farm on the outer slopes of Ngorongoro Crater. Schalow's Turaco and a displaying African Broadbill where the highlights here, before we headed to our new lodge on the crater rim - and one of the planets most spectacular views. A full day in the crater brought us many memorable encounters with Africa's famed big game, from Wildebeest, Hartebeest, Buffalo and Zebra on the plains, to Vervet Monkeys in the woodland, and Hippos in the mud holes. Early in the morning Spotted Hyaenas were still active looking for their next meal, and four lions finished theirs - they'd killed a zebra during the previous night. Birds of course were another highlights here - our first flamingos on the sparkling Lake Magadi, Bateleur crossing the skies, no less than 30 Kori Bustards, Yellow-throated Sandgrouse, Rosy-throated Longclaw, and the endemic Rufous-tailed Weaver. Heading further west, we then spent three days in the Serengeti where the 'big cats' were just exceptional, with no less than 48 lions (including large-maned males, and females and cubs of all different sizes), 3 different leopards, and a lone Cheetah feeding on a freshly killed gazelle. Gray-breasted Francolin (another endemic), White-headed and Lappet-faced vultures, Temminck's Courser, Fischer's Lovebird, Lilac-breasted Roller, Magpie Shrike, Sulphur-breasted Bushshrike and Silverbird were all great additions to our bird list. From here it was now time to back-track to Kenya, but not without a two night stop at Tarangire National Park - a wonderful area of bush country, baobabs, and riverine vegetation. This was without doubt the best area for Elephant, and we had repeated encounters with many herds of these magnificent beasts. As always the birdlife was wonderful, with just a few of the highlights being Martial Eagle, Buff-crested Bustard, Yellow-collared Lovebird, Southern Ground-Hornbill, Northern Pied-Babbler, Ashy Starling and Blue-capped Cordon-bleu. We then returned to Kenya (and the main part of our tour there), which took us to the Great Rift Valley and the alkaline waters of Lake Nakuru. Here, hundreds of thousands of mainly Lesser (but also some Greater) flamingos were the photographers dream. But, the rare Gray-crested Helmetshrike, a huge male lion in a tree, and a mother and her baby Black Rhino were equally well enjoyed. Continuing further northwest we then spent three nights at the famous Kakamega Forest. As expected we added many new birds (after all it was our only visit to an area of Central Africa type rain forest) and just a few of the favorites were Gray Parrot (rare here), Great Blue Turaco (really big), Blue-headed Bee-eater (another rare and local species), Yellow-billed Barbet, Jameson's and Yellow-bellied wattle-eyes (seriously cute), Black-faced Rufous-Warbler, Banded Prinia, Snowy-crowned Robin-Chat, and Red-headed Bluebill. Changing direction (and yet another different habitat) we returned to the Rift Valley, but now at a lower altitude, with dry bush country and the fresh waters of Lake Baringo. Amazingly five species of owls were seen (all in daylight) including, the small and well camouflaged African Scops-Owl, the local Northern White-faced Owl, and the massive Verreaux's Eagle-Owl. The other local specials ranged from Hemprich's Hornbill and Bristle-crowned Starling to the tiny Mouse-colored Penduline-Tit and breeding Northern Masked-Weavers. Of course we then finished the tour back at Nairobi, but not before a night on the slopes of Mt. Kenya at Mountain Lodge. Here Slender Mongoose became our 50th species of mammal for the trip, Red-fronted Parrots flew overhead, an African Emerald Cuckoo showed well, and Tropical Boubous repeatedly performed their amazing duetting calls. Finally though a fabulous male Narina Trogon gave us all good long looks - a true highlight to finish this first 'Highlights' tour. Terry

Triplist file: nf310ts

List total: 468 bird taxa and 50 mammal taxa

N = nesting, a = austral migrant, b = boreal migrantIf marked to left of list, * = heard only, I = introduced, E = endemic,


EAST AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS: KENYA & TANZANIA 2

Struthionidae (Ostrich)

OSTRICH (Struthio camelus massaicus)

Common and widespread in open grasslands throughout the tour; in all we saw about 220.

Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)

WHITE-FACED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna viduata)

We saw about 40 at the Limuru Ponds and then 80+ in a seasonal pool north of Nakuru.

WHITE-BACKED DUCK (Thalassornis leuconotus)

We saw 4 of these rather localised ducks at Limuru Ponds.

EGYPTIAN GOOSE (Alopochen aegyptiaca)

Common and widespread at wetlands throughout the tour.

AFRICAN BLACK DUCK (Anas sparsa)

One sitting quietly on the bank of a water filled quarry near Gatarakwa.

YELLOW-BILLED DUCK (Anas undulata)

A total of about 20 were seen at Limuru Ponds and at Lake Nakuru.

RED-BILLED DUCK (Anas erythrorhyncha)

Small numbers between Ngorongoro and the Serengeti, and then about 20 at Nakuru and 3 at Gatarakwa.

HOTTENTOT TEAL (Anas hottentota)

One distantly in Ngorongoro Crater, and then nice looks at 6 for al of us at Lake Nakuru.

CAPE TEAL (Anas capensis)

A total of about 40 were seen at Lake Magadi (in Ngorongoro Crater) and at Lake Nakuru.

SOUTHERN POCHARD (Netta erythrophthalma)

Four males at Lake Nakuru.

MACCOA DUCK (Oxyura maccoa)

Uncommon in Kenya, so we were lucky to see two at Limuru Ponds.

Numididae (Guineafowl)

HELMETED GUINEAFOWL (Numida meleagris)

Common and widespread in a variety of bushed grassland and wooded country.

Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies)

COQUI FRANCOLIN (Francolinus coqui)

A total of 14 were seen between Ngorongoro and the Serengeti.

CRESTED FRANCOLIN (Francolinus sephaena)

About 20 at Tarangire NP.

SCALY FRANCOLIN (Francolinus squamatus)

A small group were heard by all of us (and glimpsed by one) in the forest above Gibb's Farm, and then we all had

great looks right next to the vehicle near Mountain Lodge.

HILDEBRANDT'S FRANCOLIN (Francolinus hildebrandti)

A total of 5 were seen at Ngorongoro Crater.

YELLOW-NECKED FRANCOLIN (Francolinus leucoscepus)

Very common at Tarangire.

GRAY-BREASTED FRANCOLIN (Francolinus rufopictus)E

Virtually restricted to the Serengeti ecosystem we had nice looks several times in the Seronera area.

RED-NECKED FRANCOLIN (Francolinus afer)

About 50 at Tarangire.

Podicipedidae (Grebes)

LITTLE GREBE (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Three at our picnic site in Ngorongoro Crater, and then about 30 at Nakuru (including some tiny juveniles) and a

dozen at Gatarakwa.

Phoenicopteridae (Flamingos)

GREATER FLAMINGO (Phoenicopterus roseus)

Flocks totaling several thousand were seen in Ngorongoro Crater, and then at Lake Nakuru.



LESSER FLAMINGO (Phoenicopterus minor)

A few thousand at Ngorongoro, and then perhaps quarter of a million at Lake Nakuru.

Pelecanidae (Pelicans)

GREAT WHITE PELICAN (Pelecanus onocrotalus)

About 300 at Lake Nakuru (included some fabulous low flying flocks).

PINK-BACKED PELICAN (Pelecanus rufescens)

Ten at the mixed stork and pelican colony at Lake Manyara.

Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)

GREAT CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Six at Lake Manyara and 50+ at Lake Nakuru.

LONG-TAILED CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax africanus)

Small numbers at lakes Nakuru, Victoria, and Baringo.

Anhingidae (Anhingas)

DARTER (AFRICAN) (Anhinga melanogaster rufa)

Many authorities now split this as African Darter; we saw 5 singles at Ngorongoro and Lake Baringo.

Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)

GRAY HERON (Ardea cinerea)

Widespread at a variety of open water wetlands.

BLACK-HEADED HERON (Ardea melanocephala)

Common and widespread around lakes and in wet grasslands.

GOLIATH HERON (Ardea goliath)

The world's largest heron; we had great close looks at 1 at Lake Baringo.

PURPLE HERON (Ardea purpurea)

One next to a hippo pool in Ngorongoro Crater.

GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba)

Small numbers between Nakuru, Baringo, and near Mt. Kenya.

INTERMEDIATE EGRET (Mesophoyx intermedia)

About a dozen at Lake Nakuru, and a couple of singles at Nairobi NP and at Baringo.

LITTLE EGRET (Egretta garzetta)

Ten at Lake Nakuru and 1 at Lake Baringo.

CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis)

Very common and widespread.

SQUACCO HERON (Ardeola ralloides)

A total of about 30 were seen at Lake Baringo.

STRIATED HERON (Butorides striata)

Four (including a nesting pair) at Lake Baringo.

Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)

GLOSSY IBIS (Plegadis falcinellus)

About 50 in Ngorongoro Crater, and a further 60 between Limuru Ponds and Lake Nakuru.

SACRED IBIS (Threskiornis aethiopicus)

Common and widespread (including right in Nairobi city).

HADADA IBIS (Bostrychia hagedash)

Another common and widespread ibis.

