Namibia Bird Species List

Nomenclature and taxonomy follows J. F. Clements Birds of the World: A Checklist 5th Edition (2000) Ibis Publishing Company, with updates to July 2005.

Ostrich Struthionidae

(Common) Ostrich Struthio camelus

This species was first seen on the Namib Desert gravel plains en route to Walvis Bay. Thereafter, it was seen in good numbers in Etosha National Park.

NOTE: The subspecies S. c. molybdophanes of dry East Africa is regarded by some authorities as a distinct species; Somali Ostrich. The form we observed would remain with the nominate Common Ostrich S. camelus. Clements does not as yet recognize this split.

Grebes Podicipedidae

Little Grebe (Dabchick) Tachybaptus ruficollis

First recorded at Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, this grebe was also seen in a number of other fresh water localities.

Eared (Black-necked) Grebe Podiceps nigricollis

A large flotilla of over 100 of these birds was seen in Walvis Bay, on the way out to Paaltjies.

Pelicans Pelecanidae

Great (Eastern) White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus

Small flocks of this beautiful bird were observed in the Walvis Bay area.

Cormorants Phalacrocoracidae

Great (White-breasted) Cormorant Phalacrocorax [carbo] lucidus

Recorded at Daan Viljoen and the Walvis Bay/Swakopmund areas.

NOTE: The white-breasted African subspecies of the widely distributed Great Cormorant P. carbo is sometimes considered a different species; P. lucidus.

Cape Cormorant Phalacrocorax capensis

Large numbers were seen daily in the Walvis Bay and Swakopmund area.

Reed (Long-tailed) Cormorant Phalacrocorax africanus

This species was encountered firstly at Daan Viljoen and then later seen in good numbers from the Rundu area, especially in the Okavango region.

Crowned Cormorant Phalacrocorax coronatus

A few pairs were seen on the beach opposite the guano platforms between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund.

Anhinga & Darter Anhingidae

(African) Darter Anhinga [melanogaster] rufa

First seen at Rundu, it was most common on the Okavango River in Botswana.

NOTE: The resident African form P. rufa is sometimes lumped with the Asian P. melanogaster and the enlarged species called Darter. Clements uses the latter treatment of lumping these forms.

Herons, Egrets & Bitterns Ardeidae

Gray Heron Ardea cinerea

Recorded daily in the Walvis Bay/Swakopmund area.

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea

This heron was recorded at most sites along the Okavango River in Namibia and Botswana.

NOTE: The Cape Verde Islands A. p. bournei is sometimes split off as Cape Verde Purple Heron or Bourne's Heron.

Great (White) Egret Ardea albus

This elegant egret was seen on the floodplains in Mahango Game Reserve and then at various sites along the Okavango River.

NOTE: The nominate Old World Great Egret may be split from the New World A. a. egretta which would become American Egret. This split is as yet not recognized by Clements.

Slaty Egret Egretta vinaceigula

Crippling views of this highly sought-after species were had during a boat ride on the Okavango River. The bird was observed for a good few minutes as it gathered nest material close to the river.

Black Heron (Egret) Egretta ardesiaca

A fly-over sighting of this bird was had at the Rundu Treatment works.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta

A few individuals were seen at Walvis Bay Lagoon with further sightings in the Caprivi and the Okavango Panhandle.

NOTE: Clements lumps Little, Western Reef E. gularis and Madagascar's Dimorphic E. dimorpha Egret into a single species. This treatment is not widely accepted.

(Common) Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides

It was recorded in small numbers on the Okavango River in the Caprivi Strip and in Botswana.

Rufous-bellied Heron Ardeola rufiventris

This uncommon and richly-colored species was seen very well during boat trips on the Okavango River near Mahango and Shakawe.

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis

It was seen at Walvis Bay Lagoon and Swakopmund and later in larger roosts in the Okavango Panhandle.

NOTE: This group may be split into 2 species, the nominate Common Cattle Egret and the Asian/Australasian Eastern Cattle Egret E. coromanda. This split is as yet not recognized by Clements.

Striated (Green-backed) Heron Butorides striatus

Small numbers of this attractive heron were recorded almost daily along the Okavango River in the Caprivi and the Okavango Panhandle.

Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax

Birds were recorded at the Rundu Treatment Works and in the Okavango Panhandle.

White-backed Night Heron Gorsachius leuconotus

Good views of a pair of birds were had on a boat cruise in the Okavango near Mahangu Safari Lodge and other sightings in the Okavango Panhandle.

Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus

A couple of single birds were flushed from the reedbeds during boat trips in the Okavango Delta.

Dwarf Bittern Ixobrychus sturmii

Three sightings of single birds were at Etosha National Park, Mokuti Lodge and N'Kwazi Lodge near Rundu.

Hamerkop Scopidae

Hamerkop Scopus umbretta

We spotted this species on the first day near Windhoek and then later it was seen in the Okavango Panhandle.

Storks Ciconidae

African Open-bill Anastomus lamelligerus

Small numbers of this peculiar looking species were recorded in the Caprivi region and in the Okavango Panhandle.

Abdim's Stork Ciconia abdimii

A fair sized flock was seen feeding in a fallow field en route from Divundu to Rundu.

Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus

Approximately 15 birds were seen briefly in Mahango Game Reserve.

Saddle-billed Stork Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis

We only had a fly-by of a juvenile bird seen from the deck at Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus

A good-sized flock was recorded in flight in the Khomas Hochland region with further sightings in Etosha National Park.

Ibises & Spoonbills Threskiornithidae

Hadada (Hadeda) Ibis Bostrychia hagedash

This species was seen only once in the Okavango Panhandle.

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus

Low numbers were recorded along the Okavango River.

Flamingos Phoenicopteridae

Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber

Huge flocks of these gorgeous birds were seen at Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. Also, a single bird was seen flying near the Okaukuejo in Etosha National Park.

NOTE: New World Caribbean Flamingo P. roseus has now been split from Old World Greater Flamingo P. ruber.

Lesser Flamingo Phoenicopterus minor

Surprisingly, low numbers of this species were had at Mile 4 near Swakopmund.

Geese & Ducks Anatidae

White-faced (Whistling) Duck Dendrocygna viduata

First seen at Mahangu Safari Lodge and then on the Okavango River, it was also found at the Rundu Treatment Works.

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus

It was commonly encountered throughout the tour in Namibia.

South African Shelduck Tadorna cana

This endemic species to southern Africa was recorded on a farm dam in the Khomas Hochland region, waterholes in Etosha and at Rundu Treatment Works.

Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis

Our first record came from the Rundu area; it was seen on the floodplains of Mahango Game Reserve and on the Okavango River.

Comb Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos

First encountered near Halali in Etosha National Park, it was also seen at Mahangu Safari Lodge with very large flocks feeding on cultivated lands in the Rundu area.

African Pygmy-goose Nettapus auritus

We observed several of these exquisite birds in the Okavango Panhandle near Xaro Lodge.

Cape Teal Anas capensis

A pretty teal, it was recorded at the salt pans around Walvis Bay and Swakopmund and later at Rundu Treatment Works.

Red-billed Duck (Teal) Anas erythrorhyncha

Recorded in Etosha National Park and Rundu Treatment Works.

Hottentot Teal Anas hottentota

This species was seen on both visits to the Rundu Treatment Works.

Cape Shoveler Anas smithii

It was found only at the mouth of the Swakop River just outside the town of Swakopmund.

Southern Pochard Netta erythrophthalma

This attractive duck was recorded on both visits to the Rundu Treatment Works.

Osprey Pandionidae

Osprey Pandion haliaetus

Recorded at the Rundu Treatment Works on our first visit.

Hawks, Kites, Eagles & Vultures Accipitridae

African Cuckoo Hawk Aviceda cuculoides

Good views of this raptor were had in the Mahango Game Reserve.

Black-shouldered (-winged) Kite Elanus caeruleus

This widespread raptor was seen throughout the trip except during our stay in Walvis Bay.

Black (Yellow-billed Kite) Milvus [migrans] aegyptius

First seen near Etosha National Park; we had very large flocks en route from the Waterberg to Windhoek.

NOTE: This species is usually lumped with Black Kite, M.migrans.

African Fish-Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer

Recorded daily during our stay on the Okavango River in Namibia and Botswana.

(African) White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus

First encountered in the Khomas Hochland region, it was then seen in good numbers in Etosha National Park and commonly recorded in the Mahango Game Reserve.

Lappet-faced Vulture Torgos tracheliotus

This globally threatened species was first seen over the Central Highlands with an excellent sighting of two birds feeding on a zebra carcass in Etosha National Park near Okaukuejo.

Black-breasted (-chested) Snake-Eagle Circaetus pectoralis

Our initial sighting was in Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, with further sightings en route to Etosha and within the park.

NOTE: This resident Central and Southern African species is regarded by some authorities to be a form of Short-toed Eagle C. gallicus.

Brown Snake-Eagle Circaetus cinereus

Single birds seen en route from the Erongos to Etosha and outside Rundu.

Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus

This attractive raptor, which so typifies the African bushveld, was first recorded in Etosha National Park and it became more common as we traveled north and east into Botswana and along the Caprivi Strip.

African Marsh-Harrier Circus ranivorus

Small numbers were seen quartering over reedbeds in the Okavango Panhandle.

African Harrier-Hawk (Gymnogene) Polyboroides typus

Recorded north of Namutoni in Etosha National Park and at the Rundu Treatment Works.

Dark Chanting Goshawk Melierax metabates

A few sightings of this elegant raptor were had between Rundu and Divundu in northern Namibia.

(Southern) Pale Chanting Goshawk Melierax canorus

This was one of the most commonly recorded raptors during the first half of our trip in the dry western region. It was seen almost daily in central and northern Namibia, until we reached Rundu.

Gabar Goshawk Micronisus gabar

Probably the most vocal Accipiter of the dry west, it was seen in Etosha National Park, Rundu Treatment Works and the Waterberg.

African Goshawk Accipiter tachiro

A single bird was seen flying over Drotsky's Cabins in the Okavango Panhandle.

Little Sparrowhawk Accipiter minullus

Several recorded on the Okavango River during boat trips and also seen very well in the woodlands behind Xaro Lodge.

Steppe Buzzard Buteo buteo

Recorded regularly during the tour.

Augur Buzzard Buteo augur

A single bird was seen near the Kuiseb River Pass en route to Walvis Bay.

Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax

These large eagles were recorded en route to Etosha National Park, in the park, near Mahangu Safari Lodge and near Rundu.

NOTE: The nominate African Tawny Eagle A. r. rapax may be split from the Asian Tawny Eagle A. r. vindhiana. This split is as yet not recognized by Clements.

Wahlberg's Eagle Aquila wahlbergi

First seen en route from the Erongos to Etosha, we had other sightings in the Mahango area, Caprivi and Waterberg.

African Hawk-Eagle Hieraaetus spilogaster

We had a single immature bird in the Halali area of Etosha National Park.

Martial Eagle Polemaetus bellicosus

A single bird was seen in the Namutoni area of Etosha.

Secretary-bird Sagittariidae

Secretary-bird Sagittarius serpentarius

Recorded almost daily during our stay in Etosha National Park.


Falcons & Kestrels Falconidae

Pygmy Falcon Polihierax semitorquatus

Unusually, we only had brief views of this diminutive falcon in the Okaukuejo camp at Etosha.

Eurasian (Common/Rock) Kestrel Falco tinnunculus

This species was regularly recorded in Central Namibia, during the first week of the tour up to Etosha National Park.

Greater Kestrel Falco rupicoloides

Our best sightings of this kestrel were in Etosha National Park.

Red-necked Falcon Falco chicquera

We found this handsome raptor in Etosha National Park.

Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus

This migrant species was recorded at dusk feeding on the wing at the waterhole in Halali camp.

Eurasian (European) Hobby Falco subbuteo

This uncommon visitor was recorded on the Okavango River at Mahangu Safari Lodge and at the Rundu Treatment Works.

Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus

Regularly recorded in the Okaukuejo area of Etosha, it was also found at the Rundu Treatment Works.

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus

An individual bird was recorded near Namutoni in Etosha National Park.

Francolins & Allies Phasianidae

Crested Francolin Francolinus [Peliperdix] sephaena

Great views were had of a bird calling from a tree north of Namutoni camp.

Orange River Francolin Francolinus [Scleroptila] levaillantoides

Amazing views of a covey of these near-endemic francolins were had just south of Windhoek en route to Walvis Bay.

Hartlaub's Francolin Francolinus hartlaubi

We had early morning views of a pair on top of a ridge in the Erongo Mountains. Later on during the trip, we heard this species at Tandala Ridge and the Waterberg plateau.

Red-billed Francolin Francolinus adspersus

This attractive species was recorded regularly throughout the trip, especially during the latter half.

Swainson's Francolin (Spurfowl) Francolinus swainsonii

First heard in Etosha National Park, it was later seen behind Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Guineafowl Numididae

Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris

One of the most common species for the trip, it was regularly recorded at many sites throughout Namibia.

NOTE: The nominate East African N. m. meleagris (Helmeted Guineafowl is sometimes regarded as distinct from the western N. m. galeata (West African Guineafowl) and the southern N. m. mitrata (Tufted Guineafowl – the form which we recorded). Clements does not as yet recognize these splits.

Cranes Gruidae

Blue Crane Grus [Anthropoides] paradisea

A pair of this endemic crane species was seen very well close to Namutoni camp in Etosha National Park.

Wattled Crane Grus carunculatus

A pair of these regal birds was observed on the floodplains in the Mahango Game Reserve, on our first visit to the reserve.

Rails, Gallinules & Coots Rallidae

Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostris

This common waterside bird was recorded in the Caprivi area, and Okavango Panhandle.

Baillon's Crake Porzana pusilla

This secretive species was seen at Rundu Treatment Works.

(African) Purple Swamphen Porphyrio [porphyrio] madagascariensis

This large, colorful gallinule was recorded in the Okavango Panhandle and the Rundu Treatment Works.

NOTE: This cosmopolitan species is currently in taxonomic review and several forms are expected to be recognized as distinct species. The form we recorded would then become African Swamphen P. madagascariensis. Other forms to be recognized may include Indian Swamphen P. poliocephalus, Philippine Swamphen P. pulverulentus and Eastern Swamphen P. melanotus.

Allen's (Lesser) Gallinule Porphyrio alleni

We recorded this species in the Okavango Panhandle and the Rundu Treatment Works.

Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus

This common and widespread species was recorded at several freshwater locations in Namibia.

Lesser Moorhen Gallinula angulata

Birds seen near Xaro Lodge and at the Rundu Treatment Works.

Red-knobbed Coot Fulica cristata

This species was seen at a couple of inland water bodies in Namibia.

Bustards Otididae

Kori Bustard Ardeotis kori

This, the heaviest of all flying birds in the world, was first seen en route to the Tandala Ridge and then recorded daily in Etosha National Park.

Ludwig's Bustard Neotis ludwigii

Our first sighting was near Solitaire en route to Walvis Bay with another good sighting of three birds in Etosha National Park.

Rueppell's Bustard (Korhaan) Eupodotis rueppelli

Small groups of this attractive bustard species, which is almost entirely restricted to Namibia, were observed on the drive from the Spreetshoogte to Walvis Bay.

Red-crested Bustard (Korhaan) Eupodotis ruficristata

This species was first heard in the Khomas Hochland region and then seen in small numbers in Etosha National Park.

NOTE: The southern Red-crested Bustard E. ruficrista used to be lumped with the East African Buff-crested Bustard E. gindiana and the western Savile's Bustard E. savilei. All three of these species are now recognized by Clements.

White-quilled Bustard (Northern Black Korhaan) Eupodotis afraoides

We had many sightings of this spunky bird daily in Etosha National Park.

Jacanas Jacanidae

Lesser Jacana Microparra capensis

First spotted while enjoying breakfast at N'Kwazi Lodge, we also recorded a few of these delicate birds on the Okavango River in Botswana.

African Jacana Actophilornis africanus

First observed at the waterhole in Namutoni camp, it was then found in suitable habitat in the Caprivi region and Okavango Panhandle.

Painted-Snipes Rostratulidae

Greater Painted-Snipe Rostratula benghalensis

A fabulous male was seen at the Rundu Treatment Works on our second visit.

Stilts & Avocets Recurvirostridae

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus

Recorded first at Walvis Bay, Etosha and Rundu Treatment Works.

Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta

This species was only recorded in the Walvis Bay lagoon and Swakopmund.

Thick-knees Burhinidae

Water Thick-knee (Dikkop) Burhinus vermiculatus

Seen at the waterhole at Okaukuejo and Namutoni camp in Etosha, it was also recorded along the Okavango River.

Spotted Thick-knee (Dikkop) Burhinus capensis

Recorded on most days during our stay in Etosha National Park, we also found this bird in Mahango Game Reserve.

Coursers & Pratincoles Glareolidae

Temminck's Courser Cursorius temminckii

This slimly-built courser was only seen in the Mahango Game Reserve.

Double-banded Courser Cursorius smutsornis

Relatively common in Etosha National Park in small numbers.

Bronze-winged Courser Rhinoptilus chalcopterus

A fabulous sighting was had of a pair in Mopane woodland near Halali camp in Etosha.

Collared (Red-winged) Pratincole Glareola pratincola

The most memorable sighting was of a large flock (approx. 400 birds) on the Okavango River near Mahangu Safari Lodge. The birds were gathering on the remaining sandbanks in the river before migrating.

Rock Pratincole Glareola nuchalis

A single bird was seen during a boat ride on Okavango River near Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Plovers & Lapwings Charadriidae

Long-toed Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus crassirostris

This very attractive wetland species was recorded daily on the Okavango River from Mahangu Safari Lodge in Namibia to Xaro Lodge in Botswana.

Blacksmith Plover (Lapwing) Vanellus armatus

Recorded at nearly all fresh water bodies throughout Namibia and Botswana on almost every day.

Crowned Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus coronatus

This common dry west species was seen during our stay in the Etosha National Park and on a day visit to Mahango Game Reserve.

Wattled Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus senegallus

A few of pairs were seen during boat cruises on the Okavango River from Mahangu Safari Lodge and Xaro Lodge.

American Golden-Plover Pluvialis dominica

Two birds were recorded in the Walvis Bay lagoon. This represents one of just a handful of records for this species in southern Africa.

Black-bellied (Grey) Plover Pluvialis squatarola

This non-breeding migrant was recorded in the Walvis Bay-Swakopmund area on our tour.

Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula

Seen only in the Walvis Bay lagoon on our tour.

Kittlitz's Plover Charadrius pecuarius

First observed at Walvis Bay and then later on in good numbers in the dry riverbed of the Swakop River.

Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris

Seen in small numbers during the tour in suitable habitat.

White-fronted Plover Charadrius marginatus

This species was recorded daily in the Walvis Bay-Swakopmund area with further sightings at the Rundu Treatment Works.

Chestnut-banded Plover Charadrius pallidus

These attractive waders, with their neat chestnut breast band, were seen in the Walvis Bay lagoon. The bulk of the world population is restricted to this area.

Sandpipers & Allies Scolopacidae

African Snipe Gallinago nigripennis

A few birds recorded on the floodplains of the Okavango River near Xaro and Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica

A couple of birds were seen on the mud flats of Walvis Bay lagoon.

(Common) Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus

As above, a few seen on the mud flats on Walvis Bay lagoon and along the coastal strip, between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund.

Common Redshank Tringa totanus

Three birds were seen at Mile 4 Saltworks north of Swakopmund.

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis

Recorded on the mudflats of Walvis Bay lagoon and at the Rundu Treatment Works.

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia

First seen at Walvis Bay and Swakopmund area, we also had sightings in Etosha and Rundu Treatment Works.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola

Recorded at most freshwater bodies during our tour.

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos

Seen at a number of wetland areas, with the first sighting at Daan Viljoen.

Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres

Recorded daily during our stay in the Walvis Bay-Swakopmund area.

Sanderling Calidris alba

Large numbers of this very active shorebird were seen in the Walvis Bay area.

Little Stint Calidris minuta

Small numbers seen in the Walvis Bay-Swakopmund area.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea

This shorebird was only recorded on the mudflats of Walvis Bay-Swakopmund.

Ruff Philomachus pugnax

Recorded at most wetland areas throughout the trip.

Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus

At least 25 birds were seen near the Saltworks in Walvis Bay on the way out to Paaltjies.

Gulls Laridae

(Cape) Gull Larus [dominicanus] vetula

Seen daily in the Walvis Bay-Swakopmund area.

NOTE: Recent work suggests that the Kelp Gull complex L. dominicanus may be split into as many as four species. The African form we observed has been proposed as Cape Gull L. vetula.

Hartlaub's Gull Larus hartlaubii

As for the above species, it was seen daily in the Walvis Bay-Swakopmund area.

Terns Sternidae

Caspian Tern Sterna caspia

We had good views of small numbers of this large tern species in the Walvis Bay/Swakopmund area on our first day in the area.

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis

A few birds were observed in the Walvis Bay lagoon and Swakopmund area.

Great Crested (Swift) Tern Sterna bergii

Commonly recorded in small numbers in the Walvis Bay-Swakopmund area.

Common Tern Sterna hirundo

Large numbers were seen in the Walvis Bay-Swakopmund area.

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea

A single bird was found in Walvis Bay on the first day in the area.

Damara Tern Sterna balaenarum

We had excellent views of this attractive, breeding-endemic tern standing on the beach along the coast between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund.

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus

Good-sized flocks of 25+ birds were recorded on both evenings during boat trips on the Okavango River near Xaro Lodge. We also saw a single bird at the Rundu Treatment Works.

White-winged Tern Chlidonias leucopterus

A small flock was seen on our first day in Walvis Bay.

Skimmers Rynchopidae

African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris

A pair of these beautiful birds was seen on the Okavango River near Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Sandgrouse Pteroclidae

Namaqua Sandgrouse Pterocles namaqua

Our first records were from the Khomas Hochland region near Spreetshoogte and then later a fly-over en route from Swakopmund to Spitzkoppe.

Double-banded Sandgrouse Pterocles bicinctus

Large numbers were observed at dusk flying in to drink at the waterhole in Okaukuejo and Namutoni camp, in Etosha National Park.

Doves & Pigeons Collumbidae

Rock (Feral) Pigeon Columba livia

This exotic species was seen in small numbers around human settlement, especially in Windhoek and Walvis Bay.

Speckled (Rock) Pigeon Columba guinea

Recorded at Daan Viljoen Game Reserve and Windhoek and then later in the Erongo Mountains.

African Mourning Dove Streptopelia decipiens

This dove with its delightful call was seen around Mahangu Safari Lodge on the Okavango River.

Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata

Recorded daily from Mahangu Safari Lodge until the end of the tour, bar the last day.

Ring-necked (Cape Turtle) Dove Streptopelia capicola

This common species was recorded almost every day, throughout the tour.

Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis

It was seen almost daily in small numbers during the tour.

Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove Turtur chalcospilos

First seen at Drotsky's Cabins upon arrival, thereafter, it was recorded in the woodland around Xaro Lodge.

Namaqua Dove Oena capensis

This long-tailed dove was seen first at Rooibank outside Walvis Bay, it was then particularly common in Etosha National Park.

