Komondjari is home to some of the world’s most diverse and beautiful bird species. This region is a birdwatcher’s paradise with various habitats ranging from wetlands to savannas and forests.
Over 450 species of birds can be seen in Komondjari, including some of the most iconic African birds, such as the African Fish Eagle, Grey Hornbill, and the Long-crested Eagle. Other species include colorful finches, vultures, and raptors.
Whether you are an experienced birder or a novice, chances are you will find something interesting and exciting when exploring the birds of Komondjari.
24 Birds to Watch in Komondjari
Komondjari is a region in eastern Burkina Faso rich in biodiversity and culture. It is home to some of the world’s most diverse and beautiful bird species. This region is a birdwatcher’s paradise with various habitats ranging from wetlands to savannas and forests.
Here are 24 birds to watch in Komondjari.
1. Osprey
The osprey is a large bird of prey that lives around the world. It is also known as the sea hawk, river hawk, and fish hawk. This bird is active during the day, and its diet mainly consists of fish. It can reach up to 60 centimeters in length and 180 centimeters in wingspan.
The osprey is primarily brown on its upper body and grey on its head and underparts. This bird species is adapted for catching fish with its sharp talons and mighty wings. It can spot its prey from the sky, then swoop down and capture it with its feet.
It has special waterproof feathers that help it glide through the air without too much effort. The osprey is an impressive hunter and a unique species of bird.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Pandionidae |
| Genus | Pandion |
| Species | P. haliaetus |
2. Black-winged Stilt
The black-winged stilt (Himantopus himantopus) is a long-legged bird in the avocet and stilt family. This species is found on all continents except Antarctica and is among the most widespread waders. It has long, thin red legs and a black back and wings. Its scientific name is H.
Himantopus is sometimes applied to a single, almost cosmopolitan species. The black-winged stilt is an attractive bird with an impressive wingspan and long, red legs. It typically inhabits shallow wetlands, estuaries, mudflats, and other coastal habitats.
In addition, it also prefers temporary pools and flooded pastures during the breeding season. The diet of this species consists mainly of aquatic insects, worms, and small fish. The black-winged stilt is monogamous and builds a large nest on the ground near water.
During the breeding season, the male bird is responsible for incubating the eggs while the female bird forages for food.
The chicks fledge at about four weeks and are independent soon afterward. The black-winged stilt is generally not threatened. However, its numbers have declined due to changes in water levels, pollution, and the destruction of wetland habitats.
To help conserve this species, conservationists are working to protect its habitats and reduce pollution.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Recurvirostridae |
| Genus | Himantopus |
| Species | H. himantopus |
3. Helmeted Guineafowl
The helmeted guineafowl is a bird species highly recognizable for its unique look. It is the only member of the genus Numida and is a part of the Numididae bird family.
This bird is native to Africa, mainly south of the Sahara, and has been domesticated in various parts of the world. It can be found in the West Indies, North America, Colombia, Brazil, Australia, and Europe.
Although the helmeted guineafowl is native to Africa, it has been widely introduced as a domesticated species in other parts of the world. This has allowed the species to spread and become a more commonly seen bird.
The helmeted guineafowl is an interesting species because of its unique characteristics and ability to survive in multiple environments.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Numididae |
| Genus | Numida |
| Species | N. meleagris |
4. Great Cormorant
The great cormorant is a type of seabird found worldwide and is known by different names depending on its region. In New Zealand, it is known as the black shag or kawau, while across the Northern Hemisphere it is called the great black cormorant.
In Australia, it is referred to as the black cormorant, and in India as the large cormorant. This species is a member of the cormorant family, a large group of seabirds found near waterways worldwide.
They are predominantly black, making them easy to spot in their natural habitats. The great cormorant has a long, slender body, a blackish-brown head and neck, and a yellowish-green patch on its throat.
They are typically found near large bodies of water, feeding on fish and other aquatic life. They have long wings, which they use to dive into the water for food. They also nest in colonies, often high up in trees or on cliffs near the water.
The great cormorant is an impressive sight to behold as it soars gracefully in the sky or dives into the depths of the sea in search of food.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Phalacrocorax |
| Species | P. carbo |
5. Ferruginous Duck
The ferruginous duck, also known as the ferruginous pochard, common white-eye, or white-eyed pochard, is a medium-sized diving duck native to the Eurosiberian region.
This duck species is easily recognizable by the distinctive reddish-brown feathers covering its body.
Its scientific name, Aythya nyroca, is derived from the Greek Lithuania, an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius, Aristotle, and Nyrok.
Which is the Russian name for a duck. The ferruginous duck is a rather shy bird that prefers to spend time in wetlands and shallow water areas.
It can dive deep into underwater food, such as aquatic insects, mollusks, and small fish. This duck species is migratory and will migrate to warmer areas when winter approaches.
The ferruginous duck is considered vulnerable due to its dwindling population, which results from habitat loss, hunting, and other human activities. Conservation efforts have been put in place to protect this species and ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Aythya |
| Species | A. nyroca |
6. Red-chested Cuckoo
The red-chested cuckoo is a species of cuckoo from the Cuculidae family. This species is native to Africa south of the Sahara desert and is considered a medium-sized bird.
It is widely recognized in the Afrikaans language, affectionately referred to as “Piet-my-vrou,” derived from its distinct call. The red-chested cuckoo is known for its unique call, which is a series of loud and distinctive cuckoo sounds.
This species is also known for its striking red feathers on its chest, which gives it its name. The red-chested cuckoo is an omnivorous species that feeds on plants and animals.
It is primarily active during the day, and its diet consists of insects, small reptiles, fruit, and seeds. The red-chested cuckoo is an integral part of the African ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations and assists in dispersing seeds.
As a result, it is an important species for maintaining the health of the African environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Cuculus |
| Species | C. solitarius |
7. Spur-winged Goose
The Spur-winged Goose is an impressive waterbird native to Sub-Saharan Africa. Commonly found in wetlands, lakes, and rivers, this species is part of the Anatidae family, comprised of geese and shelducks.
It is a large bird with long, greyish-brown wings and a white belly. The head and neck are typically black, while the back and wings may be a mixture of grey, brown, and black.
The species is easily identified by its distinctive yellow-orange legs and feet and its large, spur-like wings. It is also known for its loud honking call.
The Spur-winged Goose is an essential species in its natural environment, helping to control the populations of aquatic plants and animals in the area.
It is also hunted for its meat and feathers, though the practice is regulated by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Despite this, the species is considered vulnerable due to habitat loss and degradation, and its population is in decline.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Plectropterus |
| Species | P. gambensis |
8. Nelson’s Sparrow
Nelson’s sparrow is a small passerine bird from the New World sparrow family. It is one of the smallest species of sparrows, measuring only 4.75 inches (12 cm) in length and weighing approximately 0.35 ounces (10 g).
The bird is named after American ornithologist Edward Nelson. It has a greyish-brown back, white underparts, and a brown cap. Its breast has a white center with brown streaks. Its wings are brown, and its tail is reddish-brown with white outer feathers.
The Nelson’s sparrow typically feeds on insects, seeds, and berries. It also feeds on grasshoppers, caterpillars, and other invertebrates. Its habitat includes grassy wetlands, marshes, and meadows.
The bird is found mainly in eastern North America, though its range extends into the Great Lakes region and northeastern Mexico. It is an uncommon species, and its population is thought to be in decline due to habitat loss.
Conservation efforts have been made to protect the species and its habitat, and it is now listed as a species of particular concern in Ontario, Canada.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Ammospiza |
| Species | A. nelsoni |
9. Whimbrel
The Eurasian or Common Whimbrel is a species of wader belonging to the Scolopacidae family. It is a type of curlew known for its long, curved beaks.
This species is one of the most widely distributed, breeding in subarctic regions of Asia and Europe, stretching south to Scotland. In North America, it is known as the White-rumped Whimbrel. These birds are found in wetland areas and on coastal mudflats.
They feed mainly on insects, worms, and crustaceans, though they also eat some plant material. They nest in colonies near wetlands, making a cup-shaped nest on the ground. The female lays three to four eggs, which both parents incubate.
These birds migrate yearly, some traveling great distances to winter in warmer parts of the world, such as Africa, India, and Southeast Asia.
The Eurasian or Common Whimbrel is a species of conservation concern, with population numbers decreasing due to habitat loss and human disturbance. It is listed as nearly threatened by the IUCN and is protected under various laws in several countries.
