The birds of Kisii are a diverse and vibrant collection of species, ranging from the colorful turaco to the specialized fish eagles.
The region is home to a number of endemic species, including the near-threatened Kisii Barbet and the endangered Clarke’s Weaver, both of which are found nowhere else in the world.
Kisii also has a wide variety of migratory species, which pass through the region during the course of their annual migrations. The abundance of birdlife in Kisii provides a wonderful opportunity to observe the diversity of the region’s avifauna.
1. Grey-crowned Crane
The Grey Crowned Crane is a species of bird belonging to the Gruidae family.
It is also referred to by many different names, including African Crowned Crane, Golden Crested Crane, Golden Crowned Crane, East African Crane, East African Crowned Crane, African Crane, Eastern Crowned Crane, Kavirondo Crane, South African Crane, and Crested Crane.
This species is native to the wetlands and grasslands of Africa, and it is considered an endangered species due to threats such as habitat loss and poaching. The Grey Crowned Crane is a large bird, with a wingspan of up to 2.3 meters and a height of up to 1 meter.
It has a grey body with white and black feathers on its wings. Its most striking feature, however, is its large golden-colored crest, which gives it its name. The legs of the Grey Crowned Crane are also a distinctive feature, as they are bright red in color.
The Grey Crowned Crane is a gregarious species, often found in flocks of up to 20 birds. It is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of items such as small creatures, seeds, grains, and other plant matter.
The Grey Crowned Crane is also known for its elaborate courtship displays, which involve the birds dancing and bowing to each other. Grey Crowned Cranes are threatened by a variety of human activities, such as habitat destruction and poaching.
Due to these threats, the Grey Crowned Crane is classified as an endangered species and is listed on the IUCN Red List. Conservation efforts are being undertaken to protect the species, such as protecting its wetland habitat and enforcing anti-poaching regulations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Balearica |
| Species | B. regulorum |
2. African Green Pigeon
The African green pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the family Columbidae, which is a group of birds known for their ability to coo and croon.
This species is one of five green pigeon species that can be found in the Afrotropics region, a biogeographic region encompassing the African continent. The African green pigeon has a wide range in Sub-Saharan Africa, meaning that it can be found in many different countries.
There are currently 17 accepted races of the African green pigeon, each with slightly different physical characteristics as well as behavior. This species is known for its bright green coloration, with some variations depending on the race.
The African green pigeon is an important species in the Afrotropic region, contributing to the unique and diverse ecosystem found in this part of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Treron |
| Species | T. calvus |
3. White-faced Whistling Duck
The white-faced whistling duck is a species of whistling duck that inhabits areas of sub-Saharan Africa and much of South America. This species is known to be very social, and at certain sites, it is common to see flocks of a thousand or more birds coming together at dawn.
It is a remarkable sight to witness such large numbers of birds congregating in one place and it is a testament to their social nature. These birds are highly adaptable and can make themselves at home in various types of habitats such as lakes, ponds, swamps, estuaries, and even cultivated areas.
They feed mainly on aquatic plants, small aquatic invertebrates, and grains.
They form pairs during the breeding season and the females lay up to 12 eggs at a time, which are incubated for 25-29 days. The white-faced whistling duck is an important species for many ecosystems as they act as insectivores and eat many insect pests.
They are also important for seed dispersal and the spread of aquatic vegetation. Sadly, this species is under threat due to human activities such as habitat destruction, overhunting, and capture of the pet trade.
It is important that we work to protect these ducks and the habitats they inhabit in order to ensure their continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Dendrocygna |
| Species | D. viduata |
4. White-backed Duck
The white-backed duck is an aquatic bird of the Anatidae family, which includes ducks, geese, and swans. It is not closely related to any other duck species but shares certain characteristics with two other subfamilies of ducks.
The Dendrocygninae subfamily includes whistling ducks, which the white-backed duck is most closely related to, and the stiff-tailed ducks of the Oxyurinae subfamily show some similarities. The white-backed duck is the only species in its genus, Thalassornis.
This indicates that it is an ancient species that has evolved separately from its close relatives over a long period of time.
While the white-backed duck may not be as well-known or as numerous as some other duck species, it is still an important part of the biodiversity of the world’s waterfowl.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Thalassornis |
| Species | T. leuconotus |
5. Knob-billed Duck
The knob-billed duck, also known as the African comb duck, is a species of duck that is found across a wide area of the world. It is native to Sub-Saharan Africa and the island of Madagascar and is also found in many parts of South Asia and mainland Indochina.
