Birding Safari – Birds of KenyaBirds of Kenya
Kenya has 1089 bird species, 11% of the world heritage, 60% of the entire African birdlife, and is one of the best birdwatching destinations in the world.
Kenya’s common birds are easily identifiable by color, behavior, size or habitat. Certainly what is considered a common bird in one area, could be vulnerable to all effects in another.
Bird species may also be available in a particular season: for example Widowbirds will be much easier to find in mature seed grasslands. Likewise the Sunbirds are active with new flowers and European migrants are in the African hinterland as they escape the harsh winter.
Kenya Bird Checklist, lists all bird species found in Kenya, and is based on the most up to date information available.
Jackson’s Widow – Jackson’s Widowbird – ( Euplectes jacksoni ) is a small bird that looks pretty boring for most of the year; brown streaked plumage, pink feet and beak.
However, during the breeding season the male turns into a more seductive specimen in an attempt to attract a partner. The males develop a glossy black plumage, except for a brownish spot on the shoulders and a bright blue-gray beak. They also develop a beautiful curled tail, about 20 centimeters long, and a shiny black collar.
The male, which is about 40% heavier than the female, exhibits her new and showy plumage in a bizarre and elaborate jumping contest to attract the boring females, who have brownish-yellow plumage and a short tail all year round . Throwing the head back and arching the tail feathers, the male makes repeated jumps, up to a meter high, accompanied by a tinkling line.
Demanding females will choose a mating partner based on the length of her tail and her performance. Moreover, the preference will fall on the male who jumps not only higher, but also jumps longer.
Jackson’s widow is located in the highlands of western and central Kenya (eg the Masai Mara Reserve) and in the highlands of Ngorongoro in northern Tanzania.
IBC Internet Bird Collection
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I wish everyone to be able to live a safari in this country at the roots of life, not forgetting all the surrounding environment.
