Beyond the Big Five: Must-See Birds of Africa

When people think of African safaris, they usually picture lions, elephants, and rhinos. But beyond the Big Five, Africa is home to an extraordinary array of birdlife, from strikingly colourful species to powerful raptors and quirky characters. Whether you’re a dedicated birder or just someone who appreciates nature’s wonders, these must-see birds will add an extra layer of excitement to your African adventure…

Where to see it: Open grasslands and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa 

Fun fact: With its long legs and eagle-like head, the secretary bird is one of Africa’s most unique raptors. Unlike most birds of prey, it hunts on foot, using its powerful legs to stomp snakes and small mammals to death.

Where to see it: South Africa (especially the Western Cape and Karoo)

Fun fact: South Africa’s national bird, the blue crane performs elegant courtship dances, leaping into the air and tossing twigs to attract a mate.

Where to see it: East and Southern Africa, particularly Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda

Fun fact: With its striking golden crown of feathers, this crane is a symbol of wealth and longevity in many African cultures.

Where to see it: East and Southern Africa, particularly the Serengeti and Kruger National Park 

Fun fact: Arguably Africa’s most photogenic bird, the lilac-breasted roller boasts an iridescent mix of blue, green, and purple feathers and performs stunning aerial acrobatics during courtship displays.

Where to see it: Wetlands of Uganda, South Sudan, and Zambia 

Fun fact: This prehistoric-looking bird is famous for its enormous shoe-shaped bill, which it uses to hunt lungfish with eerie precision. It also has a reputation for staring contests – it can remain motionless for hours while stalking prey.

Where to see it: Open savannas of East and Southern Africa 

Fun fact: As Africa’s heaviest flying bird, the kori bustard can weigh up to 19kg (42 lbs)! Despite its bulk, it can take to the skies when necessary, though it prefers to walk through the grasslands in search of insects and small reptiles.

Where to see it: Lakes and rivers across Africa, particularly the Okavango Delta and Lake Victoria 

Fun fact: The unmistakable call of the African fish eagle is often called the ‘soundtrack of Africa.’ It is a master angler, swooping down to snatch fish from the water with razor-sharp talons.

Where to see it: Rivers, lakes, and estuaries throughout sub-Saharan Africa 

Fun fact: Africa’s largest kingfisher, this bird plunges into the water to catch fish, crustaceans, and even frogs, sometimes shaking its prey violently before swallowing it whole.

Where to see it: East Africa, particularly Kenya and Tanzania 

Fun fact: This striking bird lives up to its name with dazzling iridescent plumage in shades of blue, green, and orange. Unlike many other starlings, it has a cooperative breeding system, with young helping their parents raise future generations.

Where to see it: Forests of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo 

Fun fact: This large and beautifully coloured bird is one of Africa’s most striking fruit-eaters and is often seen hopping through the canopy.

Where to see it: South Africa’s Knysna forests and Eastern Cape 

Fun fact: Also known as the Knysna loerie, this bird’s deep green and red plumage comes from unique pigments found only in turacos.

Where to see it: Across East and Southern Africa 

Fun fact: This species gained fame as Zazu from The Lion King! It plays a vital role in seed dispersal, helping forests and savannas regenerate.

Where to see it: Southern and East Africa, particularly Kruger National Park 

Fun fact: Known for its deep booming calls, this giant hornbill lives in family groups and can live for up to 70 years!

Where to see it: Woodlands and savannas across sub-Saharan Africa 

Fun fact: Unlike other hornbills, it has a unique, mournful-sounding call that echoes through the bush.

Where to see it: Southern Africa, including Botswana and Namibia 

Fun fact: Nicknamed the ‘flying banana’ due to its bright yellow bill, this bird is commonly seen foraging on the ground for insects.

Where to see it: Forested regions of Central and Southern Africa 

Fun fact: True to its name, this hornbill has a call that sounds like a baby crying or a distant trumpet.

Where to see it: South Africa (notably Boulders Beach and Stony Point) and Namibia 

Fun fact: Africa’s only penguin species, these charming birds are also known as ‘jackass penguins’ due to their donkey-like bray. Sadly, they are endangered, but conservation efforts are helping to protect their future.

Whether you’re searching for the elusive shoebill or marvelling at the dazzling plumage of a lilac-breasted roller, a bespoke luxury safari with Atelier Africa offers unparalleled birding experiences in some of the continent’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Ready to explore Africa’s avian wonders? Contact us today to tailor your dream birdwatching safari!