The Masai Mara National Reserve is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 470 species across a variety of habitats. Here’s a categorized breakdown of the bird families found in the Mara, highlighting key species that make this region so spectacular:
Ostrich
- Common Ostrich (Struthio camelus)
- This is the largest bird on earth, commonly seen roaming the open savannahs of the Mara.
Grebes
- Little Grebe (Tachybaptus capensis)
- Found in lakes and rivers, these small water birds are expert divers, known for their agility in water.
Pelicans, Cormorants & Darter
- Long-tailed (Reed) Cormorant (Phalacrocorax africanus)
- African Darter (Anhinga rufa)
- Often spotted along the Mara River and other wetlands, they are proficient fish hunters.
Herons, Egrets & Bitterns
- Little Bittern (Ixobrychus minutus)
- Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)
- Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath)
- Herons and egrets are frequently seen stalking prey along riverbanks and in marshes.
Hamerkop & Shoebill
- Hamerkop (Scopus umbretta)
- This medium-sized bird is easily recognized by its hammer-shaped head and is commonly found around water sources in the Mara.
Storks
- Marabou Stork (Leptoptilos crumeniferus)
- Saddle-billed Stork (Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis)
- These large wading birds are often seen near water bodies, foraging for food.
Ibises & Spoonbills
- Sacred Ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus)
- African Spoonbill (Platalea alba)
- With their distinctively shaped bills, these birds are adept at feeding in shallow waters.
Ducks & Geese
- White-faced Whistling-Duck (Dendrocygna viduata)
- Egyptian Goose (Alopochen aegyptiacus)
- Ducks and geese are common around lakes and rivers, where they can be seen swimming or grazing.
Secretarybird
- Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius)
- This iconic bird of prey is often seen walking the grasslands, hunting for snakes and other small animals.
Vultures
- African White-backed Vulture (Gyps africanus)
- Rüppell’s Vulture (Gyps rueppelli)
- Lappet-faced Vulture (Torgos tracheliotos)
- Vultures are critical scavengers, playing a vital role in cleaning up the ecosystem by feeding on carcasses.
Eagles, Kites, Harriers & Hawks
- African Fish-Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)
- Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax)
- Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus)
- These birds of prey are often seen soaring above the savannah, scanning the ground for prey.
Falcons & Kestrels
- Lanner Falcon (Falco biarmicus)
- Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
- These raptors are known for their incredible speed and hunting agility.
Francolins & Guineafowl
- Crested Francolin (Dendroperdix sephaena)
- Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris)
- Ground-dwelling birds often seen in flocks, adding a dynamic layer to the Mara’s ecosystem.
Rails, Crakes, Moorhens & Coot
- African Rail (Rallus caerulescens)
- Black Crake (Amaurornis flavirostris)
- Found in wetlands, these birds are skilled at navigating marshy environments.
Cranes & Bustards
- Grey Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum)
- Kori Bustard (Ardeotis kori)
- The majestic cranes and bustards are iconic species of the African savannah.
Jacana & Stilt
- African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus)
- Known for their oversized feet, these birds can “walk on water” by striding across floating vegetation.
Thick-Knees
- Water Thick-knee (Burhinus vermiculatus)
- Spotted Thick-knee (Burhinus capensis)
- These birds are usually found near water, using their camouflage to stay hidden.
Plovers, Lapwings & Painted Snipe
- Blacksmith Lapwing (Vanellus armatus)
- Three-banded Plover (Charadrius tricollaris)
- Often found along riverbanks, these shorebirds are easily recognized by their distinctive markings.
Sandpipers & Relatives
- Common Greenshank (Tringa nebularia)
- Wood Sandpiper (Tringa glareola)
- Waders like sandpipers are regularly seen searching for food in muddy areas.
Terns
- Gull-billed Tern (Sterna nilotica)
- White-winged Tern (Chlidonias leucopterus)
- Terns are agile fliers, often seen swooping down to catch fish in the rivers.
Pigeons & Doves
- Red-eyed Dove (Streptopelia semitorquata)
- African Green Pigeon (Treron calva)
- Commonly found in the woodlands of the Mara, these birds add a melodious backdrop to the savannah soundscape.
Parrots
- Meyer’s Parrot (Poicephalus meyeri)
- This small, colorful parrot is frequently spotted in wooded areas, bringing a splash of color to the landscape.
Turacos
- Ross’s Turaco (Musophaga rossae)
- Schalow’s Turaco (Tauraco schalowi)
- Vibrantly colored, these birds are a favorite among birdwatchers.
