​Birds – Mana Pools NP

Philip Briggs
Expert
By Philip Briggs

Philip has traveled through Zimbabwe several times and is the author of more than 20 guidebooks to various African destinations.

Philip is the Zimbabwe expert for SafariBookings and author of more than 20 guidebooks to Africa.

Philip is our Zimbabwe expert and author of more than 20 guidebooks to Africa.

With more than 400 bird species recorded, Mana Pools National Park is a great birding destination. The range of habitats includes woodland, escarpment cliffs and savannah. Waterbirds are well represented along the shore of the Zambezi River and the four pools. Dashing southern carmine bee-eaters nest on the riverbanks from August to October. African skimmer, Pel’s fishing-owl and Lilian’s lovebird are just some of the rare treats to be expected. Migratory birds are present from November to April.

Notable Birds in Mana Pools NP
› ‹
African skimmer
Rare migrant
Lilian’s lovebird
Common
Long-toed lapwing
Locally common
Rufous-bellied heron
Rare
Southern carmine bee-eater
Migrant

Birding Rating

Birding Specials –Treats for Avid Birders

Zimbabwe has no endemic birds.

Facts & Figures

Birds in Mana Pools NP
Bird Species
400+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Although good year-round, birding is at its best from November to April when the migratory birds arrive from Europe and northern Africa. This is also the best time to see resident birds nesting. From June to October, when the bush is very dry, is the best time for wildlife viewing.

Want To Visit Mana Pools NP?

23 Mana Pools Safaris

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Mana Pools NP
Bird Species
400+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr