Masai Mara Birds - Masai Mara Safaris

The Masai Mara is not just a haven for large mammals and iconic predators; it’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 450 bird species. The wide variety of habitats — from riverine forests and acacia woodlands to savannas and wetlands — attracts a stunning array of birdlife, from massive raptors to tiny, colorful passerines. Let’s dive into some of the most fascinating bird species you might encounter on your safari.

1. Secretary Bird (Sagittarius serpentarius)

The secretary bird is a striking bird of prey, easily recognized by its long legs, upright posture, and quill-like feathers protruding from the back of its head. This large bird is known for hunting on foot, using its powerful legs to stomp on snakes and small mammals. Secretary birds are often seen striding majestically through the savanna, making them a favorite sight for birdwatchers.

Tips:

Secretary birds are diurnal and can often be seen walking across open grasslands.
Look for them in pairs or alone, scanning the ground for prey as they move through tall grass.
Their unique hunting technique and striking appearance make them one of the most impressive birds to observe in the Mara.

68. Lilac-Breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus)

The lilac-breasted roller is one of the most colorful birds in the Masai Mara, with a vivid mix of blues, greens, lilacs, and browns. Known for its acrobatic flight displays during the mating season, this bird is often seen perched on high branches, scanning the ground for insects, small reptiles, and rodents. Rollers are a favorite for photographers due to their brilliant plumage and dynamic flying skills.

Tips:

Look for lilac-breasted rollers perched on trees or fence posts, particularly in open areas where they hunt for insects.
During the breeding season, watch for their spectacular aerial displays, which involve somersaulting and diving in mid-air.
Their bright colors make them one of the most photogenic birds in the Mara, so keep your camera ready.

2. African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)

The African fish eagle is one of Africa’s most iconic birds of prey, easily identified by its black, white, and chestnut plumage and its distinctive, haunting call. These large raptors are often seen perched near rivers and lakes, where they hunt for fish. Their powerful talons and keen eyesight make them formidable hunters, and watching one dive to catch a fish is a highlight for any safari-goer.

Tips:

African fish eagles are diurnal and often seen perched in trees near rivers, scanning for fish.
Listen for their distinctive, piercing call, which often signals their presence before they are spotted.
Watching a fish eagle swoop down to catch its prey is a thrilling experience, so keep an eye on rivers and lakes during your safari.

3. Grey Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum)

The grey crowned crane is one of the most elegant birds in Africa, known for its golden “crown” of stiff feathers and graceful, slow movements. These cranes are often found near wetlands, marshes, and open grasslands, where they feed on insects, seeds, and small amphibians. They are known for their elaborate courtship displays, which involve bowing, dancing, and jumping.

Tips:

Grey crowned cranes are diurnal and usually seen in pairs or small groups near water sources.
Watch for their graceful courtship displays during the breeding season, which include synchronized dances and calls.
Their striking appearance and gentle movements make them a must-see for bird enthusiasts and photographers alike.

4. Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus)

The martial eagle is one of the largest and most powerful eagles in Africa, known for its strength and ability to take down prey as large as small antelopes. With dark brown feathers, a white underbelly, and striking yellow eyes, these eagles are often seen soaring high above the savanna, searching for prey such as birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Martial eagles are solitary hunters and are usually seen alone.

Tips:

Martial eagles are diurnal and are often spotted soaring high in the sky, searching for prey.
Look for them perched on tall trees or rocks, where they scan the ground for movement.
Their size and hunting prowess make them one of the most impressive birds of prey to observe in the Masai Mara.

5. White-Fronted Bee-Eater (Merops bullockoides)

The white-fronted bee-eater is a beautiful, small bird known for its vibrant green, red, and white plumage. These social birds are often seen in colonies along riverbanks, where they dig nests into the sandy walls. Bee-eaters catch their prey — primarily bees and other flying insects — in mid-air, using their quick reflexes and acrobatic flying skills. Their colonies are noisy and lively, offering plenty of entertainment for birdwatchers.

Tips:

Bee-eaters are diurnal and are most active during the day, especially in the early morning when they hunt for insects.
Look for them perched on branches or flying gracefully through the air, catching bees and other flying insects.
Their brightly colored plumage and social behavior make them a joy to observe, particularly when they return to their colonies.

6. Yellow-Billed Stork (Mycteria ibis)

The yellow-billed stork is a large, wading bird commonly seen near rivers, lakes, and marshes. Easily recognized by its long, yellow bill and striking black and white plumage, this bird forages by sweeping its open bill through the water to catch fish, frogs, and small invertebrates. Yellow-billed storks are often seen standing motionless in shallow water, waiting for prey to pass by.

Tips:

Yellow-billed storks are diurnal and are most easily seen wading through shallow water in search of food.
Look for their long, curved bills as they sweep through the water or stand still, waiting for prey.
Their elegant stance and efficient hunting technique make them fascinating to watch, especially in wetland areas.

7. Kori Bustard (Ardeotis kori)

The kori bustard is one of the heaviest flying birds in the world, often seen walking slowly through the savanna. These ground-dwelling birds are known for their impressive size and striking plumage, which includes intricate patterns of brown, white, and black. Despite their weight, kori bustards are capable of flight but prefer walking as they forage for insects, small vertebrates, and seeds.

