Written by Nina van Zyl

Birdwatchers, birders, or twitchers. No matter what they’re called, there’s one thing that’s for sure: spotting unique birds is a snap in the Zambezi Region of Namibia. That’s why we’ve put together this handy little list of the top 10 birds to photograph in the Zambezi Region and where to find them. Yes, photograph. That way, you’ll have proof it wasn’t just some beautiful feathery dream. 

1. Lilac-breasted Roller

The Lilac-breasted Roller is one stunning fellow. And what makes this bird even better to photograph is the fact that they love sitting oh-so-pretty on an exposed branch, watching the world around them while you get shot after shot after shot. Even better, try to get one where they’re perched with an insect in their beak for lunch, or when they're in flight. The Lilac-breasted Roller is ubiquitous in Namibia and can be found almost everywhere. 

2. African Fish Eagle

The characteristic call of the African Fish Eagle is synonymous with the African bush, and with its white head and neck and dark mantle, it is unlikely to be confused with any other species. These stealthy hunters have perfect eye-sight that helps them catch fish right out of the water, and you might be lucky enough to see them flying low with their prey caught in their claws. The African Fish Eagle spends most of its time perched in large trees alongside water sources, which gives you ample opportunity to get the best shot. Found throughout the Zambezi along waterways. 

3. Southern Carmine Bee-eater

The Southern Carmine Bee-eater is the largest African bee-eater and, with its striking pinkish-red plumage, is unmissable. These lovely creatures have their breeding grounds in the Zambezi, burrowing tunnels into river banks in large colonies to lay their eggs between August and December. This is the best time to catch these guys as photographing the dense colony as they fly overhead or perch in their droves is unforgettable. Catch them at Katima Mulilo or along the myriad riverways during their breeding season.

4. Half-Collared Kingfisher

Coloured with a stunning cobalt blue on its back, with bright vermillion red feet and legs, this diminutive Kingfisher has a distinctive black bill, which sets it apart from other similar species, like the Malachite Kingfisher. Although widespread, the Half-Collared Kingfisher is uncommon and is regarded as Near-Threatened. You might be able to spot them on Impalila Island while they are perched motionless on a low rock alongside a fast-flowing stream or perhaps flying overhead while making a high-pitched call.

5. Pel’s Fishing Owl

These large owls were once quite common in the area but they are now regarded as vulnerable. Monogamous pairs are often close together but hunt separately. You might have a chance of spotting one at dusk when they come out onto an open perch overlooking the water. They’re known to wade into the water to bathe. Look out for them in the Mahango Game Reserve or on Impalila Island. 

6. Collared Sunbird 

Bright metallic green with a yellow underbelly, the name of these birds belies their eye-catching appearance. Found in pairs, they are pretty curious and excitable and not challenging to see and photograph in the Zambezi Region. Also, be on the lookout for the rare Shelley’s Sunbird, which has been recorded just south of the Zambezi River, frequenting the tall miombo woodland of the area. You might spot these birds, singly or in pairs, during a stay in Katima Mulilo. 

7. Schalow’s Turaco

The Schalow’s Turaco seem like the original rockers of the bird world, what with their stunning eye “makeup” and white-tipped crests. Not to mention their lovely green colouring and violet-blue tails. These birds were made to be photographed and are common enough along the Zambezi River to do so, especially in Katima Mulilo or on Impalila Island. 

8. Wattled Crane 

The Wattled Crane is an elegant bird set apart from other cranes by its large size and white neck and upper breast. It does, however, associate with Grey Crowned Cranes. Unfortunately, these birds are Critically Endangered but can still be found along the Kwando River, singly or in pairs, or even in great flocks. Listen out for the synchronised duet of breeding pairs, a deep kah-eee.

9. African Openbill

This relatively small stork is famous for its strange bill, which is uniquely shaped with a conspicuous gap, from which it gets its name. The African Openbill’s open bill is specially adapted to get its prey, small molluscs and the like, from their shells. These birds are not difficult to find, and you should spot them in Katima Mulilo or on Impalila Island to start. 

10. Trumpeter Hornbill

What a dramatic bird, the Trumpeter Hornbill. With a large casque, the structure on top of its beak, it makes it seem as if this hornbill has two bills, one on top of the other. Then there’s its dramatic white and black plumage, together with its red facial skin. These birds are easy to find if you follow their loud, nasal calls to where they are probably snacking on fruits in the trees. Common to the tip of the Zambezi, be on the lookout for them in Katima Mulilo. 

Bonus: African Jacana and Lesser Jacana 

Let’s just put it out there: the African Jacana is stunning. Period. The Lesser Jacana does not sport the flashy plumage of its more famous cousin, the African Jacana, but it nonetheless deserves its place on this list. The smallest of the Jacana family, and Near-Threatened, too, these little guys can be easily confused with the juvenile African Jacana, except that they have a rufous crown and forecrown, plus a darker back. Found foraging in pairs around Impalila Island, it’s best to approach these shy creatures by boat, as they will quickly fly off otherwise. Both can be found throughout the region.

It’s clear there are tons of spectacular birds to see and photograph in the Zambezi Region. Get on it and start planning your trip to Namibia with Viatu today.