Kruger National Park (KNP) is one of the premier birding destinations in Africa, known for its rich biodiversity and vast landscapes. Spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometres, the park hosts over 500 bird species.
Birding in Kruger during the winter months, which span from May to September, provides several benefits. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, with less humidity and fewer insects to contend with, which is ideal for spending long hours outdoors. Safarilink offers Kruger National Park transfers to help you spot the park’s incredible diversity of animals.
The park’s vegetation is also less dense during this time, making it easier to spot birds. Water sources become scarce, drawing birds to rivers, dams, and waterholes, where they are more easily observed. In this article, we will list some bird species you can see when winter birdwatching in Kruger National Park
Types of Birds You Will See in Kruger National Park in Winter
Lilac-breasted Roller
The Lilac-breasted Roller, with its vibrant plumage of blue, green, and lilac, is one of the most iconic birds in Kruger. These birds are often seen perched conspicuously on treetops, utility poles, or other high vantage points, where they hunt for insects and small prey.
During winter, they are more easily spotted due to the sparser foliage. They are commonly found in open savanna areas and along the park’s many roads.
Southern Ground Hornbill
Southern Ground Hornbills are large, striking birds known for their distinctive black plumage and bright red facial skin. These birds are often found in small family groups as they forage on the ground for small mammals, reptiles, and insects.
During winter, they are more active and tend to cover greater distances while foraging, making it a good time to see them. They are typically seen in open grasslands and woodlands, where they walk slowly, scanning the ground for prey.
Their deep, booming calls can also be heard echoing through the bush.
Kori Bustard
The Kori Bustard is the heaviest flying bird native to Africa and can often be seen in the open savannas of Kruger. These birds are known for their slow, deliberate movements and their ability to blend into their surroundings.
During winter, the lack of tall grasses makes them easier to spot as they forage for seeds, insects, and small vertebrates. Birders can often find them in areas with short grass, particularly near water sources.
Bateleur Eagle
The Bateleur Eagle, with its distinctive short tail and colourful underwing patterns, is a frequent sight in Kruger’s skies.
These eagles are often seen soaring gracefully over open areas, hunting for birds, small mammals, and carrion. During winter, thermals are stronger, which helps these eagles soar effortlessly for hours in search of food.
They are commonly found near riverbeds and waterholes, where they take advantage of the increased visibility to hunt more effectively.
African Fish Eagle
The African Fish Eagle is another majestic bird often seen in Kruger, particularly near rivers and water bodies.
With its distinctive white head, chestnut body, and piercing call, it is a favourite among birdwatchers. In winter, as water levels drop, fish become more concentrated in the remaining pools, making them easier prey.
African Fish Eagles are often perched on high branches overlooking water, ready to swoop down and catch a fish with their powerful talons.
Burchell’s Starling
Burchell’s Starling, with its iridescent blue-green feathers, is a common sight in Kruger during winter. These starlings are highly social birds, often found in small flocks as they forage on the ground.
They are usually seen in savanna and woodland areas, especially near campsites and picnic spots, where they have become accustomed to human presence. In winter, their bold colours stand out against the dry, brown landscape, making them easier to spot.
