LANIUS BIRD TOURS KENYA. BIRDS & MAMMALS 19 th 30 th NOV 2012

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1 LANIUS BIRD TOURS KENYA BIRDS & MAMMALS 19 th 30 th NOV 2012 Leaders Dave Read Local Guide Joseph Mwangi Participants Derek & Molly Beech Dickie & Doreen Bird Doreen Marsh Tony Lowry Arthur Read

2 Red & Yellow Barbet Samburu NR 25 th Nov Grey Crowned Crane Baringo 30 th Nov Golden Pipit Buffalo Springs NR 25 th Nov 2

3 Itinerary Day 1 After a trouble free direct flight from London Heathrow we arrived in Nairobi on time just a little before 22:00. We were met at the airport by our local guide Joseph Mwangi and drivers Steve and Jeffrey and quickly moved to the Nairobi Fairview Hotel for a welcomed good night s sleep ready for the following day. Day 2 Nicely rested, we set out to spend the full day in Nairobi National Park just a few kilometres from the city centre. Birding started however before we had travelled even this short distance with Variable & Amethyst Sunbirds, Hamerkop, Pied Crow, Olive Thrush and Black Kite all noted in the hotel grounds. Even a quick stop at a local supermarket to pick up lunch was productive with several Marabou Storks roosting in the acacia trees by the road. Overhead large numbers of Little Swifts were noted and we found the first of many Superb Starlings. An adult African Harrier Hawk was also noted nearby. Once at the park new birds were plentifull. Driving through a wooded section our first stop produced White-bellied Tit, Cinnamon-breasted Bee-eater, Yellow-breasted Apalis, Spot-flanked Barbet, Black & White Manakin, African Citril and Pintail Whydah along with Black Saw-wing and several African White-backed Vulture s overhead. Further stops in the wooded area were equally productive with Black-backed Puffback, Red-fronted Crombec and Grey-backed Camaroptera amongst the more notable species. The star here though was without doubt a pair of Hartlaub s Turaco which gave good views both perched and in flight, revealing the dazzling crimson wings. Nearing the end of the forested area we headed into the Kenyan Wildlife Service (KWS) Mess Centre, where we could search for more woodland species on foot. Again this proved rewarding with Purple Grenadier, African Paridise Flycatcher, Baglafecht Weaver and Abyssinian White-eye noted. We also had our only Pale Flycatcher of the tour here. While a few palarctic migrants including Tree Pipit, Nightingale, Spotted Flycatcher and Olivaceous Warbler were more familiar sights. At this point mammals also began to feature with Olive Baboon, Vervet Monkey and Warthog all inside the compound as well as the tiny Suni hiding in the bushes just outside the gates. Moving on we stopped for another short stroll at the Ivory Burning Site Monument where we found our only African Yellow Warbler and enjoyed good views of African Green Pigeon, Rufous Sparrow and Bronze Sunbird. Further on we stopped to admire a few Red-collared Widowbirds which were in full breeding plumage, noting both Rock and Plain Martins at the same time. We then visited a large pool, which itself didn t hold many birds although Three-banded Plover and Egyptian Goose were noted at the waters edge. It did however provide us with our first Hippopotamus. Nearby a Rufous-naped Lark was found and our first Bateleur drifted effortlessly over. We then headed out into open grassland where we almost immediately we started seeing more game. Eland, Impala and Cokes Hartebeest were all noted along with several Cape Buffalo, many of which accompanied by small numbers of Red-billed Oxpecker. However the highlight for many was the very obliging Masai Giraffe right by the roadside. Birds were also numerous here and included both Common and Long-tailed Fiscals, Isabelline Shrike and Saddle-billed Stork as well as Winding, Singing and Stout Cisticola s. Lunch was taken by another pool which provided excellent birding as we ate. The muddy edge held African Spoonbill, Sacred Ibis and Blacksmiths Plover, while in the reeds lurked Little Rush Warbler and at least three Black Crakes, the latter often venturing into the open where they gave excellent views. Meanwhile in the air many hirundines and swifts streamed over, including White-rumped and African Palm Swifts, although perhaps the highlight was our first Tawny Eagle. After lunch we continued further into the park, travelling over vast areas of grassland, though the cities skyline was never far away. Highlights included Common Ostrich, Helmeted Guineafowl, White-bellied Bustard, Whitebrowed Coucal, Little Bee-eater, Diderick Cuckoo, Speckled Mousebird, Northern Pied Babbler, Cinnamonbreasted Rock Bunting and our first Secretary Bird. We also had excellent views of Black Rhino and as we were leaving another close encounter with two Masai Giraffe. Common Ostrich 3

4 Day 3 The day started similarly to the previous with a little birding around the grounds of the Fairview Hotel where birds included Speckled Pigeon, a distant Shikra and a Black Kite of the African race M.m.parasiticus (Yellow-billed Kite). Leaving Nairobi behind, we started on our journey north to Mount Kenya, with a few stops along the way. The first scheduled stop was Thika sewage pools though we did stop briefly beforehand when a White-winged Widowbird was found by the roadside, with a flock of c40 Red-billed Quealia also located nearby. Turning off the main road onto a track down to the pools we were almost immediately rewarded with a couple of Intermediate Egrets while further on we found Speke's Weaver, our first Fischer's Sparrow-lark and our only Hildebrandt's Starling. We then decided to walk over to an area of Scrub before walking down to the pools, this proved to be hugely rewarding with excellent views of D Arnaud s Barbet, White-headed Barbet, Slate-coloured Boubou, Ring-necked Dove, Brimstone Canary and our only African Golden Weaver. D Arnaud s Barbet Once at the pools we spent a little time birding the gardens at either side of the entrance gates which produced Grey Woodpecker, Grey-capped Warbler and our only Red-faced Cisticola. On the pools were large numbers of Sacred Ibis and about 20 White-faced Whistling-ducks. As expected there were also a good mix of waders with perhaps Marsh Sandpiper, Spotted Redshank and Curlew Sandpiper the most noteworthy. Further on another pool held a good variety of wildfowl including Yellow-billed Duck, Red-billed Teal, Garganey and a female Southern Pochard. In the vegetation bordering the pools we found Holub's Golden-Weaver building its intricate nest and watched a Red-fronted Barbet visiting its nest hole close to the path. Other interesting birds noted while in the area included African Moustached Warbler, Fischer s Lovebird, Scarlet-chested Sunbird and Marico Sunbird. White-faced Whistling-duck & Sacred Ibis Yellow-billed Duck Continuing on from Thika we stopped in at the Blue Post Hotel for lunch and a look at the impressive Chania Falls. Being mid day birding around the grounds was a little slow, but still we managed a good selection of common species as well as our first Red-fronted Tinkerbird and our only Eastern Honeyguide. After lunch we continued towards Mount Kenya through a mix of habitats until we reached Mount Kenya NP. Not long afterwards a stop by the road was made when a Red-fronted Parrot was found, with Cape Robin-chat, Grey Apalis, Hunters Cisticola and a flyover Silvery-cheeked Hornbill also added. Unfortunately time was pushing on, so we did the same and continued to the Serena Mountain Lodge to check-in. By the time we had got to our rooms it was already dusk but even so there was time for one more addition as a pair of Verreaux s Eagle Owls showed well from our balconies in the spotlights. The waterhole and salt-lick also provided good views of Bushbuck and Cape Buffalo while a bird table containing a few chicken carcases attracted a Common Genet, while later the forest rang with the loud cries of Tree Hyrax. 4

5 Day 4 The day started around 06:30 when we met on the hotels rooftop viewing area. This offered amazing panoramic views of the forest with the magestic peaks of Mount Kenya rising above the trees. A good selection of highland forest species were recorded here, though in the dense canopy viewing was at times difficult. Highlights included Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeon, Olive Pigeon, Cape Wagtail, Montane White-eye, Thick-billed Seedeater, Mountain Greenbull, Yellow-crowned Canary, Black-headed Waxbill, Grey-headed Negrofinch and Black-throated Apalis. While other notable birds included Hartlaub s Turaco, Eastern Double-collared Sunbird, Cinnamon-breasted Bee-eater and another two flyover Silvery-cheeked Hornbills. Blue Sykes Monkeys were also noted here but remained distant, unlike the many Common Waterbuck which gathered at the waterhole. Common Waterbuck After breakfast we loaded up the vans ready to depart, however while doing so Joseph found an African Crowned Eagle perched in a tree top which provided excellent scope views. Moving down the slopes we made a stop to try and locate Cinnamon Bracken Warbler which eventually rewarded us with good albeit fairly brief views. While searching for the warbler we also managed reasonable views of at least two Chestnut-throated Apalis, though typically they remained high in the tree canopy. Meanwhile a pair of African Crowned Eagles circled low over the forest and a pair of Mountain Buzzards drifted high overhead. As we reached the park exit a group of hirundines were checked, revealing several Red-rumped Swallows and amongst them a single Mosque Swallow. Travelling north many interesting birds were noted by the roadside, including our first Cape Rooks. Lunch was taken at the Mountain View curio shop, where a huge selection of hand carved goods was on sale. We also found the first of many Augur Buzzards. Afterwards we continued towards Samburu, losing altitude all the time as we passed through large agricultural areas where a number of species were added. An unscheduled stop was made when a Crowned Hornbill was found by the roadside, whilst overhead a Steppe Eagle provided good views. Another productive stop was made to check out a stubble field which was full of birds, the most notable of which was Dusky Turtle Dove, Black-winged Lapwing and Red-capped Lark, as well as the occasional Montagu s Harrier. Other interesting species seen on the journey included Lilac-breasted Roller, Northern Ant-eater Chat, African Stonechat and Greater Blue-eared Glossy-starling. Before long the landscape changed again, with agriculture giving way to more arid areas of grassland and acacia scrub, typical of the north. Shortly after the town of Isiolo we arrived at the entrance gates to Buffalo Springs NR, where we immediately began to realise how rich the birdlife was. Many new species were added within a matter of minutes, including Somali Courser, Crowned Lapwing, Namaqua Dove, Lichtensteins Sandgrouse, Red-billed Hornbill and Pink-breasted Lark. Weavers were also abundant, especially White-browed Sparrow Weaver and White-headed Buffalo Weaver, both of which we were to see hundreds of while in the area. Donaldson-Smith's Sparrow Weaver and Redbilled Buffalo-weaver were also noted in small numbers. Of course the area is also famous for its mammals and the drive from the gates to the lodge offered us our first views of Kirks Dik-dik, Beisa Oryx, Grant s Gazelle, African Elephant and the rare Grevy s Zebra. Donaldson-Smith's Sparrow Weaver With such a productive drive from the gates we arrived at the Ashnil Camp a little later than expected, but soon checked in and were shown to our outstanding luxury tents. Later we enjoyed our evening meal with the calls of Water Thick-knee and a distant Freckled Nightjar in the background. 5

6 Day 5 Today we were to spend the full day within Buffalo Springs NR, and eager to make the most of the morning game drive we met for breakfast at 06:30 which we shared with a variety of cheeky feathered friends including Parrotbilled Sparrow and a very confiding Red-billed Hornbill. Other birds noted while at breakfast included Greyheaded Kingfisher, African Hoopoe and Spotted Morning Thrush. Afterwards we embarked on our first game drive which was to provide some hugely rewarding birding and in many ways perhaps the most memorable of the trip. New birds were located around every corner with the first half of the morning offering Black-faced Sandgrouse, African Orange-bellied Parrot, Northern White-crowned Shrike, Vulturine Guineafowl, Rosy-patched Bushshrike, Grey Wren-warbler, Rufous Chatterer, Pygmy Falcon and Whitebellied Go-away Bird. The latter part of the morning was equally impressive with Shiny Sunbird, Nubian Woodpecker, Somali Tit, Northern Crombec, Pygmy Batis, Taita Fiscal, Red-fronted Warbler, Mottled Swift and Buff-crested Bustard amongst others. Early afternoon saw us find Blue-naped Mousebird, Cut-throat, African Silverbill, Yellow-spotted Petronia, Chestnut Sparrow, Wattled and Fischer s Starlings, Somali Bee-eater and Cardinal Woodpecker. Again weavers were abundant with Black-capped Social Weaver, Vitelline Masked Weaver and Lesser Masked Weaver all noted, with the latter two very similar species viewed together for a good comparison. Mammals as expected were never far away with notable species including the striking Reticulated Giraffe, the delicate Gerenuk and a solitary Spotted Hyena along with a good number of African Elephants. Buff-crested Bustard We then returned to camp for a break around 14:00 when most of the group took the opportunity to relax in the hotel bar and enjoy the local drink, a refreshing cold Tuska beer. To our surprise we were joined at the bar by two Wire-tailed Swallow which flew in and took shelter from the baking midday sun. Other birds noted in the grounds included African Mourning Dove, Ring-necked Dove and Green Woodhoopoe as well as several Vervet Monkeys. Later we set off for our second game drive which will surely be remembered for the moment when Derek spotted a stunning Leopard in that classic pose asleep on a bow of a large acacia. We watched this for some time hoping it would move, but apart from the occasional turn of its head it didn t budge. Turning our attention back to birds we all enjoyed the dazzling sight of Golden Pipit displaying and found a large flock of Chestnut Weavers, while some of the group were lucky enough to glimpse Harlequin Quail in flight. With all this to concentrate on nobody noticed the Leopard move, and for a while there was no sign of it until it was relocated on the other side of the track. It must have crossed the road unseen directly behind the vehicle, so much for our powers of observation!!! Kori Bustard Beisa Oryx Further on we passed an area with several Sandgrouse where we had exceptional views of Lichtenstein s and our first Chestnut-bellied. A particularly obliging Kori Bustard also gave good views, though our only Red-winged Lark of the tour was less agreeable. Although the Leopard stole top spot for the mammal highlights, other notable sightings included a group of Beisa Oryx which gave very close views and three Black-backed Jackals. 6

