Nyerere (Selous) National Park

Birds

Expert

By Philip Briggs

Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Tanzania.

With over 440 species recorded, Nyerere NP (Selous GR) is an excellent birding destination. The most conspicuous birdlife is attracted to the sandbanks, lagoons, islands and channels along the Rufiji River. A good way to enjoy the birdlife is on a boat safari. Common birds include yellow-billed storks, kingfishers, lapwings and colorful bee-eaters. Fish eagle and palm-nut vulture can be found perched high in the trees and skimmers can sometimes be seen flying across the water. Migratory birds are present from November to April.

Notable Birds in Nyerere NP

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African spoonbill
Common

Birding Rating

Expert Rating

4.3/5 8 Birding Reviews

User Rating

4.4/5 52 Birding Reviews

Birding Specials –Treats for Avid Birders

Facts & Figures

Bird Species

440+

Migratory Birds

Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Selous is a good birding destination all year. From November to April, migratory birds from Europe and northern Africa are present, making this the best time for bird watching. This is also the time that resident birds nest, and you'll be likely to see them in their colorful breeding plumage. Most camps close towards the end of the Wet season, in April, and reopen in June. For wildlife viewing, the Dry season – from June to October – is best.