Ahafo is home to a diverse range of birds. From the tiniest hummingbirds to the largest raptors, Ahafo is home to various avian species. Birdwatchers flock to the region to witness the beauty of these birds in their natural habitats.
Ahafo provides an excellent opportunity to observe birds in their natural environment, as the lush vegetation and abundant water sources make it an ideal home for many species.
With an increase in conservation efforts, the bird population of Ahafo is steadily increasing, allowing for more opportunities to experience the beauty of these majestic creatures.
21 Birds to Watch in Ahafo
Ahafo is a Ghana region rich in natural resources and biodiversity. It is also a paradise for bird lovers, as it hosts a variety of bird species that are native to Africa or migrate from other continents.
Whether a beginner or an expert, you will find something to marvel at in Ahafo’s avian diversity. Here are 21 birds that you should watch out for when you visit Ahafo.
1. Namaqua Dove
The Namaqua dove is a small pigeon species found throughout much of Africa. It is the only species in its genus, Oena, and is native to the continent, parts of the Arabian Peninsula, and the island of Madagascar.
The dove is usually found in open grassland, savanna, and arid scrub and feeds on grass and seeds. Fruits and insects supplement its diet.
The Namaqua dove has a distinctive call, often described as a low, hoarse “whoo-oo-oo.”
This species is considered to be of least concern by the IUCN, although its population is in decline due to habitat destruction and fragmentation in some areas. The Namaqua dove is a shy bird, and it is rarely seen in the wild.
However, it is a common sight in bird sanctuaries and parks and is often kept as a pet in captivity.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Oena |
| Species | O. capensis |
2. Little Egret
The little egret is a beautiful species of small heron that belongs to the Ardeidae family. It is a white bird with a long and slender black beak, long black legs, and yellow feet in the western race.
It is an aquatic bird that inhabits shallow waters and feeds upon various tiny creatures. It is also known to feed on land, making it a versatile hunter. The little egret is an efficient hunter known to consume its prey in one gulp.
The species is also known to be a gregarious bird, often found in colonies of up to hundreds of individuals. Its long legs allow it to wade through shallow waters, giving it access to various food sources.
The yellow feet of the western race are believed to help the bird with its stability as it walks on top of muddy or slippery surfaces. Overall, the little egret is an exciting bird that has adapted to a wide range of habitats and food sources.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. garzetta |
3. African Emerald Cuckoo
The African emerald cuckoo is an incredibly unique bird species found exclusively in Africa. It is one of the few cuckoo species on the continent and is easily identifiable by its bright green feathers.
Its scientific name is Chrysococcyx cupreus, and it is a medium-sized bird that typically grows to be between 7 and 8 inches in length. Its wings are long and pointed, and its tail is black.
The African emerald cuckoo has a distinctive call that is often described as a “loud, metallic churring,” which can be heard from quite a distance away. The African emerald cuckoo is an omnivorous species, which means that it will feed on a variety of different foods.
Its diet consists of insects, fruits, and small vertebrates. It has been observed to consume termites, other insects, and small lizards and frogs.
The African emerald cuckoo also feeds on various fruits, such as figs and berries. The African emerald cuckoo is a solitary species that primarily lives in the rainforests of Africa. It has also been observed in wooded habitats, such as savannas and mangroves.
In addition, it can be found in grasslands and adjacent areas. The African emerald cuckoo is a sedentary species that will stay in the same area all year round. The African emerald cuckoo is an essential species in the African ecosystem.
It plays a vital role in the food chain by preying on small animals that could otherwise cause damage to crops or spread diseases. Furthermore, its bright green feathers provide an essential source of color in the African rainforests.
As such, it is essential to protect the African emerald cuckoo and its habitat to ensure that it can continue to thrive in the future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Chrysococcyx |
| Species | C. cupreus |
4. Red-eyed Dove
The red-eyed dove is a species of dove that is found in numerous locations throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. It is quite a common bird seen in many different habitats, ranging from woodlands and forests to grasslands and even more arid areas.
The red-eyed dove is considered a species of most minor concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. This designation was given in 2004 and has remained the same.
This indicates that the red-eyed dove is unlikely to become extinct or endangered. Instead, it continues to be a widespread species throughout its range.
The red-eyed dove is an essential species in the ecosystems of Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to the balance of the food chain and helping to maintain the health of its habitats and ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. semitorquata |
5. Helmeted Guineafowl
The helmeted guineafowl belongs to the Numididae bird family and is the only member of its genus, Numida. It is native to Africa, mainly south of the Sahara desert.
The helmeted guineafowl has been widely introduced to other parts of the world and is kept as a domesticated species in many places.
In the West Indies, North America, Colombia, Brazil, Australia, and Europe, the helmeted guineafowl has been introduced and is now a common sight in some regions.
The helmeted guineafowl is an easily recognizable bird, with its distinctive crest of feathers that resemble a helmet. It is a medium-sized bird, about the size of a chicken, with a long neck and a round body.
It has black and grey spotted plumage, red and blue bare face, and wattles.
Its diet consists of insects, seeds, and small fruits, and it typically inhabits dry grasslands, bushlands, and savannas. The helmeted guineafowl is a social species, and it is often seen in groups of up to 12 birds.
It is also a noisy species, with a distinctive call used to communicate with other members of its group. It is also known to be a strong flyer, and it can fly for long distances in search of food.
The helmeted guineafowl is an essential species in its native range in Africa and the regions where it was introduced. It is an important game bird and is often hunted for sport.
It also plays a vital role in the local ecosystem, helping to disperse seeds and control insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Numididae |
| Genus | Numida |
| Species | N. meleagris |
6. Hooded Vulture
The hooded vulture is an Old World vulture belonging to the order Accipitriformes. This order comprises several birds, including eagles, kites, vultures, and hawks.
The hooded vulture is the only member of the genus Necrosyrtes, which is closely related to the larger Gyps genus. These genera form part of the Aegypiinae subfamily of Old World vultures.
This subfamily comprises several species of vultures that inhabit the Old World, including the hooded vulture. These vultures are scavengers, feeding on carrion and other remains. They are also highly social birds, often seen in large flocks.
The hooded vulture is found throughout much of sub-Saharan Africa and is common in many parts of this region.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Necrosyrtes |
| Species | N. monachus |
7. White-rumped Swift
The white-rumped swift is a species of swift that is not closely related to the house martin, a type of passerine bird. While the two birds may look similar, they evolved independently and have different genetic backgrounds.
This phenomenon, known as convergent evolution, is when two species develop similar characteristics despite having no shared ancestor.
In this case, the white-rumped swift and the house martin have both adapted to a similar lifestyle, resulting in the recognizable similarities between the two birds. Despite these similarities, they are not closely related and have different behaviors and habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Genus | Apus |
| Species | A. caffer |
8. Great Spotted Cuckoo
The great spotted cuckoo is a member of the Cuculiformes, a group of birds that includes roadrunners, anis, and coucals. This species is found in a large area, stretching from Africa to the Mediterranean Basin.
It has an unusual lifestyle, as it is a brood parasite, meaning that it lays its eggs in other birds’ nests. Usually, its host is the Eurasian magpie, though other corvids can also be targeted.
This behavior gives the cuckoo a reproductive advantage since it does not need to build a nest or care for its young. Instead, the host parents are burdened, while the cuckoo’s eggs get all the attention.
This allows the cuckoo to raise its young without expending energy, making it an incredibly successful species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Clamator |
| Species | C. glandarius |
9. Thick-billed Cuckoo
The thick-billed cuckoo is a cuckoo species belonging to the family Cuculidae. It is unique within its genus, Pachycoccyx, meaning it is the only species in the genus.
This cuckoo species can be easily identified due to its distinctively thick bill, which has a shape similar to that of a hawk. This feature sets it apart from other cuckoo species which brood parasitically, making it instantly recognizable.
The thick bill of the thick-billed cuckoo is used for capturing prey in mid-flight, which is a typical behavior of hawks. The thick bill is also used for cracking open hard-shelled fruits, a common food source for the species.