Conservation efforts are needed to help this species survive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Scolopacidae |
| Genus | Numenius |
| Species | N. phaeopus |
10. Arabian Bustard
The Arabian bustard is a bird species belonging to the large-bodied genus Ardeotis. It is found across the Sahel region of Africa and southwestern Arabia, making it a widespread species.
Despite its wide range, it remains relatively unknown, with little research on the species. Despite its relative obscurity, the Arabian bustard has many characteristics similar to other species in the Ardeotis genus.
It is a large-bodied bird with predominantly brown plumage commonly found in open grassland and savanna habitats. Its diet mainly comprises insects, small mammals, and other invertebrates. However, it has been observed to consume seeds and fruit occasionally.
Given its wide range and large size, the Arabian bustard has a vital role in the ecosystem, and its conservation is of utmost importance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Otidiformes |
| Family | Otididae |
| Genus | Ardeotis |
| Species | A. arabs |
11. Black Bellied Plover
The grey plover, also known as the black-bellied plover in North America, is a large cosmopolitan bird species that breeds in the Arctic regions. It is a long-distance migrant who travels long distances to find a suitable breeding place.
Once breeding is complete, the grey plover can be found in coastal areas worldwide. This plover species is an integral part of the natural environment, as they feed on small invertebrates such as insects, worms, and crustaceans.
This helps to keep the local ecosystem balanced and healthy. Furthermore, grey plovers provide food for larger predators, such as hawks, owls, and eagles.
The grey plover is also an essential species for shorebird conservation, as they are among the most threatened shorebird species in the world. The grey plover is an integral part of the global ecosystem and vital to maintaining a healthy environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Genus | Pluvialis |
| Species | P. squatarola |
12. Coqui Francolin
The Coqui francolin is an exciting bird species belonging to the family Phasianidae. It is native to Africa, specifically Kenya, Ethiopia, and Eritrea.
The Coqui francolin is a medium-sized bird with mainly reddish-brown plumage and a black and white spotted pattern on its wings. Its wingspan can reach up to 24 inches, and its body length can go up to 15 inches. It has a long tail and a pointed bill.
The Coqui francolin is a ground bird, meaning it prefers to stay close to the ground for most activities. It is usually found in grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands. It feeds on seeds, grasses, and insects.
It is highly social and usually lives in small to medium-sized groups. The Coqui francolin is an essential species in its native habitats. It is an indicator of the health of its environment and a prey species for larger predators.
It plays a vital role in controlling the populations of insects, and its seeds help to disperse plants in the area. Unfortunately, its numbers are declining due to human activity, such as habitat destruction and hunting. It is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
Conservation efforts are needed to help protect this species and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Campocolinus |
| Species | C. coqui |
13. Great White Pelican
The great white pelican is a species of bird belonging to the pelican family. It is also known as the eastern white pelican, rosy pelican, or white pelican. This species is native to many parts of the world, including southeastern Europe, Asia, and Africa.
It is commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and shallow lakes. The great white pelican is a large bird with an estimated wingspan of up to 11 feet. Its body is white, with black tips on its wings and a yellowish-orange bill.
This species is highly social and often seen in large flocks. They feed mainly on fish, which they scoop up with their large bills—the great white pelican breeds in colonies, often on islands or shallow wetlands.
The female lays two to three eggs in a large nest built from sticks and other materials. Both parents incubate the eggs and take care of the chicks. The great white pelican is an iconic species admired for its majestic size and beauty.
Sadly, its population is declining in many parts of the world due to habitat destruction, pollution, and hunting. It is listed as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, but conservation efforts are necessary to ensure its long-term survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Pelecanidae |
| Genus | Pelecanus |
| Species | P. onocrotalus |
14. Little Grebe
The little grebe, also known as dabchick, is a type of water bird that belongs to the grebe family. The genus name for this bird is derived from Ancient Greek, with the word ‘thus’ meaning ‘fast’ and ‘bapto’ meaning ‘to sink under.’
The species’ name, ruficollis, comprises two Latin words: ‘Rufus’ meaning ‘red,’ and ‘collins’ meaning ‘necked.’ This term originated from the Latin word ‘collum,’ which translates to ‘neck.’ This is due to the reddish color of the bird’s neck feathers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. ruficollis |
15. Rock Pigeon
The rock dove, also known as the rock pigeon or common pigeon, is a species of bird belonging to the Columbidae family. It is often referred to as the “pigeon.” This species serves as the ancestor of the domestic pigeon, found in many households worldwide.
