With its diversity of habitats, Kafue National Park is one of Zambia’s most rewarding birding destinations – more than 480 species have been recorded here. The rivers, wetlands, and offer a variety of environments for different species. The park’s most sought-after bird is the endemic black-cheeked lovebird, which is easily seen in the Nanzhila Plains area in the far south of the park. Migrants are present from November to April.
Birding Specials Treats for Avid Birders
(NE) near-endemic = lives in Zambia and neighboring countries- African finfoot
- Black-cheeked lovebird (NE)
- Böhm’s bee-eater
- Broad-billed roller
- Chestnut-backed sparrow-weaver
- Collared palm-thrush
- Denham’s bustard
- Dickinson’s kestrel
- Fülleborn’s longclaw
- Grey crowned crane
- Grey tit-flycatcher
- Lappet-faced vulture
- Miombo pied barbet
- Miombo rock thrush
- Narina trogon
- Olive woodpecker
- Orange-breasted bush-shrike
- Pel’s fishing-owl
- Racket-tailed roller
- Rosy-throated longclaw
- Schalow’s turaco
- Southern white-faced owl
- Souza’s shrike
- Spotted creeper
- Wattled crane
Best Time for Bird Watching
Kafue is a great birding destination year-round. However, the best time is during the wet summer months, from November to April, when migrants are present. At this time, a lot of birds are in breeding plumage as well. General wildlife viewing is best in the dry months, from July to October.