Seasonal Birding: When & Where to See Migratory Birds in Tanzania
Tanzania is a premier birdwatching destination, home to over 1,100 bird species, including a spectacular array of migratory birds that visit seasonally. Whether you’re a casual bird lover or an avid ornithologist, timing your visit right can help you witness some of the most extraordinary avian migrations on the planet.
Best Seasons for Birdwatching in Tanzania
🌿 Green Season (November – April)
Why Visit?
- Best time to see migratory birds from Europe, Asia, and North Africa
- Birds in full breeding plumage, displaying vibrant colors
- Ideal season for bird photography due to lush landscapes
Top Species to Spot:
- European Bee-eaters
- White Storks
- Barn Swallows
- Steppe Eagles
- Yellow Wagtails
☀️ Dry Season (May – October)
Why Visit?
- Best for resident species and waterbirds
- Easier bird spotting due to reduced foliage
- Fewer mosquitoes and comfortable weather
Top Species to Spot:
- African Fish Eagle
- Crowned Cranes
- Pel’s Fishing Owl
- Pink-backed Pelicans
Top Locations for Migratory Birdwatching in Tanzania
1. Lake Manyara National Park
Best Time: November – April
Why? One of the top locations to see flamingos and migratory waterbirds
Highlights:
🦩 Greater & Lesser Flamingos
🦢 Eurasian Spoonbills
🦆 Glossy Ibis
2. Serengeti National Park
Best Time: November – March
Why? Grasslands attract raptors and migratory songbirds
Highlights:
🦅 Steppe Eagles
🐦 European Rollers
🕊️ Black Storks
3. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)
Best Time: December – May
Why? A paradise for wetland birds and storks
Highlights:
🦩 African Skimmers
🦢 White-faced Whistling Ducks
🦤 Shoebill Storks
4. Usambara & Udzungwa Mountains
Best Time: November – March
Why? High-altitude forests shelter rare endemics & migrants
Highlights:
🐦 African Paradise Flycatcher
🦜 Mountain Greenbul
🌿 Narina Trogon
5. Lake Natron
Best Time: November – January
Why? Tanzania’s top flamingo breeding site
Highlights:
🦩 Lesser Flamingos (millions during peak season!)
🦆 White-winged Terns
🕊️ Avocets
Plan Your Ultimate Birdwatching Safari with Serengeti African Tours!
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