AFRICAN SPOONBILL (Platalea alba)

Ten in Ngorongoro Crater and 20 at Lake Nakuru.

Scopidae (Hamerkop)

HAMERKOP (Scopus umbretta)

This single species family (which is also endemic to Africa) was seen almost daily; in all we recorded about 100.

Ciconiidae (Storks)



AFRICAN OPENBILL (Anastomus lamelligerus)

One in a roadside pool near Kisumu.

SADDLE-BILLED STORK (Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis)

We saw these spectacular birds at Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Tarangire and at Lake Nakuru.

MARABOU STORK (Leptoptilos crumeniferus)

Very common away from forested areas throughout the tour.

YELLOW-BILLED STORK (Mycteria ibis)

Common and widespread at wetlands throughout the tour.

Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)

EUROPEAN HONEY-BUZZARD (Pernis apivorus)

Two flying over Mountain Lodge were totally unexpected.

BLACK-SHOULDERED KITE (Elanus caeruleus)

Small numbers were widespread in open country.

BLACK KITE (Milvus migrans)

Widespread, and especially common around towns and villages.

AFRICAN FISH-EAGLE (Haliaeetus vocifer)

Fairly common at a variety of lakes and rivers; in all we saw about 20.

WHITE-BACKED VULTURE (Gyps africanus)

The most common large vulture, with a total of about 180 between Ngorongoro, Serengeti and Tarangire.

surprisingly only 1 was seen in Kenya - at Nairobi NP.

RUEPPELL'S GRIFFON (Gyps rueppellii)

A total of 30 were seen in Tarangire NP.

LAPPET-FACED VULTURE (Torgos tracheliotus)

In the open game country of Tanzania we saw a total of 21.

WHITE-HEADED VULTURE (Trigonoceps occipitalis)

We saw 3 of these striking 'and attractive' vultures near Seronera and in Tarangire NP.

BLACK-BREASTED SNAKE-EAGLE (Circaetus pectoralis)

Singles at Namanga, Ngorongoro, Seronera, and in Tarangire NP.

BROWN SNAKE-EAGLE (Circaetus cinereus)

Singles in the Serengeti and at Tarangire.

BATELEUR (Terathopius ecaudatus)

A dramatic looking eagle of the open African skies; in total we saw 17.

AFRICAN HARRIER-HAWK (Polyboroides typus)

Great looks at 2 at Gibb's Farm, and then 1 in Ngorongoro Crater.

DARK CHANTING-GOSHAWK (Melierax metabates)

Two near Seronera, 1 at Tarangire, and 1 at Lake Baringo.

EASTERN CHANTING-GOSHAWK (Melierax poliopterus)

Very common along the road between Nairobi and Namanga, and much smaller numbers in the Serengeti and at

Tarangire.

GABAR GOSHAWK (Micronisus gabar)

Two as we left the Serengeti and began to climb back up to the Crater Highlands.

AFRICAN GOSHAWK (Accipiter tachiro)

Two singles were seen in high display flights at Limuru and over Kakamega Forest.

BLACK GOSHAWK (Accipiter melanoleucus)

Nice looks at a fly-by at Kakamega.

AUGUR BUZZARD (Buteo augur)


TAWNY EAGLE (Aquila rapax)

Particularly common in the Serengeti, and smaller numbers elsewhere in open country.

VERREAUX'S EAGLE (Aquila verreauxii)

Simply fantastic looks as 1 cruised back and forth along the cliffs at Lake Baringo.



AFRICAN HAWK-EAGLE (Aquila spilogaster)

Three between Namanga and Ngorongoro, and another 3 at Tarangire.

AYRES'S HAWK-EAGLE (Hieraaetus ayresii)

We had good looks at this quite rare eagle in the forest above Gibb's Farm.

MARTIAL EAGLE (Polemaetus bellicosus)

We saw a total of 5 between the Serengeti and Tarangire.

LONG-CRESTED EAGLE (Lophaetus occipitalis)

Surprisingly few with just 5 between Kakamega, Eldoret, and near Mt. Kenya.

CROWNED HAWK-EAGLE (Stephanoaetus coronatus)

Alerted by screaming monkeys, most of us saw a huge adult fly in and land right in front of us in Kakamega

Forest.

Sagittariidae (Secretary-bird)

SECRETARY-BIRD (Sagittarius serpentarius)

Common in Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, and a few others elsewhere; in all we saw about 30.

Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)

PYGMY FALCON (Polihierax semitorquatus)

Three near Namanga, 1 near Seronera, and 1 at Lake Baringo.

EURASIAN KESTREL (Falco tinnunculus)

Singles at Olduvai, Tarangire, and Baringo.

GREATER KESTREL (Falco rupicoloides)

Great looks at a very tame bird right next to our vehicle in the Serengeti.

EURASIAN HOBBY (Falco subbuteo)

One in the Serengeti was early this year.

Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)

WHITE-SPOTTED FLUFFTAIL (Sarothrura pulchra)

Heard along a stream bed within Kakamega Forest.

BLACK CRAKE (Amaurornis flavirostra)

This extrovert rail was seen at a variety of marshy wetlands throughout the tour; in all we saw about 25.

PURPLE SWAMPHEN (Porphyrio porphyrio)

We saw a single immature bird in Ngorongoro Crater.

COMMON MOORHEN (Gallinula chloropus)

Six in Ngorongoro Crater were the only ones.

LESSER MOORHEN (Gallinula angulata)

We had good views of this secretive moorhen in the marshes at the south end of Lake Nakuru.

RED-KNOBBED COOT (Fulica cristata)

About 15 in Ngorongoro Crater, 40 at Limuru Ponds, and 1 at Gatarakwa.

Otididae (Bustards)

KORI BUSTARD (Ardeotis kori)

At least 30 in Ngorongoro Crater, 3 in the Serengeti, and 1 between Nairobi and Namanga.

WHITE-BELLIED BUSTARD (Eupodotis senegalensis)

One to the north of Namanga, and 11 between Olduvai, Serengeti, and Tarangire.

BUFF-CRESTED BUSTARD (Eupodotis gindiana)

A distant male flew in in response to playback of its call in Tarangire NP.

BLACK-BELLIED BUSTARD (Lissotis melanogaster)

Two singles in Serengeti.

Gruidae (Cranes)

GRAY CROWNED-CRANE (Balearica regulorum)

This gorgeous bird was common at many wetlands and in farm country; they were most numerous in Ngorongoro

Crater where we saw about 250.

Burhinidae (Thick-knees)



SPOTTED THICK-KNEE (Burhinus capensis)

Two well camouflaged birds were seen along the road near Olduvai Gorge.

Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)

LONG-TOED LAPWING (Vanellus crassirostris)

Two distant birds were seen across the lake from our picnic site in Ngorongoro Crater.

BLACKSMITH PLOVER (Vanellus armatus)

Common and widespread around lakes and pools.

SPUR-WINGED PLOVER (Vanellus spinosus)

Two at Lake Nakuru and 4 at Lake Baringo.

BLACK-HEADED LAPWING (Vanellus tectus)

We saw a pair in the dry country near Baringo.

BLACK-WINGED LAPWING (Vanellus melanopterus)

About 20 in Ngorongoro Crater.

CROWNED LAPWING (Vanellus coronatus)

Common and widespread in open grasslands.

KITTLITZ'S PLOVER (Charadrius pecuarius)

Six at Ngorongoro and 6 at Lake Nakuru.

COMMON RINGED PLOVER (Charadrius hiaticula)

Three on the muddy flats at the south end of Lake Nakuru.

THREE-BANDED PLOVER (Charadrius tricollaris)

Common and widespread.

Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)

BLACK-WINGED STILT (Himantopus himantopus)

Two hundred in Ngorongoro Crater were by far the highest concentration, but we also saw about 50 others at a

variety of different wetlands.

PIED AVOCET (Recurvirostra avosetta)

One in Ngorongoro Crater.

Jacanidae (Jacanas)

AFRICAN JACANA (Actophilornis africanus)

Surprisingly difficult this tour, but we eventually all got good looks at two between Baringo and Nakuru.

Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)

COMMON SANDPIPER (Actitis hypoleucos)

Small numbers at a variety of wetlands throughout the tour.

GREEN SANDPIPER (Tringa ochropus)

Four in Tarangire and singles at Ngorongoro and Gatarakwa.

COMMON GREENSHANK (Tringa nebularia)

One Seronera and 2 at Lake Nakuru.

MARSH SANDPIPER (Tringa stagnatilis)

Two singles near Seronera.

WOOD SANDPIPER (Tringa glareola)

About 40 at Lake Nakuru and smaller numbers at other widespread sites.

LITTLE STINT (Calidris minuta)

Twenty at Lake Nakuru and a few others elsewhere.

CURLEW SANDPIPER (Calidris ferruginea)

Two (together with other sandpipers) near Seronera.

RUFF (Philomachus pugnax)

About 300 at Lake Nakuru, 100 at Ngorongoro, and a total of 70 others at a variety of different wetlands.

Glareolidae (Pratincoles and Coursers)

TEMMINCK'S COURSER (Cursorius temminckii)

Two on the short grasslands near Seronera.



DOUBLE-BANDED COURSER (Smutsornis africanus)

We saw pairs in the Serengeti and at Tarangire.

