With more than 400 species recorded, Phinda is an excellent birding destination. Migratory birds are present from November to April. A patch of rare sand forest habitat is home to many Zululand specials such as Narina trogon, African broadbill, green twinspot, pink-throated twinspot and Neergaard’s sunbird. These species are all seen quite easily in the grounds of Forest Lodge, a favourite with birders. Walking safaris and a boat trip on the river can add lots of extra sightings onto your list.
Birding Specials Treats for Avid Birders
- African broadbill
- African cuckoo hawk
- African finfoot
- Black coucal
- Collared pratincole
- Dwarf bittern
- Eastern nicator
- Gorgeous bush-shrike
- Green twinspot
- Lemon-breasted canary
- Narina trogon
- Neergaard’s sunbird
- Palm-nut vulture
- Pel’s fishing-owl
- Pink-throated twinspot
- Rudd’s apalis
- Southern banded snake eagle
- Stierling’s wren-warbler
- Swamp nightjar
Best Time for Bird Watching
Bird watching is a good experience year-round in Phinda, but when migrants from the northern hemisphere are present (November to April), it is considered prime time. The dry months of June to September are when general wildlife viewing is at its best.