This species is distinguished from other ducks by its distinctive knob-like bill and its large size. Although the knob-billed duck and the comb duck have similar physical features, they have been classified as two distinct species by most taxonomic authorities.
This is due to the fact that there are slight differences between the two species, such as the size of the bill and the shape of the wings. Additionally, the knob-billed duck tends to inhabit wetland and river habitats, while the comb duck is mainly found in coastal areas.
The knob-billed duck is a largely aquatic species, and it prefers to feed on aquatic plants and small invertebrates found in and around the water. It is a social species and can be seen in large flocks in its native habitats.
The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, although its population is declining due to habitat loss and other human-induced pressures.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Sarkidiornis |
| Species | S. melanotos |
6. Emerald-spotted Wood Dove
The emerald-spotted wood dove is a species of bird that is found in the family Columbidae, which is present in many eastern and southern African countries. It is usually found in open, deciduous woodland areas as well as second-growth forests.
The bird prefers areas with drier climates and does not live in evergreen rainforests or semi-desert regions. These birds are usually found in large trees or in small shrubs, where they can build their nests and find food.
They often feed on fruit, flowers, and seeds that they find on the ground or in the trees. The emerald-spotted wood dove is a ground-dwelling bird, so it is also seen foraging on the ground in search of food.
Its bright plumage helps it to stand out in its natural habitat, and its distinct call is often heard in the area. This species is also known to be monogamous, meaning that it only has one mate at a time.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Turtur |
| Species | T. chalcospilos |
7. Spur-winged Goose
The spur-winged goose is a large waterbird found in the Sub-Saharan African region. It is a member of the Anatidae family, which includes geese and shelducks. This species of goose is one of the largest flying birds in Africa, with an average length of up to 78 cm (31 in).
Its wingspan is also impressive, measuring up to 2 m (6.5 ft). The spur-winged goose is known for its distinct black and white plumage, with white wings and a blackish-brown head, breast, and back.
The male and female are also easily distinguishable, with the male having a larger bill than the female. The body of this species is also notably long and slender, with long, thin legs. This species of goose is mostly found in wetlands, such as shallow lakes, marshes, and swamps.
It is an omnivore, taking advantage of a wide variety of food sources, including aquatic plants, insects, small mammals, and other animals.
During the breeding season, the spur-winged goose forms large flocks to make a nest and rear its young.The spur-winged goose is an important species in its range, serving as an important source of food for many local people.
It is also an important part of the wetland ecosystems that it inhabits, helping to maintain healthy water levels and keep the land fertile.
This species is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, but it is important that its habitat is protected to ensure its continued survival in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Plectropterus |
| Species | P. gambensis |
8. Crested Guineafowl
The crested guineafowl is a species of bird found in the Numididae family, commonly known as guineafowl. These birds are native to sub-Saharan Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including open forests, woodlands, and forest-savanna mosaics.
These birds have a distinct crest of feathers on their head, which they raise when excited. They are omnivorous, foraging for both plants and insects. The crested guineafowl is a ground-dwelling bird and is often seen in small, noisy groups.
They are highly social birds, and while they are not considered endangered, their numbers have been declining due to habitat loss and hunting.
Despite their declining population, the crested guineafowl remains an important source of food and cultural significance for many African cultures.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Numididae |
| Genus | Guttera |
| Species | G. sp. |
9. Greater Flamingo
The greater flamingo is a species of the flamingo family that is found in many parts of the world. It is the most widespread and largest species in its family.
Its range includes Northern and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East, the Levant, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe. This species of flamingo is commonly seen in the Old World, and it is adapted to many different climates.
For example, they can be found in the warm, dry climates of the Middle East, and in the cooler, wetter climates of the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe.
They can also be found in areas with very diverse habitats, such as Sub-Saharan Africa, where they can live in wetlands, woodlands, and even deserts. This species of flamingo is highly adaptable, able to survive in a number of different environments.
They can also feed on a variety of different food sources, including invertebrates, algae, and small fish.
This adaptability and wide range of feeding options make the greater flamingo a successful species. Overall, the greater flamingo is an impressive species that can be found in many different parts of the world.