Cuckoos & Coucals
- Common Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus)
- White-browed Coucal (Centropus superciliosus)
- Known for their parasitic breeding behavior, cuckoos lay their eggs in other birds’ nests.
Owls
- Spotted Eagle-Owl (Bubo africanus)
- Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl (Bubo lacteus)
- Nocturnal predators, owls are rarely seen during the day but can be heard calling at night.
Nightjars
- Eurasian Nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus)
- Pennant-winged Nightjar (Macrodipterys vexillarius)
- These birds are active at dusk and dawn, camouflaged against the sandy ground.
Swifts
- African Palm Swift (Apus parvus)
- Common Swift (Apus apus)
- Swift aerial hunters, they are constantly in flight, catching insects.
Mousebirds
- Speckled Mousebird (Colius striatus)
- Blue-naped Mousebird (Urocolius macrourus)
- These social birds are often seen in small flocks, feeding on fruits and berries.
Kingfishers
- Malachite Kingfisher (Alcedo cristata)
- Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis)
- Seen along rivers and lakes, kingfishers dive into the water to catch fish.
Bee-eaters
- European Bee-eater (Merops apiaster)
- Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater (Merops oreobates)
- With their vibrant plumage, bee-eaters add a burst of color to the Mara’s skies.
Rollers
- Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus)
- Known for their stunning colors and acrobatic flight, rollers are a favorite among photographers.
Hoopoe & Woodhoopoes
- African Hoopoe (Upupa africana)
- Green Wood Hoopoe (Phoeniculus purpureus)
- Their distinctive calls and striking appearances make them a delight to observe.
Hornbills
- Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri)
- Von der Decken’s Hornbill (Tockus deckeni)
- These large, often vocal birds are easily spotted in the Mara’s woodlands.
Barbets & Tinkerbirds
- Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird (Pogoniulus bilineatus)
- Spot-flanked Barbet (Tricholaema diademata)
- Small and often noisy, these birds can be seen foraging in tree canopies.
Woodpeckers & Wryneck
- Nubian Woodpecker (Campethera nubica)
- Often heard before they are seen, woodpeckers are known for their distinctive drumming of trees. Their strong beaks help them forage for insects beneath the bark of trees.
Larks & Sparrow-Larks
- Rufous-naped Lark (Mirafra africana)
- Fischer’s Sparrow-Lark (Eremopterix leucopareia)
- Found in the open grasslands, these ground-dwelling birds are known for their distinctive songs and displays.
Swallows & Martins
- Banded Martin (Riparia cincta)
- Common House Martin (Delichon urbica)
- These aerial insectivores are often seen flying in flocks, gracefully skimming the air for their prey.
Bulbuls
- Common Bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus)
- Commonly found across the Mara, this bird’s melodic calls and adaptability to various habitats make it easy to spot.
Sunbirds
- Scarlet-chested Sunbird (Chalcomitra senegalensis)
- Variable Sunbird (Cinnyris venustus)
- These tiny nectar-feeding birds are a joy to watch as they flit around flowers, with males displaying iridescent plumage.
Weavers & Allies
- Speke’s Weaver (Ploceus spekei)
- Village Weaver (Ploceus cucullatus)
- Known for their elaborate nest-building skills, weavers are commonly found in colonies near water.
Waxbills & Allies
- Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu (Uraeginthus bengalus)
- Common Waxbill (Estrilda astrild)
- These small, colorful birds are often seen in groups, feeding on seeds in the open savannah.
Finches
- Yellow-fronted Canary (Crithagra mozambica)
- Southern Citril (Crithagra hyposticta)
- Finches are small, seed-eating birds that are commonly found in the woodland areas of the Mara.
Buntings & Allies
- Golden-breasted Bunting (Emberiza flaviventris)
- A brightly colored bird often found in open areas, feeding on seeds and insects.
Cuckoo-Shrikes
- Black Cuckoo-Shrike (Campephaga flava)
- Found in the forested areas of the Mara, these birds are known for their sleek black appearance and distinct calls.
Drongos
- Fork-tailed Drongo (Dicrurus adsimilis)
- Drongos are highly intelligent birds known for their ability to mimic other species’ calls and for their aggressive behavior when defending their territory.
Shrikes
- Grey-backed Fiscal (Lanius excubitoroides)
- Common Fiscal (Lanius collaris)
- Often perched on trees or shrubs, shrikes are predatory birds known for impaling their prey on thorns.
Crows, Ravens & Allies
- Pied Crow (Corvus albus)
- White-necked Raven (Corvus albicollis)
- These highly adaptable birds are often seen scavenging for food and are known for their intelligence.