7 Day 6 We met at 06:00 for a quick breakfast and departed from camp around 06:40 to make the most of the day s game drives in the neighbouring reserve of Samburu NR. However the 10 km drive out of Buffalo Spring was always going to take time and almost immediately a Whalberg s Eagle perched close to the track called a halt to the preceadings. Other stops were made for a heard of African Elephant and a large troop of Olive Baboons. Bird highlights along the way included, Grey-crowned Crane, Dideric Cuckoo, Rock Thrush, Isabelline Wheatear and Eurasian Hobby. As we neared the gates a group of Somali Courser s were carefully checked revieling a single Temminck s Courser amongst them. Exiting Buffalo Springs we drove a short distance on a tarmac road and over the Ewaso Nyiro River to the township of Archers Post, where we left the main road and entered the legendary Samburu NR at 08:30. Although only separated from Buffalo Springs by the river, it is subtly different being more hilly and better vegetated, making it more to the taste of certain species. The next couple of hours were highly productive with the likes of Black-throated Barbet, Ashy Cisticola, Threestreaked Tchagra, Pale Prinia, Yellow-vented Eromomela, Paradise Whydah, Speckle-fronted Weaver, Greyheaded Silverbill, Blue-capped Cordonbleu, Black-cheeked Waxbill and Golden-breasted Starling all new for the trip. While other highlights along the way included excellent views of Pygmy Falcon, Eastern Chanting Goshawk, Black-winged Kite, Spotted Thick-knee, Von der Decken's Hornbill, Red-billed Hornbill, Blue-naped Mousebird, Lilac-breasted Roller and Red & Yellow Barbet. By 11:00 the pace of sightings had slowed but the quality certainly had not. One of the most memorable moments of the day, if not the tour was finding this superb adult Martial Eagle on a freshly killed Savannah Monitor Lizard right by the roadside. Amazingly the bird never moved as we drove the vehicles slowly by, with views of this huge and powerful bird down to just a few feet. This truly was a remarkable and unforgettable moment. A short time later birds of prey again stole the show when we found a mixed group of raptors circling together which included our first Rüppell s Vulture and African Hawk Eagles as well as African White-backed Vultures, Steppe Eagle and Bateleur. Other noteworthy birds new for the trip included Crested Francolin, Rufous-crowned Roller, White-throated Bee-eater, Magpie Starling and White-bellied Canary. Martial Eagle Rather than heading back to camp for lunch we visited the Samburu Game Lodge for a break and a refreshing cold drink, taken at the riverside bar where we watched several large Nile Crocodiles in the river and a small Nile Monitor digging in the bank. Afterwards we continued around the reserve adding Eastern Yellow-billed Hornbill, Brubru, Pallid Harrier and Somali Ostrich, while other highlights included good views of Tawny Eagle, Somali & Little Bee-eaters and Rosy-patched Bushshrike. Of course no visit to Samburu NR goes without its share of mammal sighting and today was no exception with 18 species noted, the highest total for any single day during the tour. The highlight was without doubt this very obliging Cheetah which posed for some time giving excellent photo opportunities. We also saw our only Eastern Dwarf Mongoose and by far our best views of Gerenuk. Sadly it was starting to get late and we still had the drive back to the camp ahead of us, so with this in mind we left Samburu NR and returned to camp. From Buffalo Springs NR entrance gate we tried not to stop too much but a flock of White-throated Bee-eaters and a Secretary Bird right by the track were obvious exceptions. Cheetah 7

8 Day 7 A leisurely breakfast was taken a little later today as we were in no hurry. We had opted to spend the morning with another game drive around Buffalo Springs, where we concentrated our efforts on the better vegetated areas along the Ewaso Nyiro River. As we approached the first bend in the river we stopped for a while to scan the muddy banks and shallow islands which produced three Water Thick-knees as well as Egyptian Goose and a few Nile Crocodiles. However the strangest sight was perhaps that of a single Pink-backed Pelican sat at the top of a tall palm tree. Meanwhile the surrounding scrub was equally productive with Northern Crombec, Vitelline Masked Weaver, Brubru, Somali Tit and our only Somali Bunting all observed at close range. While other now familiar species such as White-browed Sparrow Weaver, White-headed Buffalo-weaver, Yellow-throated Spurfowl and Vulturine Guineafowl also gave good views. Once down by the river we entered a well vegetated area where we found several interesting birds including Striated Heron, Brown Snake Eagle, Northern Brownbull, Golden Palm Weaver, Lesser Honeyguide, Pearl-spotted Owlet, European Hoopoe and Black Cuckoo, all of which were new for the list. Also noted here were Grey Woodpecker, Red-headed Weaver, African Orange-bellied Parrot and Eastern Chanting Goshawk. Whilst watching these we were entertained by a large troop of Olive Baboons with their playful antics. Several Impala and a large Leopard Tortoise were also noted. Moving out into more open and dry terrain highlights included Buff-crested Bustard, Pink-breasted Lark, Fischer s Sparrow-lark, Red-fronted Warbler, Pied Wheatear and Golden Pipit. One particularly good spell came when in the same area we found two Secretarybirds, seven Grey-crowned Crane and a pair of Somali Ostrich with 16 chicks, not to mention Grants Gazelle and Reticulated Giraffe. It was perhaps the mammals which stole the show today with two remarkable sightings. The first was our second Leopard of the tour, which was observed for some time half way up a small Acacia. There were several Impala in the vicinity and it obviously had its eyes firmly on them. It was poised for the attack and on a number of occasions we thought it was going to make its move, however in the end the Impala must have stayed just out of reach. The second occurred as we approached camp. A large heard of African Elephants, possibly up to 80 walked along the river towards us. The first bus managed to pass in front of the herd but the second bus was forced to give way and let them pass, which they did quite rightly in there own time. This truly was an amazing sight, with everything from huge bulls right down to small calves all observed at close range, at times a little to close as on a number of occasions we had to find reverse gear. Thank goodness for digital photography, I m sure we would have very quickly run out of 35mm film. By 13:45 we had checked out and were on our way to the Naro Moru River Lodge, back in the southern hemisphere on the slopes of Mount Kenya. Driving through Buffalo Springs to re-join the main road we tried not to make too many stops in order to get on with our journey, but that was never going to be easy with the following all noted between camp and the gates, Great Spotted Cuckoo, Red & Yellow Barbet, Pallid Harrier, Kori Bustard, African Harrier Hawk, Cut-throat and Somali Courser to name just a few. Mammals meanwhile included Warthog, Beisa Oryx, Grant Gazelle, Gerenuk and both Grevy s and Burchell s Zebra s. Once out of the park it wasn t long before we were stopping again when a splendid male Straw-tailed Whydah in full breeding plumage was found by the roadside, with further roadside additions including Village Indigobird and Grey-rumped Swallow. Further on as the landscape began to change back to agriculture, another stop was made when Joseph heard a Boran Cisticola which showed only briefly before disappearing. Luckily he knew of a traditional site nearby for this patchily distributed species and a stop was made for better views. Later we arrived at the Naro Moru River Lodge just a little after dark, where we quickly checked in. Later we enjoyed another fine meal and a few drinks to celebrate Arthur's 70 th birthday, complete with birthday cake brought in by all the members of staff singing happy birthday in Swahili. 8

9 Day 8 We met just after first light for a two hour pre-breakfast walk around the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge, which are a wonderful assortment of mature highland forest and cultivated garden, complete with the fast flowing Naro Moru River running though its length. New birds included Violet Woodhoopoe, Mountain Wagtail, Black Cuckoo-shrike, Yellow-whiskered Greenbull, Cabanis s Greenbull, White-browed Robinchat, Chinspot Batis, Sulphur-breasted Bushshrike, Violet-backed Starling and Spectacled Weaver. Sunbirds were also very evident with Green-headed, Tacazze and Northern Double-collared also all new for the list, while other highlights included Montane White-eye, Montane Oriole, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Hartlaub s Turaco, Red-billed Firefinch and our best views of Hadada Ibis. Hadada Ibis After a well earned breakfast we departed for Lake Nakuru, with a number of scheduled stops planned along the way. Rather than staying to the main road we drove along the perimeter of the Solio Ranch which provided us with further additions in the form of Capped Wheatear, Banded Martin, Lesser Kestrel and Grassland Pipit. Although it was perhaps the displaying Widowbirds for which this part of the journey will be best remembered with Jacksons and Long-tailed both noted. This obliging Crowned Lapwing also gave good views by the roadside. Mackinder s Eagle Owl 9 Crowned Lapwing Our next stop was at a small pool in an old quarry where with a little patience we found our target, African Black Duck. The rocky slopes above the pool also produced our only Little Rock Thrush, while the flowering shrubs nearby produced several Bronze Sunbirds as well as our only Golden-winged Sunbird. Nearby a large rock face was searched and very quickly provided us with another target, Mackinder s Eagle Owl. Overhead a pair of African Black Swift was also observed. Lunch was taken at Thomson s Falls, where amongst the beautiful grounds we saw Tacazze Sunbird and Olive Thrush. Moving on we made a brief tourist stop on the Great Rift Valley Escarpment where we had good views along the valley in both directions, before driving down into the valley and back up the other side. The stop didn t produce much in the way of birds although we did see our first Rock Hyrax. Later we arrived at Nakuru National Park around 16:30 and slowly made our way to the lodge, birding along the way. It wasn t long before we discovered why Nakuru is often referred to as the greatest avian spectacle on earth, with literally thousands of birds lining the shores. Unfortunately due to the high water levels the species it is most famous for, Lesser Flamingo were not present in the huge numbers for which it is renowned, but still we managed to see a few hundred. There was however several other species present in good numbers, including several new species for the list such as Great White Pelican, Great Cormorant, Great Egret, Little Egret and both Cape and Hottentot Teals. While other new birds noted, albeit in smaller numbers included Purple Heron, Osprey, African Fish-eagle, Arrow-marked Babbler and Rüppell s Long-tailed Starling. Finally we arrived at the Flamingo Hills Safari Lodge and checked in before enjoying another excellent meal.