It is the largest and most widespread species of the flamingo family and is highly adaptable to different climates and habitats. This species has a wide range of food sources, which allows it to thrive in many different parts of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Phoenicopteriformes |
| Family | Phoenicopteridae |
| Genus | Phoenicopterus |
| Species | P. roseus |
10. African Pygmy Goose
The African pygmy goose is a species of waterfowl native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is a perching duck, meaning it has a perching structure on its feet which allows it to perch on trees and other objects.
It is the smallest of Africa’s waterfowl, and one of the smallest in the world, making it easily identifiable.
Despite its name, the African pygmy goose is not closely related to the true geese but instead is more closely related to the dabbling ducks and other species called ‘ducks’. This is due to the fact that they share a similar beak structure.
The beaks of pygmy geese are shorter and more pointed than that of true geese. They also have longer necks compared to true geese and have webbed feet.
The African pygmy goose is well adapted to life in sub-Saharan Africa and is usually found inhabiting shallow wetlands, freshwater lakes, and rivers. They feed on small insects, crustaceans, and plant material.
They are also known to be social birds, often forming small flocks to forage. The African pygmy goose is an important species in sub-Saharan Africa, as it serves as a food source for a variety of predators, including fish eagles, and humans.
It is also a popular species for birdwatchers, as its small size and bright colors make it easy to spot.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Nettapus |
| Species | N. auritus |
11. Black-winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt is a species of wading bird belonging to the avocet and stilt family. It has long legs and is widely distributed across the globe. The scientific name for this species is H. himantopus.
This single species is nearly ubiquitous, found in many different regions across the world. The black-winged stilt is often found in shallow wetlands. It feeds on small aquatic creatures such as fish, insects, crustaceans, and mollusks.
During the breeding season, these birds congregate in large colonies, usually near water bodies. The male birds are known for their beautiful plumage and long legs. The females are brownish in color, with white underparts.
The black-winged stilt is an important part of the ecosystem. It feeds on aquatic creatures, which keeps populations of small animals in check. It also provides food for other species of birds and animals.
The black-winged stilt is also an important indicator species, which means that its presence can tell us a lot about the health of the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
12. Hamerkop
The hamerkop is a unique species of bird, classified in its own genus, Scopus, and family, Scopidae. It is a medium-sized wading bird, found in regions of Africa and Asia.
For a long time, the hamerkop was thought to be part of the Ciconiiformes order of birds but it is now considered to be part of the Pelecaniformes order.
This order includes pelicans and the shoebill, and these two species are considered to be the closest relatives of the hamerkop. The hamerkop is a distinctive bird, with a long crest of feathers on its head and a heavy bill.
Its plumage is typically greyish-brown in color, and it has a wingspan of up to 40 inches. The hamerkop is an omnivorous species, and its diet consists of a variety of aquatic creatures, as well as invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals.
It is also known to feed on fruits and eggs. It is a solitary bird and builds a large nest on the ground, which it defends fiercely. The hamerkop is an important species in its environment and is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Scopidae |
| Genus | Scopus |
| Species | S. umbretta |
13. Cattle Egret
The cattle egret is a species of heron that is found all around the world in warm climates. It is the only species within its genus, Bubulcus, although there are two subspecies of the cattle egret, the western and eastern varieties.
These two subspecies are so distinct from each other that some experts consider them to be separate species. The cattle egret is most commonly found in tropical and subtropical areas, as well as in warm temperate zones.
This species is typically found in grasslands, wetlands, and near bodies of water.
It is a medium-sized heron that is white in color with a yellow-orange bill and legs, and a black stripe that runs down its back. The cattle egret is an opportunistic feeder that eats a wide variety of food items.
It mostly feeds on insects, but also eats small vertebrates, amphibians, fish, and crustaceans.
This species is known to follow cattle and other animals, as these animals stir up insects for the heron to eat. The cattle egret is an excellent example of a species that is able to adapt and thrive in a wide range of habitats.
Its ability to feed on a variety of food sources, and its tendency to follow other animals, have allowed it to become a successful species in many parts of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Bubulcus |
| Species | B. ibis |
14. Shoebill
The Shoebill, also known as the Whalebill, Whale-headed Stork, and Shoe-billed Stork, is a large wading bird with long legs. It is native to tropical East Africa and is known for its distinctive bill, shaped like a large shoe.
The Shoebill has been around for millions of years and is listed as a vulnerable species due to the destruction of its natural habitat. The Shoebill is an imposing bird, standing at an impressive height of up to 4.5 feet tall and with a wingspan of up to 8 feet.
