By Alan Murphy
Alan is a renowned Africa expert and has authored many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guide to Zambia.
Zambia has over 750 bird species, of which 120 or so are not found south of the Zambezi. It is, arguably, the best place to search for one of Africa’s most desired specials: the African pitta. Zambia is also a good place to look for the famous shoebill. Migratory birds are present from October to April.
Notable Birds in Zambia
Locally common
Birding Rating
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Endemic & Near-Endemic Birds
(E) endemic = only lives in Zambia(NE) near-endemic = also lives in neighboring countries
Other Birding Specials–Treats for Avid Birders
Facts & Figures
Best Time for Bird Watching
The best time for birding in Zambia is between October and April, when local birds are nesting and migratory birds land here. But this is the country’s Wet season, so getting around remote areas is going to be difficult. You’ll need to do some careful planning to give your trip the best chance of success.
Best Parks for Birding –Includes Birding Rating
North Luangwa and South Luangwa parks are excellent places to see waterbirds and raptors. You should also go to Kafue because it has a huge variety of birds. Bangweulu Wetlands is another spot where waterbirds congregate, and it’s home to the elusive shoebill as well.
- Bangweulu Wetlands 5.0/5 5 Birding Ratings
- Kafue NP 4.2/5 28 Birding Ratings
- Kasanka NP 4.1/5 8 Birding Ratings
- Lochinvar NP 3.5/5 2 Birding Ratings
- North Luangwa NP 3.8/5 12 Birding Ratings
- South Luangwa NP 4.5/5 51 Birding Ratings
Recommended Birding Books
Want to Visit Zambia?
Birding Rating
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Facts & Figures