10 Day 9 Today the full day was to be spent within Nakuru NP, famed for its lake we soon found out there is a lot more to this fascinating reserve, with extensive areas of open grassland and rich forest. We started by driving westwards around the northern shore of the lake towards Baboon Cliffs, with an incredible number of water birds noted along the way. Huge numbers of Great White Pelican dominated the shoreline, along with smaller numbers of Pinkbacked Pelican. Both Greater and Lesser Flamingos were present in their hundreds as were Yellow-billed Storks, many of which gave remarkably close views. Other birds included Marabou Stork, African Spoonbill and Sacred Ibis, as well as Glossy Ibis which preferred the small grassy pools by the roadside. Grey-headed Gull were abundant and carefull searching produced a single Blackheaded Gull amongst them, perhaps not very exiting but another species to add to the list all the same. Small numbers of Gull-billed Terns were noted, though they were easily out numbered by the more numerous Whiskered Terns. Waders were also abundant, with Ruff and Little Stint both plentiful, along with smaller numbers of Black-winged Stilt, Avocet, Blacksmith Plover, Common Snipe, Greenshank and Marsh, Wood, Green and Common Sandpipers. An open sandy area proved good for small waders including Ringed and Three-banded Plovers and at least two Kittlitz s Plover. Wildfowl included Cape Teal, Red-billed Duck, Hottentot Teal, Garganey and our first Shoveler. Lesser & Greater Flamingo s Other birds noted along this section included Tawny Eagle, Rüppell s Long-tailed Starling and our first Plainbacked Pipit, while the many African Buffalo attracted several Cattle Egret and Red-billed Oxpeckers. A section of flooded woodland provided excellent feeding opportunities for kingfishers, with a few Grey-headed, a single Striped, two Malachite and several Pied all noted from one spot, including six of the latter in the same small tree. Other highlights included a Montagu s Harrier which successfully ambushed a small wader from the waters edge, only to drop it as it flew off and a pair of distant Broad-billed Roller. Once at the Baboon Cliffs we had a brief visit to the view point, which as well as providing stunning views of the lake also offered good views of Rock Martin and Brimstone Canary. It was here we also received our first and probably best views of White-fronted Bee-eater, while some very colourful Red-headed Agama Lizards were also enjoyed. The rest of the morning and early afternoon we concentrated on the forest sections of the park where we added Coqui Francolin, Klaas s Cuckoo, Bearded Woodpecker, Northern Puffback and African Black-headed Oriole. Woodpeckers were well represented with Nubian, Cardinal and Grey all noted, while other highlights included Yellow-breasted Apalis and African Golden-breasted Bunting. Mammals included a Hippopotamus swimming in the lake, the rare Rothschild s Giraffe and several Thomson s Gazelle and Burchell s Zebra. Lunch was taken back at the lodge where we had a little free time to relax before our second game drive around 15:30. This time we headed south along the eastern shoreline, passing an area with a large concentration of egrets herons and ibis. Continuing through a section of forest with open clearings a number of interesting species were observed, including further additions in the form of African Firefinch, Crimson-rumped Waxbill, Grey-backed Fiscal and Buff-bellied Warbler. Other highlights included perhaps our best views of Augur Buzzard, Long-crested eagle and the stunning Lilac-breasted Roller. Mammals once again put on a good show when a Black Rhino with a well grown calf was found not long after leaving the lodge and a group of Black & White Colobus Monkeys gave good views. The highlight however came when a pride of 4 lioness s were found sleeping right by the side of the track. Of course we spent some time admiring these fine animals, despite them doing little but sleep. One however did casually lift her to observe her surrounding, taking no notice what so ever of her admirers before yawning and going back to sleep. 10

11 Day 10 With another game drive at Nakuru planned for this morning we met early for breakfast at 06:30 and were out by 07:00. The road out of the lodge held the now usual species including Northern Anteater Chat and Yellow-throated Longclaw, while hundreds of hirundines were all around us. The first new bird of the day was a pair of African Thrush on the road just before reaching the lake, with the second Plain-backed Pipit not long after. The lake edge was once again filled with birds with a similar mix of species as the previous day. Hundreds of both flamingo species were out numbered by White Pelicans and several egrets, herons, storks and ibis added to the bonanza. We again headed west along the northern shore of the lake which again meant we had the spectacle of thousands of Grey-headed Gulls roosting on the causeway. This time however being the first vehicles to pass there were also hundreds of roosting White Pelicans at the far side which slowly took to the water as we carefully approached. Yellow-billed Stork Grey-headed Gulls Great White Pelicans & Greater Flamingo Moving on we went to the far end of the Baboon Cliffs making a number of brief stops for interesting birds along the way. One stop was made by the second van when they found a pair of Verreaux s Eagle Owls at the top of a tall tree, but unfortunately the lead bus had already gone around the corner and could not be contacted. Catching up with them shortly afterwards they had managed to locate one of our targets in the form of a pair of Cliffchat, which gave excellent views. As the road ahead was flooded we had to turn back, but unfortunately there was no sign of the Owls. There were however several Long-tailed Cormorants along this section of the lake, many of which gave good views, as did an Emerald-spotted Wood Dove. Continuing further into the reserve, an unscheduled stop was made to change a tyre when a puncture was discovered on one of the vehicles, but luckily the expertise of our drivers meant that very little time was lost. Back on the move, we carefully checked a large area of grassland for Ground Hornbill, but sadly none were found. However at the southern end of the lake a small inlet provided some good birds with several species of wildfowl, amongst which we found our only Northern Pintail, whilst amongst the waders a pair of Long-toed Lapwing were also new. After lunch back at the lodge, we departed around 14:00 heading for our final destination, Lake Baringo a large freshwater lake in the north. However our first stop came as soon as Nakuru town where we had our tyre repaired and whilst doing so noted our first Lanner of the tour overhead. Further along the journey other notable sightings included a flock of c100 migrating White Storks, a pair of Silverbird and our first African Grey Hornbill. We arrived at the SOI Safari Lodge around dusk where once again we were warmly greeted by the staff and shown to our rooms. 11

12 Day 11 The Baringo area has a reputation for being hot and humid and with this in mind we were up at first light for a prebreakfast walk, hoping to do as much birding as possible before the temperature began to soar. We set off from the lodge at 06:00 and met a local guild William who took us on a short cut through his village towards the famous Baringo Cliffs. Interesting birds were everywhere and we had soon added the following new species Green-winged Pytilia, Bristle-crowned Starling, Mouse-coloured Penduline Tit and Dark-chanting Goshawk. While other birds of note included Lesser-striped Swallow, Three-streaked Tchagra and Speckle-fronted Weaver. Once at the cliffs one of our most sought after birds was soon found as a superb adult Verreaux s Eagle drifted by and settled at the base of a small bush half way up the cliff. Here it allowed good scope views before it took to the air, where it was mobbed by a Fan-tailed Raven, what a show! We also found our first Jackson s Hornbill which was followed shortly after by a pair of Hemprich s Hornbills, the latter a real speciality of the Baringo region. Next on the hit-list was another speciality of the area, Brown-tailed Rock-chat, not much to look at but a difficult bird to find elsewhere. We got back to the lodge around 10:00 for breakfast and as predicted it was already hot and humid. After breakfast we had some time to relax before heading out into the grounds of the nearby Roberts Camp and Baringo Country Club. This being the hotel we were originally booked to stay in before it was flooded earlier in the year. Once there the devastating effect of the high water level was obvious with much of the hotel still under water, this meant much of the grounds were also inaccessible. However we still managed to find most of the targets we were looking for including African Jacana, African Scops Owl, Woodland Kingfisher, Brown Babbler, Little Weaver and White-billed Buffalo-weaver, while other highlights included Gabar Goshawk, Shikra and African Pygmy Kingfisher as well as this very obliging Jackson s Hornbill. Jackson s Hornbill We returned to the lodge around13:00 for lunch and then spent some time relaxing until the temperature began to subside. During this time at the lodge an impressive 50+ species were seen just from our rooms / bar, including our only African Darter. Venturing back out at 16:00 we again met up with William who took us strait to our next target, a Slender-tailed Nightjar roosting right by the roadside. Having had excellent views of the nightjar we moved on for the next target, the delightful Northern White-faced Owl and again enjoyed excellent views. Next came one of the star birds for many, the beautiful Heuglin s Courser with a pair giving truly stunning and prolonged views down to just a few metres. Next we walked a short distance to a rocky gorge where earlier in the day William had located Spotted Eagle Owl roosting. On arrival the birds had moved and were not on show; however William moved further along the gorge and relocated two birds, one of which gave exceptional close views. With the light now fading this sadly brought an end to what had been a very rewarding evening. Northern White-faced Owl Spotted Eagle Owl 12

13 Day 12 Although this was our last day we didn t have to be at the airport until late so there was still a full day of birding ahead of us. We had not yet seen Black-headed Lapwing, but luckily Joseph knew of a reliable site within walking distance of the hotel so this was to be our pre-breakfast walk. Sure enough once we had reached the site we quickly found two birds sheltering from the sun under a bush. Amazingly while on this short walk we also added our only Grey Kestrel and Goliath Heron of the tour. After breakfast we departed the SOI Lodge, but not before bagging a selection of cakes and bread from the breakfast bar which was to play an important part in finding our next targets. Our visit to Roberts Camp the previous day was very rewarding, but left us short on a few targets which we still wanted to locate. Both are usually attracted to the bird feeders, but with the hotels flooded the feeders had not been filled for weeks, hence the bag of crumbs. Within seconds of filing the large bird table masses of birds came to feed. The majority were Village Weavers, but before long both of our targets Golden-backed Weaver and the rare Northern Masked Weaver joined them. Other birds to come and feed included Jackson s Hornbill, Speckled Pigeon, Red & Yellow Barbet, Rufous Chatterer and Little Weaver. We then continued south towards Nairobi, making one more stop before leaving the Baringo area when a family party of White-crowned Helmet-shrikes were found along the roadside. A brief stop was made upon reaching the Equator, where we stopped for a few photos along the 0 degrees line, noting Marabou Stork and Greybacked Fiscal while doing so. Our next stop was at a small rocky hillside above Lake Naivasha where we very quickly added two more targets in the form of Schalow s Wheatear and Wailing Cisticola. White-crowned Helmet-shrike After a quick stop for lunch we headed for the Kinangop Plateau, stopping only for fuel along the way although even here a new species was added with Red-winged Starlings nesting under the filling station roof. Once at the Kinangop Plateau we parked up and walked a short distance over an area of grassland. At an altitude of c8000 feet and with quite a breeze blowing it was markedly cooler, however this did not stop us quickly finding our number one target, the critically endangered Sharpe s Longclaw. This species is endemic to Kenya with a population estimated to be around 10,000, however some authorities suggest this could now be as little as 2,000. The main reason for its rapid decline is loss of habitat due to increased agriculture. Further exploration of the area also found us Levaillant s Cisticola and African Snipe, which unusually for this species gave excellent views. Time was pushing on now so we continued on to Nairobi with just the briefest of stops along the way at Manguo Pond where we quickly added White-backed Duck, with the unexpected bonus of White-winged Tern. That was it for birding as not only was the light beginning to fade but it was also time to make the last part of the journey to the airport. We had allowed plenty of time to safely arrive at the airport for our flight however even with all the best planning nothing could have prepared us for what we found on the way in to the city. The motorway quickly came to a grinding stop and forty minutes soon passed without moving. It was decided we would try a short cut through the city and try to rejoin the motorway further up, but with everyone else thinking the same we quickly found ourselves back in stationary traffic. The whole of Nairobi it seemed was at a stand still and no matter which road we tried we weren t moving anywhere fast. Eventually we made it back onto the motorway but it was still jammed and a sence of urgency began to show on the diver s faces. There was only one thing for it, we would have to take the bus off road and drive along the very rough and muddy central reservation. It felt like we were back at Samburu, but this approach paid off and we arrived at the airport in time to check our bags. Panic over!!! This concluded what had been a truly outstanding tour of this most fascinating and diverse of countries. We had built up a huge list of over 430 species of birds, along with 40 plus mammals and with so many highlights each day that it became almost impossible to choose from them. However this tour offered more than just the abundant wildlife, we were treated to stunning scenery, some exceptional accommodations and the chance to see the real Africa. 13

14 1 Common Ostrich Small numbers were recorded at Nairobi NP on the 20 th. Systematic Species List 2 Somali Ostrich Small numbers were seen in Samburu NR on the 24 th and at Buffalo Springs NR the following day where a pair with 16 chicks was noted. 3 Little Grebe Small numbers were recorded at a variety of wetlands, especially Lake Nakuru where it was abundant. 4 Great White Pelican Only recorded at Lake Nakuru, where huge numbers were witnessed. 5 Pink-backed Pelican First recorded at Buffalo Springs NR on the 25 th when one was sat at the top of a palm tree along the Ewaso Nyiro River, elsewhere good numbers were recorded at Lake Nakuru. 6 Great Cormorant Large numbers were present at Lake Nakuru, with a few also noted at Lake Baringo. 7 Long-tailed Cormorant One was at Thika sewage ponds on the 21 st, with no further sightings until reaching Lake Nakuru on the 26 th where large numbers were present. Elsewhere smaller numbers were also present at Lake Baringo. 8 African Darter On the 29 th one was seen in flight over Lake Baringo and briefly perched in a nearby tree from the SOI Lodge. 9 Grey Heron Small numbers were noted on five dates, with Nakuru NP providing the majority of records. 10 Black-headed Heron Far more numerous than the previous species with sightings on nine dates and from many locations. 11 Goliath Heron Two birds were noted in flight near Lake Baringo early on the 30 th. 12 Purple Heron One in flight at Lake Nakuru on the 26 th was the only record. 13 Great Egret High numbers were recorded daily in Nakuru NP with smaller numbers recorded daily at Lake Baringo. 14 Intermediate Egret Small numbers were present at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st with hundreds each day at Lake Nakuru. 15 Little Egret Only recorded at Lake Nakuru where it was reasonably common. 16 Squacco Heron One flew along the Ewaso Nyiro River viewed from the Ashnil Tented Camp on the 23 rd, elsewhere small numbers were noted at Lake Baringo, especially from the flooded area in front of the SOI Safari Lodge. 17 Cattle Egret Recorded daily from the 21 st onwards often in the presence of animals, beit domestic cattle or large game. 18 Striated Heron First recorded along the Ewaso Nyiro River in Buffalo Springs NR on the 25 th with daily sightings at Lake Baringo, including the grounds of the SOI Lodge. 14

