Bemaraha National Park has more than 100 bird species. Forest specialties include Coquerel’s coua, crested coua, sickle-billed vanga, white-headed vanga and rufous vanga. The Manambolo River is a good place to see the Critically Endangered Madagascar fish eagle, Madagascar’s largest raptor. Of special interest is the country’s most recently identified bird, the Tsingy wood rail. Other notable birds include Henst’s goshawk, Madagascar sparrowhawk, Madagascar harrier hawk, Madagascar crested ibis and Madagascar grey-throated rail.
Birding Specials Treats for Avid Birders
- Coquerel’s coua
- Crested coua
- Cuckoo roller
- Greater vasa parrot
- Henst’s goshawk
- Madagascar crested ibis
- Madagascar cuckoo-shrike
- Madagascar fish eagle
- Madagascar green pigeon
- Madagascar harrier hawk
- Madagascar pygmy kingfisher
- Madagascar sparrowhawk
- Red-capped coua
- Rufous vanga
- Schlegel’s asity
- Sickle-billed vanga
- Tsingy wood rail
- White-headed vanga
Best Time for Bird Watching
Bird watching in Bemaraha is good throughout the year and many species can be seen year-round. The wet summer months are the best time though, with migratory birds present from November to April. However, the park is closed for much of this time as the access road becomes impassable from late November to March. For birding, try to visit in October, November or April (if the access road is open).