Bale Mountain National Park has 310 bird species recorded and has been described as the fourth-best birding site in Africa. The park has six endemics and 11 birds restricted to Ethiopia and Eritrea, and most of these specials are remarkably easy to find. On Sanetti Plateau, look out for pairs of wattled crane wading through shallow ponds, and Augur buzzard perching on giant lobelia plants. Palearctic migrants are present from November to March.
Birding Specials Treats for Avid Birders
(E) endemic = only lives in Ethiopia(NE) near-endemic = lives in Ethiopia and neighboring countries
- Abyssinian catbird (E)
- Abyssinian crimsonwing (NE)
- Abyssinian ground thrush
- Abyssinian longclaw (E)
- Abyssinian woodpecker (NE)
- African hill babbler
- African long-eared owl
- Bale parisoma (E)
- Blue-winged goose (E)
- Cape eagle owl
- Chestnut-naped spurfowl (NE)
- Golden eagle
- Moorland francolin
- Red-billed chough
- Rouget’s rail (NE)
- Ruddy shelduck
- Sharpe’s starling
- Spot-breasted lapwing (E)
- Wattled crane
- White-backed black tit (NE)
- Yellow-fronted parrot (E)
Best Time for Bird Watching
Bird watching is excellent in Bale Mountains NP throughout the year. November to March is perhaps the best time because this is when Palearctic migrants are present and rainfall is minimal. Although a bit more difficult due to rain, April to September is excellent too – this is when many birds are breeding and more vocal.