The thick-billed cuckoo is an important species to observe and protect, as it is an essential indicator of the environment’s health.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Pachycoccyx |
| Species | P. audeberti |
10. Olive long-tailed Cuckoo
The olive long-tailed cuckoo is a bird species belonging to the family Cuculidae. This family of birds includes the well-known cuckoo species. The olive long-tailed cuckoo is native to the African tropical rainforest and can be found in various parts of this region.
This cuckoo species is named for its distinctive long tail, predominantly olive-green. The olive long-tailed cuckoo is an insectivore that mainly feeds on insects. It has a wide and varied diet, including caterpillars, spiders, and other insects.
This cuckoo species is also known to feed on small animals such as lizards and frogs. It is typically a solitary bird and will usually be found in the same area for an extended period.
This cuckoo is known for its distinct vocalizations, similar to other cuckoo species. The olive long-tailed cuckoo is a vocal bird whose call is often heard in the African rainforest.
This cuckoo species is usually active during the day and can often be seen perched on branches or hopping between trees. The olive long-tailed cuckoo is an essential species in the African tropical rainforest.
It helps maintain the balance of the area’s insect population and provides food for various other species.
This cuckoo species is also an essential part of the ecosystem, as it helps disperse seeds and other plant material, aiding in the maintenance of the rainforest habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Cercococcyx |
| Species | C. olivinus |
11. Yellow-throated Cuckoo
The yellow-throated cuckoo is a bird species commonly known as the cuckoo and found in the Cuculidae family. It has a unique yellow coloration around its throat area, which helps to differentiate it from other cuckoos.
This species of bird is mainly found in the tropical rainforests of Africa, where it resides and thrives in the dense foliage and shade of the rainforest canopy. It usually feeds on insects and small fruits, relying on its camouflage to protect it from predators.
The yellow-throated cuckoo is an integral part of the African rainforest ecosystem, as it helps keep the insect population in check and provides valuable food for other birds and animals in the region.
Additionally, its presence helps to maintain a balanced environment in the rainforest, which is essential for the health and survival of the entire ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Chrysococcyx |
| Species | C. flavigularis |
12. African Pied Hornbill
The Congo pied hornbill is an impressive bird belonging to the family. It is found in the Old World and is a common resident breeder in many parts of equatorial Africa, stretching from The Gambia to western Uganda and northern Angola.
This species is known for its unique black and white plumage, which is why it is also known as the African pied hornbill. This bird is primarily a frugivore that feeds on figs, berries, and other wild fruits.
Additionally, they also eat insects, small reptiles, and small mammals.
They can be found in various habitats, including forests, woodlands, plantations, and savannas. The Congo pied hornbill is a large bird that measures up to 80 cm in length and has a wingspan of up to 1.5 meters.
It is also known to have a large, curved black bill and a distinctive yellow patch on the forehead. The Congo pied hornbill is known to live in pairs or small groups and can often be seen perching on tree branches or flying about in search of food.
During breeding season, the female will build a nest within a tree hole, and the male will seal the entrance with mud.
After breeding, the female will remain in the nest to incubate the eggs and feed the chicks, while the male will provide food to the family. The Congo pied hornbill is an essential species in its ecosystem and is vital in seed dispersal.
As they feed on fruits, they help to spread the seeds of the plants, aiding in the regeneration of the forest. Unfortunately, this species is vulnerable to habitat destruction and is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Bucerotiformes |
| Family | Bucerotidae |
| Genus | Lophoceros |
| Species | L. fasciatus |
13. Fiery-necked Nightjar
The Fiery-necked Nightjar is a unique species of bird found only in Africa south of the equator. It is part of the Caprimulgidae family of nightjars, a group of birds most active at night.
This species is easily identified by its unique call, which has been described as “good-lord-deliver-us.”
This call is said to be heard frequently at night and can often be heard across long distances. This species is known for its unique plumage, which consists of a mottled grey and brown body with bright orange feathers around the neck.
This combination of colors makes it a striking species to observe, leading to its alternative name of the “Fiery-necked Nightjar.”The Fiery-necked Nightjar is a solitary bird usually found in open grassland or wooded areas near water sources.
They are insectivorous and feed on various insects, such as moths, beetles, and cicadas. They are also known to eat tiny frogs and lizards. The Fiery-necked Nightjar is an essential species in Africa as it helps to control insect populations.
It is also an essential part of the culture and folklore of many African cultures, where its distinctive call has become associated with good luck and divine protection.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Caprimulgus |
| Species | C. pectoralis |
14. African Gray Hornbill
The African grey hornbill is a species of bird belonging to the hornbill family, a group of mainly tropical near-passerine birds found in the Old World. It is characterized by its large black bill with a distinctive casque on the top and grey feathers.
This species is a widespread resident breeder in Africa, south of the Sahara Desert and southwest of the Arabian Peninsula.
It is mainly found in woodlands, savannahs, and other open habitats, although they are also found in some mountainous habitats. The diet of this species primarily consists of fruits, insects, small mammals, frogs, and other small animals.
The African grey hornbill is an essential species in African culture and mythology and is featured in many traditional stories and artworks. It is also an important species for controlling insect populations, helping keep agricultural and other ecosystems balanced.
This species is also a valuable ecotourism asset in many African countries. Unfortunately, like many other species, it faces various threats, such as habitat loss, illegal hunting, and climate change.
Conservation efforts such as habitat protection and sustainable hunting are essential to ensure the long-term survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Bucerotiformes |
| Family | Bucerotidae |
| Genus | Lophoceros |
| Species | L. nasutus |
15. Rose-ringed Parakeet
The rose-ringed parakeet is a parrot native to Africa and parts of Asia. It is also known as the ring-necked parakeet due to the rose-colored ring around its neck. It is a medium-sized parrot with a length of about 18 inches from head to tail.
It has a long, pointed tail and a curved beak adapted for cracking open seeds and nuts.
Its wings are green, and its body is olive green, with a yellow tinge on the head and wings. The rose-ringed parakeet belongs to the genus Psittacula and the family Psittacidae, both scientific terms for the parrot family.
The Psittacidae family includes over 350 species of parrots from all around the world.
Most of these species are found in tropical and subtropical climates, but some can also be found in temperate regions. The rose-ringed parakeet is an intelligent and social bird often kept as a pet.
It is known for its ability to mimic human speech and can learn an extensive vocabulary. In the wild, it is an important seed disperser, helping to spread the seeds of various plants in its range.
It is also an important pollinator, as its tongue is adapted for extracting nectar from flowers. The rose-ringed parakeet is a fascinating bird that has adapted to many different habitats and climates.
It is an essential species for both the wild and captivity and will bring its owners joy for years.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Psittaculidae |
| Genus | Psittacula |
| Species | P. krameri |
16. Reed Cormorant
The reed cormorant is a species of bird belonging to the cormorant family, Phalacrocoracidae. It is also known as the long-tailed cormorant and is mainly found in Africa south of the Sahara, as well as on the island of Madagascar.
It is resident in these areas but can also undertake seasonal movements. The reed cormorant is a medium-sized bird, distinguished by its long tail. It has glossy black plumage with a greenish sheen and a white throat.
Its legs are yellowish, with webbed feet, and its beak is black. It is an expert swimmer and fishes in shallow areas, using its sharp eyesight to spot prey.
The reed cormorant is a social species typically breeds in colonies, nesting on trees, cliffs, and artificial structures. It lays between 3-4 eggs, which hatch after an incubation period of around 28 days. The chicks are fully grown after about ten weeks.
The reed cormorant is not considered to be threatened, and its population is considered stable. It is an ecologically and economically essential species, providing food for humans and acting as a natural control of the fish population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Microcarbo |
| Species | M. africanus |
17. African Goshawk
The African goshawk is a species of bird of prey that lives in Africa. It belongs to the genus Accipiter, the type genus of the more prominent family of birds known as Accipitridae.
Within this family, the African goshawk is found in the subfamily Accipitrinae, which includes birds such as hawks, eagles, kites, and harriers. The African goshawk is a medium-sized bird of prey with a wingspan ranging from 24 to 37 inches.
It has a brown and white striped body, a white head, and a reddish-brown tail. It has long, broad wings with a solid and direct flight.
Its diet consists mainly of small mammals and birds but will also eat reptiles and insects. The African goshawk is an integral part of the African ecosystem, as it helps control its prey population.
