Whether you are a keen ornithologist or an amateur birding enthusiast, if you have an interest in our feathered friends then you will enjoy a bird safari. If you are wondering what this entails or are looking for more information on what to expect during a birding safari then carry on reading and find out what your birding experience will be like.
Hosted in the Kruger National Park, these safaris will open your eyes to more than just the renowned Big Five that are the focus of so many Johannesburg safaris. The park is home to over 500 different species and as there are no fences between it and the neighbouring reserves, the birds fly freely so you can spot a great many varieties when on safari.
Have you heard of the Birding Big Six? While they are not as well known as their animal counterparts, they nevertheless provide spectacular viewing and photographic opportunities. Five of the six are easily spotted and include the Lappet faced Vulture, Martial Eagle, Saddle Billed Stork, Kori Bustard and the Ground Hornbill. The sixth bird which is seen less frequently during bird watching safaris is the Pel’s Fishing Owl which is nocturnal and has an affinity for water.
The best time to experience a birding safari in the Kruger Park is during the summer months, which is the opposite to game viewing which is best during winter months – from April to September – as this is the dry season and the vegetation will have thinned out somewhat making the animals easier to see. During the summer months, from October to March, the summer rainfall turns everything lush and green and attracts the safari birds so you can see them from your camp or vehicle. Make sure you have a good pair of binoculars to take with on your bird safari to make spotting the feathered creatures easier.
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