THREE-BANDED COURSER (Rhinoptilus cinctus)

Two of these beautiful (and mostly nocturnal) coursers were seen well at Baringo.

Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)

GRAY-HOODED GULL (Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus)

About 10 at Lake Magadi in Ngorongoro Crater, 1 near Seronera Lodge, and at least 200 at Lake Nakuru.

GULL-BILLED TERN (Gelochelidon nilotica)

Two in Ngorongoro Crater, and about 20 at Lake Nakuru.

WHITE-WINGED TERN (Chlidonias leucopterus)

Good views of 1, and distant views of many others at Lake Nakuru.

WHISKERED TERN (Chlidonias hybrida)

About 100 (including many in breeding plumage) at Lake Nakuru.

Pteroclidae (Sandgrouse)

CHESTNUT-BELLIED SANDGROUSE (Pterocles exustus)

A total of about 20 were seen in the Serengeti and at Tarangire.

YELLOW-THROATED SANDGROUSE (Pterocles gutturalis)

Our first were 2 adults and 2 juveniles in Ngorongoro Crater, and we then had about another 20 at various places

in the Serengeti and at Tarangire.

BLACK-FACED SANDGROUSE (Pterocles decoratus)

About a dozen in Tarangire NP.

Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)

ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia)

Small numbers at several widespread villages and towns.

SPECKLED PIGEON (Columba guinea)

Common and widespread throughout the tour.

RAMERON PIGEON (Columba arquatrix)

About 30 were seen around the rim of Ngorongoro Crater.

DELEGORGUE'S PIGEON (Columba delegorguei)

Scope views of a male teed-up in the open at Kakamega Forest (where they are usually very shy).

LEMON DOVE (Columba larvata)

We had amazing views of this normally really shy dove at Gibb's Farm - we even saw the lemon neck patches

DUSKY TURTLE-DOVE (Streptopelia lugens)

One in Nairobi NP and 3 at Ngorongoro Crater.

AFRICAN MOURNING DOVE (Streptopelia decipiens)

Small numbers in the Serengeti, a few in Tarangire, and 200+ at Lake Baringo.

RED-EYED DOVE (Streptopelia semitorquata)

Scattered in various mainly moist locations throughout the tour; in all we saw about 90.

RING-NECKED DOVE (Streptopelia capicola)


LAUGHING DOVE (Streptopelia senegalensis)


EMERALD-SPOTTED WOOD-DOVE (Turtur chalcospilos)

Singles at Nairobi NP, Tarangire, and at Baringo.

TAMBOURINE DOVE (Turtur tympanistria)

Some of the group saw a single bird fly in front of our vehicle at Gatarakwa.

NAMAQUA DOVE (Oena capensis)

Fairly common at Tarangire and around Lake Baringo.

AFRICAN GREEN-PIGEON (Treron calvus)

Two at Gibb's Farm, 1 at Kakamega, and 1 (for some) at Thika.

Psittacidae (Parrots)



FISCHER'S LOVEBIRD (Agapornis fischeri)E

As a totally wild bird this species is endemic to Tanzania; where we saw about 80 in the Serengeti woodlands.

YELLOW-COLLARED LOVEBIRD (Agapornis personatus)E

Another Tanzanian endemic; we had great views many times in the Tarangire area.

GRAY PARROT (Psittacus erithacus)

Very rare in Kenya, so we were extremely lucky to see 2 in Kakamega Forest.

RED-FRONTED PARROT (Poicephalus gulielmi)

About a dozen flew over Mountain Lodge.

MEYER'S PARROT (Poicephalus meyeri)

About 20 in the Serengeti and 5 in the Kerio Valley.

RED-BELLIED PARROT (Poicephalus rufiventris)

More commonly known as African Orange-bellied Parrot; we saw about 20 in Tarangire NP.

Musophagidae (Turacos)

GREAT BLUE TURACO (Corythaeola cristata)

Seven at Kakamega Forest were a highlight of the tour for many of the group.

SCHALOW'S TURACO (Tauraco schalowi)

Brief views of 1 in the forest above Gibb's Farm and then 2 in the scope on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater.

WHITE-CRESTED TURACO (Tauraco leucolophus)

We had fabulous views of this beautiful turaco in during our picnic in the Kerio Valley.

HARTLAUB'S TURACO (Tauraco hartlaubi)

One at the Gate to Mountain Lodge.

BARE-FACED GO-AWAY-BIRD (Corythaixoides personatus)

Our best looks were in Tarangire, but we also saw them near Olduvai and Seronera.

WHITE-BELLIED GO-AWAY-BIRD (Corythaixoides leucogaster)

Common in dry bush country around Namanga, Tarangire, and Baringo.

Cuculidae (Cuckoos)

RED-CHESTED CUCKOO (Cuculus solitarius)

One in Kakamega Forest.

BLACK CUCKOO (Cuculus clamosus)

One seen and 3 heard in Kakamega Forest.

AFRICAN CUCKOO (Cuculus gularis)

One at Lake Nakuru was rather shy but eventually seen by all.

AFRICAN EMERALD CUCKOO (Chrysococcyx cupreus)

A single bird was seen by one of the group at Kakamega, but then we all had fantastic looks at this really

gorgeous bird at Mountain Lodge.

DIDERIC CUCKOO (Chrysococcyx caprius)

Two at Lake Baringo.

WHITE-BROWED COUCAL (Centropus superciliosus)

Widespread in small numbers.

Strigidae (Owls)

AFRICAN SCOPS-OWL (Otus senegalensis)

Just one of 5 species of owls that we saw at Lake Baringo; great looks in the grounds of our lodge.

NORTHERN WHITE-FACED OWL (Ptilopsis leucotis)

This little known owl (which was previously known as White-faced Scops-Owl) was tame and easily seen in the

garden of our Lake Baringo hotel.

CAPE EAGLE-OWL (Bubo capensis mackinderi)

We saw the form 'mackinderi' which is often known as Mackinder's Eagle-Owl near Gatarakwa - with an almost

full grown juvenile too!

GRAYISH EAGLE-OWL (Bubo cinerascens)

An adult and 2 juveniles near the cliffs at Lake Baringo.

VERREAUX'S EAGLE-OWL (Bubo lacteus)

Great looks at Lake Baringo and then at Mountain Lodge.



PEARL-SPOTTED OWLET (Glaucidium perlatum)

Small numbers were seen at five different sites throughout the tour - and all in daylight.

Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)

SLENDER-TAILED NIGHTJAR (Caprimulgus clarus)

Great scope looks at Lake Baringo.

Apodidae (Swifts)

MOTTLED SPINETAIL (Telacanthura ussheri)

At least 3 were flying around the tents at our Tarangire Camp.

AFRICAN SWIFT (Apus barbatus)

Small numbers at Ngorongoro, Namanga, and at Lake Nakuru.

ALPINE SWIFT (Apus melba)

One on the way to Ngorongoro Crater.

MOTTLED SWIFT (Apus aequatorialis)

One near Gibb's Farm, and 4 at Gatarakwa.

LITTLE SWIFT (Apus affinis)

By far the most common and widespread swift.

HORUS SWIFT (Apus horus)

About a dozen at Lake Nakuru.

AFRICAN PALM-SWIFT (Cypsiurus parvus)

Small numbers at a variety of areas with palm trees.

Coliidae (Mousebirds)

SPECKLED MOUSEBIRD (Colius striatus)


BLUE-NAPED MOUSEBIRD (Urocolius macrourus)

Prefers drier country than the previous species making it more common in areas like Kerio Valley and Baringo.

Trogonidae (Trogons)

NARINA TROGON (Apaloderma narina)

We tried several times, and then on our very last morning all had great looks at a responsive male near Mt. Kenya

- stunner!

Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)

MALACHITE KINGFISHER (Alcedo cristata)

One at Ngorongoro and 4+ at Lake Baringo.

AFRICAN PYGMY-KINGFISHER (Ispidina picta)

Nice scope views of a bird at the forest edge at Kakamega.

GRAY-HEADED KINGFISHER (Halcyon leucocephala)

Small numbers at Tarangire, Nakuru, and at Lake Baringo.

WOODLAND KINGFISHER (Halcyon senegalensis)

One during our picnic at Kericho, and then at least 2 more at Lake Baringo.

STRIPED KINGFISHER (Halcyon chelicuti)

Two singles in the Serengeti.

GIANT KINGFISHER (Megaceryle maximus)

This really is a big big kingfisher - and we saw 2 at Gatarakwa, and then another (in the scope) near Mt. Kenya.

PIED KINGFISHER (Ceryle rudis)

Very common at Lake Baringo, with smaller numbers at wetlands elsewhere.

Meropidae (Bee-eaters)

BLUE-HEADED BEE-EATER (Merops muelleri)

We had fabulous looks at this rare bee-eater at the edge of Kakamega Forest.

WHITE-FRONTED BEE-EATER (Merops bullockoides)

Singles on the way to Gibb's Farm and near Lake Nakuru.



LITTLE BEE-EATER (Merops pusillus)

Small numbers were widespread in dry open bush country.

CINNAMON-CHESTED BEE-EATER (Merops oreobates)

Replaces the previous species at forest edge.