15 19 Black-crowned Night-Heron A single roosting at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st was the only record. 20 Hamerkop Small numbers were seen on ten dates and from many locations, including the Nairobi Fairview Hotel grounds. 21 Yellow-billed Stork Recorded at a number of wetlands with Lake Nakuru by far the best site for this species. 22 Black Stork A single was noted on the Ewaso Nyiro River, Buffalo Springs NR on the 23 rd with two at Lake Nakuru on the 27 th. 23 White Stork A migrating flock containing c100 birds was noted enroute to Baringo on the 28 th. 24 Saddle-billed Stork Two were noted in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, with one at Lake Nakuru on the 29 th. 25 Marabou Stork Large numbers were seen roosting in acacias in the middle of Nairobi with large numbers also present in Nakuru NP; elsewhere small numbers were noted at various sites. 26 Sacred Ibis Recorded almost daily, with several at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st and at Lake Nakuru on the 27 th & 28 th. 27 Hadada Ibis A common and widespread species with daily sightings. 28 Glossy Ibis Two were at a small pool in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, elsewhere several showed well at Lake Nakuru. 29 African Spoonbill Two showed well at Nairobi NP on the 20 th, with several at Lake Nakuru. A few were also noted at Manguo Pond. 30 Lesser Flamingo High rainfall and the subsequent flooding at Lake Nakuru meant the million strong flocks had departed to other more suitable lakes in the rift valley; however a few hundred were still seen each day while at Lake Nakuru NP. 31 Greater Flamingo A few hundred birds were noted at Lake Nakuru NP. 32 White-faced Whistling-Duck Up to 20 birds were present at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st, with no further records during the tour. 33 Egyptian Goose Commonly recorded at many wetland sites with records daily. 34 Hottentot Teal Only recorded at Lake Nakuru where it was reasonably common. 35 Cape Teal Only recorded at Lake Nakuru where it was reasonably common. 36 African Black Duck A pair was eventually found in an old quarry enroute to Nakuru on the 26 th. 15 Hottentot Teal

16 37 Yellow-billed Duck Small numbers were noted at Thika sewage pools and Lake Nakuru, with a few also noted at a small pool on the Kinangop Plateau. 38 Northern Pintail Up to a dozen birds were located at Lake Nakuru on the 28 th. 39 Red-billed Duck Reasonably common at both Thika sewage pools and Lake Nakuru, with smaller numbers recorded elsewhere. 40 Garganey A flock of c15 birds were at Thika sewage pools with smaller numbers recorded on two dates at Lake Nakuru. 41 Shoveler Small numbers were recorded at Lake Nakuru on two dates. 42 Southern Pochard A single female was present at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st, with several at Manguo Pond on the 30 th. 43 White-backed Duck On the 30 th while travelling back to Nairobi c8 birds were seen during a quick stop at Manguo Pond. 44 Osprey One at the top of a tall tree at Lake Nakuru on the 26 th was the only record. 45 Black-winged Kite Recorded on seven dates with the majority of sightings coming from the Samburu area, also noted at Nairobi NP as well as a number of sightings at the roadside while driving between locations. 46 Black Kite A common raptor, especially in urban areas including Nairobi where large numbers were noted. Some were identified as Yellow-billed Kite M.m.parasiticus, including one in the grounds of the Fairview Hotel. 47 African Fish-Eagle Not recorded until the 26 th, but from then on we enjoyed daily and often good views of this handsome raptor while at Lake Nakuru and Lake Baringo, with birds often visible from the SOI Safari Lodge. 48 African White-backed Vulture Several birds were noted in Nairobi NP on the 20 th with many birds also recorded while in the Samburu area. 49 Rüppell s Vulture A few birds were identified from amongst the more numerous White-backed Vultures while in Samburu NR on the 24 th. Two vultures seen very high over Nakuru NP were also probably this species. 50 Black-chested Snake Eagle Recorded on three dates with sightings from Nairobi NP, Samburu NR and near Naro Moru. 51 Brown Snake Eagle One was seen well in flight close to the Ewaso Nyiro River in Buffalo Springs NR on the 25 th. 52 Western Marsh Harrier Just two sightings of this Palearctic species, both from Thika sewage pools on the 21 st. 53 Pallid Harrier The only two confirmed sightings involved a ringtail in Samburu NR on the 25 th and a distant male next day in Buffalo Springs NR, there were also a number of unidentified harries which could have been this species. 54 Montagu's Harrier On the 22 nd at least three were seen enroute to Samburu over arable fields near Nanyuki, with others also noted at Buffalo Springs NR and Nakuru NP. 16

17 55 African Harrier-hawk First recorded on the 20 th when one was seen near the centre of Nairobi, while another was noted nearby in Nairobi NP. It was subsequently recorded on a further four dates with records from Buffalo Springs NR and Nakuru NP. 56 Dark Chanting Goshawk One in flight on the 29 th near Baringo Cliffs was followed shortly afterwards by two birds perched on telegraph poles. 57 Eastern Chanting Goshawk Several were noted between the 23 rd and 25 th in the Samburu area, including some very confiding immature's. 58 Gabar Goshawk Two gave very brief views in Nairobi NP on the 20 th with no further sightings until the 29 th when two were seen in the grounds of the Baringo Country Club. 59 Shikra One was seen perched on the top of a large mast visible from the grounds of the Nairobi Fairview Hotel on the 21 st, with no further sightings until the 29 th when one was noted in the grounds of the Baringo Country Club. 60 Common (Steppe) Buzzard One was noted from the Serena Mountain Lodge rooftop viewing area on the 22 nd with no further sightings until reaching Nakuru NP where it was seen daily. 61 Mountain Buzzard Two were seen in flight high over Mount Kenya National Park as we were departing Serena Mountain Lodge on the 22 nd. 62 Augur Buzzard A common raptor often seen by the roadside, birds were noted near Mount Kenya, in the Samburu area and especially at Nakuru NP where it was particularly numerous and where we also noted our only dark morph. 63 Lesser Spotted Eagle At least one was seen while in Samburu NR near the Ewaso Nyiro River on the 24 th. 64 Tawny Eagle Recorded on six dates with sightings from Nairobi NP, the Samburu area and Nakuru NP. 65 Steppe Eagle The commonest of the large brown eagles with sightings on seven dates; it was first recorded over the road between Nanyuki and Isiolo on the 22 nd, with other notable sites including the Samburu area and Nakuru NP. 66 Wahlberg's Eagle Just one confirmed sighting concerning a dark morph perched in a tree not far from the Ashnil Camp on the 24 th. 67 Verreaux's Eagle Also known as Black Eagle, this spectacular bird was high on the wish list so a stunning adult which gave good flight views, as well as scoped perched views at Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th was much appreciated. 68 African Hawk Eagle Two were noted at Samburu NR on the 24 th including one perched in a tree allowing scope views. One was also noted from the SOI Lodge at Lake Baringo on the 29 th. 69 Martial Eagle Two birds were noted in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, with another two recorded in Samburu NR on the 24 th including a juvenile and a stunning adult which gave crippling views on a fresh Savannah Monitor Lizard kill. 70 Long-crested Eagle First recorded on the 20 th at Nairobi NP, with small numbers recorded on six further dates with Nakuru NP providing the bulk of the records. 17

18 71 African Crowned Eagle On the 22 nd one was found perched at the top of a distant tree viewable from the Serena Mountain Lodge car park, with a further two giving good flights views shortly after as we drove out of the Mount Kenya NP. 72 Bateleur First recorded in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, however the Samburu area was by far the best site for this distinctive species with frequent sightings enjoyed on three dates, finally one was observed at Nakuru NP on the 28 th. 73 Secretary Bird Up to four birds were noted in Nairobi NP on the 20 th ; however the Samburu area proved the most reliable site with frequent sighting on three dates. 74 Pygmy Falcon A reasonably common bird in the Samburu area with many excellent views of this beautiful little falcon, elsewhere one was noted at Baringo on the 29 th. 75 Lesser Kestrel A flock of up to 15 birds were feeding on the Solio Ranch near Naro Moru on the 26 th. 76 Common Kestrel Two were noted at Buffalo Springs NR on the 23 rd with the only other sighting one at Solio Ranch on the 26 th. 77 Grey Kestrel Not recorded until the 30 th when one flew low overhead near the SOI Lodge, Baringo. 78 Eurasian Hobby Only recorded in Buffalo Springs NR with sightings on the 24 th & 25 th. 79 Lanner Falcon The first record involved a bird circling over Nakuru town, viewed from a petrol station forecourt. Elsewhere one was over Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th. 80 Peregrine The only record of the tour involved a bird just inside the entrance gates at Buffalo Springs NR on the 22 nd which flew low overhead at great speed, making an unsuccessful attempt to catch an unidentified bird. 81 Coqui Francolin A pair at Nakuru NP on the 27 th was the only record. 82 Crested Francolin At least two birds were seen in the Samburu NR on the 24 th with one giving good views; next day one was seen from the lead bus in Buffalo Springs NR. 83 Yellow-necked Spurfowl A common bird in the Samburu area with many excellent sightings, however it remained unrecorded elsewhere. 84 Helmeted Guineafowl Recorded on seven dates with Nairobi NP, Buffalo Springs NR, Samburu NR and Nakuru NP all providing sightings. 85 Vulturine Guineafowl A speciality of the Samburu area with a number of sightings on three dates. 86 Harlequin Quail Small numbers were flushed from various tracks while on game drives in the Samburu area on three dates, but were never seen on the ground. 87 Gray Crowned-Crane A widespread and reasonably common species with sightings daily except for the 29 th, and from all areas visited. 18

19 88 Black Crake At least 3 birds showed well in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, while on the 25 th one was seen near the Ewaso Nyiro River, Buffalo Springs NR. Finally up to 3 could frequently be seen in the flooded area of the SOI Safari Lodge. 89 Common Moorhen Singles were recorded on three dates, with two of them from Nakuru NP. 90 Red-knobbed Coot First recorded at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st, with a few noted the next day on roadside pools while travelling to Samburu. At Nakuru NP it was a common species with daily sightings, also noted at Manguo Pond on the 30 th. 91 African Jacana Not recorded until reaching Lake Baringo on the 29 th when 2-3 birds were present on the flooded area at both the SOI Safari Lodge and the nearby Baringo Country Club, with the same birds also noted the following day. 92 Kori Bustard Small numbers were seen on four dates and often at close range, with all records from within the Samburu area. 93 White-bellied Bustard Three birds showed very well close to the track in Nairobi NP on the 20 th with the only other record two distant birds at Buffalo Springs NR on the 22 nd. 94 Buff-crested Bustard Small numbers were seen on three dates while in the Samburu area, with some giving exceptional views. 95 Black-winged Stilt First recorded at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st with no further sightings until reaching Nakuru NP where it was numerous. 96 Avocet Small numbers were recorded only at Nakuru NP. 97 Water Thick-knee This species could often be heard calling after dark from Ashnil camp but was not seen until the 25 th when three birds were on a muddy bend in the Ewaso Nyiro River, Buffalo Springs NR not far from camp. 98 Spotted Thick-knee First recorded in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, however much better views came on the 24 th when three were found in Samburu NR. 99 Somali Courser Up to eight birds were found just inside the entrance gates to Buffalo Springs NR on the 22 nd with similar numbers there on the 24 th & 25 th. 100 Temminck's Courser At least one bird was found amongst a small group of Somali Courser on the 24 th while exiting the Buffalo Springs NR. 101 Heuglin s Courser A pair of these stunning birds gave breath-taking views at the nest, close to Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th and was one of the tour highlights for many of the group. 102 Long-toed Lapwing Two were found on a small inlet at Lake Nakuru NP on the 28 th. 103 Blacksmith Plover A common wader with sightings on seven dates and from many locations including Nairobi NP, Thika sewage pools and Nakuru NP amongst others. 19