Unfortunately, due to domesticated birds escaping or being released, the population of feral pigeons has grown significantly in many places. These feral pigeons are found in cities, parks, and other urban and rural areas.
They are usually recognizable by their distinctive blue-grey plumage and the white patches on their wings and heads. Pigeons have become familiar in cities worldwide, as they are often seen scavenging for food or perched on ledges and rooftops.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
16. Stone Partridge
The stone partridge is a species of bird found in the New World quail family. This species is mainly brown with a distinct raised tail, often held high. It is commonly found in scrubland and lightly wooded habitats, often near rocks.
This species can be found in various African countries, from Kenya and Ethiopia to Gambia. Stone partridges are medium-sized birds with a body length of up to 33 cm and a wingspan of 19 cm.
They have an overall brown plumage and a distinctive dark brown and white barred pattern on their back and wings. Their belly is white, while their face and throat are brown. They have a blackish bill and yellow legs.
The males and females look very similar, although the males tend to be slightly larger. The Stone Partridge is a shy bird, and it is usually seen alone or in pairs.
They feed on various seeds, insects, and small invertebrates and occasionally eat fruits and berries.
They are primarily ground-dwellers but will also perch on low branches and forage on the ground. These birds are not considered migratory, although they sometimes move seasonally to different habitats.
They are pretty vocal and can be heard making a loud cackling call. The call is often heard in the morning and evening, but they will also call during the day. Overall, the Stone Partridge is a unique and fascinating species of bird found in Africa.
They are standard in their range and not threatened by extinction, although their numbers may decline due to habitat loss.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Odontophoridae |
| Genus | Ptilopachus |
| Species | P. petrosus |
17. Speckled Pigeon
The Speckled Pigeon, also known as the African Rock Pigeon or Guinea Pigeon, is a type of pigeon that is a regular breeding bird in much of Africa south of the Sahara Desert.
It is a prevalent species throughout its range and can be found in open habitats like parks, gardens, and fields. It is an adaptable bird that can survive in a variety of environments.
However, there are some areas of Africa where the Speckled Pigeon is not as expected, and there are gaps in its distribution. This could be due to the lack of suitable habitat or human activities disrupting the bird’s habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. guinea |
18. Blue Quail
The Blue Quail, or African Blue Quail, is a bird species belonging to the family Phasianidae. This quail species is native to sub-Saharan Africa and is found in various habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and savannas.
The Blue Quail is a small bird measuring approximately 20 cm long. Its feathers are predominantly blue-grey, with darker shades on the wings and back. Its head has a black-and-white pattern, and its legs and feet are orange.
The Blue Quail feeds mainly on seeds and insects and typically forages in small groups. It is a terrestrial bird and tends to stay close to the ground when searching for food.
The Blue Quail is also known for its loud, repetitive call, which is used to communicate with other members of its group.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Phasianidae |
| Genus | Synoicus |
| Species | S. adansonii |
19. Common Cuckoo
The common cuckoo is a species of bird belonging to the Cuculiformes order. This order includes a variety of species, including roadrunners, anis, and coucals.
The common cuckoo is a migratory bird from Europe and Asia during the summer and Africa during the winter.
This species is one of the most widespread of its kind, and its migratory habits are well-documented. The cuckoo’s migration pattern is unique and complex.
During the summer, the bird will go northwards to Europe and Asia, where it will spend most of its time. It is thought that the cuckoo’s migratory pattern is linked to its food sources and the changing climate of the northern hemisphere.
During the winter, the bird will then migrate to Africa, where it will spend the colder months, before returning to Europe and Asia in the spring. The common cuckoo plays an important role in the ecosystem, as it is known to act as a natural pest control.
Consuming large numbers of insects helps to keep the insect population under control. It is also an important pollinator, feeding on flowers and fruits.
This helps to ensure that the plants are able to reproduce, allowing them to thrive. The common cuckoo is also an iconic symbol of many cultures, especially in Europe. It is often mentioned in folk tales and literature, and many cultures believe that the bird brings good luck.
In some countries, it is even considered a sign of spring, as its arrival usually signifies the coming of warmer weather. In conclusion, the common cuckoo is a species of bird belonging to the Cuculiformes order and is one of the most widespread species of its kind.