WHITE-THROATED BEE-EATER (Merops albicollis)

A total of about 30 were seen between Kisumu and Kakamega.

MADAGASCAR BEE-EATER (Merops superciliosus)

Three on the dead trees along the shores of Lake Baringo.

Coraciidae (Rollers)

LILAC-BREASTED ROLLER (Coracias caudatus)


RUFOUS-CROWNED ROLLER (Coracias naevius)

One at the roadside just north of Namanga.

Upupidae (Hoopoes)

EURASIAN HOOPOE (Upupa epops africana)

Widespread; we saw about a dozen of the form 'africana' which is often split and known as African Hoopoe.

Phoeniculidae (Woodhoopoes and Scimitar-bills)

GREEN WOODHOOPOE (Phoeniculus purpureus)

One of the group saw 3 at Seronera Lodge.

WHITE-HEADED WOODHOOPOE (Phoeniculus bollei)

Great looks at a flock of 7 at Kakamega Forest.

ABYSSINIAN SCIMITAR-BILL (Rhinopomastus minor)

About 10 were seen between Ngorongoro and the Serengeti.

Bucerotidae (Hornbills)

RED-BILLED HORNBILL (Tockus erythrorhynchus)

Small numbers in the dry country around Namanga, Serengeti, Tarangire, and Baringo.

EASTERN YELLOW-BILLED HORNBILL (Tockus flavirostris)

We saw a single bird on top of the cliffs at Lake Baringo.

JACKSON'S HORNBILL (Tockus jacksoni)

At least a dozen were around Lake Baringo.

VON DER DECKEN'S HORNBILL (Tockus deckeni)

Common in bush country to the east and south of the previous species.

HEMPRICH'S HORNBILL (Tockus hemprichii)

We had good looks at this localised species along the cliffs at Lake Baringo.

AFRICAN GRAY HORNBILL (Tockus nasutus)

Widespread in bush country throughout the tour.

SILVERY-CHEEKED HORNBILL (Ceratogymna brevis)

Small numbers at Nairobi, Ngorongoro, and Mt. Kenya.

BLACK-AND-WHITE-CASQUED HORNBILL (Ceratogymna subcylindrica)

Very common at Kakamega Forest; in all we saw about 250.

SOUTHERN GROUND-HORNBILL (Bucorvus leadbeateri)

Becoming rare throughout much of its range, so we were lucky to see 5 in Tarangire NP.

Lybiidae (African Barbets)

YELLOW-BILLED BARBET (Trachyphonus purpuratus)

Great scope looks in Kakamega Forest.

RED-AND-YELLOW BARBET (Trachyphonus erythrocephalus)

This stunning barbet was fairly common at Lake Baringo, with a few others elsewhere in dry country.

D'ARNAUD'S BARBET (Trachyphonus darnaudii)

About 10 in the Kerio Valley and at Lake Baringo.



D'ARNAUD'S BARBET (Trachyphonus darnaudii usambiro)

Sometimes lumped with the previous 'form' we saw these yellowish-headed, dark-billed, and vocally different

birds in Serengeti - when split they are known as Usambiro Barbet.

GRAY-THROATED BARBET (Gymnobucco bonapartei)

Common at Kakamega.

YELLOW-RUMPED TINKERBIRD (Pogoniulus bilineatus bilineatus)

Small numbers at Kakamega Forest and around Mountain Lodge.

RED-FRONTED TINKERBIRD (Pogoniulus pusillus)

Nice looks at Baringo.

YELLOW-SPOTTED BARBET (Buccanodon duchaillui)

Common in some of the fruiting trees at Kakamega.

HAIRY-BREASTED BARBET (Tricholaema hirsuta)

This uncommon barbet was seen well on our last morning in Kakamega Forest.

RED-FRONTED BARBET (Tricholaema diademata)

Common in Serengeti.

SPOT-FLANKED BARBET (Tricholaema lacrymosa)

Two in Nairobi NP.

BLACK-THROATED BARBET (Tricholaema melanocephala)

Four along the cliffs at Lake Baringo.

Indicatoridae (Honeyguides)

THICK-BILLED HONEYGUIDE (Indicator conirostris)

Two birds were chasing each other around the arboretum at Kericho.

LESSER HONEYGUIDE (Indicator minor)

One near Seronera and 4 at Lake Baringo.

Picidae (Woodpeckers)

NUBIAN WOODPECKER (Campethera nubica)

Fairly common in acacia country.

BUFF-SPOTTED WOODPECKER (Campethera nivosa)

Two as we were leaving Kakamega Forest.

BROWN-EARED WOODPECKER (Campethera caroli)

One during our last early birding at Kakamega Forest.

CARDINAL WOODPECKER (Dendropicos fuscescens)

Singles and pairs at Gibb's Farm, Tarangire, and at Kakamega.

BEARDED WOODPECKER (Dendropicos namaquus)

One seen well in Ngorongoro Crater, and heard at Tarangire.

GOLDEN-CROWNED WOODPECKER (Dendropicos xantholophus)

Three at Kakamega - we even saw the 'golden-crown'!

GRAY WOODPECKER (Dendropicos goertae)

One at Ngorongoro.

GRAY-HEADED WOODPECKER (Dendropicos spodocephalus rhodeogaster)

About 10 at Tarangire and 1 at Baringo; this and the previous form are often lumped.

BROWN-BACKED WOODPECKER (Dendropicos obsoletus)

We saw this uncommon woodpecker at the entrance to Nairobi NP, and then again at Gibb's Farm.

Eurylaimidae (Broadbills)

AFRICAN BROADBILL (Smithornis capensis)

After some effort we all managed to get great looks at a displaying bird in the forest above Gibb's Farm.

Platysteiridae (Wattle-eyes)

BROWN-THROATED WATTLE-EYE (Platysteira cyanea)

About 6 along the forest edge at Kakamega.

JAMESON'S WATTLE-EYE (Platysteira jamesoni)

As always difficult to see well but eventually most of the group had good looks.



YELLOW-BELLIED WATTLE-EYE (Platysteira concreta)

One of the group favorites, and what a stunner too! Seen well in Kakamega Forest.

CHINSPOT BATIS (Batis molitor)


PYGMY BATIS (Batis perkeo)

We saw a pair along the cliffs at Baringo.

Prionopidae (Helmetshrikes and Allies)

WHITE HELMETSHRIKE (Prionops plumatus)

Possibly seen by a few at Nakuru, but then seen really well by everyone at Lake Baringo - another group favorite.

GRAY-CRESTED HELMETSHRIKE (Prionops poliolophus)

This rare helmetshrike was definitely in the helmetshrike flock that some folks saw at Lake Nakuru.

Malaconotidae (Bushshrikes and Allies)

BRUBRU (Nilaus afer)

Small numbers in acacia country in the Serengeti and at Baringo.

NORTHERN PUFFBACK (Dryoscopus gambensis)

One at the edge of Kakamega Forest and 2 in the Kerio Valley.

BLACK-BACKED PUFFBACK (Dryoscopus cubla)

One in Nairobi NP.

BLACK-CROWNED TCHAGRA (Tchagra senegalus)

Good looks at a responsive bird at Lake Nakuru.

BROWN-CROWNED TCHAGRA (Tchagra australis)

Seen in four different widespread locations.

THREE-STREAKED TCHAGRA (Tchagra jamesi)

This rather localised dry country tchagra was seen well at Lake Baringo.

LUEHDER'S BUSHSHRIKE (Laniarius luehderi)

We saw about 10 of these attractive bushshrikes at Kakamega Forest.

TROPICAL BOUBOU (Laniarius aethiopicus)

Common around Ngorongoro, and at Nakuru and at Mt. Kenya.

BLACK-HEADED GONOLEK (Laniarius erythrogaster)

One, before the breaking storm along the shores of Lake Victoria.

SLATE-COLORED BOUBOU (Laniarius funebris)

Widespread in acacia bush country.

GRAY-GREEN BUSHSHRIKE (Telophorus bocagei)

Two singles at Kakamega Forest.

SULPHUR-BREASTED BUSHSHRIKE (Telophorus sulfureopectus)

Two at Tarangire and 2 at Baringo.

Campephagidae (Cuckoo-shrikes)

PETIT'S CUCKOO-SHRIKE (Campephaga petiti)

We saw a pair at Kakamega Forest.

BLACK CUCKOO-SHRIKE (Campephaga flava)

Three females at Nairobi NP, and then another in the Kerio Valley.

PURPLE-THROATED CUCKOO-SHRIKE (Campephaga quiscalina)

We saw a male at Nairobi NP and a female in Kakamega Forest.

Laniidae (Shrikes)

GRAY-BACKED FISCAL (Lanius excubitoroides)

Common in the Serengeti and about 8 at Lake Nakuru.

LONG-TAILED FISCAL (Lanius cabanisi)

Common between Nairobi and Namanga and then at Tarangire; in all we saw about 60.

TAITA FISCAL (Lanius dorsalis)

Four along the road to Olduvai and 1 near Namanga.



MACKINNON'S SHRIKE (Lanius mackinnoni)

Two in the garden at Rondo Retreat and 1 at the forest edge there.

