Top 10 Must See Bird Species in Tanzania-on-Tanzania Safaris

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Experience the top ten must see bird species in Tanzania on Tanzania safaris, from the iconic lilac breasted roller to the rare shoebill stork.

A Tanzania safari is famous for lions and elephants. But for bird lovers, Tanzania is paradise. Over 1,100 bird species live here. That is more than most countries in Africa. On a Tanzania safari, you can see colorful rollers, giant ostriches, and rare birds found nowhere else. The birds add color, sound, and life to every game drive. Here are the top ten must see bird species in Tanzania on Tanzania safaris.

1. Lilac Breasted Roller

On a Tanzania safari, this is the bird everyone wants to photograph. Its chest is soft purple. Its wings are turquoise. When it flies, it flashes bright blue. You will see them perched on acacia trees, fence posts, and power lines. They are common in the Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro. This bird makes non-birders fall in love with birding.

2. Ostrich

On a Tanzania safari, the ostrich is hard to miss. It is the largest bird in the world. A male can reach nine feet tall. They cannot fly, but they can run at 40 miles per hour. Males have black and white feathers. Females are grayish brown. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro are the best places to see them. Watch from a distance. They can kick hard.

3. Grey Crowned Crane

On a Tanzania safari, the grey crowned crane is one of the most elegant birds. It has a golden crown of stiff feathers on its head. Its body is grey. It has a bright red throat pouch. They dance during courtship, bowing and leaping. Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro are good places to look.

4. Secretary Bird

On a Tanzania safari, the secretary bird looks like an eagle on stilts. It has long legs and a hooked beak. It hunts on foot, stomping snakes and rodents to death. You will see them walking across the grasslands. The Serengeti and Tarangire are the best places to see them.

5. Kori Bustard

On a Tanzania safari, the kori bustard is the heaviest flying bird in Africa. A large male can weigh 40 pounds. They spend most of their time on the ground, walking slowly through the grass. Look for them in open woodlands and grasslands. The Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire are good places to see them.

6. Fish Eagle

On a Tanzania safari, the fish eagle is the sound of Africa. Its call is loud and haunting. It echoes across lakes and rivers. The bird has a white head, brown body, and yellow beak. You will see them perched in tall trees near water. Lake Manyara, the Serengeti rivers, and Lake Victoria are good places to see them.

7. Flamingo

On a Tanzania safari, flamingos turn lakes pink. Thousands gather in shallow soda lakes. The lesser flamingo is smaller and brighter pink. The greater flamingo is larger and paler. Lake Manyara, Lake Natron, and Ngorongoro's Lake Magadi are the best places. Seeing a sea of pink against blue water is unforgettable.

8. Shoebill Stork

On a Tanzania safari, the shoebill is the holy grail for birders. This prehistoric looking bird has a massive, shoe shaped bill. It stands still for hours, waiting to ambush lungfish. It is rare and shy. The best place to see it is Rubondo Island National Park in Lake Victoria. You need a good guide and a bit of luck. Seeing one is a lifetime highlight.

9. Superb Starling

On a Tanzania safari, the superb starling is everywhere. You might overlook it because it is so common. But look closer. Its chest is bright orange. Its back is metallic green and blue. It has a white belly band. You will see them near lodges, picnic sites, and roadsides. Do not ignore them just because they are common.

10. Rufous Tailed Weaver

On a Tanzania safari, this bird is a special treat. It is found only in Tanzania. It has a bright red tail and yellow underparts. You will see it in the Usambara and Uluguru Mountains. It lives in forests and gardens. Birders travel from around the world to see this endemic beauty.

Best Time for Birding on Tanzania Safari

The best time for birding on a Tanzania safari is the wet season from November to April. Migratory birds from Europe and Asia arrive. The landscape is green and lush. However, resident birds are present year round. The dry season from June to October is still good, especially for waterbirds around lakes and rivers.

Best Places for Birding on Tanzania Safari

Lake Manyara has over 400 species including flamingos and pelicans. Ngorongoro Crater has 500 species including ostriches and crowned cranes. The Serengeti has rollers, bustards, and eagles. Rubondo Island has the shoebill. The Usambara Mountains have endemic species found nowhere else.

What to Carry for Birding on Tanzania Safari

Pack binoculars. A good pair is essential. Bring a camera with a telephoto lens. Wear neutral colored clothing. Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent are important. A reusable water bottle keeps you hydrated. On a Tanzania safari, a good guide makes all the difference.

Why Book with Dav Safaris for Birding on Tanzania Safari

Booking your birding Tanzania safari with Dav Safaris ensures you see the most birds. Our guides know bird calls, habitats, and the best spots for each species. We handle everything including transport, park fees, guides, and accommodation. You just show up with your binoculars. Want to focus on the shoebill? We can do that. Want to see the rufous tailed weaver in the Usambaras? We can arrange it. You focus on the birds. We handle everything else on your Tanzania safari.