Starlings
- Superb Starling (Lamprotornis superbus)
- Rüppell’s Starling (Lamprotornis purpuroptera)
- Known for their iridescent plumage, starlings are common in the Mara and are a favorite subject for bird photographers.
Wagtails & Pipits
- Yellow Wagtail (Motacilla flava)
- African Pipit (Anthus cinnamomeus)
- These ground-dwelling birds are often seen in open areas, constantly flicking their tails as they forage for insects.
Old World Flycatchers
- African Paradise-Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis)
- Known for their long tail feathers and graceful flight, these birds are often seen darting around in pursuit of insects.
Sparrows
- House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)
- Grey-headed Sparrow (Passer griseus)
- These small, adaptable birds are commonly found around human settlements and open areas in the Mara.
Wagtails & Pipits
- African Pied Wagtail (Motacilla aguimp)
- Frequently seen near water bodies, these birds are easily recognizable by their black and white plumage and wagging tails.
Several bird species found in the Masai Mara are listed as endangered, vulnerable, or threatened. Below are some of these species, along with their conservation status based on the IUCN Red List:
Endangered Birds in the Masai Mara:
- Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus) – Endangered
- This species is threatened by poisoning, habitat loss, and a decline in food sources.
- Lappet-faced Vulture (Torgos tracheliotos) – Endangered
- The Lappet-faced vulture faces threats from poisoning and habitat degradation.
Vulnerable Birds in the Masai Mara:
- Rüppell’s Vulture (Gyps rueppellii) – Vulnerable
- The species is at risk due to poisoning, habitat destruction, and declining food sources.
- White-headed Vulture (Trigonoceps occipitalis) – Vulnerable
- Poisoning from livestock carcasses and a reduction in food supply are significant threats.
- Saddle-billed Stork (Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis) – Vulnerable
- Habitat loss due to wetland drainage and human disturbance threatens this striking bird.
Near Threatened Birds in the Masai Mara:
- Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) – Near Threatened
- The Martial Eagle is vulnerable to habitat loss, human persecution, and a decline in prey availability.
- Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius) – Near Threatened
- Secretarybirds face threats from habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and human encroachment.
- Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis) – Vulnerable
- The Steppe Eagle is declining due to electrocution on power lines, habitat degradation, and human disturbance.
Threatened Birds in the Masai Mara:
- Hooded Vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus) – Critically Endangered
- This species is highly threatened by poisoning, habitat loss, and food scarcity.
- Black-chested Snake Eagle (Circaetus pectoralis) – Threatened
- Habitat loss and human activities have contributed to its population decline.
- Pallid Harrier (Circus macrourus) – Near Threatened
- Declining due to habitat loss and agricultural expansion.
Threats to Vultures and Raptors:
Vultures, in particular, face severe threats across Africa due to poisoning (often intended for livestock predators), hunting for traditional medicine, and the loss of their natural habitat. Conservation efforts are vital for the survival of these critical scavengers that help maintain ecological balance by cleaning up carcasses in the ecosystem.
Conservation measures, including anti-poisoning campaigns, habitat protection, and stricter laws against the illegal killing of wildlife, are crucial for protecting these vulnerable species in the Masai Mara.
Common Birds in the Masai Mara (Easy to Spot During Game Drives):
- Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudata)
- This vibrantly colored bird is one of the most iconic species in the Masai Mara. It’s easy to spot perched on trees or telephone wires.
- Ostrich (Struthio camelus)
- Ostriches are commonly seen on the open plains, often in pairs or small groups. Their large size makes them easy to spot.
- Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)
- Frequently seen near herds of buffalo or other large mammals, feeding on insects stirred up by the animals.
- African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)
- Often spotted near water bodies, particularly the Mara River, with its distinct call echoing through the area.
- Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris)
- Commonly found in flocks foraging on the ground. Their distinctive helmet and spotted plumage make them easy to recognize.
- Marabou Stork (Leptopilos crumeniferus)
- Common in the Mara, especially near rivers and carcass sites where they scavenge.
- White-backed Vulture (Gyps africanus)
- Easily spotted soaring in the skies or near carcasses, particularly in areas with recent kills made by big cats.
Rare or Less Common Birds in the Masai Mara:
- Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius)
- Though iconic, this large bird of prey is not as frequently seen but can be spotted stalking prey in the savannah.
- Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri)
- Rare to spot, but its large size and distinct features make it a great sighting when found on the ground in grasslands.
- Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath)
- While not very common, it can sometimes be seen along the banks of the Mara River, the largest heron species in Africa.
- Pel’s Fishing Owl (Scotopelia peli)
- A rare and elusive bird, often only seen by avid birders near forested water areas.