It is a summer migrant to Europe and Asia and winters in Africa. The bird plays a vital role in the ecosystem and symbolizes good luck in many cultures.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Cuculus |
| Species | C. canorus |
20. Egyptian Goose
The Egyptian goose is an African bird belonging to the duck family Anatidae. It is native to Africa but has become popular in other parts of the world as an ornamental bird.
As a result, the species has been introduced into Europe, the United States, and other countries outside of its natural range. These birds are prized for their attractive plumage, which ranges from brown to gray. They also possess distinct orange-colored beaks and feet.
Egyptian geese are also famous for their hardy nature, making them well-suited to various climates. They have adapted to both urban and rural areas and can often be found near bodies of water, such as ponds, lakes, and rivers.
In addition to being kept as pets, Egyptian geese are farmed for their meat and eggs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Alopochen |
| Species | A. aegyptiaca |
21. Eurasian Moorhen
The common moorhen, also known as the waterhen or swamp chicken, is a species of bird belonging to the rail family. It is found in many areas of the Old World, including Europe, Africa, and Asia.
The common moorhen has adapted to living in various wetland habitats, such as marshes, ponds, canals, and other areas rich in vegetation. The bird lives in these areas year-round, establishing nests and raising its young in the protective cover of the wetlands.
The common moorhen is usually found near the water’s edge, where it can feed on aquatic invertebrates, seeds, and other tiny organisms. It is a strong swimmer who can dive underwater with its prey.
The common moorhen is an essential species in many wetlands, as it helps to keep the ecosystem in balance by controlling the population of smaller animals that can otherwise cause damage to the vegetation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Gallinula |
| Species | G. chloropus |
22. European Turtle Dove
The European turtle dove is a species of bird belonging to the Columbidae family, which includes doves and pigeons. It is found in the southwestern Palearctic region, a wide area encompassing much of North Africa, and breeds in this region.
However, come winter, the European turtle dove migrates to northern sub-Saharan Africa to survive the colder temperatures.
This is a common feature of many species of bird, which migrate to warmer climates when temperatures begin to drop in their native habitat.
The European turtle dove is no exception, and its migratory route is a testament to its adaptability and survival instincts.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Streptopelia |
| Species | S. turtur |
23. Four-banded Sandgrouse
The four-banded sandgrouse is a species of bird found in the sandgrouse family. It is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring between 11 and 13 inches long and weighing between 3 and 4 ounces.
This species is found in various habitats, from dry grasslands and shrublands to semi-arid regions and open forests. The four-banded sandgrouse is distinctive, with a light-brown back, white underbelly, and four dark bands across its wings and tail.
The upper parts of its body are usually streaked with grey, and it has a white throat and eyebrow. The four-banded sandgrouse feeds mainly on seeds but also takes insects, especially when breeding.
It usually forages alone or in pairs but may form larger flocks outside the breeding season. This species is known to undertake seasonal migrations for suitable habitats and food sources.
The four-banded sandgrouse is an essential species in its ecosystem, as its diet helps maintain the local plant life balance. It is also a popular species among bird watchers due to its unique appearance and behavior.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pterocliformes |
| Family | Pteroclidae |
| Genus | Pterocles |
| Species | P. quadricinctus |
24. Knob-billed Duck
The knob-billed duck, also known as the African comb duck, is a species found in many parts of the world.
It is generally found in and around tropical and subtropical wetlands and waterways of Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, mainland Indochina, and the island of Madagascar.
This duck species has a distinctive knob-like protuberance on its bill, which is how it got its name.
The scientific and taxonomic classification of the knob-billed duck is in debate, as some authorities believe it is a distinct species from the comb duck, while others believe they are the same species.
The two ducks share many similarities, such as their bill shape, coloring, and habitat. However, their habitat, behavior, and diet differences have caused some to argue that they are separate species.
Therefore, it isn’t easy to classify the knob-billed duck as a distinct species from the comb duck.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Sarkidiornis |
| Species | S. melanotos |
Conclusion
Birds are a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of nature, and they play an essential role in the Komondjari ecosystem. They provide food for other animals, pollinate plants, and disperse seeds.
They also have cultural, spiritual, and aesthetic value to the people of Komondjari. As we strive to protect and conserve the environment, we must recognize the importance of birds and ensure their continued presence in the Komondjari region.