South Africa has been able to retain the top spot when it comes to game reserves, parks, wildlife, and bird viewing. It is a country that is not only known for its hospitality but a splendid collection of animals as well. From lions to the most exotic birds, everything related to wildlife is here. Apart from the birds already existing in the country, some game reserves and parks also receive visits from migratory birds that adds to the beauty of the area. Reason being, that Africa features a diverse ecosystem along with varying habitats suitable for every specie.
Today, Africa contains around 854 bird species, which is probably the highest in the world. People who visit Africa are blown away by the variety it has to offer especially during the dry season. Therefore, without further wait, let us dive straight into what you can expect from South Africa when it comes to birds.
Ostrich
The South African ostrich is also known as the Cape Ostrich, Black-necked ostrich, or Southern ostrich. At first, you will not be able to tell the difference between a common ostrich and Southern Ostrich. However, the Southern Ostrich is a subspecies of common ostrich, which is only found in South Africa. Today it is farmed for its eggs, meat, and feathers. It is a popular animal around the world that is recognized by its long legs and neck with the entire body covered with black or brown feathers.
Southern Red Bishop
While spending your time in South Africa, it is highly likely that you will come across this amazing bird, the Southern Red Bishop. The Southern Red Bishop is endemic to South Africa and is recognized by its eye-catching black, red & orange color. Furthermore, it is spread throughout the area and therefore, is a common sight. If you really wish to see this bird, you could find them close to water.
Secretary Bird
You cannot make a mistake when it comes to the secretary bird. It is one of the most charismatic bird species in the world. Recognized by its half white and half black feather-covered body, the Secretary bird features long and strong legs that help it run fast. It gets its name from the crest of long feathers used for quill pens in the 19th century for officers who use to tuck them behind their ears. This bird feeds on snakes and other reptiles. Therefore, you will find it amongst the bushes, walking like a secretary.
Cape Vulture
If you were to catch a glimpse of the Cape vulture, you would notice that it is huge. At over 1 meter in length, these birds rule the sky. The Cape vulture is known for its long life span and could live up to 30 years. The amazing thing is that these birds keep only one breeding partner. Unfortunately, the Cape Vulture is severely under threat and has been termed endangered. It features a dark grey color necked with both brown and dark brown feathers.
The Cape Parrot
The Cape Parrot features a very large beak that is used to break all sorts of nuts and fruits. It is a bird species that is endemic to South Africa and only depends on the Yellowwood tree. Therefore, if you wish to catch a sight of these birds, find Yellowwood trees. It feeds on the fruits on the tree’s branches and creates nests there as well. However, due to the diminishing number of Yellowwood trees, the presence of cape parrots has also become scarce. Today, it does not remain as much of a popular sight as it did several years ago.
Martial Eagle
When it comes to the biggest raptor, the Martial Eagle takes the crown. Measuring over 2.6 meters in terms of wingspan, this bird is an excellent predator. Its biggest weapon is its eyes that could spot prey from the sky even if it is 5 KM away. Furthermore, it features a very strong body with razor-sharp claws to grab and lift preys weighing up to 8 kg. It tends to be a shy animal and therefore is seldom seen in South Africa. However, it is widespread and could only be observed from a distance.
Blue Crane
Also known as the paradise crane and the Stanley crane, the Blue Crane is the national bird of South Africa. It is a beautiful sky blue colored bird with thick feathers covering its body. Although cranes tend to be large birds but the blue crane is comparatively smaller. Blue Cranes are migratory birds but little is known about their migration paths. Furthermore, their feed mainly consists of sedges and grass or other food items depending on what is available in the proximity of their nests. Furthermore, they also prey on grasshoppers, snails, frogs, and small lizards.
Giant kingfisher
Talk about exotic birds and the Giant kingfisher rings a bell. Evident from its name, the Giant kingfisher is the biggest amongst Kingfishers in South Africa. It is identified by its long black beak with the body covered with black feathers with white spots on them. Furthermore, its chest features brownish color with a slim overall body. It feeds on frogs, fish, and crabs, etc. Since it is a small bird, you will need to have an eagle’s eye to spot it on trees and branches.
Knysna turaco
The Knysnaturaco is as exotic as it sounds. It features a green color on its neck and a combination of both light and dark blue colors on its body. Due to its color, it is almost invisible in the trees, unless it makes a movement. Furthermore, it feeds on insects, fruits, and earthworms. The Knysnaturaco is the only specie amongst turacos that contains true red and green color. Otherwise, most color you see on birds is due to their feather reflection. The Knysnaturaco uses its red color to escape from predators. The predators tend to follow the most visible colors. Once the Knysnaturaco folds its wings, the red color disappears, allowing it so escape without being seen.
African Penguin
Also known as the South African penguin or the Cape Penguin, the African penguin is only found in South African waters. Suited to marine habitats, it cannot fly and features a body with a white and black color combination. Furthermore, it is recognizable by pink patches above the eyes. Feeding on squid and fish, the African penguin is endangered due to a rapid decrease in population. It is a charismatic bird specie, which is friendly around humans.
Final Word
As the article reaches its conclusion, we are sure to have mentioned the most famous and popular birds of South Africa. These birds are in full swing during the dry season as it is the best time for feeding and laying eggs. Birds such as cranes and eagles are easier to spot as compared to smaller types such as Kingfishers but still, you will get to see a lot of them while you are in South Africa. Make sure to not come too close, as you will freak them out.