​Birds – Saiwa Swamp NP

Anthony Ham
Expert
By Anthony Ham

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guide to Kenya.

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Lonely Planet guide to Kenya.

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

Saiwa Swamp National Park has an impressive 370 species recorded in a very small area. This is a good place to pick up some of the western specials, such as the spectacular Ross’s turaco. It is a great birding destination as no cars are permitted in the park and you can walk unguided along the forest trails. There are several platforms around the marsh for spotting the rare sitatunga antelope, but they are also a great vantage point for identifying swamp specials and for looking into the canopy.

Notable Birds in Saiwa Swamp NP
African fish eagle
Common
Crowned hornbill
Common
Goliath heron
Common
Grey crowned crane
Common
Pin-tailed whydah
Common

Birding Rating

Birding Specials Treats for Avid Birders

Facts & Figures

Birds in Saiwa Swamp NP
Bird Species
370+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr

Best Time for Bird Watching

Saiwa Swamp has an extraordinary number of birds recorded for such a small area making it a great year-round birding destination. In addition to this, many of the unusual species can be spotted at any time of year, as they are permanent inhabitants of the park. Migratory birds are added to this birder haven from November to April. April to August are the wettest months, and frequent showers can sometimes interfere with your enjoyment of birding.

Want To Visit Saiwa Swamp NP?

Saiwa Swamp Safaris

Birding Rating

Facts & Figures

Birds in Saiwa Swamp NP
Bird Species
370+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr