At dawn, Nairobi National Park comes alive with a wide variety of bird species, as this time of day is optimal for foraging, calling, and engaging in social activities. Birds are most active in the early morning when temperatures are cooler, and many species take advantage of the first light to search for food, establish territories, and communicate through calls and songs. Below is a list of species that are particularly active at dawn in Nairobi National Park:
1. African Fish-Eagle (Icthyophaga vocifer)
- This iconic bird is often heard calling at dawn. Its distinctive call echoes over the park’s wetlands and rivers as it begins its day of hunting for fish or scavenging.
2. Superb Starling (Lamprotornis superbus)
- Starlings are highly vocal and active at dawn, moving in flocks to forage for insects, fruits, and seeds. Their metallic calls are commonly heard in the early morning.
3. Speckled Pigeon (Columba guinea)
- These pigeons are early risers and can be seen flying in small groups at dawn, heading to feeding areas. Their soft cooing is often heard at first light.
4. Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus)
- Known for its vibrant colors and acrobatic flights, the Lilac-breasted Roller becomes active at dawn, perched on treetops looking for insects and small prey.
5. Crested Francolin (Ortygornis sephaena)
- These ground-dwelling birds are active in the early morning, foraging for seeds and insects. Their calls can often be heard at dawn in the grasslands and scrub areas of the park.
6. African Grey Hornbill (Lophoceros nasutus)
- These hornbills are quite active at dawn, moving between trees and calling loudly to communicate with their mates or mark their territory.
7. Rüppell’s Starling (Lamprotornis purpuroptera)
- Another active starling species, Rüppell’s Starling is often seen in small flocks at dawn, searching for insects and other food sources.
8. Yellow-throated Longclaw (Macronyx croceus)
- Known for its striking yellow throat and melodious dawn songs, the Yellow-throated Longclaw is typically seen in open grasslands. Its song is a familiar sound during the early hours.
9. Fork-tailed Drongo (Dicrurus adsimilis)
- These birds are early risers, known for their active foraging and agility. Drongos are often seen at dawn catching insects in mid-air and calling out with their varied vocalizations.
10. African Paradise-Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis)
- Active at first light, this elegant bird can be seen darting through foliage, catching insects. Its graceful tail and bright colors make it a favorite for early-morning birdwatchers.
11. Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis)
- Along the park’s rivers and wetlands, Pied Kingfishers are active at dawn, hovering over the water and diving for fish as soon as daylight breaks.
12. Augur Buzzard (Buteo augur)
- As a diurnal raptor, the Augur Buzzard is often seen taking flight at dawn to begin its day of hunting for small mammals and birds.
13. White-bellied Go-away-bird (Crinifer leucogaster)
- This species is particularly vocal at dawn, calling loudly from treetops. It is a social bird, often moving in small groups to forage for fruits and leaves.
14. Kori Bustard (Ardeotis kori) [NT]
- These large, ground-dwelling birds are more likely to be spotted at dawn when they are most active, foraging for insects, small mammals, and seeds in the grasslands.
15. Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris)
- These birds are highly active in the early morning, moving in groups across the park’s open areas, foraging for insects and seeds.
16. Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu (Uraeginthus bengalus)
- Small but conspicuous, the Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu is active at dawn, moving between shrubs and grass to forage for seeds and small insects.
17. Common Bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus)
- One of the most vocal birds at dawn, the Common Bulbul is often heard singing from tree branches as it begins its day of foraging.
18. Eastern Violet-backed Sunbird (Anthreptes orientalis)
- These small, colorful birds are very active at dawn, moving from flower to flower in search of nectar. Their high-pitched calls can be heard in the early morning.
19. Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus) [EN]
- This majestic bird of prey is often seen soaring above the park at dawn, using the cool morning air currents to begin its search for food.
20. Gray Crowned-Crane (Balearica regulorum) [EN]
- Known for its graceful movements, this iconic bird is often seen foraging in wetlands at dawn, looking for insects and small animals in the soft morning light.
Why Birds are Most Active at Dawn
Birds are generally most active at dawn due to several reasons:
- Cooler Temperatures: The cool early morning temperatures make it an ideal time for birds to engage in physically demanding activities such as foraging and flying.
- Abundant Prey: Insects and other small animals that birds feed on are more active during cooler periods, making it easier for birds to hunt.
- Territorial Display: Dawn is when many birds sing and call to mark their territories and attract mates, making it the prime time for vocal communication.
In conclusion, dawn is one of the best times to experience the rich birdlife in Nairobi National Park, as many species are highly active and visible during this period. Birdwatchers can expect to hear a symphony of bird calls and see numerous species foraging, singing, and engaging in social behaviors.