Birds in Africa

Bird species of Africa

These include songbirds, birds of prey, migratory birds, and marsh and water birds. About 1,300 of these bird species are found in Africa only for breeding or as migrants during the winter months. Among the most beautiful bird species native to Africa are certainly the colorful roller bird, the small and delicate sunbird, the African hoopoe, and the European robin. Particularly beautifully patterned plumage is found on the yellow-billed hornbill and the secretary bird, both of which are native to Kruger National Park. Among the most colorful parrots is the crimson and partly leather-colored Knysna loerie, which, as its name suggests, is primarily found in the forests of Knysna. In these vast forests grow numerous wild fruits, which this parrot bird needs for its diet.

Pelicans, storks, flamingos, and cormorants can be found in almost all of Africa, having adapted optimally to the continent's very warm habitats. The biggest problem facing Africa's birds is not food, but obtaining sufficient water. Especially in deserts and forested areas, there are few bodies of water that are also visited by larger animals. For this reason, some bird species have found their own ways to ensure they get enough water, including collecting morning dew and the so-called "dry sleep."

Desert birds

Birds in Africa's deserts have also adapted to the prevailing climatic conditions there. Some bird species can remain active in search of food even at a body temperature of about 41 degrees Celsius. This high body temperature is regulated by special, very rapid breathing techniques. Nevertheless, Africa's desert birds prefer to search for food during the very early morning hours and the evening. To endure the intense heat as best as possible, these birds retreat to shady spots to sleep during the day.

Kingfishers

It is a common misconception that no kingfishers make their home in Africa. Numerous species of kingfishers can also be found in Africa's warm regions, with the kingfisher being one of the most well-known. If you are on safari in Africa and have the opportunity to observe a kingfisher, you will immediately notice its unique method of catching fish. The kingfisher can hover almost motionless above the water's surface for hours, watching the fish. When a fish is spotted, an almost unparalleled spectacle begins. The kingfisher shoots straight down into the water as if on command and catches its prey with its saber-shaped beak beneath the surface. This process lasts only a few seconds, because as soon as the kingfisher has its prey in its beak, it shoots back out of the water just as quickly into the airy heights.