20 104 Spur-winged Plover Recorded on nine dates, it was most numerous at Nakuru NP, with smaller numbers noted at many other locations. 105 Black-headed Lapwing A pair was located at a tradition site near the SOI Safari Lodge on the 30 th while on a pre-breakfast walk. 106 Black-winged Lapwing Several birds were found on ploughed fields near Nanyuki enroute to Samburu on the 22 nd with good numbers also noted on the 26 th on the Solio Ranch. Finally a few were also found on the Kinangop Plateau on the 30 th. 107 Crowned Lapwing First recorded on the 22 nd in the Buffalo Springs NR, with many sightings over the next few days while in the Samburu area where it was reasonably common. Good numbers were also present on the Solio Ranch on the 26 th. 108 Common Ringed Plover One was Thika sewage pools on the 21 st with small numbers also noted at Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th. 109 Kittlitz s 's Plover Two to three birds were present amongst other small plovers at Nakuru NP on the 27 th. 110 Three-banded Plover The commonest of the small plovers with records on five dates, sightings came from Nairobi NP, Thika sewage pools, the Ewaso Nyiro River and Nakuru NP. 111 African Snipe Two or three birds were flushed while walking on the Kinangop Plateau on the 30 th, with one landing in front of us giving excellent views. 112 Common Snipe At least four birds were noted at Nakuru NP on the 27 th. 113 Spotted Redshank Two winter plumaged birds seen in flight at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st were the only record. African Snipe 114 Marsh Sandpiper Small numbers were recorded at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st with several noted at Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th. 115 Common Greenshank First recorded at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st with one also noted on the Ewaso Nyiro River, Buffalo Springs NR on the 25 th. At Nakuru NP it was reasonably common with daily sightings. 116 Green Sandpiper A commonly recorded wader with sightings on nine dates, often found feeding on small muddy pools by the roadside as well as larger bodies of water such as Lake Nakuru. 117 Wood Sandpiper Recorded on six dates with Thika sewage pools and Nakuru NP both offering good numbers. 118 Common Sandpiper Small numbers were noted on seven dates. 119 Little Stint A few hundred were noted at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st with similar numbers at Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th. 120 Curlew Sandpiper Up to four were present at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st. 20

21 121 Ruff Several were present at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st, with many hundreds at Nakuru NP the 27 th & 28 th. 122 Grey-headed Gull Only recorded at Nakuru NP where several thousand provided excellent views. 123 Black-headed Gull An adult in winter plumage was found amongst the many Grey-headed Gulls at Nakuru NP on the 27 th. 124 Gull-billed Tern First recorded at Nakuru NP where small numbers were noted on the 27 th & 28 th, with singles also noted at Lake Baringo on the 29 th & 30 th. 125 Whiskered Tern Up to four were at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st with about a dozen also at Manguo Pond on the 30 th. By far the best site however was Nakuru NP where several hundred were present. 126 White-winged Tern The last species to make it onto the trip list with a few birds noted at Manguo Pond on the 30 th while transferring back to Nairobi. 127 Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse Small numbers were recorded only at Buffalo Springs NR with sightings on the 23 rd & 24 th. 128 Black-faced Sandgrouse Probably the commonest of the three sandgrouse species recorded, with a number of sightings while in the Samburu area. 129 Lichtenstein's Sandgrouse Only recorded while in the Samburu area, with the majority of sightings from Buffalo Springs NR. It was recorded on three dates and often showed remarkably well at drinking pools in the road. 130 Speckled Pigeon A common and widespread species with daily sightings from the 21 st onwards, often but not exclusively seen in urbanized areas. 131 Olive Pigeon Small numbers were seen mostly in flight at Serena Mountain Lodge on the 22 nd, though a male walking on the ground near the watering pool gave good views. Also noted at Nakuru NP on the 28 th. 132 Eastern Bronzed-nape Pigeon Several birds were noted at Serena Mountain Lodge on the 22 nd. 133 Dusky Turtle Dove Many birds were found feeding on arable fields between Nanyuki and Isiolo on the 22 nd. 134 African Mourning Dove A common bird in more arid area s with frequent sightings in the Samburu area and at Lake Baringo. 135 Red-eyed Dove In contrast to the above, this species prefers moist well wooded area s with sightings from Nairobi, including Nairobi NP and the Fairview Hotel as well as Serena Mountain Lodge, Naro Moru River Lodge and Nakuru NP. 136 Ring-necked Dove Common and widespread with sightings on eight dates, most numerous at Samburu where it was recorded daily. 137 Laughing Dove Most frequently observed in the Samburu and Baringo area s where it was recorded daily, elsewhere it was also noted in the gardens of the Flamingo tented camp in Nakuru NP. 21

22 138 Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Small numbers were seen on eight dates and from many locations, though the slow mournful song was heard more often than it was seen. Records came from Nairobi NP, Thika, the Samburu area, Nakuru NP and Baringo. 139 Namaqua Dove Frequently seen in the Samburu area and often at close range, with smaller numbers also noted at Baringo. 140 African Green Pigeon Small numbers were noted at Nairobi NP, Thika and Serena Mountain Lodge on the 20 th, 21 st and 22 nd respectively. 141 Fischer's Lovebird A small group of up to four birds at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st was the only record. 142 Red-fronted Parrot Small numbers were seen on the approach to Serena Mountain Lodge on the 21 st and from the rooftop viewing area the following morning. 143 Meyer's Parrot One was seen briefly in flight from the bus while on the morning game drive at Nakuru NP on the 27 th. 144 African orange-bellied Parrot Reasonably common while in the Samburu area, with sightings on three dates including many in the grounds of the Ashnil tented camp. 145 Hartlaub's Turaco Our first and best sighting came from Nairobi NP on the 20 th, when at least four birds were seen, two of which showed well. Elsewhere small numbers were also noted in grounds of the Serena Mountain Lodge and Naro Moru River Lodge. 146 White-bellied Go-away-bird Reasonably common in the Samburu area and even more so at Baringo, with sightings on a total of six dates. 147 Great Spotted Cuckoo Singles were noted at Buffalo Springs NR on the 23 rd and 25 th. 148 Red-chested Cuckoo A male was heard singing its distinctive It will rain! song from the roadside at Baringo, but was not located. 149 Black Cuckoo A male was seen quite well at Buffalo Springs NR near the Ewaso Nyiro River on the 25 th. 150 Common Cuckoo Singles were seen on two dates, both from within Buffalo Springs NR. 151 Klaas's Cuckoo Although heard at Buffalo Spring NR on the 25 th, our only sighting was a male which showed well at Nakuru NP on the 27 th. 152 African Emerald Cuckoo One frustrated us at the Serena Mountain Lodge by repeatedly singing its Hello Judy song for several minutes but remained out of sight the whole time. 153 Dideric Cuckoo First recorded at Nairobi NP on the 20 th with one the following day at Thika; however the majority of our sightings and our best views came from the Samburu area, where it appeared to be fairly common. 154 White-browed Coucal Recorded on five dates, chiefly from the Samburu area, elsewhere it was also seen at Nairobi NP and Lake Baringo. 22

23 155 African Scops Owl Our local guide William who joined us for the day on the 29 th showed us two roosting birds at very close range in the grounds of the Baringo Country Club. 156 Northern White-faced Owl As with the above species, William escorted us to a favourite roosting site near Baringo Cliffs, where one was found well hidden in an acacia, though it was clearly visible through a small gap in the vegetation. 157 Mackinder s Eagle Owl One was found at a traditional site between Naro Moru and Nakuru on the 26 th. Formally regarded as part of the Cape Eagle Owl complex, it is now often given full species status, being slightly larger and paler. African Scops Owl 158 Spotted Eagle Owl Again our guide local William escorted us to a regular site near Baringo Cliffs where one gave exceptional views perched on a nearby rock. 159 Verreaux's Eagle Owl This incredible bird was first recorded on the evening of the 21 st when two showed well for over an hour from our balconies at the Serena Mountain Lodge. Elsewhere a pair was seen in daylight at Nakuru NP on the 28 th. 160 Pearl-spotted Owlet Although heard at a number of locations, including the Ashnil tented camp; it remained unobserved until the 25 th when one showed well in the Buffalo Springs NR, close to the Ewaso Nyiro River. 161 Freckled Nightjar Up to four birds thought most likely this species were flushed from the track as we neared Ashnil Camp near dark on the 22 nd, later that night the distinctive song of this species could be heard from camp, verifying identification. 162 Slender-tailed Nightjar On the 29 th, William successfully took us to a spot close to Baringo Cliffs where two birds were roosting right by the road allowing excellent views in good light. 163 African Palm-Swift Small numbers were recorded at Nairobi NP and Thika on the 20 th and 21 st respectively, and then daily while in the Samburu area, usually in proximity to the Ewaso Nyiro River which is lined with Palm Trees. 164 Mottled Swift This large swift was recorded in small numbers on the 23 rd & 25 th, both from Buffalo Springs NR. 165 Nyanza Swift On the 28 th a small group of about 6 birds were noted above our vehicles in Nakuru NP whilst Joseph and our drivers were repairing the puncture. 166 African Black Swift Four birds were present between Naro Moru and Nakuru on the 26 th. 167 Little Swift Recorded almost daily, occasionally in huge numbers especially around urbanised areas and river valleys. 168 White-rumped Swift Small numbers were observed in Nairobi NP on the 21 st and over the town of Nanyuki on the 23 rd. 169 Speckled Mousebird A common and widespread species with sightings on eight dates and from all areas visited excluding the Samburu area where it was not recorded. 23

24 170 White-headed Mousebird A speciality of the Samburu area, with daily sightings from the 22 nd 25 th. 171 Blue-naped Mousebird A reasonably common species in the Samburu and Baringo areas, with sightings on a total of six dates. 172 Malachite Kingfisher First recorded on the 20 th when one showed well in Nairobi NP, with no further sightings until reaching Nakuru NP where small numbers were noted daily. Also noted at Baringo on the 29 th & 30 th at the SOI Lodge. 173 African Pygmy-Kingfisher One was seen briefly at Nairobi NP on the 20 th with no further sightings until the 29 th when one showed well in the grounds of the Baringo Club. 174 Grey-headed Kingfisher The commonest of the kingfishers with daily sightings from the 23 rd onwards. It was frequently seen along the Ewaso Nyiro River while staying at Ashnil Camp with regular sightings also noted at Nakuru NP and Baringo. 175 Woodland Kingfisher Singles were at the Baringo Country Club and at Roberts s camp on the 29 th, with one in the grounds of the SOI Lodge the following morning. 176 Striped Kingfisher One showed distantly in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, but the majority of records and our best views came from Nakuru NP where it was seen daily from the 26 th 28 th. 177 Pied Kingfisher Small numbers were noted along the Ewaso Nyiro River on the 24 th & 25 th. While at Nakuru NP it was a common bird with daily sighting, including six in one small tree. Also noted at Baringo, from the SOI Lodge. 178 White-fronted Bee-eater Two singles at Nakuru NP on the 27 th were the only records. 179 Little Bee-eater First recorded at Nairobi NP where several birds gave good views on the 20 th. Next day small numbers were present at Thika, with sightings on three dates while in the Samburu area, with a few also noted at Baringo on the 29 th. 180 Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater A bird of the highland forests with records at Nairobi NP on the 20 th and Mount Kenya on the 21 st & 22 nd including Serena Mountain Lodge. Elsewhere small numbers were noted at Naro Moru River Lodge on 26 th. 181 Somali Bee-eater A speciality of the Samburu area with small numbers recorded on three of the four days we spent time there. 182 White-throated Bee-eater On the 24 th while returning through Buffalo Springs NR late in the evening a loose flock of c15 birds were noted and appeared as if they were settling to roost. 183 European Bee-eater Singles or small groups were noted on three dates. 184 European Roller Only recorded while in the Samburu area with small numbers on three dates. 185 Lilac-breasted Roller Reasonably common with sightings on eight dates, perhaps most common at Nakuru NP where we enjoyed many good views. Elsewhere it was also noted at Samburu and Baringo. This species is the national bird of Kenya. 24