African Green-Pigeon Treron calva

A fair number of birds were seen in the riverine vegetation on the Okavango River, especially in the vicinity of fruiting fig trees at Xaro Lodge and Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Parrots & Allies Psittacidae

Rosy-faced Lovebird Agapornis roseicollis

A pair was observed at Spitzkoppe, followed by good numbers in the Erongo Mountains and a few at Waterberg Plateau National Park.

Meyer's (Brown) Parrot Poicephalus meyeri

Seen in the riverine forest at Mahangu Safari Lodge and also in small numbers daily in the Okavango Panhandle.

Rueppell's Parrot Poicephalus rueppellii

Good views were had of a pair in the Waterberg Plateau National Park.

Turacos Musophagidae

Gray Go-away-bird Corythaixoides concolor

A common dry west species, it was first recorded in the Windhoek area and thereafter seen regularly throughout the tour in Namibia and Botswana.

Cuckoos Cuculidae

Pied (Jacobin) Cuckoo Clamator jacobinus

A few birds were seen in Etosha National Park, Mahangu Safari Lodge, Mahango Game Reserve, Xaro Lodge and Waterberg.

Levaillant's (Striped) Cuckoo Clamator levaillantii

A single bird was seen briefly near the town of Outjo en route to Etosha National Park.

Black Cuckoo Cuculus clamosus

First we had brief views of bird in flight in the Khomas Hochland region, followed by great views of a pair at N'Kwazi Lodge near Rundu.

Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus

The teak woodlands just outside Rundu produced a single bird of this species.

African Cuckoo Cuculus gularis

Excellent, close-up views were had of a bird in Okaukuejo Camp in Etosha National Park.

Dideric Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius

Recorded in Etosha NP, N'Kwazi Lodge and Xaro Lodge.

Black Coucal Centropus grillii

A single bird was seen very well in a grassy vlei near Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Coppery-tailed Coucal Centropus cupreicaudus

We enjoyed a number of sightings of this large coucal at Mahangu Safari Lodge and Xaro Lodge on the Okavango River.

Senegal Coucal Centropus senegalensis

This species was seen at Rundu Treatment Works, Mahango Game Reserve, Xaro Lodge and the Waterberg.

White-browed Coucal Centropus superciliosus

Recorded at Rundu Treatment Works and Mahango Game Reserve.

Barn Owls Tytonidae

Barn Owl Tyto alba

First seen at the waterhole at Okaukuejo Camp, we later had a sighting of a roosting bird on a cliff face near Halali and also a pair at Drotsky's Cabins.

Typical Owls Strigidae

African Scops-Owl Otus senegalensis

We had close-up views of a bird at night in the grounds of Halali Camp after tracking it down.

Southern White-faced Owl Ptilopsis granti

We surprised a roosting owl and obtained lovely views of the bird in the trees of Halali Camp.

Spotted Eagle-Owl Bubo africanus

Shortly after entering Etosha, we had a good sighting of a pair roosting near to the road.

Pel's Fishing-Owl Scotopelia peli

One of the most wanted birds of the trip and we had two separate sightings of these amazing birds in the Okavango Panhandle.

African Wood-Owl Strix woodfordii

Beautiful views of a pair were had around Xaro Lodge in the Okavango Panhandle.

Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium perlatum

Seen first in the Erongos, we had further sightings in Etosha National Park and brilliant views in the Waterberg.

African Barred Owlet Glaucidium capense

This special owlet was recorded twice during our stay at Xaro Lodge in the Okavango Delta.

NOTE: The form we saw, G. c. ngamiense is sometimes split as Ngami Owlet.

Nightjars & Allies Caprimulgidae

Rufous-cheeked Nightjar Caprimulgus rufigena

Our sighting of this species was of hunting birds at the waterhole in Okaukuejo Camp.

Freckled Nightjar Caprimulgus tristigma

We obtained spectacular views of a pair and two youngsters roosting at Erongo Wilderness Lodge.

Swifts Apodidae

African Palm-Swift Cypsiurus parvus

Recorded on our first day in Windhoek, it was seen on a number of occasions during the trip.

NOTE: The nominate African form of the Palm-Swift is considered to be distinct from the Malagasy form C. p. gracilis by some authorities. Clements does not as yet recognize this split.

Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba

This, the largest known swift, was seen once in the Erongo Mountains and in good numbers in the Waterberg.

Common Swift Apus apus

Highest numbers were recorded on the plains in Etosha National Park.

Bradfield's Swift Apus bradfieldi

This large brown swift was seen in Windhoek on the first two days of the tour and then again in the Waterberg Plateau NP.

Little Swift Apus affinis

This common urban swift was recorded in the Windhoek & Walvis Bay area and then again in the Waterberg Plateau NP.

White-rumped Swift Apus caffer

Seen during the first four days during our tour, namely in the Windhoek area and over Swakop River.

Mousebirds Coliidae

White-backed Mousebird Colius colius

Seen first at Tamboti Guest House in Windhoek, we had further sightings en route to Walvis Bay and at Rooibank.

Red-faced Mousebird Urocolius indicus

Recorded in the woodlands behind Xaro Lodge and at the Rundu Treatment Works.

Trogons Trogonidae

Narina Trogon Apaloderma narina

A single male was observed in the riverine forest near Drotsky's Cabins.

Kingfishers Alcedinidae

Malachite Kingfisher Alcedo cristata

This jewel of a bird was seen frequently along the Okavango River.

Gray-headed Kingfisher Halcyon leucocephala

An immature was seen in the camp grounds of Okaukuejo in Etosha and an adult en route to Namutoni.

Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis

A very vocal and colorful species, it was seen at the Rundu Treatment Works, Xaro Lodge and N'Kwazi Lodge.

Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti

This kingfisher was recorded in the teak woodland en route to Mahangu Safari Lodge from Rundu.

Giant Kingfisher Megaceryle maxima

This impressive kingfisher was seen at the Rundu Treatment Works and Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis

Recorded at most water bodies from Mahangu Safari Lodge onwards, with highest count being along the waterways in the Okavango.

Bee-eaters Meropidae

White-fronted Bee-eater Merops bullockoides

This beautiful species was seen daily along the Okavango River in Botswana.

Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus

First recorded at N'Kwazi Lodge near Rundu and thereafter readily recorded every day along the Okavango River.

Swallow-tailed Bee-eater Merops hirundineus

First recorded in Daan Viljoen Game Reserve and seen at various sites all along the trip, but not along the Caprivi or in Botswana.

European Bee-eater Merops apiaster

Recorded during the first half of our tour at Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, the Khomas Hochland region and Etosha NP.

Southern Carmine Bee-eater Merops nubicoides

Fantastic views were had of the nesting colonies along the banks of the Okavango River.

Rollers Coraciidae

European Roller Coracias garrulus

Recorded only once during the tour near Namutoni in Etosha NP.

Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudata

This was the most common roller on the trip with sightings throughout the tour.

NOTE: The Ethiopian C. c. lorti might be split as Blue-breasted Roller.

Rufous-crowned (Purple) Roller Coracias naevia

Another beautiful bird it was recorded near Daan Viljoen, Etosha National Park and in the Waterberg.

Broad-billed Roller Eurystomus glaucurus

This species was found in Mahango Game Reserve, Shakawe area and at Xaro Lodge.

Hoopoes Upupidae

Eurasian (African) Hoopoe Upupa [epops] africana

This unique bird was recorded throughout our tour.

NOTE: The Hoopoe complex has had a confusing taxonomic history, with one to four species being recognized by various authorities. Clements splits the group into two forms, Madagascar U. marginalis and Eurasian U. epops The white-winged African forms are often split by other authorities as West African Hoopoe U. senegalensis with the fourth species being African Hoopoe U. africana. However, the most generally accepted treatment is that of three species, Madagascar, Eurasian and African.

Woodhoopoes Phoeniculidae

Green Wood-hoopoe Phoeniculus purpureus

Recorded in the woodlands in the Okavango Panhandle and at the Rundu Treatment Works.

