The Serengeti National Park is not only home to the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras, but it also hosts a spectacular migration of birds from across the world. With over 500 bird species, the Serengeti is a critical stopover and wintering ground for migratory birds from Europe, Asia, and other parts of Africa. These birds arrive in the park between September and April, making this the best time for birdwatching enthusiasts to witness rare and seasonal avian visitors.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best times to see migratory birds, the most notable species, their migratory routes, and the best locations in Serengeti to spot them.
1. Understanding Bird Migration in Serengeti
Why Do Birds Migrate to the Serengeti?
Bird migration is driven by seasonal changes in food availability, weather, and breeding conditions. The Serengeti provides:
- Warmer temperatures in the Southern Hemisphere during the northern winter.
- Rich feeding grounds, especially after the short and long rainy seasons.
- Wetlands and seasonal pools, which attract aquatic migratory species.
When Do Migratory Birds Arrive?
The best months to see migratory birds in Serengeti are:
- September – October: Early arrivals from Europe and Asia start appearing.
- November – March: Peak migration season, with birds fully settled in for winter.
- April – May: Birds start their northward return migration, but some remain.
2. Notable Migratory Birds in Serengeti
A. Eurasian Migrants (From Europe and Asia)
Many birds migrate from Europe and Central Asia to escape the harsh winter, traveling thousands of kilometers to reach the Serengeti.
1. White Stork (Ciconia ciconia)
- Migration Route: Breeds in Europe and migrates south via the Middle East.
- Best Places to Spot: Open grasslands near Seronera and the Grumeti River.
- Behavior: Often seen in large flocks, feeding on insects and small vertebrates.
2. Lesser Spotted Eagle (Clanga pomarina)
- Migration Route: From Eastern Europe and Russia, flying through Turkey and Sudan.
- Best Places to Spot: Woodland edges near Lobo Hills and Moru Kopjes.
- Behavior: Hunts small mammals and birds while soaring over the savannah.
3. Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)
- Migration Route: Breeds in Europe and Asia, winters in Africa.
- Best Places to Spot: Found throughout the Serengeti, especially near lakes and waterholes.
- Behavior: Feeds on flying insects, often seen in large flocks skimming over water.
4. European Roller (Coracias garrulus)
- Migration Route: From southern Europe and western Asia, flying across the Sahara Desert.
- Best Places to Spot: Common in central Serengeti, near Acacia woodlands.
- Behavior: Perches on branches before swooping to catch insects.
5. Common Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus)
- Migration Route: Travels from Europe and Asia, reaching Serengeti by October.
- Best Places to Spot: Seronera woodlands and riverine forests.
- Behavior: Famous for laying eggs in the nests of other birds.
B. Intra-African Migrants
These birds migrate within the African continent, moving between West, East, and Southern Africa, depending on rainfall and food availability.
6. Amur Falcon (Falco amurensis)
- Migration Route: Breeds in Mongolia and China, then crosses India and Africa to winter in Serengeti.
- Best Places to Spot: Near short-grass plains in the eastern Serengeti.
- Behavior: Small falcon that hunts flying insects on the wing.
7. African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis)
- Migration Route: Moves between East and Southern Africa.
- Best Places to Spot: Riverine forests along the Mara and Grumeti Rivers.
- Behavior: Stunning long-tailed bird that catches insects mid-air.
8. Yellow-billed Stork (Mycteria ibis)
- Migration Route: Moves between southern Africa, East Africa, and the Sahel region.
- Best Places to Spot: Wetlands and marshes in western Serengeti.
- Behavior: Uses its long bill to catch fish and amphibians.
9. Woodland Kingfisher (Halcyon senegalensis)
- Migration Route: Migrates from West and Central Africa to East Africa.
- Best Places to Spot: Seronera woodlands and near seasonal rivers.
- Behavior: Bright blue bird that hunts insects and small fish.
10. Abdim’s Stork (Ciconia abdimii)
- Migration Route: Moves from Sahel regions to East and Southern Africa.
- Best Places to Spot: Short-grass plains and riverbanks.
- Behavior: Often seen foraging with other wading birds.
3. Best Places to See Migratory Birds in Serengeti
While migratory birds are found throughout the park, some key areas offer higher concentrations due to water availability and vegetation cover.
A. Seronera Valley (Central Serengeti)
- Best for: Raptors, cuckoos, rollers, and flycatchers.
- Why: Mix of woodlands, grasslands, and seasonal water sources.
B. Grumeti River (Western Serengeti)
- Best for: Storks, kingfishers, and waterbirds.
- Why: Permanent water attracts waders and fish-eating birds.
C. Lobo Hills (Northern Serengeti)
- Best for: Eagles, falcons, and woodland species.
- Why: Rocky cliffs and acacia woodlands provide excellent nesting grounds.
D. Gol Kopjes (Eastern Serengeti)
- Best for: Sandpipers, falcons, and open-country migrants.
- Why: Short-grass plains with scattered rocks.
E. Mara River (Far North Serengeti)
- Best for: Swallows, bee-eaters, and river-associated species.
- Why: Permanent water and surrounding vegetation.
4. Best Time for Birdwatching in Serengeti
The ideal time for birdwatching migratory birds in Serengeti is:
- November – April: Peak migration season with high bird diversity.
- Early mornings (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM): Best time to see active songbirds and raptors.
- Late afternoons (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Good for waterbirds and large flocks gathering before roosting.
5. Tips for Spotting Migratory Birds
- Bring Binoculars & a Field Guide: Helps in identifying distant species.
- Go with a Birding Guide: Local guides know the best locations and sounds of migratory birds.
- Visit Water Sources: Most migratory birds congregate near rivers, lakes, and marshes.
- Be Patient & Quiet: Some species are skittish and prefer undisturbed areas.
- Use a Camera with a Zoom Lens: Helps capture small, distant birds in flight.
Final Thoughts: Why Serengeti is a Must-Visit for Bird Migration Enthusiasts
The Serengeti National Park is one of the best birdwatching destinations in Africa, offering a spectacular display of migratory birds from all over the world. Whether you’re searching for rare Eurasian migrants like the White Stork and Lesser Spotted Eagle, or intra-African travelers like the Amur Falcon and Woodland Kingfisher, the Serengeti delivers an unforgettable birding experience.
If you’re a serious birder or a casual wildlife lover, visiting Serengeti during the migration season will reveal a side of the park that few people take the time to appreciate—a world filled with wings, colors, and song.