25 186 Rufous-crowned Roller Our only record came on the 24 th while in the Samburu NR where one showed well. 187 Broad-billed Roller A pair showed distantly at the top of a tall tree in Nakuru NP on the 27 th. 188 Eurasian Hoopoe Singles were seen at Buffalo Springs NR, Nakuru NP & Baringo on the 25 th, 27 th and 29 th respectively. 189 African Hoopoe Singles were seen in the Samburu area on the 22 nd & 23 rd and at Nakuru NP on the 28 th. 190 Green Woodhoopoe Singles or small family groups were noted at Buffalo Springs NR on the 23 rd & 25 th and at Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th. 191 Violet Woodhoopoe One was watched for some time in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th and was eventually joined by a second which gave good views. 192 Abyssinian Scimitar-bill Small numbers were seen at Buffalo Springs NR on the 23 rd & 25 th. 193 Red-billed Hornbill Large numbers were seen daily while in the Samburu area, including the grounds of the Ashnil Camp where one would join us at the restaurant for breakfast each morning. Smaller numbers were also recorded daily at Baringo. 194 Eastern Yellow-billed Hornbill Just a handful of sightings all came on the 24 th from within Samburu NR. 195 Jackson's Hornbill Only recorded while at Baringo where it was reasonably common, with sightings from the SOI Lodge and especially the grounds of the Baringo Club / Roberts Camp, with exceptional views at the bird table located at the latter. 196 Von der Decken's Hornbill Some of the group had brief views on the 22 nd while on the approach to Buffalo Springs NR, however the rest of the group only had to wait until the 24 th to enjoy a number of good sightings while in Samburu NR. 197 Crowned Hornbill Just two sightings both came on the 22 nd, the first was found perched on an exposed branch over the exit road from Serena Mountain Lodge with the second at the top of a tree between Nanyuki and Isiolo, both birds gave good views. 198 Hemprich's Hornbill Another Baringo speciality and once again we were not disappointed with good views of a pair at Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th. 199 African Grey Hornbill Only recorded while in the Baringo area where it was recorded in small numbers each day, often along the roadside with our first and perhaps best sighting on the journey from Nakuru to Baringo on the 28 th. 200 Silvery-cheeked Hornbill Only recorded at Mount Kenya, with the first sighting along the approach road to Serena Mountain Lodge on the 21 st with at two seen from the rooftop viewing area the following morning. All sightings refer to birds in flight. 201 Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird One gave brief views from the rooftop viewing area at Serena Mountain Lodge on the 22 nd ; luckily however on the 26 th one gave excellent views in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge. 25

26 202 Red-fronted Tinkerbird First noted on the 21 st when a vocal bird proved difficult to view in the canopy of a large tree in the grounds of the Blue Post Hotel, one near Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th however was more obliging. 203 Red-fronted Barbet Recorded at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st where a pair were found coming to a nest hole in the bow of a tree which was overhanging the footpath. Our only other record was one at Baringo on the 29 th. 204 Spot-flanked Barbet Small numbers were recorded in Nairobi NP on the 20 th with a few noted the following day at Thika sewage pools. 205 Black-throated Barbet Only recorded on the 24 th while in Samburu NR. 206 White-headed Barbet Small numbers were noted, mostly in flight in the scrub bordering Thika sewage pools on the 21 st. 207 Red-and-yellow Barbet Reasonably common in the Samburu area with sightings on three out of the four dates we were there, including exceptional views on the 24 th. Also noted on two dates while at Baringo. 208 D'Arnaud's Barbet Reasonably common with sightings on five dates, the first and best of these was on the 21 st when a pair gave exceptional views near Thika sewage pools. Also recorded while in the Samburu area and at Baringo. 209 Eastern Honeyguide One was seen briefly on the 21 st in the grounds of the Blue Post Hotel, Thika. 210 Lesser Honeyguide One showed briefly near the Ewaso Nyiro River, Buffalo Springs on the 25 th. 211 Nubian Woodpecker Recorded on six dates with sightings from the Samburu area, Nakuru NP and Baringo. 212 Cardinal Woodpecker Buffalo Springs NR, Nakuru NP and Baringo all produced a single record on the 23 rd, 27 th and 29 th respectively. 213 Bearded Woodpecker Only recorded at Nakuru NP where up to four birds, probably a family party showed well on the 27 th. 214 Grey Woodpecker Probably the commonest woodpecker recorded during the tour with sightings on six dates, notable sites included Thika sewage pools, Nakuru NP and the Samburu area including the grounds of the Ashnil camp. 215 Red-winged Lark One was recorded in Buffalo Springs NR on the 23 rd. 216 Rufous-naped Lark First recorded on the 20 th at Nairobi NP with a few noted the following day at Thika. Further sightings came from Solio Ranch on the 26 th and Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th. 217 Red-capped Lark Small numbers gave reasonable views on the 22 nd on arable fields between Nanyuki and Isiolo. 218 Pink-breasted Lark Only recorded while in the Samburu area where it was both a numerous and conspicuous bird, with daily sightings. 219 Fawn-coloured Lark Again only recorded while in the Samburu area with sighting on three of the four day we were there. 26

27 220 Fischer's Sparrow-lark First recorded at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st where a pair showed well, however the bulk of records came from the Samburu area and in particular Buffalo Springs NR where small groups were often encountered. 221 Sand Martin Small numbers were noted at Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th with a few also noted at Baringo on the 30 th. 222 Plain Martin Small numbers were first identified at Nairobi NP on the 20 th with a few also noted the following day at Thika sewage pools. 223 Banded Martin Small numbers were found resting on a wire fence at the Solio Ranch on the 26 th. 224 Grey-rumped Swallow After a heavy shower on the 25 th, a single bird was found resting on a wire fence by the roadside between Buffalo Springs NR main gate and Isiolo. 225 Rock Martin A common species with sightings on eight days and from all area visited except the Samburu area where it remained unrecorded. 226 Barn Swallow Recorded daily, often in huge numbers especially at Nakuru NP. 227 Wire-tailed Swallow Only recorded while in the Samburu area with sightings there on three dates, it was first noted at the Ashnil Camp on the 23 rd when two very obliging birds were found resting on a wooden beam inside the bar. 228 Black Saw-wing Small numbers were first noted at Nairobi NP on the 20 th with a few birds noted at Mount Kenya on the 21 st & 22 nd. It was also noted from the grounds of the Naro Moru Lodge on the 26 th. 229 Lesser Striped-Swallow One was seen briefly by most of the group on the 20 th while in Nairobi NP, however those who missed it had to wait until the morning of the 29 th when two were found resting on a telegraph wire outside the SOI Lodge. 230 Mosque Swallow A single bird found with other hirundines just outside the gate to Mount Kenya NP on the 22 nd was the only sighting. 231 Red-rumped Swallow A reasonably common bird, it was recorded on six dates with Nairobi NP, Thika, Mount Kenya, Nakuru NP and Baringo all providing sightings. 232 House Martin One or two birds were amongst a group of hirundines at the gate to Mount Kenya NP on the 22 nd. 233 African Pied Wagtail A reasonably common and widespread bird with records on eight dates, including several in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge. 234 Cape Wagtail Two feeding around the waterhole at Serena Mountain Lodge on the morning of the 22 nd was the only record. 235 Yellow Wagtail A common winter visitor from the Palearctic with sightings on six dates, with Nakuru NP offering the highest numbers. Elsewhere it was noted at Thika sewage pools and the Solio Ranch. 27

28 236 Mountain Wagtail A pair feeding at least two young showed very well along the Naro Moru River, inside the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th. 237 Golden Pipit A stunning bird which was seen on three dates while in the Samburu area, with excellent views had on occasions. 238 Yellow-throated Longclaw Small numbers were recorded at Nairobi NP on the 20 th with one also noted near at Thika sewage pools the following morning. It was also noted on two dates while at Nakuru NP. 239 Sharpe's Longclaw This critically endanger Kenyan endemic was found at a traditional site on the Kinangop Plateau on the 30 th, when one gave prolonged good views, while further exploration of the area produced another two in flight. 240 Plain-backed Pipit A single bird at Nakuru NP on the 28 th was the only record. 241 Grassland Pipit A single bird was found near the Solio Ranch west of Naro Moru on the 26 th. 242 Tree Pipit The only bird positively identified was a single bird in Nairobi NP on the 20 th. 243 Red-throated Pipit A single bird was at Lake Nakuru NP on the 28 th, where it fed briefly before being chased off by a Yellow Wagtail. 244 Black Cuckoo-shrike A pair was in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th, with a few noted the next day at Nakuru NP. 245 Purple-throated Cuckoo-shrike A pair was located in one of the more wooded areas at Nakuru NP on the 28 th but sadly the male was only glimpsed by a few of the group, the female however remained on show for a little longer before it too disappeared into cover. 246 Common Bulbul A common and widespread species with daily sightings. 247 Yellow-whiskered Greenbul At least two birds gave reasonable views in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th. 248 Mountain-Greenbul Small numbers were noted early on the 22 nd while at Serena Mountain Lodge. 249 Cabanis's Greenbul At least four birds were noted in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th though they proved difficult to view, with most of the group having to settle with flight views only. 250 Northern Brownbul Two were present near the Ewaso Nyiro River in Buffalo Springs NR on the 25 th though they remained elusive. 251 Cape Robin-Chat One was seen briefly on the approach to Serena Mountain Lodge, Mount Kenya on the 21 st. 252 White-browed Robin-Chat First noted in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th with several sightings in Nakuru NP. 253 Olive Thrush First noted on the 20 th with sightings in the grounds of the Fairview Hotel and Nairobi NP. The following day it was again noted at the Fairview Hotel as well as Thika. On the 26 th one showed very well at Thomson s Falls. 28

29 254 African Thrush Two birds were found at Nakuru NP on the 28 th with one giving reasonable views. 255 Spotted Morning-Thrush Reasonably common with sightings on five dates. The bulk of the sightings came from the grounds of the Ashnil Camp, Buffalo Springs NR and in the grounds of the Baringo Club / Roberts Camp. 256 Rock-Thrush Small numbers were seen on three dates, all while in the Samburu area. 257 Little Rock-Thrush A male showed reasonably well at the old quarry where we stopped to see African Black Duck between Naro Moru and Nakuru on the 26 th. 258 Mocking Cliff-Chat Our initial search for this species on the 27 th below the Baboon Cliffs at Nakuru NP failed to produce the goods, luckily a return visit the following day found a pair of these striking birds showing very well. 259 Brown-tailed Rock Chat In contrast to the above species this was a rather plain brown bird, but its localised distribution makes it a difficult bird to catch up with so four birds at Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th were much appreciated. 260 Northern Anteater-Chat Small numbers were recorded by the roadside between Nanyuki and Isiolo on the 22 nd & 25 th. There were also a number of records from Nakuru NP where it was seen daily. 261 Whinchat First recorded in Nairobi NP on the 20 th with the only other record involving a single bird at Nakuru NP on the 27 th. 262 African Stonechat Small numbers were recorded by the roadside between Nanyuki and Isiolo on the 22 nd & 25 th. 263 Northern Wheatear The commonest wheatear species with sightings on eight dates and from many locations. 264 Schalow s Wheatear A single bird was found at a regular site near Naivasha on the 30 th. 265 Pied Wheatear Small numbers were noted while in the Samburu area, with sightings on the 22 nd, 24 th & 25 th. 266 Capped Wheatear Five or six birds were recorded in the short grassy fields of the Solio Ranch on the 26 th. 267 Isabelline Wheatear Recorded on five dates with the first of these on the 20 th in Nairobi NP. It was then seen on three dates in the Samburu area where it was reasonably common and finally on the Solio Ranch on the 26 th. 268 Common Nightingale A single bird gave reasonably good views at the KWS Mess Centre in Nairobi NP on the 20 th. 269 White- browed Scrub-Robin First recorded at Nairobi NP on the 20 th with further sightings from Thika, the Samburu area and Baringo. 270 Red-faced Cisticola Our only sighting was a single at Thika sewage pools. 271 Singing Cisticola Small numbers were recorded only on the 20 th while in Nairobi NP. 29

30 272 Hunter's Cisticola Noisy family groups were reasonably common on Mount Kenya, with sightings on the 21 st & 22 nd. 273 Rattling Cisticola The commonest and most widespread of the cisticola s, with sightings daily excluding the 24 th. 274 Ashy Cisticola A single which gave good views close to the track in Samburu NR on the 24 th was the only record. 275 Wailing Cisticola One was found on a rocky hillside above Lake Naivasha on the 30 th. Birds found in Kenya are of the race C.l.distinctus (Lymes Cisticola) which is often given full species status. 276 Winding Cisticola Small numbers were noted in Nairobi NP on the 20 th with a few the following day at Thika sewage pools. 277 Boran Cisticola One found by the roadside near Isiolo on the 25 th was unexpected and although it showed reasonably well, it was only seen briefly. Later that day however a traditional site was visited and longer views were enjoyed. 278 Levaillant s Cisticola Three or four birds showed reasonably well on the Kinangop Plateau on the 30 th. 279 Stout Cisticola This large Cisticola appeared reasonably common at Nairobi NP where we had a number of sightings on the 20 th, however it remained unrecorded elsewhere on the tour. 280 Siffling Cisticola Small numbers were recorded at Nairobi NP on the 20 th. 281 Zitting Cisticola Small numbers were seen and heard in an open area of grassland near the Ashnil Camp, Buffalo Springs on two dates 282 Tawny-flanked Prinia First recorded at Nairobi NP on the 20 th with sightings on three further dates, including the 26 th when a pair showed well in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge and the 28 th at Nakuru NP. 283 Pale Prinia A bird of the more arid areas with our only sighting in Samburu NR on the 24 th. 284 Black-throated Apalis A single bird showed well from the rooftop terrace at the Serena Mountain Lodge on the 22 nd. 285 Yellow-breasted Apalis First recorded at Nairobi NP on the 20 th with subsequent sightings from Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th and from Baringo on the 29 th. 286 Chestnut-throated Apalis One was noted high in the canopy from the terrace at the Serena Mountain Lodge on the 22 nd, though views were poor. However better views came later that day while exiting through the Mount Kenya NP. 287 Grey Apalis Small numbers were noted in Mount Kenya NP enroute to the Serena Mountain Lodge on the 21 st and in the grounds of Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th. 288 Red-fronted Warbler Noted on three dates while in the Samburu area, where it was reasonably common, elsewhere it was only recorded the once at Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th. 30