Violet Wood-hoopoe Phoeniculus damarensis

Unfortunately, I was the only person in the group to see this species in the Waterberg Plateau NP.

NOTE: Clements has lumped the two populations of this form, the nominate in Namibia and Angola, with the Kenyan P. d granti. The latter form is often split as Grant's Woodhoopoe.

Common (Greater) Scimitar-bill Rhinopomastus cyanomelas

Birds seen at Daan Viljoen, Khomas Hochland, Tandala Ridge and the Waterberg.

Hornbills Bucerotidae

Monteiro's Hornbill Tockus monteiri

This Namibian near-endemic was first seen at Daan Viljoen GR, Khomas Hochland, the Erongo Mountains and the Waterberg.

Red-billed Hornbill Tockus erythrorhynchus

This approachable hornbill was recorded in Etosha National Park and the Waterberg.

NOTE: Red-billed Hornbill has recently been split into two species the nominate T. erythrorhynchus which we observed and Damara Hornbill T. damarensis which occurs in Western Namibia.

(Damara Hornbill) Tockus [erythrorhynchus] damarensis

This hornbill with a dark eye was first seen in the Khomas Hochland region and later at Spitzkoppe, Etosha and after leaving the Waterberg.

NOTE: Red-billed Hornbill has recently been split into two species including the nominate T. erythrorhynchus and Damara Hornbill T. damarensis of Namibia.

Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill Tockus leucomelas

This bird was most commonly recorded in Etosha NP during our tour.

Bradfield's Hornbill Tockus bradfieldi

This localized hornbill was seen flying overhead behind Mahangu Safari Lodge and again en route to the Waterberg.

African Gray Hornbill Tockus nasutus

This widespread species was recorded on a regular basis throughout the tour except during our stay in Walvis Bay/Swakopmund area.

Barbets Capitonidae

Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus chrysoconus

This bird was seen in the woodlands behind Xaro Lodge.

(Acacia) Pied Barbet Tricholaema leucomelas

First seen around the base of the Spitzkoppe, it was also found in the Erongo Mountains, Etosha and the Waterberg.

Black-collared Barbet Lybius torquatus

Mahangu Safari Lodge produced our first sighting of this species, followed by another sighting at Drotsky's Cabins.

Crested Barbet Trachyphonus vaillantii

It was seen in the woodland behind Xaro Lodge on both days in the Panhandle.

Honeyguides Indicatoridae

Lesser Honeyguide Indicator minor

This species was heard in the Okavango Panhandle.

Woodpeckers & Allies Picidae

Golden-tailed Woodpecker Campethera abingoni

First recorded in the Khomas Hochland region, our lodge in the Okavango Panhandle produced a number of sightings of this species.

Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens

Surprisingly, this widespread African woodpecker, was only seen once during the tour at Okaukuejo camp in Etosha.

Larks Alaudidae

Rufous-naped Lark Mirafra africana

Recorded in Etosha NP and Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Fawn-colored Lark Calendulauda africanoides

This species was spotted north of Namutoni Camp in Etosha National Park.

NOTE: The Ethiopian subspecies M. a. macdonaldi is sometimes considered to belong to a distinct species; Abyssinian Lark M. alopex.

Sabota Lark Calendulauda sabota

This was our most common lark for the trip and it was recorded throughout Namibia, until we reached the Rundu area.

NOTE: Some authorities consider the thickbilled form, Bradfield's Lark M. bradfieldi of Namibia a separate species. This is not widely accepted.

Dune Lark Calendulauda erythrochlamys

We obtained fair views of this ochre-colored Namibian endemic in the Kuiseb Riverbed at Rooibank, just outside Walvis Bay.

Dusky Lark Pinarocorys nigricans

A single bird was found along the roadside in Mahango Game Reserve.

Spike-heeled Lark Chersomanes albofasciata

This social lark was commonly encountered in the Okaukuejo area of Etosha National Park and we obtained superb close-range views of this bird.

NOTE: The Tanzanian isolate C. a. beesleyi is considered a separate species by some authorities.

Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix leucotis

Recorded on the plains north of the Okaukuejo Camp in Etosha.

Gray-backed Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix verticalis

A nomadic species that we first found on the gravel plains en route to Walvis Bay and then common at Rooibank and in Etosha National Park.

Gray's Lark Ammomanopsis grayi

This desert lark was true to form and we found a few in the most inhospitable area en route to Walvis Bay .

Red-capped Lark Calandrella cinerea

This distinctive species was first seen on the Welwitschia Plains near Swakopmund and then regularly encountered in the Okaukuejo area of Etosha National Park.

NOTE: The African Red-capped Lark complex C. cinerea, was lumped within the Greater Short-toed Lark complex C. brachydactyla but is now considered distinct by most authorities. Several distinctive groupings have now been split off from Red-capped Lark, including Blanford's Lark of Ethiopia C. blanfordi.

Pink-billed Lark Spizocorys conirostris

A pair of birds were observed on the scrubby, gravel plains north of Okaukuejo Camp in Etosha.

Stark's Lark Spizocorys starki

We obtained sightings of this species in the desert on the way to Walvis Bay and at Spitzkoppe and Etosha.

Swallows Hirundinidae

Plain (Brown-throated) Martin Riparia paludicola

This species was seen in the Okavango Panhandle near Shakawe.

Banded Martin Riparia cincta

Seen in Etosha NP at Fischer's Pan and then in the Okavango Panhandle area.

Bank Swallow (Sand Martin) Riparia riparia

Birds recorded at Fischer's Pan in Etosha and along the Okavango River in the Panhandle.

Rock Martin Ptyonoprogne fuligula

Recorded almost daily for the first week of the trip and then seen again in the Waterberg area.

NOTE: This confusing polytypic complex is being reviewed for multi-species splitting. Within the African populations, three potential species exist. The southern African nominate form H. f. fuligula would remain as Rock Martin and the more northern populations would become Red-throated Rock Martin H. pusilla. Palearctic birds would become Pale Crag Martin H. obsolete. Clements does not as yet recognize any of these splits.

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica

Seen almost daily throughout the tour in Namibia and Botswana.

White-throated Swallow Hirundo albigularis

Two sightings were had of this bird, namely at Rundu Treatment Works and near Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii

A pair was seen upstream from Xaro Lodge on the Okavango River.

NOTE: This species complex is likely to be split based on the African nominate form that would become African Wire-tailed Swallow and the Asian Wire-tailed Swallow that would be H. filifera. Clements does not as yet recognize this split.

Greater Striped-Swallow Cecropis cucullata

Recorded on the first and last days of the tour at Daan Viljoen Game Reserve and in the Waterberg.

Lesser Striped Swallow Cecropis abyssinica

Seen on the Okavango River and in the Waterberg.

Rufous-chested (Red-breasted) Swallow Cecropis semirufa

This large hirundine was seen en route from Rundu to Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Mosque Swallow Cecropis senegalensis

First seen in the Namutoni area in Etosha, it was also observed at N'Kwazi Lodge, Divundu and Mahangu SL.

(Common) House Martin Delichon urbica

This species was seen at Tandala Ridge and in the Okaukuejo area of Etosha.

Wagtails & Pipits Motacillidae

African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp

Several of these striking birds were recorded on the Okavango River at Mahangu SL and Xaro Lodge.

Cape Wagtail Motacilla capensis

Seen at Daan Viljoen Game Reserve and in the Walvis Bay area.

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava

Two birds were seen from the boat on the Okavango River upstream from Shakawe.

African (Grassveld) Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus

First recorded around the Windhoek area, it was most common in Etosha National Park.

NOTE: African pipit taxonomy is in rather a disarray and much further research is required in the phylogeny of this grouping. Several forms which are considered subspecies are likely to become full species in their own rights and several new forms are surely still to be described. The identification of two new species of pipits from an urban hockey field in Kimberley, South Africa, provides an excellent illustration regarding how little is known about African pipits and how little attention has been paid to them.

