Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has an impressive bird checklist of just over 300 species, but only 102 of those are resident. The park is renowned for its birds of prey, with 46 species recorded. Some of the raptors you can expect to see are black-chested snake eagle, bateleur, white-backed and lappet-faced vulture and tawny eagle. Sociable weavers often share their enormous nests with pygmy falcons. Migratory birds are present from November to April.
Birding Specials Treats for Avid Birders
(NE) near-endemic = lives in South Africa and neighboring countries- Ashy tit
- Black-chested snake eagle
- Black-eared sparrow lark
- Burchell’s sandgrouse
- Capped wheatear
- Dusky sunbird
- Fairy flycatcher
- Great sparrow
- Lanner falcon
- Ludwig’s bustard
- Martial eagle
- Pink-billed lark
- Pygmy falcon
- Red-footed falcon
- Red-necked falcon
- Secretary bird
- Sociable weaver
- Southern black korhaan (NE)
- Southern white-faced owl
- Swallow-tailed bee-eater
- Verreaux’s eagle owl
- Violet-eared waxbill
- White-headed vulture
Best Time for Bird Watching
Bird watching in Kgalagadi is always good, but especially so from November to April, when you can observe migrant birds, as well as resident species. The midday heat can be extreme at this time, however, so it is important to plan accordingly. The cooler winter months, from May to September, offer the best overall climatic conditions.