Komondjari is home to some of the most diverse and beautiful bird species in the world. With a wide variety of habitats ranging from wetlands, savannas, and forests, this region is a bird-watcher’s paradise.
There are over 450 species of birds that 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.
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 mostly brown on its upper body and grey on its head and underparts. This species of bird is adapted for catching fish with its sharp talons and powerful wings. It is able to spot its prey from the sky, then swoop down and capture it with its feet.
It has special feathers that are waterproof and 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 one of 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 been declining 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 species of bird that is 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 its 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 around the world 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, which is a large group of seabirds found near waterways across the world.
They are predominantly black in color, making them easy to spot in their natural habitats. The great cormorant has a long, slender body, with a blackish-brown head and neck, and a yellowish-green patch on its throat.
They are typically found near large bodies of water, where they feed on fish and other aquatic life. They have long wings, which they use to dive into the water for food. They are also known to 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 that is native to the Eurosiberian region.
This species of duck is easily recognizable by its distinctive reddish-brown feathers that cover its body.
Its scientific name, Aythya nyroca, is derived from Greek aithuia, which was an unidentified seabird mentioned by authors such as Hesychius and Aristotle, and nyrok, which is the Russian name for a duck. The ferruginous duck is a rather shy bird that prefers to spend its time in wetlands and shallow water areas.
It is capable of diving deep underwater in order to find food such as aquatic insects, mollusks, and small fish. This species of duck is migratory and will migrate to warmer areas when winter approaches.
The ferruginous duck is considered to be vulnerable due to its dwindling population, which is a result of habitat loss, hunting, and other human activities. Conservation efforts have been put in place in order 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

Source: ebird.org
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 to be a medium-sized bird.
It is widely recognized in the Afrikaans language, where it is 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, meaning that it feeds on both 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 important part of the African ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations and assists in the dispersal of 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, which is 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, as well as its large, spur-like wings. It is also known for its loud honking call.
The Spur-winged Goose is an important 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, belonging to 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 special 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, which is known for its long, curved beaks.
This species is one of the most widely distributed of its kind, breeding in subarctic regions of Asia and Europe, stretching all the way 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 are incubated by both parents.
These birds migrate each year, 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 near 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 species of bird that belongs to the large-bodied genus Ardeotis. It is found across the Sahel region of Africa and southwestern Arabia, making it a fairly widespread species.
Despite its wide range, it remains relatively unknown, with little research having been done on the species. Despite its relative obscurity, the Arabian bustard appears to have many characteristics similar to other species in the Ardeotis genus.
It is a large-bodied bird with predominantly brown plumage and is commonly found in open grassland and savanna habitats. Its diet is mostly composed of insects, small mammals, and other invertebrates, however, it has been observed to occasionally consume seeds and fruit.
Given its wide range and large size, the Arabian bustard has an important 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, meaning it travels long distances to find a suitable place for breeding.
Once breeding is complete, the grey plover can be found in coastal areas all over the world. This species of plover is an important 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 a source of food for larger predators, such as hawks, owls, and eagles.
The grey plover is also an important species for shorebird conservation, as they are among the most threatened shorebird species in the world. Overall, the grey plover is an important part of the global ecosystem and is 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 interesting species of bird that belongs to the family Phasianidae. It is native to Africa, specifically the countries of 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 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 of its 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 important species in its native habitats. It is an indicator of the health of its environment and a prey species for larger predators.
It plays an important 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 in 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 ‘takhus’ meaning ‘fast’ and ‘bapto’ meaning ‘to sink under’.
The species’ name, ruficollis, is made up of two Latin words: ‘Rufus’ meaning ‘red’, and ‘collis’ meaning ‘necked’. This term was derived 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 simply referred to as the “pigeon”. This species serves as the ancestor of the domestic pigeon, which is found in many households around the world.
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 a familiar sight in cities around the world, 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 largely brown in color with a distinct raised tail, which is often held high. It is commonly found in scrubland and lightly wooded habitats, often in close proximity to rocks.
This species can be found in a range of 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, with 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 a wide variety of seeds, insects, and small invertebrates, and they will also occasionally eat fruits and berries.
They are mostly ground-dwellers, but they will also perch on low branches and forage on the ground. These birds are not considered to be migratory, although they will sometimes move seasonally to different habitats.
They are quite vocal and can be heard making a loud cackling call. The call is most often heard in the morning and evening, but they will also call during the day. Overall, the Stone Partridge is a unique and interesting species of bird found in Africa.
They are fairly common in their range and are not threatened by extinction, although their numbers may be declining 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 very common and widespread species throughout its range and can be found in open habitats like parks, gardens, and fields. It is an adaptable bird that is able to survive in a variety of environments.
However, there are some areas of Africa where the Speckled Pigeon is not as common, and there are gaps in its distribution. This could be due to the lack of suitable habitat, or because of human activities that are disrupting the bird’s habitat.
Kingdom | Animalia |
Phylum | Chordata |
Class | Aves |
Order | Columbiformes |
Family | Columbidae |
Genus | Columba |
Species | C. guinea |
18. Blue Quail

Source: shootingsportsman.com
The Blue Quail, or African Blue Quail, is a species of bird that belongs to the family Phasianidae. This species of quail is native to sub-Saharan Africa, where it is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and savannas.
The Blue Quail is a small bird, measuring approximately 20 cm in length. Its feathers are predominantly blue-grey, with darker shades on the wings and back. Its head has a characteristic 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, with its range extending 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 quite unique and complex.
During the summer months, the bird will make its way 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.
By consuming large amounts of insects, it helps to keep the insect population under control. It is also an important pollinator, as it feeds 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 an important role in the ecosystem and is a symbol of 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 in color from brown to gray. They also possess distinct orange-colored beaks and feet.
Egyptian geese are also popular for their hardy nature, which makes them well-suited to living in a variety of 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 also 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 a variety of wetland habitats, such as marshes, ponds, canals, and other areas that are 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 small organisms. It is a strong swimmer, and it is able to dive underwater in order to catch its prey.
The common moorhen is an important 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 that encompasses much of North Africa, and breeds in this region.
However, come winter, the European turtle dove migrates to northern sub-Saharan Africa in order 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

Source: ebird.org
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 in length and weighing between 3 and 4 ounces.
This species is found in a wide variety of habitats, from dry grasslands and shrublands to semi-arid regions and open forests. The four-banded sandgrouse has a distinctive appearance, with a light-brown back and 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 of the breeding season. This species is known to undertake seasonal migrations in search of suitable habitats and food sources.
The four-banded sandgrouse is an important species in its ecosystem, as its diet helps to maintain the balance of the local plant life. 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 of duck that is 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, and mainland Indochina, as well as the island of Madagascar.
This species of duck 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 a lot of similarities, such as their bill shape, coloring, and habitat. However, their differences in habitat, behavior, and diet have caused some to argue that they are separate species.
Therefore, it is difficult to definitively 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 important 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, it is important to recognize the importance of birds and ensure their continued presence in the Komondjari region.