COMMON FISCAL (Lanius collaris)


MAGPIE SHRIKE (Corvinella melanoleuca)

A total of about 200 were seen in the Serengeti and at Tarangire.

WHITE-RUMPED SHRIKE (Eurocephalus rueppelli)

Common in the Serengeti and Tarangire, and a few at Lake Baringo.

Oriolidae (Old World Orioles)

WESTERN BLACK-HEADED ORIOLE (Oriolus brachyrhynchus)

Good looks at 1 in Kakamega Forest.

AFRICAN BLACK-HEADED ORIOLE (Oriolus larvatus)

Singles at Nairobi, Gibb's Farm, Nakuru, and in the Kerio Valley.

BLACK-TAILED ORIOLE (Oriolus percivali)

Good looks at 2 (with their distinctive black upper-tails) from the roof at Mountain Lodge.

Dicruridae (Drongos)

SQUARE-TAILED DRONGO (Dicrurus ludwigii)

About 10 in the interior of Kakamega Forest.

FORK-TAILED DRONGO (Dicrurus adsimilis)

Common and widespread in open bush country.

Monarchidae (Monarch Flycatchers)

AFRICAN PARADISE-FLYCATCHER (Terpsiphone viridis)

Small numbers were seen in a variety of mixed woodland throughout the tour.

Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)

CAPE CROW (Corvus capensis)

Common in open high country grass and farm land throughout the tour; in all we saw about 70.

PIED CROW (Corvus albus)


FAN-TAILED RAVEN (Corvus rhipidurus)

Close looks at 4 in Iten town, and then 1 in the Kerio Valley.

WHITE-NECKED RAVEN (Corvus albicollis)

About 25 were seen around Ngorongoro Crater and in the Serengeti.

Alaudidae (Larks)

RUFOUS-NAPED LARK (Mirafra africana)

One in Nairobi NP and about 40 in the Serengeti area.

FOXY LARK (Calendulauda alopex intercedens)

Previously lumped with and known as Fawn-colored Lark, a Southern African species. The northern forms are now

known as Foxy Lark, although it is only the Somali race that is foxy in color. We saw the boldly marked form with

a distinct long white supercilium - 'intercedens' - near Olduvai Gorge.

FISCHER'S SPARROW-LARK (Eremopterix leucopareia)

A total of about 100 were seen at Ngorongoro, the Serengeti, and in Tarangire NP.

RED-CAPPED LARK (Calandrella cinerea)

Widespread in a variety of areas with short open grassland.

Hirundinidae (Swallows)

PLAIN MARTIN (Riparia paludicola)

About 20 in the Serengeti area and 30 at Lake Nakuru.

BANDED MARTIN (Riparia cincta)

Six over the grasslands in Nairobi NP.

ROCK MARTIN (Ptyonoprogne fuligula)

Widespread around towns, villages, and cliffs, throughout the tour.



BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica)

Rather early this year, with about 120 in the Serengeti being the most numerous congregation.

WIRE-TAILED SWALLOW (Hirundo smithii)

Good looks at a perched pair at Lake Nakuru.

RED-RUMPED SWALLOW (Cecropis daurica)

Small numbers were at a variety of different sites throughout the tour.

MOSQUE SWALLOW (Cecropis senegalensis)

Two near Seronera and 4 at Tarangire.

WHITE-HEADED SAWWING (Psalidoprocne albiceps)

Common at Kakamega ; where in all we saw about 50.

BLACK SAWWING (Psalidoprocne pristoptera)

Small numbers in the high country, like at Ngorongoro, Nakuru, and around Mt. Kenya.

Stenostiridae (Fairy Flycatchers)

AFRICAN BLUE-FLYCATCHER (Elminia longicauda)

About a dozen where seen along the edges of Kakamega Forest.

WHITE-TAILED BLUE-FLYCATCHER (Elminia albicauda)

Really good looks at a pair in the garden at Gibb's Farm.

Paridae (Chickadees and Tits)

WHITE-BELLIED TIT (Melaniparus albiventris)

Small numbers in the acacias at Nairobi, Nakuru, and near Mt. Kenya.

DUSKY TIT (Melaniparus funereus)

We saw a couple of small flocks at Kakamega Forest.

RED-THROATED TIT (Melaniparus fringillinus)E

Most of us saw a singe bird that came in to the call of a Pearl-spotted Owlet near Olduvai Gorge.

SOMALI TIT (Melaniparus thruppi)

Great looks at 2 singles at Lake Baringo.

Remizidae (Penduline Tits)

MOUSE-COLORED PENDULINE-TIT (Anthoscopus musculus)

Two below the cliffs at Lake Baringo.

Pycnonotidae (Bulbuls)

COMMON BULBUL (Pycnonotus barbatus tricolor)

Seen daily throughout the tour.

SHELLEY'S GREENBUL (Andropadus masukuensis kakamegae)

Usually split as Kakamega Greenbul, the form 'kakamegae' was seen three or four times in Kakamega Forest.

LITTLE GREENBUL (Andropadus virens)

Two seen and many heard in the secondary growth at Kakamega.

ANSORGE'S GREENBUL (Andropadus ansorgei)

Three of these uncommon greenbuls were seen in the middle levels at Kakamega Forest.

PLAIN GREENBUL (Andropadus curvirostris)

Another of the 'mid-level greenbuls'; we saw at least 3 at Kakamega.

SLENDER-BILLED GREENBUL (Andropadus gracilirostris)

Common on the outer canopy at Kakamega and Mt. Kenya.

YELLOW-WHISKERED GREENBUL (Andropadus latirostris)

Very common at Kakamega Forest, and 1 at the Kericho Arboretum.

EASTERN MOUNTAIN-GREENBUL (Andropadus nigriceps nigriceps)

This black-crowned form was seen well on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater.

YELLOW-BELLIED GREENBUL (Chlorocichla flaviventris)

Good looks from the breakfast table at Gibb's Farm.

JOYFUL GREENBUL (Chlorocichla laetissima)

Noisy, and joyful, in Kakamega Forest.



CABANIS'S GREENBUL (Phyllastrephus cabanisi)

Four in the Kakamega undergrowth.

COMMON BRISTLEBILL (Bleda syndactylus)

Good looks at a single responsive bird at Kakamega.

Phylloscopidae (Leaf-Warblers)

UGANDA WOOD-WARBLER (Phylloscopus budongoensis)

Many heard and 1 seen at Kakamega.

Acrocephalidae (Reed-Warblers and Allies)

MOUNTAIN YELLOW WARBLER (Chloropeta similis)

One at Mountain Lodge.

LESSER SWAMP-WARBLER (Acrocephalus gracilirostris)

Two at the 'hippo pool' in Ngorongoro Crater.

Megaluridae (Grassbirds and Allies)

AFRICAN BUSH-WARBLER (Bradypterus baboecala)

More commonly know as Little Rush Warbler (because it lives in rushes) we saw one (in rushes) near Molo.

Cisticolidae (Cisticolas and Allies)

BLACK-COLLARED APALIS (Apalis pulchra)

Nice looks at this attractive apalis in the undergrowth at Kakamega.

BLACK-THROATED APALIS (Apalis jacksoni)

We saw a responsive pair from the roof of Mountain Lodge.

YELLOW-BREASTED APALIS (Apalis flavida)

Widespread in the highland acacia country.

YELLOW-BREASTED APALIS (Apalis flavida viridiceps)

We saw this dry lowland form (which is sometimes split as Brown-tailed or Green-tailed Apalis) at Lake Baringo.

BUFF-THROATED APALIS (Apalis rufogularis)

We saw a single male at Kakamega Forest.

CHESTNUT-THROATED APALIS (Apalis porphyrolaema)

Good looks from the roof at Mountain Lodge.

GRAY APALIS (Apalis cinerea)

Another apalis seen from the roof at Mountain Lodge.

GREEN-BACKED CAMAROPTERA (Camaroptera brachyura brevicaudata)

Common and widespread - although all were the gray-backed form!

OLIVE-GREEN CAMAROPTERA (Camaroptera chloronota)

Good looks at Kakamega - the dullest bird in the forest!

RED-FRONTED WARBLER (Urorhipis rufifrons)

Four in the dry country below the cliffs at Baringo.

GRAY WREN-WARBLER (Calamonastes simplex)

Three at Lake Baringo.

WHITE-CHINNED PRINIA (Schistolais leucopogon)

Common along the forest edge at Kakamega.

RED-FACED CISTICOLA (Cisticola erythrops)

One near Gibb's Farm.

SINGING CISTICOLA (Cisticola cantans)

Heard in Nairobi NP and near Gibb's Farm.

CHUBB'S CISTICOLA (Cisticola chubbi)

We saw a few in the weedy undergrowth at the edge of Kakamega Forest.

HUNTER'S CISTICOLA (Cisticola hunteri)

We saw this boisterous cisticola near Limuru Ponds.

BORAN CISTICOLA (Cisticola bodessa)

Heard as we dropped in to the Kerio Valley.



RATTLING CISTICOLA (Cisticola chiniana)

Widespread in acacia country.

WINDING CISTICOLA (Cisticola galactotes)

Small numbers in wet grasslands.

TINKLING CISTICOLA (Cisticola tinniens)

Good looks at this attractive cisticola in the highland marshes near Molo.

CROAKING CISTICOLA (Cisticola natalensis)

One near Seronera.

SIFFLING CISTICOLA (Cisticola brachypterus)

One in Nairobi NP.

DESERT CISTICOLA (Cisticola aridulus)

We saw a single bird in the dry grasslands of Ngorongoro Crater.

PECTORAL-PATCH CISTICOLA (Cisticola brunnescens)

Small numbers in the Serengeti and at Lake Nakuru.

GRAY-CAPPED WARBLER (Eminia lepida)

Nice looks at this attractive warbler in the forest near Gibb's Farm.

BLACK-FACED RUFOUS-WARBLER (Bathmocercus rufus)

Most of us saw 2 of these striking birds in the Kakamega undergrowth.

BUFF-BELLIED WARBLER (Phyllolais pulchella)

Small numbers in the Serengeti acacias.

TAWNY-FLANKED PRINIA (Prinia subflava)

Small numbers in bush country undergrowth.

BANDED PRINIA (Prinia bairdii melanops)

We saw about 6 of these stunning little warblers in the Kakamega undergrowth.

YELLOW-BELLIED EREMOMELA (Eremomela icteropygialis)

One on the way to Olduvai Gorge.

Sylviidae (Old World Warblers)

BANDED WARBLER (Parisoma boehmi)

A total of about 5 were seen in the Serengeti area.

MOUSTACHED GRASS-WARBLER (Melocichla mentalis)

Good looks at 1 in Nairobi NP.

NORTHERN CROMBEC (Sylvietta brachyura)

We saw a pair along the cliffs at Lake Baringo.

RED-FACED CROMBEC (Sylvietta whytii)

Small numbers in the Serengeti.

GREEN HYLIA (Hylia prasina)

Good looks at 1 at Kakamega Forest.

Muscicapidae (Old World Flycatchers)

SILVERBIRD (Empidornis semipartitus)

A total of about 20 were seen in the Serengeti acacia woodlands.

AFRICAN GRAY FLYCATCHER (Bradornis microrhynchus)

Fairly common in acacia country throughout the tour.

WHITE-EYED SLATY-FLYCATCHER (Melaenornis fischeri)

In the highlands of Tanzania we saw the race 'nyikensis' with the small white eye-ring, and in the Kenya highlands

'fischeri' with the huge white eye-ring. Both races were common.

NORTHERN BLACK-FLYCATCHER (Melaenornis edolioides)

One in the grounds of Rondo Retreat.

SOUTHERN BLACK-FLYCATCHER (Melaenornis pammelaina)

Two near Sagana.

SWAMP FLYCATCHER (Muscicapa aquatica)

One along the edge of the papyrus at Lake Victoria.



AFRICAN DUSKY FLYCATCHER (Muscicapa adusta)

A total of about 20 were seen at a variety of forest areas in the highlands.

GRAY TIT-FLYCATCHER (Myioparus plumbeus)

Also known as Lead-colored Flycatcher, we saw one in the grounds of Lake Baringo Club.

EQUATORIAL AKALAT (Sheppardia aequatorialis)

Good looks at this often shy bird in Kakamega Forest.

CAPE ROBIN-CHAT (Cossypha caffra)

Singes at Nairobi, Ngorongoro, and Thomson's Falls.

RUEPPELL'S ROBIN-CHAT (Cossypha semirufa)

Good looks at two at Mountain Lodge.

WHITE-BROWED ROBIN-CHAT (Cossypha heuglini)

Small numbers at Gibb's Farm, Seronera, and Lake Nakuru.

SNOWY-CROWNED ROBIN-CHAT (Cossypha niveicapilla)

Can be very shy, but we were lucky and all had fabulous views of 4 birds at Kakamega.

SPOTTED MORNING-THRUSH (Cichladusa guttata)

A total of about 25 were seen in bush country from south of Arusha, to Tarangire, and at Lake Baringo.

BROWN-BACKED SCRUB-ROBIN (Cercotrichas hartlaubi)

We saw this very localised bird at our usual site near Mt. Kenya.

RED-BACKED SCRUB-ROBIN (Cercotrichas leucophrys)

Small numbers were widespread in a variety of bush country.

NORTHERN WHEATEAR (Oenanthe oenanthe)

Two and Baringo and then about 8 at Solio were all rather earlier than expected.

MOURNING WHEATEAR (Oenanthe lugens schalowi)E

We saw the form 'schalowi' (which is often split and known as Schalow's Wheatear) at Ngorongoro Crater. It is

endemic to southern Kenya and northern Tanzania.

CAPPED WHEATEAR (Oenanthe pileata)

Very common (perhaps 100) from Olduvai to the Serengeti.

STONECHAT (Saxicola torquatus)

At Ngorongoro and around Kakamega we saw a couple of African forms which are often split as African

Stonechat.

FAMILIAR CHAT (Cercomela familiaris)

One, for some of the group on the way to Olduvai Gorge.

BROWN-TAILED CHAT (Cercomela scotocerca)

About 6 along the cliffs at Baringo.

NORTHERN ANTEATER-CHAT (Myrmecocichla aethiops)

One at Ngorongoro, and then about 40 at Lake Nakuru, and 2 at Solio.

MOCKING CLIFF-CHAT (Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris)

Five at Lake Nakuru and 2 at Baringo.

Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)

WHITE-TAILED ANT-THRUSH (Neocossyphus poensis)

Heard in Kakamega Forest.

LITTLE ROCK-THRUSH (Monticola rufocinereus)

We saw this quite localised bird at our lodge in Lake Nakuru NP.

OLIVE THRUSH (Turdus olivaceus abyssinicus)

Small numbers in Nairobi, around Gibb's Farm, and at Mt. Kenya.

AFRICAN THRUSH (Turdus pelios)

Three at Kakamega.

BROWN-CHESTED ALETHE (Alethe poliocephala)

Good looks at 1 at the edge of Kakamega Forest.

Timaliidae (Babblers)

SCALY-BREASTED ILLADOPSIS (Illadopsis albipectus)

Heard in Kakamega Forest.



BROWN ILLADOPSIS (Illadopsis fulvescens)

Two small flocks were seen in the Kakamega undergrowth.

AFRICAN HILL BABBLER (Pseudoalcippe abyssinica)

Seen well in the mid-levels and tangled vines at Gibb's Farm.

RUFOUS CHATTERER (Turdoides rubiginosa)

Six at Lake Baringo.

BLACK-LORED BABBLER (Turdoides sharpei)

Several small flocks were seen around Seronera.

NORTHERN PIED-BABBLER (Turdoides hypoleuca)E

Three at the gate to Tarangire, and then 6 around our lodge there.

ARROW-MARKED BABBLER (Turdoides jardineii)

Small flocks at Gibb's Farm and Tarangire.

AFRICAN YELLOW WHITE-EYE (Zosterops senegalensis)

A total of about 30 were seen at Kakamega.

BROAD-RINGED WHITE-EYE (Zosterops poliogastrus)

Common at Gibb's Farm, Ngorongoro, and Mt. Kenya; in all we saw about 80.

WHITE-BREASTED WHITE-EYE (Zosterops abyssinicus)

Ten in Nairobi NP and 4 at Tarangire. All the birds we saw were the race 'flavilateralis' with yellow underparts.

Sturnidae (Starlings)

WATTLED STARLING (Creatophora cinerea)

Common and widespread, especially around cattle and big game.

GREATER BLUE-EARED GLOSSY-STARLING (Lamprotornis chalybaeus)

About 20 at Nakuru and 50+ around Mt. Kenya.

RUEPPELL'S GLOSSY-STARLING (Lamprotornis purpuroptera)

Fairly common at Tarangire, Nakuru, and Baringo; in all we saw about 80.

SUPERB STARLING (Lamprotornis superbus)


HILDEBRANDT'S STARLING (Lamprotornis hildebrandti)

Common in the Serengeti, and a few at Tarangire.

VIOLET-BACKED STARLING (Cinnyricinclus leucogaster)

We saw a total of about 20 at Nairobi NP, in the Seronera area, and at Kakamega - these included several simply

stunning males.

FISCHER'S STARLING (Spreo fischeri)

One near Namanga for some of the group.

ASHY STARLING (Spreo unicolor)E

This Tanzanian endemic was common in Tarangire NP.

RED-WINGED STARLING (Onychognathus morio)

Widespread in small numbers, especially around cliffs and small towns.

BRISTLE-CROWNED STARLING (Onychognathus salvadorii)

Great looks at about 60 along the cliffs at Lake Baringo.

STUHLMANN'S STARLING (Poeoptera stuhlmanni)

Ten at Kericho, and then about 30 at Kakamega.

Buphagidae (Oxpeckers)

RED-BILLED OXPECKER (Buphagus erythrorhynchus)

Widespread wherever there were large mammals.

YELLOW-BILLED OXPECKER (Buphagus africanus)

Also widespread particularly associating with African Buffalo and Giraffe.

Nectariniidae (Sunbirds and Spiderhunters)

KENYA VIOLET-BACKED SUNBIRD (Anthreptes orientalis)

Small numbers in a variety of dry bush country throughout the tour.