Bulbuls Pycnonotidae

(Dark-capped Bulbul) Pycnonotus [barbatus] tricolor

This abundant eastern species was recorded daily from N'Kwazi Lodge near Rundu, apart from the final day.

NOTE: Another very confusing polytypic species complex. Several Asian and African forms have already been recognized as distinct species within the super-species Common Bulbul P. barbatus. The form that we saw in Southern Africa , P. tricolor has been split as Dark-capped Bulbul by some authorities. Clements does not recognize this split.

Black-fronted (African Red-eyed) Bulbul Pycnonotus nigricans

This western congener of the Dark-capped Bulbul was recorded at all sites from Windhoek (except Walvis Bay/Swakopmund), all the way through to the Rundu area, from where it is replaced by the previous species. It was also found in the Waterberg.

Yellow-bellied Greenbul Chlorocichla flaviventris

A pair was seen in the woodland at N'Kwazi Lodge near Rundu.

Terrestrial Brownbul Phyllastrephus terrestris

Typically an undergrowth skulker, we had sightings of these noisy birds at Xaro Lodge and Drotsky's Cabins in the Okavango Panhandle.

Thrushes & Allies Turdidae

Short-toed Rock Thrush Monticola brevipes

Daan Viljoen Game Reserve produced our first sightings of this attractive species, with further sightings on the drive to Walvis Bay and at Erongo Wilderness Lodge.

NOTE: The South African isolate M. b pretoriae may be split as Transvaal Rock Thrush.

Groundscraper Thrush Psophocichla litsipsirupa

This boldly-marked species was first found in roadside woodland in the Khomas Hochland region and then at Halali and Namutoni camps in Etosha and also in the Waterberg.

NOTE: Ethiopian Thrush P. l. simensis is considered a distinct species by several authorities. Clements does not as yet recognize this split.

Kurrichane Thrush Turdus libonyanus

A woodland thrush, it was seen well at Xaro Lodge.

Cisticolas & Allies Cisticolidae

Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana

We encountered our first specimen at Daan Viljoen, followed by daily sightings in Etosha and Mahango Game Reserve.

Winding (Luapula) Cisticola Cisticola [galactotes] luapula

This recently split species was seen in the rank vegetation in Mahango area.

NOTE: The Okavango-Zambian race of the widespread Winding Cisticola C. galactotes, has recently been accorded full species status as Luapula Cisticola C. luapula. Clements does not as yet recognize this split.

Chirping Cisticola Cisticola pipiens

A fairly secretive papyrus-dwelling cisticola, it was seen in reedbeds along the Okavango River near Mahangu SL and Xaro Lodge.

Zitting (Fan-tailed) Cisticola Cisticola juncidis

Recorded at a number of sites, it was however, more often heard than seen.

Desert Cisticola Cisticola aridulus

Another of the small cisticolas, this was first seen en route to Walvis Bay and then in Etosha.

Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava

Seen in Mahango Game Reserve and in the Okavango Panhandle.

Black-chested Prinia Prinia flavicans

A dry country species, it was observed regularly during the first half of our tour.

Rufous-eared Warbler Malcorus pectoralis

This species has a highly localized distribution in Namibia and we had a good sighting in Etosha National Park.

Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida

Only one bird seen in the woodland near Xaro Lodge.

(Gray-backed Camaroptera) Camaroptera [brachyura] brevicaudata

Erongo Wilderness Lodge produced our initial encounter with this small warbler and thereafter it was seen fairly regularly throughout the trip, especially in Etosha and the Okavango Panhandle.

NOTE: Most authorities now recognize the nominate green-backed forms of this widespread African warbler as distinct from the grey-backed forms C. brevicaudata. We encountered the grey-backed forms during our tour. Clements still lumps these two groups.

Barred Camaroptera (Wren-Warbler) Calamonastes fasciolatus

We saw this delightful species at Daan Viljoen Game Reserve and in the Namutoni area of Etosha.

Old World Warblers Sylviidae

African Bush-Warbler (Little Rush Warbler) Bradypterus baboecala

Recorded from the Okavango River near Xaro Lodge.

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus

A few birds were seen on both visits to the Rundu Treatment Works and a single bird at Mahangu Safari Lodge.

African Reed- (Marsh-) Warbler Acrocephalus baeticatus

This secretive species was seen in the reeds around the dam in Daan Viljoen Game Reserve and on the Okavango River near Xaro Lodge.

Greater Swamp-Warbler Acrocephalus rufescens

Another secretive papyrus warbler, we had decent views in the Okavango Panhandle.

Lesser Swamp- (Cape Reed-) Warbler Acrocephalus gracilirostris

First observed at the Rundu Treatment Works, it was also seen near Xaro Lodge.

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus

This little Palaearctic migrant was seen in Okaukuejo and Halali camps and the woodland behind Xaro Lodge.

Yellow-bellied Eremomela Eremomela icteropygialis

Found at Erongo Wilderness Lodge and Okaukuejo in Etosha.

Burnt-necked Eremomela Eremomela usticollis

A few birds seen on our morning walk in Waterberg Plateau National Park.

Cape (Long-billed) Crombec Sylvietta rufescens

This short-tailed species was seen en route to the Spitzkoppe and at Halali camp in Etosha.

Layard's Warbler (Tit-Babbler) Parisoma layardi

Good views of this bird were had in the Acacia woodland, at the base of Spitzkoppe.

Rufous-vented Warbler (Chestnut-vented Titbabbler) Parisoma subcaeruleum

Commonly recorded from the first day, this bubbly species was last seen in Etosha.

Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae

Pale (Pallid/Mouse-colored) Flycatcher Bradornis pallidus

Our only sighting was in the Teak woodlands en route from Rundu to Divundu.

Chat Flycatcher Bradornis infuscatus

Seen in the Central Highlands on the way to the coast, it was most common en route to Spitzkoppe from Walvis Bay and in Etosha.

Mariqua (Marico) Flycatcher Bradornis mariquensis

This dry country flycatcher was recorded frequently in Etosha National Park.

Southern Black-Flycatcher Melaenornis pammelaina

A singleton was recorded at the checkpoint en route from N'Kwazi Lodge to the Waterberg.

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata

This species was observed at most camps in Etosha National Park.

Ashy (Blue-grey) Flycatcher Muscicapa caerulescens

Mahangu Safari Lodge produced the only sightings of this species for the trip.

White-browed (Heuglin's) Robin-Chat Cossypha heuglini

The riverine vegetation at Mahangu Safari Lodge produced sightings of this species for the trip.

Red-backed (White-browed) Scrub-Robin Cercotrichas leucophrys

Erongo Wilderness Lodge, Tandala Ridge, Mahango Game Reserve and the Waterberg all produced sightings of this commonly recorded species.

NOTE: This widespread African complex is being reviewed for a 3-way split, the Southern African C. l. leucophrys group would remain as White-browed Scrub-Robin, the Central African C. l. zambesiana would become Red-backed Scrub-Robin and the Northern African C. l. leucoptera would become White-winged Scrub-Robin. Clements does not as yet recognize these splits.

Kalahari Scrub-Robin Cercotrichas paena

Recorded on the first day at Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, we also had sightings of this species in Etosha.

Herero Chat Namibornis herero

Spreetshoogte Pass gave us an excellent sighting of a calling pair. This lovely bird is regarded as one of Namibia 's toughest endemics to find.

African (Common) Stonechat Saxicola torquata

This attractive species was seen on a boat cruises in the Okavango Panhandle.

NOTE: Clements recognizes the split of African S. torquata and Common S. rubicola Stonechats (the latter a Palearctic species), which is not followed by all authorities. Further splitting may occur in both groups including the highland Ethiopian form S. t. albofasciata that may become Ethiopian Stonechat.

Mountain Wheatear (Chat) Oenanthe monticola

This endemic was recorded in rocky areas in Daan Viljoen on our first day, Spreetshoogte Pass and Spitzkoppe.