31 289 Grey-capped Warbler Recorded at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st where one showed well by the entrance gates. 290 Grey-backed Camaroptera At least two were seen well in the forest section of Nairobi NP on the 20 th, with no further records until the 25 th when one showed well at the Boran Cisticola site. It was subsequently recorded daily while at Nakuru NP. 291 Gray Wren-Warbler Reasonably common in areas with acacia scrub such as Samburu where it was seen on three dates and Baringo where it was seen on two dates. 292 Cinnamon Bracken-Warbler A secretive species of the highland forest with our only record in Mount Kenya NP where one was heard and eventually lured out into the open for a few seconds on the 22 nd. 293 Little Rush Warbler At least two birds were noted in the waterside vegetation by the pool in Nairobi NP where we had lunch on the 20 th. 294 African Moustached Warbler One was seen briefly in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, though better views were obtained the following day at Thika sewage pools. 295 Broad-tailed Warbler One seen very briefly in Nairobi NP on the 20 th was sadly only seen by a few of the group. 296 Eastern Olivaceous Warbler First recorded in the grounds of KWS mess centre in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, with the only other sighting one along the Ewaso Nyiro River in Buffalo Springs NR on the 25 th. 297 African Yellow Warbler One showed intermittently and at times quite well by the Ivory Memorial Burning Site in Nairobi NP on the 20 th. 298 Buff-bellied Warbler Small numbers were seen at Nakuru NP and Baringo Cliffs on the 27 th & 29 th respectively. 299 Yellow-vented Eremomela Just one sighting involved a single bird in Samburu NR on the 24 th. 300 Northern Crombec Small numbers were seen on three dates while in the Samburu area and on two dates while at Baringo. 301 Red-faced Crombec Small numbers were recorded in Nairobi NP on the 20 th and at Thika the following day. 302 Willow Warbler First recorded at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st, with further sightings at Nakuru NP and Baringo. 303 Blackcap Sightings came from Serena Mountain Lodge, Thomson s Falls and Nakuru NP on the 22 nd, 26 th respectively. and 27 th 304 Chinspot Batis First recorded in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th with further sightings at Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th. 305 Pygmy Batis Small numbers were recorded in the Buffalo Springs NR and Samburu NR on the 23 rd and 24 th respectively, with the only other sighting at Baringo on the 29 th. 31

32 306 Silverbird Two were noted along the roadside between Nakuru and Baringo on the 28 th. 307 Pale Flycatcher On the 20 th one was recorded in Nairobi NP in the grounds of the KWS Mess centre. 308 African Grey Flycatcher Small numbers were recorded in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, though it was more numerous in the Samburu area with sightings on three dates, elsewhere it was noted at Baringo on the 29 th. 309 White-eyed Slaty-Flycatcher Reasonably common with sightings on seven dates, notable sites included Nairobi NP, Serena Mountain Lodge, Naro Moru River Lodge and Nakuru NP. 310 Spotted Flycatcher Recorded only twice with sighting from Nairobi NP and Buffalo Springs NR on the 20 th & 25 th respectively. 311 African Dusky Flycatcher A bird of the highland forest, it was recorded in the grounds of both the Serena Mountain Lodge and Naro Moru River Lodge on the 22 nd & 26 th respectively. 312 African Paradise-Flycatcher First noted at Nairobi NP on the 20 th, with the next sighting on the 26 th at Naro Moru River Lodge. It was then reasonably common at Baringo, where a few of the attractive white morph were also noted. 313 Rufous Chatterer A number of small family groups were noted on three dates while in the Samburu area and on two dates at Baringo. 314 Northern Pied Babbler Only recorded in Nairobi NP where it was reasonably common. 315 Brown Babbler A family group was noted in the grounds of the Baringo Club / Roberts Camp on the 29 th & 30 th. 316 Arrow-marked Babbler Small numbers were recorded in Nakuru NP on the 26 th & 27 th. 317 White-bellied Tit First recorded at Nairobi NP on the 20 th with the only other sighting at Nakuru NP on the 27 th. 318 Somali Tit Small numbers were recorded at Buffalo Springs NR on the 23 rd & 25 th, with the only other sighting of this northern speciality at Baringo on the 29 th. 319 Mouse-coloured Penduline-tit Only recorded at Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th. 320 Montane White-eye Small numbers were recorded in the grounds of the Serena Mountain Lodge and Naro Moru River Lodge on the 22 nd & 26 th respectively. 321 Abyssinian White-eye Good views were enjoyed in the KWS Mess Centre in Nairobi NP on the 20 th with a few also at Thika the following day. 322 Eastern Violet-backed Sunbird Recorded on three dates while in the Samburu area, although it was more numerous at Baringo where it could often be found in the grounds of the SOI Lodge. 32

33 323 Collared Sunbird Noted on four dates with notable sites including Nairobi NP, The Blue Post Hotel, Serena Mountain Lodge and Naro Moru River Lodge. 324 Green-headed Sunbird A female seen well but rather briefly in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th was the only record. 325 Amethyst Sunbird Reasonably common with sightings on five dates, it was first noted in the grounds of the Fairview Hotel on the 20 th & 21 st with further sightings from Naro Moru River Lodge, Nakuru NP and Baringo. 326 Scarlet-chested Sunbird This stunning bird was noted at Nairobi NP on the 20 th, and Thika on the 21st. It was also one of the many sunbird species present in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th, with a final record from Nakuru on the 27 th. 327 Hunter's Sunbird Small numbers were recorded on three dates while in the Samburu area and two dates while at Baringo. 328 Tacazze Sunbird Only recorded on the 26 th when at least two were seen in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge, with another later that day at Thomson s Falls. 329 Bronze Sunbird The 26 th provided the bulk of records with sightings from the Naro Moru River Lodge and various places between there and Nakuru, including Thomson s Falls. Elsewhere it was noted at Nairobi NP, the Chania Falls and Nakuru. 330 Golden-winged Sunbird A stop on the 26 th between Naro Moru and Nakuru at an old quarry to look for African balck Duck also produced our only sighting of this much sought after bird, when a female was found feeding in flowering bushes nearby. 331 Northern Double-collared Sunbird Small numbers were recorded in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th. 332 Eastern Double-collared Sunbird First recorded while at the Serena Mountain Lodge on the 22 nd with the only other sighting from the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th. 333 Beautiful Sunbird At least one was regularly seen around our tents at Ashnil Camp in Buffalo Springs NR, however most records came from Baringo where it was quite common and was one of many birds that could be seen from the SOI Lodge balcony. 334 Marico Sunbird First seen at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st, with the only other sighting at Buffalo Springs NR on the 23 rd. 335 Shining Sunbird Our only sighting came on the morning of the 23 rd while in Buffalo Springs NR. 336 Variable Sunbird Fairly common in the highlands, including the grounds of the Fairview Hotel where it was recorded on the 20 th & 21 st. Elsewhere it was noted at Nairobi NP, Blue Post Hotel, Serena Mountain Lodge and Naro Moru River Lodge. 337 Red-backed Shrike Our only record came on the 24 th while in the Samburu NR. 338 Isabelline Shrike One was noted in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, with a number of records while in the Samburu area, including one which was seen on three dates just outside the Ashnil Camp entrance gates. 33

34 339 Woodchat Shrike One along the entrance road to the Ashnil Camp, Buffalo Springs NR on the 24 th was an unexpected find as they do not usually occur here. 340 Grey-backed Fiscal Small numbers were noted at Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th, with our only other sighting as we crossed the equator on our way back to Nairobi on the 30 th. 341 Long-tailed Fiscal Reasonably common in Nairobi NP, with at least one also noted the following day near Thika. 342 Taita Fiscal Small numbers were recorded only while in the Samburu area. 343 Common Fiscal Very common and widespread with sightings on eight dates. Notable sites included Nairobi NP, Thika and Nakuru NP as well as frequent sightings by the roadside, especially along the section of arable fields north of Nanyuki. 344 Northern White-crowned Shrike Small numbers were noted in the Samburu area on the 23 rd & 24 th and at Baringo on the 29 th & 30 th. 345 Brubru First noted in Samburu NR on the 24 th, with another the following day in the nearby Buffalo Springs NR. However our best views came on the 29 th when a particularly obliging bird showed well near Baringo Cliffs. 346 Northern Puffback Small numbers wee seen in the forested areas of Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th. 347 Black-backed Puffback First recorded in the forest section of Nairobi NP on the 20 th, with the next sighting not until the 26 th when a few were in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge. At least one was also noted on the 27 th at Nakuru NP. 348 Three-streaked Tchagra The only species of Tchagra recorded during the tour, with sightings from Samburu NR on the 24 th and Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th. 349 Tropical Boubou Recorded at Serena Mountain Lodge on the 22 nd, Naro Moru River Lodge the 26 th and Lake Nakuru NP on the 28 th. 350 Slate-coloured Boubou A vocal bird at Nairobi NP on the 20 th refused to show despite much searching, luckily a pair showed well the next day in scrub along the approach to Thika sewage pools. Small numbers were also noted while in the Samburu area. 351 Rosy-patched Bushshrike Small numbers were seen on three dates while in the Samburu area. 352 Sulphur-breasted Bushshrike One proved rather difficult to view in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th, though with a little persistence we all managed descent views. 353 White-crested Helmetshrike A family party including at least three recently fledged young were found near Baringo on the 30 th. 354 Fork-tailed Drongo A common and widespread species with sightings every day. 355 Cape Rook Birds were noted near Nanyuki, Naro Moru and Naivasha on the 22 nd, 26 th & 30 th respectively, with all records relating to birds seen by the roadside while travelling. 34

35 356 Pied Crow Reasonably common and widespread with sightings on nine dates. 357 Fan-tailed Raven Small numbers were seen at the entrance to Samburu NR on the 24 th with a few also seen very well at Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th. 358 African Black-headed Oriole Small number were seen at Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th, with some giving good views, it was also noted on the 29 th from inside the grounds of the SOI Lodge. 359 Montane Oriole A few were lucky enough to see this species at Serena Mountain Lodge on the morning of the 22 nd though the rest of the group managed to catch up when one was located in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th. 360 Red-billed Oxpecker Reasonably common with sightings on ten dates, especially where large concentrations of game were found such as Nairobi NP, Samburu and Nakuru NP, while smaller numbers were also at Serena Mountain Lodge and Baringo. 361 Wattled Starling A number of small flocks were seen in Buffalo Springs NR on the 23 rd, with one also noted there on the 25 th. 362 Greater Blue-eared Glossy Starling Small numbers were noted in the town of Nanyuki on the 22 nd and near Naro Moru on the 26 th. 363 Rüppell s Long-tailed Starling Not seen until reaching Nakuru NP on the 26 th where it was reasonably common with daily sightings. Small numbers were also noted at Baringo, notably from the grounds of the SOI Lodge. 364 Golden-breasted Starling At least two of these stunning birds gave reasonable views at Samburu NR on the 24 th. 365 Superb Starling Easily the most numerous of the starlings with many sightings daily, including in the centre of Nairobi. 366 Hildebrandt's Starling Unlike the very similar species above, this bird was only recorded once during the tour, when about five birds were found along the approach road to Thika sewage lagoons on the 21 st. 367 Violet-backed Starling Two birds seen in flight over the Naro Moru River Lodge on the 26 th was the only record. 368 Fischer's Starling Small numbers were seen in Buffalo Springs NR on the 23 rd with a few also noted in Samburu NR the following day. 369 Red-winged Starling Not recorded until the last day when a pair was seen feeding and later visiting a nest at a petrol station near Naivasha. 370 Bristle-crowned Starling Small numbers were seen at Baringo on the 29 th. 371 Magpie Starling One was seen fairly briefly in Samburu NR on the 24 th. 372 House Sparrow Small numbers were recorded on six dates, with all sightings coming from urbanised areas. 35

36 373 Rufous Sparrow Our first and best views came from Nairobi NP on the 20 th. Also noted while at Nakuru NP. 374 Gray-headed Sparrow Reasonably common in the south with sightings at Thika on the 21 st and Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th. 375 Parrot-billed Sparrow The northern counterpart of the above species which has now been split. It was common in the Samburu and Baringo areas especially at the Ashnil Camp, where cheeky birds would steel food from the breakfast table. 376 Chestnut Sparrow Common in the Samburu area with sightings on three dates, including some large flocks and breeding colonies. 377 Yellow-spotted Petronia Small numbers were seen in the Samburu area on the 23 rd & 24 th as well as at Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th. 378 White-browed Sparrow Weaver Common and widespread with sightings on nine dates, especially in the Samburu area where several hundreds were seen each day. It was also reasonably common at Baringo though strangely unrecorded at Nakuru. 379 Donaldson-Smith's Sparrow Weaver Another speciality of the Samburu area with sightings on all four dates we were there, especially the area just inside the Buffalo Springs NR entrance gates. 380 Red-billed Buffalo Weaver Small numbers were seen at Buffalo Springs NR on the 22 nd and 23 rd. 381 White-billed Buffalo Weaver Our only record involved a bird high in a tree top in the grounds of the Baringo Club on the 29 th. 382 White-headed Buffalo Weaver A bird of the drier north, it was abundant in the Samburu area with hundreds seen daily while there. It was also noted at Baringo but in much smaller numbers. 383 Speckle-fronted Weaver Small numbers were seen in Samburu NR on the 24 th and at Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th. 384 Black-capped Social Weaver Only recorded while in the Samburu area where large numbers were recorded on three dates. 385 Village Weaver Not recorded until the 29 th when small numbers were noted in the grounds of the SOI Lodge, Baringo. Next day however the lure of fresh food to the bird table at Roberts Camp saw large numbers come to feed. 386 Northern Masked-Weaver Several birds in non breeding plumage were attracted to the bird table at Roberts Camp on the 30 th. This is a real speciality of Baringo with this small isolated population the only know site in Kenya where this species occurs. 387 Vitelline Masked-Weaver Small numbers were seen on three dates while in the Samburu area. 388 Lesser Masked-Weaver Small numbers were identified on the 23 rd in Buffalo Springs NR, and in Samburu NR the following day. 389 Speke's Weaver A few were noted at Nairobi NP on the 20 th with good numbers at Thika the following day. 390 Spectacled Weaver A pair in the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge initially proved elusive in thick cover, though with patience good views were eventually received. 36

37 391 Baglafecht Weaver A common species in the highlands with sightings on six dates, notable sites included Nairobi NP, Thika, Serena Mountain Lodge, Naro Moru River Lodge and Nakuru NP. Not recorded in the drier areas of Samburu or Baringo. 392 Chestnut Weaver Only recorded while in the Samburu area, where several birds often in large flocks were seen on three dates. 393 Little Weaver Another speciality of Baringo with up to four birds noted at Baringo Club / Roberts Camp on the 29 th, with at least two the following day visiting the bird table at the latter. 394 Golden-backed Weaver Despite failing to find this species at Roberts Camp on the 29 th, a return visit the following morning with some fresh food taken from our breakfast produced several birds at close range. Sadly however all were in non breeding plumage. 395 African Golden-Weaver A pair was seen well in scrub near Thika sewage pools on the 21 st. 396 Holub's Golden-Weaver A pair was watched visiting a nest at Thika sewage pools on the 21 st. 397 Golden Palm Weaver A pair was observed building a nest along a section of the Ewaso Nyiro River in Buffalo Springs NR which was lined by many palm trees on the 25 th. 398 Red-headed Weaver Some of the group enjoyed good views by their tents at Ashnil Camp, but those who missed it soon caught up when a pair showed well nearby along the Ewaso Nyiro River on the 25 th. Also noted at Nakuru NP on the 27 th. 399 Red-billed Quelea A flock containing c40 birds showed well on the edge of Thika town on the 21 st, with small numbers also noted by some at Buffalo Spring NR. 400 Long-tailed Widowbird The commonest of the widowbirds and perhaps the most impressive. It was first recorded near Nanyuki on the 22 nd, with our best views and the image below coming from the Solio Ranch on the 26 th. It was also noted at the Kinangop Plateau on the 30 th. 401 Jackson's Widowbird A male was noted briefly in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, although our best views came on the 26 th on the Solio Ranch where males, including the one pictured below were seen displaying along side the above species, allowing a good comparison. Long-tailed Widowbird 37 Jackson s Widowbird

38 402 White-winged Widowbird First noted on the edge of Thika town where a few showed very well by the roadside. Later several were noted at Thika sewage pools but were all more distant. 403 Red-collared Widowbird Only seen in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, where small numbers showed well. 404 Grey-headed Negrofinch A single male was noted from the rooftop observation area at Serena Mountain Lodge on the 22 nd. 405 Green-winged Pytilia Small numbers were noted on the 29 th & 30 th at Baringo with good views enjoyed near Baringo Cliffs on the former. 406 Red-billed Firefinch Reasonably common with sightings on eight dates, notable sites included Nairobi NP, Samburu and Baringo, as well as the Naro Moru River Lodge where a nest was discovered at eye level containing two tiny featherless chicks. 407 African Firefinch Two or possibly more on the 27 th at Nakuru NP were the only birds recorded. 408 Red-cheeked Cordonbleu Reasonably common with sightings on eight dates, notable sites included Nairobi NP, Nakuru NP and Baringo. 409 Blue-capped Cordonbleu Small numbers were noted in Samburu NP on the 24 th and at Buffalo Springs NR on the 25 th. 410 Purple Grenadier Small numbers were recorded on five dates with Nairobi NP, Samburu and Baringo all providing sightings. 411 Crimson-rumped Waxbill Small flocks containing up to 15 birds were noted on a number of occasions at Nakuru NP on the 27 th & 28 th and at Baringo on the 29 th. 412 Common Waxbill Small numbers were recorded in Nairobi NP, Thika sewage pools and Serena Mountain Lodge on the 20 th, 21 st & 22 nd respectively, with no further records until the 28 th when a large group was noted at Nakuru NP. 413 Black-headed Waxbill Two birds were present at Serena Mountain Lodge on the 22 nd, though they proved extremely difficult to locate in the long grass and scrub. Luckily they remained feeding here for some time eventually allowing everyone good views. 414 Black-cheeked Waxbill A pair was noted in Samburu NR on the 24 th with the only other sighting being one at Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th. 415 African Silverbill Small numbers were seen at Buffalo Springs NR on the 23 rd and Samburu NR the following day. 416 Gray-headed Silverbill Our only sighting involved a single bird which gave good views in Samburu NR on the 24 th. 417 Bronze Manakin Small numbers were noted in Nairobi NP on the 20 th and near Thika sewage pools the following day. 418 Black-and-white Manakin A pair showed briefly in Nairobi NP on the 20 th. 38

39 419 Cut-throat Small numbers were seen on three consecutive dates while in the Samburu area from the 23 rd onwards. 420 Village Indigobird An adult male was seen well by the roadside near Isiolo on the 25 th with the only record an immature male at Baringo Cliffs on the 29 th. 421 Straw-tailed Whydah The only record involved this stunning male in full breeding plumage which showed well by the roadside near Isiolo on the 25 th. 422 Pin-tailed Whydah Several birds were noted on the 20 th in Nairobi NP, with smaller numbers also noted at Thika the following day and at Baringo on the 29 th. 423 Eastern Paradise-Whydah A male was seen rather distantly in Samburu NR on the 24 th. 424 African Citril Nairobi NP provided our first and best views on the 20 th with a few also noted near Thika the following day. 425 Yellow-crowned Canary Small numbers were recorded at Mount Kenya from the rooftop terrace of the Serena Mountain Lodge. 426 White-bellied Canary First noted in Samburu NR on the 24 th, with another the following day in nearby Buffalo Springs NR. This species prefers drier habitats than other canaries and away from the Samburu area it was only noted at Baringo on the 29 th. 427 Brimstone Canary First recorded in the scrub on the approach to Thika sewage pools on the 21 st where a pair showed well, with the only other sighting one at the Baboon Cliffs viewpoint in Nakuru NP which also gave good views. 428 Streaky Seedeater Small numbers were seen in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, Thika sewage pools on the 21 st and enroute to Samburu on the 22 nd. A few were also noted while travelling back to Nairobi on the 30 th. 429 Thick-billed Seedeater A pair was noted in Mount Kenya NP, viewed from the Serena Mountain Lodge rooftop terrace on the 22 nd. 430 Cinnamon-breasted Bunting Only recorded in the Nairobi NP on the 20 th when a total of c12 birds were seen during the day, some of which gave very good views. 431 Golden-breasted Bunting Small numbers were seen in Nairobi NP in the grounds of the KWS Mess Centre on the 20 th and in Nakuru NP on the 28 th. 432 Somali Bunting Our only record came on the 25 th when one gave reasonable views in the Buffalo Springs NR. 39

40 Mammals 1 Warthog Our first and probably best sighting was from the KWS Mess Centre in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, with further sighting on three dates while in the Samburu area and two dates while at Nakuru NP. 2 Hippopotamus Only recorded twice, with small numbers in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, and one swimming at Lake Nakuru on the 27 th. 3 Masai Giraffe Small numbers were noted in Nairobi NP on the 20 th, including this one which gave very close views in the morning and two stood on the track which we had to drive around on our way out of the park. 4 Reticulated Giraffe Fairly common while in the Samburu area with sightings on three dates, several of which gave exceptional views including the one pictured on the back cover. 5 Rothschild s Giraffe The rarest of the giraffes, with only a few hundred animals left in the wild. We recorded it in small numbers on the 27 th & 28 th while at Nakuru NP which is one of only two places where it can be easily seen. 6 Kirk's Dik-dik Common in the Samburu area with records on four dates, it was also noted on the 26 th on the Solio Ranch. 7 Gunther s Dik-dik Only recorded at Nakuru NP where two gave good views on the 28 th. 8 Suni Another tiny member of the antelope family, with just a few noted on the 20 th while in Nairobi NP. 9 Bushbuck Fairly common with sightings from Nairobi NP, Nakuru NP and Serena Mountain Lodge, with the highest concentrations found at the waterhole at the latter, especially after dark where up to 20 gathered. 10 Eland Only recorded distantly at Nairobi NP on the 20 th. 11 Beisa Oryx This beautiful and distinctive member of the antelope family was recorded on four consecutive dates from the 22 nd onwards, with all records from the Samburu area. 12 Common Waterbuck One was at the waterhole at Serena Mountain Lodge on the 21 st with several there the following morning. Elsewhere small numbers were noted on 3 dates in the Samburu area with higher numbers on 3 dates at Nakuru NP. 13 Coke's Hartebeest A decent sized heard was noted at Nairobi NP on the 20 th but remained distant. 14 Impala One of the commonest mammals with sightings on eight dates and from many locations including Nairobi NP, Samburu, Solio Ranch and Nakuru NP. It was often seen very well and in good numbers. 15 Grant's Gazelle Noted daily in the Samburu area where they often gave good views. Also noted at the Solio Ranch on the 26 th. 16 Thomson's Gazelle Small numbers were recorded at Lake Nakuru NP on the 26 th, 27 th and 28 th with the only other sighting from the Solio Ranch also on the 26 th. 40

41 17 Gerenuk This delicate antelope was only recorded in the Samburu area, where it was reasonably common with a number of sightings on three dates. The word gerenuk comes from the Somali language, meaning "giraffe-necked". Gerenuk African Buffalo 18 African Buffalo Several were seen at Nairobi NP on the 20 th with smaller numbers visiting the waterhole at Serena Mountain Lodge on the 21 st & 22 nd. Large numbers were then noted daily while at Nakuru NP. Not recorded at Samburu. 19 Grevy's Zebra This rare species was recorded daily between the 22 nd and 25 th while in the Samburu area. 20 Burchell's Zebra Reasonably common with sightings from Nairobi NP, Samburu, Solio Ranch and Nakuru NP, with the latter providing the highest numbers and best views. 21 Black Rhinoceros On the 20 th a total of three were noted in Nairobi NP including this one which gave excellent views. At Nakuru it was recorded on the 27 th & 28 th with one of the sightings of a mother with a well grown calf. Black Rhino White Rhino 22 White Rhinoceros Two were noted distantly at Nairobi National Park on the 20 th. Two were also noted at Nakuru NP on the 27 th, with this mother and calf showing well there the following morning. 23 Tree Hyrax Although not seen, after dark the loud eerie cries of this species rang through the forest at the Serena Mountain Lodge. 41