GREEN SUNBIRD (Anthreptes rectirostris)

About 10 at Kakamega Forest.

COLLARED SUNBIRD (Hedydipna collaris)

One in Nairobi, 4 at Gibb's Farm, and 1 near Mt. Kenya.

GREEN-HEADED SUNBIRD (Cyanomitra verticalis)

Two at Gibb's Farm and 2 at Kakamega.

WESTERN OLIVE SUNBIRD (Cyanomitra obscura)

Three singles in Kakamega Forest.

GREEN-THROATED SUNBIRD (Chalcomitra rubescens)

We saw a single male at Kakamega.

AMETHYST SUNBIRD (Chalcomitra amethystina)

Three around Ngorongoro Crater.

SCARLET-CHESTED SUNBIRD (Chalcomitra senegalensis)

Small numbers of this striking species were widespread in the highlands.

HUNTER'S SUNBIRD (Chalcomitra hunteri)

Replaces the previous species in low dry country, like at Lake Baringo where we saw two males.

TACAZZE SUNBIRD (Nectarinia tacazze)

We watched a stunning male preening at Thomson's Falls.

BRONZE SUNBIRD (Nectarinia kilimensis)

Common throughout the highlands.

MALACHITE SUNBIRD (Nectarinia famosa)

One was seen in flight along the rim of Ngorongoro Crater.

GOLDEN-WINGED SUNBIRD (Drepanorhynchus reichenowi)

One of the group saw a female at Limuru Ponds.

NORTHERN DOUBLE-COLLARED SUNBIRD (Cinnyris reichenowi)

Common at Kakamega and 1 in Nairobi.

EASTERN DOUBLE-COLLARED SUNBIRD (Cinnyris mediocris)

About 30 at Ngorongoro and 4 at Mountain Lodge.

BEAUTIFUL SUNBIRD (Cinnyris pulchellus)

Just beautiful! We saw about 20 at Lake Baringo.

MARIQUA SUNBIRD (Cinnyris mariquensis)

About 10 between Nairobi and Arusha, and 2 at Seronera.

VARIABLE SUNBIRD (Cinnyris venustus)


Motacillidae (Wagtails and Pipits)

WESTERN YELLOW WAGTAIL (Motacilla flava)

Four along the road next to Solio Ranch.

CAPE WAGTAIL (Motacilla capensis)

Two pairs at Mountain Lodge.

GRAY WAGTAIL (Motacilla cinerea)

One on the road in Kakamega Forest.

AFRICAN PIED WAGTAIL (Motacilla aguimp)


AFRICAN PIPIT (Anthus cinnamomeus)

By far the most common pipit occurring in open grassland throughout the tour.

PLAIN-BACKED PIPIT (Anthus leucophrys)

Widespread in similar habitat to the previous species, but not so numerous.

SHARPE'S LONGCLAW (Hemimacronyx sharpei)E

This very localised Kenya endemic was seen in the last tiny piece of remaining habitat on the South Kinangop.

YELLOW-THROATED LONGCLAW (Macronyx croceus)

Singles in the Serengeti and at Lake Nakuru.



ROSY-THROATED LONGCLAW (Macronyx ameliae)


Emberizidae (Buntings, Sparrows, and Allies)

GOLDEN-BREASTED BUNTING (Emberiza flaviventris)

Two in a dry riverbed on the way to Olduvai Gorge.

Fringillidae (Siskins, Crossbills, and Allies)

AFRICAN CITRIL (Serinus citrinelloides kikuyensis)

Now split from what was previously known as Western Citril S. frontalis we saw 2 near Molo.

SOUTHERN CITRIL (Serinus hypostictus)

One near Gibb's Farm.

REICHENOW'S SEEDEATER (Serinus reichenowi)

Also known as Kenya Yellow-rumped Seedeater; we saw 6 near Gibb's Farm and at Ngorongoro.

WHITE-BELLIED CANARY (Serinus dorsostriatus)

Common the bush country in the Serengeti and at Tarangire.

STREAKY SEEDEATER (Serinus striolatus)

Common in the highlands.

THICK-BILLED SEEDEATER (Serinus burtoni)

Singles in the forest above Gibb's Farm and at Mountain Lodge.

Passeridae (Old World Sparrows)

HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus)


KENYA RUFOUS SPARROW (Passer rufocinctus)E

This East African endemic was common and widespread in acacia country throughout the tour.

GRAY-HEADED SPARROW (Passer griseus)

One in the Tugen Hills.

PARROT-BILLED SPARROW (Passer gongonensis)

Six at Lake Baringo.

SWAHILI SPARROW (Passer suahelicus)

Very common in northern Tanzania.

CHESTNUT SPARROW (Passer eminibey)

Six near Seronera, and 1 at Lake Baringo.

YELLOW-SPOTTED PETRONIA (Petronia pyrgita)

One at Lake Baringo.

Ploceidae (Weavers and Allies)

WHITE-BILLED BUFFALO-WEAVER (Bubalornis albirostris)

Very common and breeding in the grounds of Lake Baringo Club.

RED-BILLED BUFFALO-WEAVER (Bubalornis niger)

Very common in the Serengeti and at Tarangire; in all we saw about 400.

WHITE-HEADED BUFFALO-WEAVER (Dinemellia dinemelli)

Common in the Serengeti woodlands and a few at Lake Baringo.

SPECKLE-FRONTED WEAVER (Sporopipes frontalis)

Small numbers at Namanga and in the Serengeti.

WHITE-BROWED SPARROW-WEAVER (Plocepasser mahali)

About 20 around Nairobi, 60 at Baringo, and 2 at Thika.

CHESTNUT-CROWNED SPARROW-WEAVER (Plocepasser superciliosus)

We saw this localised species on our way down the Rift Valley west wall below Iten.

RUFOUS-TAILED WEAVER (Histurgops ruficauda)E

Endemic to the Serengeti ecosystem, this species was common throughout our stay in that area.

GRAY-HEADED SOCIAL-WEAVER (Pseudonigrita arnaudi)

About 50 near Seronera.



RED-HEADED MALIMBE (Malimbus rubricollis)

We saw 2 of these striking birds at Kakamega Forest.

RED-HEADED WEAVER (Anaplectes rubriceps)

A male was nest building in the Kerio Valley.

BAGLAFECHT WEAVER (Ploceus baglafecht)


LITTLE WEAVER (Ploceus luteolus)

Two males at Lake Baringo.

BLACK-NECKED WEAVER (Ploceus nigricollis)

Pairs at Seronera, Tarangire, and at Kakamega.

SPECTACLED WEAVER (Ploceus ocularis)

One at Kisumu and 2 at Mountain Lodge.

BLACK-BILLED WEAVER (Ploceus melanogaster)

This strange looking weaver (black with a yellow face) was seen in small numbers at Kakamega Forest.

NORTHERN MASKED-WEAVER (Ploceus taeniopterus)

In Kenya this species is restricted to Lake Baringo, where we saw about 40.

LESSER MASKED-WEAVER (Ploceus intermedius)

Two at Lake Baringo.

VITELLINE MASKED-WEAVER (Ploceus vitellinus)


SPEKE'S WEAVER (Ploceus spekei)

About a dozen in Ngorongoro Crater.

VILLAGE WEAVER (Ploceus cucullatus)

One at Kisumu and about 70 at Lake Baringo.

BLACK-HEADED WEAVER (Ploceus melanocephalus)

Six along the shore at Lake Victoria.

GOLDEN-BACKED WEAVER (Ploceus jacksoni)

We saw about 20 of these striking weavers at Lake Baringo.

CHESTNUT WEAVER (Ploceus rubiginosus)

Two (in non-breeding plumage) at the gate to Tarangire NP.

FOREST WEAVER (Ploceus bicolor)

About 10 at Kakamega.

BROWN-CAPPED WEAVER (Ploceus insignis)

One at Kakamega and 2 at Mountain Lodge.

RED-BILLED QUELEA (Quelea quelea)

We saw a single flock of about 300 in Tarangire NP.

YELLOW-SHOULDERED WIDOWBIRD (Euplectes macroura macrocerca)

We saw the form 'macrocerca' (with yellow shoulders) in the glade at Kakamega Forest.

RED-COLLARED WIDOWBIRD (Euplectes ardens)

One along the rim at Ngorongoro Crater.

FAN-TAILED WIDOWBIRD (Euplectes axillaris)

About 20 in Ngorongoro Crater and 6 near Eldoret.

LONG-TAILED WIDOWBIRD (Euplectes progne)

A male in non-breeding plumage was seen at Lake Nakuru.

GROSBEAK WEAVER (Amblyospiza albifrons)

Six at Kakamega.

Estrildidae (Waxbills and Allies)

GRAY-HEADED NEGROFINCH (Nigrita canicapillus)

Two singles at Kakamega Forest.

YELLOW-BELLIED WAXBILL (Coccopygia quartinia)

Nice looks at a flock of about 8 in the forest above Gibb's Farm.



COMMON WAXBILL (Estrilda astrild)

Small numbers were widespread (mostly around the edges of wetlands) throughout the tour.

BLACK-CROWNED WAXBILL (Estrilda nonnula)

Three at Kakamega.

BLACK-CHEEKED WAXBILL (Estrilda erythronotos)

About 10 came to mob a Pearl-spotted Owlet on the way to Olduvai Gorge.

RED-HEADED BLUEBILL (Spermophaga ruficapilla)

We saw 3 of these striking waxbills in Kakamega Forest.

RED-CHEEKED CORDONBLEU (Uraeginthus bengalus)

Common and widespread away from forest.

BLUE-CAPPED CORDONBLEU (Uraeginthus cyanocephalus)

We saw about a dozen of these gorgeous little birds at the gate to Tarangire NP.

PURPLE GRENADIER (Granatina ianthinogaster)

Another beautiful waxbill that we saw in many areas throughout the tour.

GREEN-WINGED PYTILIA (Pytilia melba)

Two in the low country near Ngorongoro, and then 2 more at the gate to Tarangire.

RED-BILLED FIREFINCH (Lagonosticta senegala)

Fairly common and widespread.

CUT-THROAT (Amadina fasciata)

Four in Tarangire NP.

GRAY-HEADED SILVERBILL (Odontospiza griseicapilla)

Yet another beautiful waxbill; we saw a flock of 20 feeding on grass seed near Seronera Lodge.

BRONZE MANNIKIN (Spermestes cucullatus)

Six in Nairobi and 1 at Lake Nakuru.

Viduidae (Indigobirds)

STRAW-TAILED WHYDAH (Vidua fischeri)

Three in non-breeding plumage near Olduvai Gorge.

Mammals

WAHLBERG'S EPAULETTED FRUIT BAT (Epomophorus wahlbergi)

About 40 were hanging above the entrance gate to Nairobi NP.

YELLOW-WINGED BAT (Lavia frons)

Two in the grounds of Lake Baringo Club.

BROWN GREATER GALAGO (Otolemur crassicaudatus)

Heard around Gibb's Farm.

BLUE MONKEY (Cercopithecus mitis)

Small numbers at Manyara and Ngorongoro, and about 50 at Kakamega Forest.

SYKES MONKEY (Cercopithecus albogularis)

Very common all around Mountain Lodge.

BLACK-CHEEKED WHITE-NOSED MONKEY (Cercopithecus ascanius)

More commonly known as Red-tailed, or Copper-tailed Monkey, we saw about 25 at Kakamega.

BLACK-FACED VERVET MONKEY (Cercopithecus aethiops)

Common and widespread away from forest.

OLIVE BABOON (Papio anubis)


MANTLED GUEREZA (Colobus guereza)

We saw about 80 of these beautiful monkeys at Kakamega and around Mountain Lodge; more commonly know as

Black and White Colobus.

CAPE HARE (Lepus capensis)

Three singles in the Serengeti and at Lake Baringo.

UNSTRIPED GROUND SQUIRREL (Xerus rutilus)

About 6 at Tarangire and 1 in the Kerio Valley.



GIANT FOREST SQUIRREL (Protoxerus stangeri)

Some of the group saw 1 in Kakamega Forest.

BUSH SQUIRREL (Paraxerus sp.)

Fairly common around our camp at Tarangire, and then at Mountain Lodge.

RED-LEGGED SUN SQUIRREL (Heliosciurus rufobrachium)

Two in Kakamega Forest.

BLACK-BACKED JACKAL (Canis mesomelas)

Six in Ngorongoro Crater, 4 in the Serengeti, and 6 at Tarangire.

COMMON JACKAL (Canis aureus)


RATEL (HONEY BADGER) (Mellivora capensis)

We had good looks at this mainly nocturnal mammal from our camp at Tarangire - a real treat as they are seldom

seen on tours.

LARGE-SPOTTED GENET (Genetta tigrina)

Two on the feeding platform at Mountain Lodge.

SLENDER MONGOOSE (Herpestes sanguineus)

One from the roof of Mountain Lodge.

BANDED MONGOOSE (Mungos mungo)

We saw several 'bands' of these in the Serengeti, and especially at Seronera Lodge.

EASTERN DWARF MONGOOSE (Helogale hirtula)

Often on termite hills, we saw several groups in the Serengeti and at Tarangire; in all we saw about 45.

SPOTTED HYAENA (Crocuta crocuta)

About 25 in Ngorongoro Crater, 10 in the Serengeti, and 3 at Lake Nakuru.

LEOPARD (Panthera pardus)

During our first morning at Seronera we saw two - including some great tree climbing. Then the following day we

had third, and although this one was rather distant, it was still a great Serengeti visit for this normally shy big

cat.

LION (Panthera leo)

Just wonderful with repeated encounters from Ngorongoro Crater to the Serengeti, and then in Tarangire, and

then even a huge tree climbing male at Lake Nakuru. It just got better and better, with all ages from large maned

males to groups of females, and a great variety of playful young ones.

CHEETAH (Acinonyx jubatus)

Often difficult these days, so we were really lucky to get good views of one feeding on a gazelle near Seronera

Lodge.

AFRICAN ELEPHANT (Loxodonta africana)

Most numerous in Tarangire (120+) but we also had wonderful experiences with dozens of others in Ngorongoro,

the Serengeti, and 3 at Mountain Lodge.

ROCK HYRAX (Procavia capensis)

Common on some of the rocky kopjes in the Serengeti, at Lake Nakuru, and at Lake Baringo.

BUSH (YELLOW-SPOTTED) HYRAX (Heterohyrax brucei)

Common in the Serengeti and a few at Lake Baringo.

TREE HYRAX (Dendrohyrax arboreus)

Heard at Mountain Lodge.

BURCHELL'S ZEBRA (Equus burchelli)

Very common and widespread in grasslands throughout the tour.

BLACK RHINOCEROS (Diceros bicornis)

From the rim of Ngorongoro Crater we scoped 3 deep below us (at the bottom of the crater), but then had

fantastic looks at 2 of these really rare mammals at Lake Nakuru.

WHITE RHINOCEROS (Ceratotherium simum)

We saw about 15 of these introduced rhinos at Lake Nakuru and 3 at Solio.

WARTHOG (Phacochoerus aethiopicus)




HIPPOPOTAMUS (Hippopotamus amphibius)

Common in most water holes (and mud holes) throughout Ngorongoro and the Serengeti and 4 at Lake Baringo.

COMMON GIRAFFE (Giraffa camelopardalis)

Away from forest and the most densely populated areas giraffe were common and widespread throughout the

tour .

ROTHSCHILD'S GIRAFFE (Giraffa rothschildi)

Distant looks at 2 at Lake Nakuru.

BUSHBUCK (Tragelaphus scriptus)

About 40 at Mountain Lodge.

COMMON ELAND (Taurotragus oryx)

We had good looks at these enormous antelopes at Nairobi NP, in Ngorongoro Crater, at Tarangire, and at Lake

Nakuru.

AFRICAN BUFFALO (Syncerus caffer)


COMMON WATERBUCK (Kobus ellipsiprymnus)

About 60 in Tarangire NP.

DEFASSA WATERBUCK (Kobus defassa)

One near Seronera and about 30 in Nakuru NP.

BOHOR REEDBUCK (Redunca redunca)

Two in Tarangire NP.

BEISA ORYX (Oryx beisa)

About 40 from the road as we passed by Solio on our way to Mt. Kenya.

TOPI (Damaliscus lunatus)

About 40 in the Seronera area of Serengeti.

HARTEBEEST (KONGONI) (Alcelaphus buselaphus)

Fifty in Nairobi NP, and 70 in the Ngorongoro to Serengeti area.

BLUE WILDEBEEST (Connochaetes taurinus)

About 5000 in Ngorongoro Crater and 600 in Tarangire NP.

KIRK'S DIK-DIK (Modoqua kirki)

Common in the Serengeti and Tarangire bush country.

IMPALA (Aepyceros malampus)

Common and widespread away from forest and towns.

THOMSON'S GAZELLE (Gazella thomsoni)

Several thousand in the Ngorongoro to Serengeti area, and also small numbers in Nairobi NP, Nakuru, and at Solio.

GRANT'S GAZELLE (Gazella granti)

We saw a total of about 500 in the Ngorongoro- Serengeti area, 30+ at Tarangire, 20 at Solio, and 1 in Nairobi

NP.



Additional Comments

Reptiles seen on the tour: Blue-headed Tree Agama; the big headed agama with a blue-green head that we saw in parts of the Serengeti. Red-headed Rock Agama; the colorful blue agama with a bright orange head, seen in several widespread rocky areas but most commonly at Lake Baringo. Mwanza Flat-heaed Agama; the brightly colored purple-pink and blue agama seen commonly in the Serengeti. Green Snake sp? The snake that we saw at the Serengeti Interpretation Center was most likely the Spotted Bush Snake. Water Monitor; a couple were seen in the grounds of Lake Baringo Club. Nile Crocodile; several were seen in the Serengeti and at Lake Baringo.

Triplist file: nf310ts



EAST AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS: KENYA & TANZANIA · EAST AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS: KENYA & TANZANIA September 4,...

Documents

Transcript of EAST AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS: KENYA & TANZANIA · EAST AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS: KENYA & TANZANIA September 4,...