Capped Wheatear Oenanthe pileata

Recorded in the Khomas Hochland region and in the Okaukuejo area of Etosha National Park.

Tractrac Chat Cercomela tractrac

First recorded on the drive to Walvis Bay near the very isolated town of Solitaire, it was later seen on the Welwitschia Plains and en route to Spitzkoppe.

Familiar Chat Cercomela familiaris

Fairly commonly recorded during the first part of the trip.

Southern Anteater-Chat Myrmecocichla formicivora

First observed on the drive from Windhoek to Walvis Bay, it was later more common on the plains north of Okaukuejo and in the Fischer's Pan area of Etosha.

Wattle-eyes and Batises Platysteiridae

Pririt Batis Batis pririt

This attractive dry country species was first seen at Daan Viljoen Game Reserve and then recorded in the Erongo Mountains.

White-tailed Shrike Lanioturdus torquatus

One of Namibia 's star birds and a near-endemic, we had a sighting at Spreetshoogte Pass and then around Erongo Wilderness Lodge, where they are a common garden bird.

Monarch Flycatchers Monarchidae

African Paradise–Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis

Recorded in the riverine forest at Mahangu SL and Drotsky's Cabins and around the camp in the Waterberg.

Babblers Timaliidae

Damara Rock-jumper (Rockrunner) Aetops pycnopygius

This localized Namibian near-endemic with its liquid notes, was first observed south of Windhoek, followed by sightings around Erongo Wilderness Lodge and in the Waterberg Plateau NP.

Black-lored (-faced) Babbler Turdoides melanops

We had brief views of these birds upon leaving Namutoni Camp. This species is ranked up there with some of Namibia's toughest specials.

White-rumped (Hartlaub's) Babbler Turdoides hartlaubii

They were seen regularly at most sites from Rundu to Shakawe in the riverine vegetation.

Southern Pied Babbler Turdoides bicolor

We saw a flock of these striking birds north of Namutoni Camp in Etosha NP.

Arrow-marked Babbler Turdoides jardineii

This noisy species was first seen at the Botswana border post at Muhembo and then again at Xaro Lodge in the Okavango Panhandle.

Bare-cheeked Babbler Turdoides gymnogenys

This highly sought-after species was recorded at Tandala Ridge and in the woodland east of Namutoni camp in Etosha.

Tits Paridae

Southern Black-Tit Melaniparus [Parus] niger

We had only one record of this species, of a pair at Mahango Safari Lodge.

Carp's Tit Melaniparus carpi

A Namibian near-endemic, it was first seen at Erongo Wilderness Lodge and then in Halali Camp in Etosha and in the Waterberg.

Ashy Tit Melaniparus cinerascens

These noisy little birds were seen in the tall Acacia trees at Okaukuejo Camp in Etosha NP.

Sunbirds Nectariniidae

Collared Sunbird Anthreptes collaris

This colorful sunbird was seen in the Okavango Panhandle at Xaro Lodge and Drotsky's Cabins.

Scarlet-chested Sunbird Nectarinia senegalensis

We picked up this stunning bird at Tamboti Guest House, Daan Viljoen Game Reserve and near Rundu.

Mariqua (Marico) Sunbird Nectarinia mariquensis

Seen at Namutoni campsite and in the Waterberg Plateau NP.

NOTE: Some authorities split this complex into 2 full species. The C. m. suahelicus which occurs in East Africa would become Swahili Sunbird as opposed to the nominate form which would remain as Mariqua Sunbird. Clements does not as yet recognize this split.

Purple-banded Sunbird Cinnyris bifasciatus

The riverine forest/woodland around Mahangu Safari Lodge produced these birds on both our stays there.

White-breasted (White-bellied) Sunbird Nectarinia talatala

First seen in the gardens of Mokuti Lodge and then again on the last day of the tour at the Waterberg.

Dusky Sunbird Nectarinia fusca

A common dry country species, it was recorded on our second day at the Spreetshoogte Pass en route to Walvis Bay and frequently at Erongo Wilderness Lodge.

White-eyes Zosteropidae

Orange River White-eye Zosterops pallidus

Our only white-eye for the trip, it was recorded at Rooibank south of Walvis Bay and in the Casuarina trees in the suburbs of the town itself.

Orioles Oriolidae

African Golden Oriole Oriolus auratus

Birds were observed in the Namutoni area of Etosha and in the woodland at Xaro Lodge.

African (Eastern) Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus

A single bird was seen in the Teak woodlands between Rundu and Divundu.

Shrikes Laniidae

Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio

Recorded at various sites throughout the tour.

Lesser Gray Shrike Lanius minor

We saw good numbers of these Palaearctic migrants during the first half of our tour.

Common Fiscal (Shrike) Lanius collaris

Observed regularly during the first half of the tour.

NOTE: The form L.c. marwitzi, occurring in East Africa is sometimes split off as Uhehe Fiscal.

Magpie (African Long-tailed) Shrike Corvinella melanoleuca

This species was seen on both visits to the Rundu Treatment Works and also recorded in the Shakawe area in Botswana.

(Southern) White-crowned Shrike Eurocephalus anguitimens

Regularly observed in Etosha National Park, it was particularly plentiful in Halali Camp and in the surrounding Mopane woodland.

Bush-shrikes & Allies Malaconotidae

Brubru Nilaus afer

This shrike was seen in Okaukuejo Camp in Etosha NP.

NOTE: This previously monotypic genus might be split 4 ways: Northern Brubru N. afer, Black-browed Brubru N. nigritemporalis, Angola Brubru N. affinis and Southern Brubru N. brubru. Only the Southern Brubru occurs in Southern Africa. Clements does not as yet recognize these splits.

Black-backed Puffback Dryoscopus cubla

Another woodland shrike; it was first seen at Mokuti Lodge and then later at Xaro Lodge and in the Waterberg.

Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis

This shrike was encountered regularly from the first day at sites including Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, the Erongos, Etosha, Xaro Lodge and the Waterberg.

Gabon (Swamp) Boubou Laniarius bicolor

First observed in the Rundu area, we had further sightings from riverine habitat for the rest of the trip until we headed south for the Waterberg.

Crimson-breasted Gonolek (Shrike) Laniarius atrococcineus

This gorgeous bird was first seen in the Khomas Hochland area with further sightings from Etosha and Mahango area.

Bokmakierie Telophorus zeylonus

This beautiful near-endemic bushshrike was seen in the riverine scrub of the Kuiseb riverbed at Rooibank.

Sulphur (Orange)–breasted Bush-shrike Telophorus sulfureopectus

Another beautiful bird, it was observed in the woodlands at Xaro Lodge.

Helmetshrikes & Allies Prionopidae

White (-crested) Helmetshrike Prionops plumatus

Seen in the Mopane woodland between Okaukuejo and Halali in Etosha National Park and in the Teak woodland between Rundu and Divundu.

NOTE: This species is being considered for a 3-way split. P. p. cristatus would become Curly-crested Helmetshrike, P. p. poliocephalus would become Southern Helmetshrike (the form we recorded) and the nominate P. p. plumatus would become Straight-crested Helmetshrike. Clements does not as yet recognize these splits.

Retz's (Red-billed) Helmetshrike Prionops retzii

A small group of three birds was observed in the riverine woodland in the Okavango Panhandle.

Drongos Dicruridae

Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis

This widespread species was recorded on almost every day throughout the tour.

NOTE: Older versions of Clements lump the forest dwelling Velvet-mantled Drongo D. modestus of East and West Africa within Fork-tailed Drongo D. adsimilis but the split has been recognized in recent Clements updates as well as by most other authorities.

Crows, Jays & Magpies Corvidae

Cape (Black) Crow Corvus capensis

This species was recorded en route to Walvis Bay in the grassy plains and in Etosha National Park.

Pied Crow Corvus albus

Recorded near Spitzkoppe and in the Okaukuejo area of Etosha.

