Nairobi National Park

Birds

Expert

By Anthony Ham

Anthony is the author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

With over 500 bird species recorded, Nairobi NP probably gives Kenya’s capital the longest bird list of all cities in the world. The park’s substantial area of undisturbed grassland is of great importance for species such as the restricted-range Jackson’s widowbird, which breeds here regularly after good rains. Other grassland birds include ostriches, secretary birds and bustards. Nairobi NP is a popular birding destination and it’s easy to book a full or half day guided birding trip at short notice.

Notable Birds in Nairobi NP

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Black-headed heron
Common

Birding Rating

Expert Rating

3.3/5 9 Birding Reviews

User Rating

3.9/5 55 Birding Reviews

Birding Specials –Treats for Avid Birders

(E) endemic = only lives in Kenya
(NE) near-endemic = also lives in neighboring countries

Facts & Figures

Bird Species

500+

Migratory Birds

Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Nairobi NP offers good bird watching throughout the year, but the best time is from November to April when the migrants from Europe and north Africa are present. Many species are nesting at this time as it coincides with breeding season. The spectacular Jackson’s widowbird displays from March to May. Although good for birding, April tends to be very wet and is a less productive time for general wildlife viewing.