Its most distinctive feature is its huge bill, which is wider than its head and has a distinctive downward curve. The bill is used for catching its prey of fish, frogs, and small reptiles.
It uses its long legs to wade in shallow waters, searching for food and waiting for unsuspecting prey. The Shoebill’s diet also includes insects, crustaceans, small birds, and even small mammals. It is a solitary bird and is rarely seen in groups.
The Shoebill is an impressive bird, and its unique bill is what gives it its name. The Shoebill’s bill is its most recognizable feature, and its name derives from this distinctive feature.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Balaenicipitidae |
| Genus | Balaeniceps |
| Species | B. rex |
15. Greater Painted-snipe
The greater painted-snipe is a species of wader, which is a type of bird. It is part of the family Rostratulidae, which is a group of birds found in wetland habitats. This particular species is found in Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, usually found in marshes.
These areas provide the birds with plenty of food sources, such as mollusks, worms, small crustaceans, and insects. The greater painted snipe has a unique, brightly colored plumage, which helps it blend in with its marshy habitat.
It also has long legs and a long bill, which helps it forage in the water for food. This species is usually seen alone or in pairs, and it is not considered to be a migratory species.
Despite being a relatively common bird, the greater painted snipe is still vulnerable to habitat loss due to human activities.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Rostratulidae |
| Genus | Rostratula |
| Species | R. benghalensis |
16. African Darter
The African darter, also known as the snakebird, is a species of water bird found in sub-Saharan Africa and Iraq. They are an iconic species of the African wetlands, making up a unique group of birds.
The African darter is a large bird with an unmistakable silhouette, having a long, thin neck and a long, curved bill. They have a black-and-white plumage, with a black cap, white throat, and brownish-black body.
The species typically inhabits shallow wetlands, such as lakes, lagoons, and rivers, and are known to be expert swimmers and divers. African darters have adapted to their aquatic environment in a number of ways.
Their long, thin necks allow them to fish in deep water while their long, curved bills help them to catch small fish, frogs, snails, and aquatic insects. They are also able to hold their breath for long periods of time, enabling them to dive underwater in search of prey.
Due to their unique characteristics, they are highly sought after by photographers and birdwatchers alike. The African darter is an important species in its range because it helps to maintain the ecological balance of its environment.
They are one of the few species that can control the population of their prey, which helps to keep the wetlands healthy and prevents the growth of invasive species.
Additionally, their presence helps to attract other species of birds to the area, creating a vibrant and diverse bird population.In conclusion, the African darter is an iconic species of the African wetlands with many unique characteristics.
They are highly sought after by photographers and birdwatchers due to their distinctive silhouette and ability to dive underwater.
Furthermore, their presence is incredibly important to the wetlands, as they help to maintain the ecological balance of their environment and attract other species of birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Anhingidae |
| Genus | Anhinga |
| Species | A. rufa |
17. African Harrier-hawk
The African harrier-hawk is a species of bird of prey that is found across much of Africa south of the Sahara. It is a relatively large bird, measuring 60-66 cm in length.
The African harrier-hawk is in the genus Polyboroides, and the only other member of this genus is the Madagascar harrier-hawk.
This species is found only on the island of Madagascar and is considered to be allopatric, meaning it is not found in the same areas as the African harrier-hawk. The African harrier-hawk is a fairly versatile hunter and feeds on a variety of prey ranging from small mammals to insects.
It is an agile and powerful bird of prey, capable of flying at great speeds and maneuvering with ease. Its long wings and tail give it the ability to soar for long periods of time without needing to beat its wings.
It also has excellent eyesight, allowing it to spot prey from long distances. The African harrier-hawk is an important species in Africa, playing an essential role in the ecosystems of many regions.
It helps to keep populations of small mammals and insects in check, helping to maintain a balance in the environment. It also serves as an important source of food for many other species, such as eagles and vultures.
The African harrier-hawk is also a popular species among birdwatchers and photographers, making it an important species for both conservation and tourism.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Polyboroides |
| Species | P. typus |
Conclusion
Birds in Kisii are an important part of the local ecosystem, providing food, pollination, and other benefits to both the environment and people.
They are also an important part of the culture of Kisii, with many traditional songs and stories about birds.
It is important to protect the local bird populations in order to ensure that these benefits continue to be enjoyed by future generations.