Starlings Sturnidae

Cape (Red-shouldered) Glossy-Starling Lamprotornis nitens

It was commonly recorded at most sites throughout the tour apart from the Caprivi Strip and the Okavango Panhandle.

Greater Blue-eared Glossy-Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus

First recorded in the small town of Divundu, it was also seen in the Mahango area.

Meves' (Long-tailed) Glossy-Starling Lamprotornis mevesii

Regularly recorded along the Okavango River especially in the Shakawe area.

Burchell's Glossy-Starling Lamprotornis australis

A regular species for the second half of the tour, with sightings starting in the Rundu area.

Violet-backed (Plum-colored) Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster

Erongo Wilderness Lodge produced our first sightings of this stunner and thereafter it was recorded on a fairly regular basis.

Pale-winged Starling Onychognathus nabouroup

Our first sightings were at Daan Viljoen followed by amazing close-ups at our picnic site at Spitzkoppe and further views in the Waterberg.

Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorhynchus

A few birds were seen at Xaro Lodge and on the Caprivi Strip.

Yellow-billed Oxpecker Buphagus africanus

A single bird was seen grooming cattle in the floodplains of the Okavango River in the Shakawe area.

Old World Sparrows Passeridae

House Sparrow Passer domesticus

This introduced species was seen only in the Windhoek and Walvis Bay/Swakopmund area on the first few days of the tour.

Rufous (Great) Sparrow Passer motitensis

First recorded at Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, it was then seen at various locations including Spitzkoppe, Erongos and Etosha.

NOTE: Some authorities including Clements split this African sparrow into five species. Shelley's Rufous Sparrow P. shelleyi occurs largely in Ethiopia, Great Rufous Sparrow P. motitensis occurs in Southern Africa, Kenya Rufous Sparrow P. rufocinctus occurs in East Africa, Kordofan Rufous Sparrow P. cordofanicus occurs in Sudan and Socotra Sparrow is endemic to Socotra.

Cape Sparrow Passer melanurus

Observed in the Windhoek and Walvis Bay/Swakopmund area.

Southern Gray-headed Sparrow Passer diffusus

First observed in the Windhoek area, thereafter regularly encountered at many sites visited in Namibia and Botswana.

NOTE: The Gray-headed Sparrow complex P. griseus has been split into five full species with the most southerly African form being classified as P. diffusus and this species was given the very confusing common name of Cape Sparrow but this has recently been changed to the more sensible Southern Gray-headed Sparrow!.

Weavers & Allies Ploceidae

Red-billed Buffalo-weaver Bubalornis niger

This species was seen well in the Halali and Namutoni areas of Etosha National Park and in the Waterberg.

Scaly Weaver (Scaly-feathered Finch) Sporopipes squamifrons

This cute little bird was first recorded on a daily basis in Etosha National Park.

White-browed Sparrow-weaver Plocepasser mahali

A very commonly encountered species throughout the tour, it was nevertheless an interesting bird to observe.

Social (Sociable) Weaver Philetairus socius

This amazing architect and builder, was seen in Etosha National Park on most days.

Lesser Masked-Weaver Ploceus intermedius

Recorded at the Waterberg Plateau National Park.

Holub's Golden-Weaver Ploceus xanthops

Regularly recorded in riverine vegetation on the Okavango River.

Southern Brown-throated Weaver Ploceus xanthopterus

This species was seen in riverine vegetation on the Okavango River in the Shakawe area.

African (Southern) Masked-Weaver Ploceus velatus

First observed in the Windhoek area, it was thereafter encountered on a regular basis.

Village (Spotted-backed) Weaver Ploceus cucullatus

A few birds were seen during our stay at Mahangu Safari Lodge.

NOTE: African Masked Weaver P. velatus complex is sometimes split into the nominate Southern Masked Weaver which we recorded and the more northerly occurring Vitelline Masked-Weaver P. vitellinus. Clements has recently accepted this split.

Chestnut Weaver Ploceus rubiginosus

Females of this species were seen at Tandala Ridge followed by great views of breeding males near the Waterberg Plateau NP.

Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea

This pest species was seen in very large numbers in Etosha NP.

(Southern) Red Bishop Euplectes orix

Seen in the reedbeds at the Rundu Treatment Works.

Yellow-crowned (Golden) Bishop Euplectes afer

A good-sized flock of breeding males and females was seen at the Rundu Treatment Works.

Fan-tailed Widowbird Euplectes axillaries

Recorded on the Okavango River in the Mahangu SL and Xaro Lodge areas.

Grosbeak (Thick-billed) Weaver Amblyospiza albifrons

Strangely enough, we only had a single bird on the tour in the Mahango Game Reserve.

Waxbills & Allies Estrildidae

Green-winged Pytilia (Melba Finch) Pytilia melba

A stunning species observed at Erongo Wilderness Lodge, Tandala Ridge, Mahango Game Reserve and the Waterberg.

Brown Firefinch Lagonosticta nitidula

A localized species, we managed to get good views at Mahangu Safari Lodge and Xaro Lodge.

Red-billed Firefinch Lagonosticta senegala

Rundu Treatment Works produced the first views of this species, followed by sightings at Xaro and N'Kwazi Lodge.

Blue-breasted Cordonbleu (Blue Waxbill) Uraeginthus angolensis

Observed in Namutoni Camp in Etosha and thereafter regularly encountered in small numbers at all sites for the rest of the tour.

Violet-eared Waxbill Uraeginthus granatina

This beautiful, dry country bird was first encountered at Daan Viljoen Game Reserve near Windhoek and thereafter recorded in small numbers at most sites except in the Caprivi Strip and in Botswana.

Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild

Recorded at Walvis Bay and Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Black-cheeked (-faced) Waxbill Estrilda erythronotos

Another beautiful dry-country seedeater, it was found in good numbers in the Khomas Hochland region, Erongo Wilderness Lodge and then later in Etosha.

African Quailfinch Ortygospiza fuscocrissa

Fairly good views of this species were had by David and I on a grassy vlei near Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Red-headed Finch Amadina erythrocephala

This species was seen at the Spreetshoogte Pass and in the Okaukuejo area of Etosha National Park.

Indigobirds Viduidae

Village Indigobird Vidua chalybeata

Recorded at N'Kwazi Lodge and Mahangu Safari Lodge.

Shaft-tailed Whydah Vidua regia

This attractive species was observed in suitable habitat throughout the tour.

Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura

A pair was seen in the Mahango Game Reserve.

True Finches Fringillidae

Black-throated Canary Serinus atrogularis

This was the most commonly recorded canary throughout the tour.

NOTE: This species complex is sometimes split with the South African form remaining in the Black-throated Seed-eater group as opposed to Reichenow's or Kenya Yellow-rumped Seed-eater S. reichenowi. Several endemic Ethiopian forms are sometimes lumped into the nominate S. atrogularis group including Yellow-throated Seed-eater S. flavigula, Salvadori's Seed-eater S. xantholaemus and Yellow-rumped Seed-eater S. xanthopygius. Clements now accepts all these splits.

Yellow Canary Serinus flaviventris

This dry-country species was observed on a morning drive north of Namutoni Camp in Etosha.

White-throated Canary Serinus albogularis

Another dry-country canary, it was seen at the Spreetshooghte Pass and later picked up at Spitzkoppe.

Buntings Emberizidae

Lark-like Bunting Emberiza impetuani

Good numbers of this species were picked up in the Spreetshooghte area on the way to Walvis Bay, with further sightings at Spitzkoppe and at Erongo Wilderness Lodge.

Cinnamon-breasted (Rock) Bunting Emberiza tahapisi

Observed a few times at Erongo Wilderness Lodge.

Cape Bunting Emberiza capensis

Birds seen at Spreetshooghte Pass and then at Erongo Wilderness Lodge.

Golden-breasted Bunting Emberiza flaviventris

Recorded near Okaukuejo and in Halali Camp in Etosha National Park, it was later seen in the Teak woodlands outside Rundu.

 

OVERALL TOTAL OF 379 SPECIES

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