It is also an essential part of the culture in folklore, literature, and mythology. The African goshawk has been a critical part of the symbolism of African culture, with its association with strength, courage, and protection.
It is also a symbol of respect and admiration. Despite its importance to the African ecosystem, the African goshawk faces threats from human activities, such as habitat destruction and hunting.
Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the survival of this beautiful bird of prey.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Accipiter |
| Species | A. tachiro |
18. White-crested Hornbill
The white-crested hornbill, or the long-tailed hornbill, is a large bird species found in the humid forests of Central and West Africa. It is part of the family Bucerotidae, which includes a variety of hornbill species.
This species of hornbill is unique in its appearance, having a prominent white crest atop its head and a long, curved tail. It is a large bird with a wingspan of up to four feet and a body length of up to two feet.
Its plumage is colored black, gray, and white, with the underside of its wings and tail being white. The white-crested hornbill has a diet of fruits, flowers, insects, and small animals.
They are typically found in pairs or small groups, searching for food in the treetops or along the forest floor.
They are also known for their loud, distinctive call, used to establish and defend their territory. Due to its role in seed dispersal, the white-crested hornbill is an essential species for its local habitat.
The bird can regurgitate seeds from its eaten fruits, germinating to form new trees or shrubs. This helps to maintain the diversity of the local ecosystem.
Unfortunately, the white-crested hornbill is threatened by habitat destruction, as its natural forest habitats are being cleared for timber and agricultural development.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Bucerotiformes |
| Family | Bucerotidae |
| Genus | Horizocerus |
| Species | H. albocristatus |
19. Greater Painted-snipe
The greater painted-snipe is a species of wader in the family Rostratulidae, a family of shorebirds. It is a medium-sized bird with distinctive plumage that helps it blend in with its environment.
It has a long, curved bill and brownish-grey feathers. The greater painted snipe can be found in wetlands and marshes across Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
It is a highly adaptable species found in various habitats, from grasslands to mangroves to mudflats.
It is an omnivore foraging insects, small crustaceans, and seeds. The greater painted-snipe is a migratory species that will travel considerable distances for food and suitable habitats. It prefers to nest in dense vegetation, often in reedbeds.
The female builds the nest and typically lays two eggs, which she incubates for around three weeks. The greater painted snipe is not considered to be threatened, and its population is believed to be stable.
Its numbers are affected by hunting and habitat loss, but overall, the species is in good health.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Rostratulidae |
| Genus | Rostratula |
| Species | R. benghalensis |
20. Black-throated Coucal
The black-throated coucal is a species of bird belonging to the cuckoo family, Cuculidae. This species is native to West Africa and can be found in habitats such as dense second-growth forests and grassy swamps.
Northern and central Zaire is home to a particular subspecies of the black-throated coucal, sometimes known as Neumann’s coucal.
This subspecies is distinct enough from the other subspecies of black-throated coucal that it has been suggested that it should be considered a separate species. The black-throated coucal is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring between 31 and 34 cm long.
They have a black head and back, white collar, and an orange-rufous belly. They make a loud, staccato call, one of the main ways to identify them in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Centropus |
| Species | C. leucogaster |
21. Great Blue Turaco
The great blue turaco is a bird species of the family Musophagidae, the largest turaco species. This magnificent bird is approximately 70-76 cm long and has a striking plumage of predominantly grey-blue with an upright blue-black crest around 10 cm high.
Both the male and female of this species have very similar plumage, making it difficult to tell them apart. The great blue turaco is an incredible sight in its natural habitat, soaring through the air and catching the eye with its captivating coloration.
Its crest is unique and adds to its distinguished look. This species is quite adaptable and can be found in habitats ranging from tropical rainforests to savannas. The great blue turaco is a unique species that deserves recognition for its beauty and size.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Musophagiformes |
| Family | Musophagidae |
| Genus | Corythaeola |
| Species | C. cristata |
Conclusion
Birds in Ahafo are an essential part of the local ecology. They are an important food source for many people, providing crucial services such as pest control and pollination.
Additionally, birds in Ahafo are a source of beauty and joy to the local community. Protecting these birds and their habitats is essential to balance Ahafo’s ecology.