Most Rare and Difficult-to-Spot Birds in the Masai Mara:
- Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus) – Endangered
- Though a spectacular sight, it’s increasingly rare due to population declines and can only be spotted on occasion.
- Verreaux’s Eagle Owl (Bubo lacteus)
- This large owl is elusive and typically seen only by experienced bird watchers on night game drives.
- Pallid Harrier (Circus macrourus) – Near Threatened
- A migratory species and difficult to spot due to its rare and transient nature in the Mara.
- Hooded Vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus) – Critically Endangered
- This critically endangered vulture is now a rare sight in the Mara, though it may still be seen in areas with scavenging opportunities.
- Schalow’s Turaco (Tauraco schalowi)
- Rare and often only heard rather than seen due to its preference for dense forested areas, though occasionally spotted near riverine forests.
Most Frequently Seen Raptors and Scavengers:
- Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax) and Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus) are common raptors often spotted during game drives, particularly near kills.
- Rüppell’s Vulture (Gyps rueppellii) and Lappet-faced Vulture (Torgos tracheliotos) are commonly seen soaring the skies or gathered around carcasses.
In summary, while common birds like the lilac-breasted roller and African fish eagle are seen on almost every game drive, rare species such as the Egyptian vulture and Verreaux’s eagle owl are less likely to be encountered. Bird enthusiasts will need patience and keen observation skills to spot the rarest species in the Mara.
10 Main Types of Masai Mara Birds;
The Masai Mara is home to a vast array of bird species, categorized into various types based on their ecological roles and habitats. Below are the key main types of birds found in the Masai Mara:
1. Birds of Prey (Raptors)
- These birds are powerful hunters, often seen soaring in the skies or perched high, scanning for prey.
- Examples:
- African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)
- Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax)
- Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus)
- Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus)
- Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius)
- Lappet-faced Vulture (Torgos tracheliotos)
2. Vultures (Scavengers)
- Vultures play a crucial role in the ecosystem by scavenging on carcasses, preventing the spread of disease.
- Examples:
- White-backed Vulture (Gyps africanus)
- Rüppell’s Vulture (Gyps rueppellii)
- Hooded Vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus)
- Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus)
3. Water Birds
- These species are commonly found near rivers, lakes, and wetlands, particularly around the Mara and Talek Rivers.
- Examples:
- African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)
- Great Egret (Ardea alba)
- Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath)
- Sacred Ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus)
- African Spoonbill (Platalea alba)
- Pelicans (Pelecanidae)
4. Waders and Shorebirds
- These birds are often seen wading through shallow waters, foraging for small fish, insects, and crustaceans.
- Examples:
- Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)
- Blacksmith Lapwing (Vanellus armatus)
- Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos)
- Three-banded Plover (Charadrius tricollaris)
5. Passerines (Perching Birds)
- This diverse group includes many of the smaller birds that are commonly heard and seen flitting around in bushes, trees, and grasslands.
- Examples:
- Superb Starling (Lamprotornis superbus)
- Yellow-throated Longclaw (Macronyx croceus)
- Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus)
- African Grey Flycatcher (Bradornis microrhynchus)
6. Game Birds
- Game birds include species that are often seen walking or flying low over the grasslands.
- Examples:
- Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris)
- Crested Francolin (Dendroperdix sephaena)
- Coqui Francolin (Peliperdix coqui)
7. Bee-eaters and Kingfishers
- These brightly colored birds are often spotted near water or in open savannah, hunting for insects and small fish.
- Examples:
- Little Bee-eater (Merops pusillus)
- European Bee-eater (Merops apiaster)
- Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis)
- Malachite Kingfisher (Alcedo cristata)
8. Hornbills
- Hornbills are known for their distinctive large bills and are often seen in pairs or small groups.
- Examples:
- Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri)
- Von der Decken’s Hornbill (Tockus deckeni)
- Crowned Hornbill (Tockus alboterminatus)
9. Turacos and Plantain-eaters
- These birds are known for their vibrant colors and are often spotted in dense vegetation.
- Examples:
- Ross’s Turaco (Musophaga rossae)
- Schalow’s Turaco (Tauraco schalowi)
- Bare-faced Go-away-bird (Corythaixoides personata)
10. Migratory Birds
- Migratory species visit the Mara seasonally, with many arriving from Europe or Asia to escape harsh winters.
