​Birds – Matobo 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.

Matobo National Park’s diverse birdlife is reflected in a checklist of 320-plus species, which is impressive for a small park. Matobo is famous for its variety of raptors; at least 40 diurnal and nine nocturnal species have been recorded. This includes the world’s largest concentration of Verreaux’s eagle, a handsome black-and-white bird that breeds on cliffs and is often seen perched on rock formations or soaring nearby in search of prey. Migratory birds are present from November to April.

Notable Birds in Matobo NP
Augur buzzard
Common
Black-collared barbet
Common
Boulder chat
Locally common
Mocking cliff chat
Common
Verreaux’s eagle
Common

Birding Rating

Birding Specials Treats for Avid Birders

Zimbabwe has no endemic birds.

Facts & Figures

Birds in Matobo NP
Bird Species
320+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Birding is always good in Matobo, but it’s best during the migratory season (November to April) when species from northern Africa and Europe are present. This is also when many resident birds nest and are in breeding plumage. The best time for wildlife viewing is from June to October, during the middle and end of the Dry season.

Want To Visit Matobo NP?

22 Matobo Safaris

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Matobo NP
Bird Species
320+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr