🐦Birds of Tanzania Africa: 9 Stunning Secrets! – EAST

Birds of Tanzania Africa amaze with 9 breathtaking species you must see! Explore the top birding spots via East Africa Travel Company.

Birdwatching

Tanzania is more than just lions and elephants—it’s a birdwatcher’s paradise. With over 1,100 species recorded across its savannas, wetlands, forests, and coastal zones, birds of Tanzania Africa provide an unforgettable display of color, sound, and diversity.

Whether you’re a seasoned ornithologist or a curious traveler, this guide unveils 9 stunning secrets about Tanzania birds, from national icons to elusive species hidden deep within the wild. Let’s explore the feathered wonders of Tanzania and discover the best birding spots along the Tanzania Northern Circuit.

🌍 Why Tanzania Is a Birding Hotspot

Tanzania’s diverse ecosystems—ranging from Serengeti plains and the Ngorongoro Crater to Lake Victoria and Eastern Arc Mountains—host both resident and migratory birds.

Here’s why birds of Tanzania are so special:

• ✅ Over 1,100 bird species across varied habitats
• ✅ Several endemic species unique to Tanzania
• ✅ Iconic birds like the Fischer’s lovebird and Lilac-breasted roller
• ✅ Incredible bird photography opportunities year-round

📍 Top Birding Destinations in Tanzania

🦜 Birds of Tanzania Africa: 9 Stunning Secrets

1️⃣ National Bird of Tanzania – The Grey Crowned Crane

Elegant and majestic, the Grey Crowned Crane is not just the national bird of Tanzania—it’s a symbol of beauty and balance.

• Crown of golden feathers
• Found in wetlands and grasslands
• Featured on the Tanzanian coat of arms

Fun Fact: Grey Crowned Cranes perform elaborate dances during courtship!

2️⃣ Fischer’s Lovebird – Tanzania’s Colorful Endemic

Bright green with a fiery orange face, the Fischer’s Lovebird is endemic to northern Tanzania and a favorite among bird photographers.

• Small, parrot-like species
• Native to areas near Lake Victoria and Arusha
• Popular in Tanzania birds photos collections

3️⃣ Lilac-Breasted Roller – Rainbow on Wings

With shades of blue, green, lilac, and turquoise, the Lilac-Breasted Roller is a vibrant showstopper and a symbol of Africa’s avian beauty.

• Common in open savannas
• Performs aerial acrobatics to catch prey
• Highly photogenic—often featured in Tanzania birds pictures

4️⃣ Secretary Bird – The Snake Slayer

Tall and fierce, the Secretary Bird hunts snakes on foot with sharp talons, making it one of the most fascinating birds in Tanzania.

• Up to 1.3 meters tall
• Iconic for its long legs and quill-like crest
• Seen in Serengeti and Tarangire

5️⃣ African Fish Eagle – The Iconic Call of Africa

Known for its haunting cry and regal posture, the African Fish Eagle is a favorite sight near lakes and rivers.

• White head, dark brown body
• Hunts fish with sharp vision and powerful claws
• Frequently spotted at Lake Manyara and Lake Natron

6️⃣ Superb Starling – The Sparkling Socialite

Don’t let its size fool you—this shimmering blue and orange starling lives up to its name.

• Highly social and vocal
• Common around lodges and campsites
• A beginner-friendly species for first-time birders

7️⃣ Shoebill – The Rare Giant of the Swamps

Elusive and prehistoric-looking, the Shoebill is one of the most sought-after birds in Tanzania Africa.

• Named for its massive shoe-shaped bill
• Found in remote wetlands like Rubondo Island
• A bucket-list bird for serious birdwatchers

8️⃣ Silvery-Cheeked Hornbill – The Big Beak Beauty

With a booming call and striking casque, this hornbill dominates Tanzania’s forest canopy.

• Found in eastern arc forests like Usambara and Uluguru
• Large size and noisy presence make it hard to miss
• A star in Tanzania birds pictures collections

9️⃣ Crowned Eagle – The Forest Hunter

Powerful and stealthy, the Crowned Eagle is one of Africa’s most formidable raptors.

• Known to hunt monkeys and small antelope
• Dense forest habitats—requires patience to spot
• Best seen in Arusha and Kilimanjaro forests

📸 Capturing Tanzania Birds Photos Like a Pro

Want the best birds of Tanzania photos? Here are some photography tips:

• 📷 Use a 300mm+ telephoto lens
• 🕓 Go birding during early morning or late afternoon
• 🐦 Look for birds near waterholes, forest edges, and open skies
• 🤫 Stay quiet and avoid sudden movements

🧭 Best Time to See Birds in Tanzania

✅ Quick Travel Tips for Birding in Tanzania

• 🎒 Bring a field guide or birding app (e.g., Merlin, eBird)
• 🔭 Consider hiring a local bird guide for expert insights
• 🌿 Wear neutral-colored clothes to blend into surroundings
• 📘 Keep a birding journal or checklist

📍 Book Your Tanzania Birding Safari Today!

With East Africa Travel Company, you’ll explore the best birding locations in Tanzania, guided by passionate experts who know where to find these stunning species.

📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 784 411 852
🔗 Visit Us: East Africa Travel Company

🌍 Discover the breathtaking birds of Tanzania Africa and make your next safari a birdwatching adventure of a lifetime!