Tanzania is a paradise for birdwatchers, offering a dazzling array of bird species, many of which are incredibly colorful. From the strikingly vivid feathers of the Lilac-breasted Roller to the rich hues of the Scarlet-chested Sunbird, Tanzania’s birdlife is a feast for the eyes. But with so many colorful birds to choose from, how can you tell one from the other? Here’s your guide to identifying some of Tanzania’s most colorful birds and learning about their unique traits.
The Lilac-breasted Roller is one of the most iconic and vibrant birds in Tanzania. Known for its dazzling plumage, this bird has a unique combination of lilac, turquoise, blue, and green feathers. It’s often spotted in the open savannahs of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire.
The African Bee-eater is a small but strikingly colorful bird, known for its vibrant green, yellow, and blue plumage. It has a slightly elongated tail and is often seen darting through the air in search of insects, particularly bees.
A true gem among Tanzania’s birds, the Scarlet-chested Sunbird dazzles with its vibrant red chest and striking metallic green head and back. This small, energetic bird is often seen feeding on nectar in the flowering plants of Tanzania’s woodlands and savannahs.
The Violet-crowned Starling is a strikingly colorful bird, known for its iridescent violet crown, brilliant purple plumage, and contrasting yellow and white belly. This starling species is often seen in open woodlands and savannahs, especially in areas where fruiting trees are abundant.
The Yellow-collared Lovebird is a small, colorful bird with a vivid green body, bright yellow collar, and striking red face. It is a member of the parrot family and is often seen in flocks. These lovebirds are known for their energetic nature and can be spotted in the forests and woodlands of Tanzania.
The African Fish Eagle is one of Africa’s most recognizable birds, thanks to its stunning contrast of colors. Its white head and dark brown body set off the bright yellow beak and legs, making it an easy bird to spot in the skies. This majestic bird is often seen around lakes and rivers, where it preys on fish.
The Superb Starling lives up to its name with its brilliant blue and orange plumage. This medium-sized bird is common across the savannahs and open woodlands of Tanzania and can often be spotted in flocks, busily hopping about on the ground or perched on trees.
This small, beautiful finch is known for its vivid blue feathers, which are accented by a striking red cheek patch. Often found in open woodlands or grasslands, the Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu is one of the smaller, yet most colorful, birds in Tanzania.
This vibrantly colored bird has turquoise cheeks, green wings, and a yellow belly, making it easy to spot as it hunts insects in mid-air. Known for its agility, the Blue-cheeked Bee-eater is a welcome sight for birdwatchers in Tanzania’s woodlands and savannahs.
Tanzania is home to several colorful kingfisher species, including the Malachite Kingfisher, with its brilliant turquoise body, and the Giant Kingfisher, known for its rust-colored belly and white-spotted back. These small but vibrant birds are often found near lakes, rivers, and marshes, diving into the water to catch fish.
Tanzania’s birdlife is exceptionally colorful, offering a dazzling display of hues across the country’s diverse habitats. Whether you’re visiting the Serengeti or exploring the wetlands of Lake Manyara, the sheer variety and beauty of the birds you’ll encounter will make for an unforgettable experience. Keep an eye out for these colorful birds, and you’ll be treated to a true spectacle of nature!
Which of these colorful birds are you most excited to see on your next safari? Let us know in the comments below!
Deals and Discounts
Don’t wait any longer. Contact us!
We are true experts when it comes to Tanzania. We live, work and travel here. Serengeti African Tours arranges lodge and camping safaris, trekking and hiking tours and beach holidays. We carefully select our well-trained guides, drivers, cooks and porters.