- Examples:
- European Bee-eater (Merops apiaster)
- Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis)
- Pallid Harrier (Circus macrourus)
- Common Swift (Apus apus)
Best months for birding in the mara;
The best months for birding in the Masai Mara are typically from November to April. These months coincide with the arrival of migratory birds from Europe and Asia, as well as the presence of numerous resident bird species, making it an ideal time for birdwatching enthusiasts. Here’s why these months stand out:
1. Migratory Birds (November to April):
- During these months, the Masai Mara sees an influx of migratory birds escaping the harsh winters of Europe and Asia.
- Species such as the European Bee-eater, Steppe Eagle, and Pallid Harrier are commonly seen during this period.
- Many Palearctic migrants make the Mara their temporary home, enriching the bird diversity.
2. End of Rainy Season (November and April):
- The short rains in November and the long rains starting around March and April create lush landscapes, which attract a wide variety of bird species.
- The abundance of water and food sources makes this time favorable for birdwatching as birds are actively feeding and nesting.
3. Breeding Season for Resident Birds:
- November through April is also the breeding season for many resident bird species, such as Secretarybirds, Lilac-breasted Rollers, and Superb Starlings. This increases the chances of spotting colorful displays and courtship behaviors.
4. Fewer Tourists:
- These months also fall outside the peak tourism season, especially between November and mid-December. Fewer vehicles in the reserve mean a quieter environment, which can lead to better birding experiences.
In summary, November to April is the peak birding season in the Masai Mara, offering the opportunity to observe both migratory and resident birds in a variety of habitats.
9 thing you’ll learn from our birding guides
When embarking on a birdwatching safari with our specialized birding driver-guides through the MasaiMara.ke platform, you’re in for an immersive and educational experience that goes beyond simply spotting birds. Here’s what tourists will learn from our expert guides during their birding expeditions:
1. Bird Identification Skills:
- Our guides will teach you how to identify a wide range of bird species by their unique plumage, size, and shape.
- You’ll gain insight into how to recognize subtle differences between similar species, such as the various types of eagles, vultures, and kingfishers.
2. Understanding Bird Behavior:
- Learn about the fascinating behaviors of birds in the Masai Mara, such as hunting techniques, nesting habits, and migratory patterns.
- You’ll observe birds like the Secretarybird hunting for snakes, the African Fish Eagle swooping down to catch fish, and the Lilac-breasted Roller performing acrobatic displays.
3. Migratory Patterns and Seasons:
- Our guides will explain the significance of the migratory patterns in the Masai Mara and why certain birds, like the European Bee-eater and Pallid Harrier, migrate here during specific months.
- You’ll also learn how changes in weather, such as the onset of the rainy season, influence bird activity.
4. Habitats and Ecosystem Roles:
- Gain a deep understanding of the variety of habitats within the Masai Mara that support over 470 bird species, including savannahs, riverine forests, wetlands, and woodlands.
- Learn how birds play crucial roles in the ecosystem, such as seed dispersal, pollination, and controlling insect populations.
5. Conservation and Threats:
- Our birding guides will provide insights into the conservation status of various bird species, discussing which are classified as endangered, vulnerable, or threatened, such as the Rüppell’s Vulture and the Lappet-faced Vulture.
- Learn about the ongoing conservation efforts in the Masai Mara to protect habitats and endangered bird species.
6. Birding Techniques:
- Whether you are a seasoned birder or a novice, our guides will share birding techniques, including how to use binoculars effectively, how to listen for bird calls, and the best times and locations for spotting certain species.
- You’ll also learn about the importance of patience and silence to get closer to birds without disturbing them.
7. Photography Tips:
- For those interested in capturing birds on camera, our guides can offer practical photography tips, including the best settings for bird photography, how to position yourself for good lighting, and how to capture birds in flight.
8. Rare and Endemic Species:
- Our guides will help you seek out rare and endemic species that are difficult to spot, such as the African Finfoot and Grey-crested Helmet-shrike.
- You’ll learn about the importance of certain key species to the Masai Mara’s birdlife and ecosystem.
9. Cultural Connection with Birds:
- In addition to ecological insights, our guides will share fascinating stories about the cultural significance of certain bird species to the local Masai people, including birds used in folklore, traditions, and even as indicators of weather patterns.
This specialized birding safari offers more than just a scenic tour—it’s an educational journey into the avian world of the Masai Mara, helping you develop new skills and a deeper appreciation for the region’s birdlife and conservation efforts.
Conclusion:
The Masai Mara offers an unparalleled birdwatching experience with a diverse array of bird species, ranging from large raptors to tiny, colorful sunbirds. Whether you’re an avid birder or a casual observer, the birdlife in the Mara will leave you in awe. The various habitats in the reserve—from rivers to open savannahs—ensure that every game drive brings new and exciting birdwatching opportunities.