Tips:

Kori bustards are diurnal and are often seen walking slowly through open grasslands.
They are solitary birds and prefer to remain on the ground, only flying when necessary.
Their size and slow movements make them easy to spot, especially in areas with tall grasses where they forage for food.

8. Augur Buzzard (Buteo augur)

The augur buzzard is a medium-sized bird of prey known for its striking black and white plumage and rusty-red tail. These buzzards are commonly seen perched on trees or soaring high in the sky, scanning for prey such as small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Augur buzzards are often mistaken for eagles due to their size and powerful flight, and they are known for their piercing calls that echo across the savanna.

Tips:

Augur buzzards are diurnal and are often seen soaring high above the grasslands or perched on tree branches.
Their distinctive calls can often be heard before they are seen, especially during the breeding season.
Look for their striking black and white plumage and red tails as they fly or hunt for prey from a high vantage point.

9. Cinnamon-Chested Bee-Eater (Merops oreobates)

The cinnamon-chested bee-eater is a small, colorful bird with vibrant green, cinnamon, and blue plumage. Like other bee-eaters, it catches its prey — primarily bees and other flying insects — in mid-air. These birds are often seen perched on low branches or wires, waiting for insects to fly by. Their vivid colors and graceful flight make them a favorite among birdwatchers.

Tips:

Cinnamon-chested bee-eaters are diurnal and are often seen hunting for insects in open areas or near water.
Look for their colorful plumage and quick, agile flight as they dart through the air in pursuit of prey.
Their small size and brilliant colors make them a joy to watch, especially when they return to their nests in colonies.

10. Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax)

The tawny eagle is a large and powerful bird of prey commonly seen in the Masai Mara. Known for its broad wings, tawny-brown plumage, and piercing yellow eyes, this eagle is an impressive hunter. Tawny eagles are opportunistic feeders, preying on birds, small mammals, and carrion. They are often seen perched on trees or soaring over the savanna in search of food.

Tips:

Tawny eagles are diurnal and are often seen soaring high above the grasslands or perched on trees.
Look for their distinctive tawny-brown feathers and broad wings as they fly in search of prey or scan the ground from a high perch.
These eagles are solitary hunters, and their size and strength make them one of the most impressive birds of prey in the Masai Mara.

11. African Grey Hornbill (Lophoceros nasutus)

The African grey hornbill is a medium-sized bird known for its distinctive long, curved bill and grey plumage. These hornbills are often seen in pairs or small groups, flying from tree to tree in search of fruit, insects, and small reptiles. Their unique bill shape makes them easy to identify, and they have a characteristic flight pattern with slow wingbeats followed by glides.

Tips:

African grey hornbills are diurnal and are often seen flying between trees or perched on branches in woodland areas.
Look for their long, curved bills and listen for their distinctive calls, which are often a series of loud, nasal honks.
Their slow, undulating flight makes them a pleasure to watch as they move through the trees.

12. Northern White-Crowned Shrike (Eurocephalus rueppelli)

The northern white-crowned shrike is a small but striking bird with a black mask across its face and a white crown. Known for its aggressive hunting behavior, this shrike feeds on insects, small reptiles, and even other birds. Shrikes are often seen perched on high vantage points, scanning the ground for prey. Despite their size, these birds are formidable hunters and can catch and impale their prey on thorns or barbed wire.

Tips:

Northern white-crowned shrikes are diurnal and are often seen perched on bushes or fences, scanning for prey.
Look for their distinctive white crown and black facial mask, which make them easy to identify.
Their hunting behavior is fascinating to observe, especially when they catch and store prey on thorns.

13. African Hoopoe (Upupa africana)

The African hoopoe is a medium-sized bird with a striking crest of orange feathers tipped with black, which it raises when excited or threatened. These birds have distinctive black-and-white wings and a long, slender bill that they use to probe the ground for insects. Hoopoes are known for their “hoop-hoop” calls, which can often be heard before the bird is spotted. They are usually seen alone or in pairs, foraging on the ground.

Tips:

African hoopoes are diurnal and are often seen foraging on the ground in open areas, using their long bills to probe the soil.
Look for their vibrant crest and striking black-and-white wings as they move through grassy areas.
Their distinctive calls make them easy to locate, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

14. African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis)

The African paradise flycatcher is a beautiful bird, especially the male, which sports a long, flowing tail and vivid chestnut and white plumage. These birds are agile insect hunters, catching prey in mid-air with their acrobatic flight. They are often seen flitting through the forest canopy, their long tails trailing behind them as they chase insects. Paradise flycatchers are monogamous and are often seen in pairs.

Tips:

African paradise flycatchers are diurnal and are most active during the early morning and late afternoon when they hunt for insects.
Look for their long, elegant tails and vivid chestnut coloring as they dart through the trees.
Their acrobatic flight and striking plumage make them a favorite for birdwatchers and photographers alike.

15. Yellow-Throated Longclaw (Macronyx croceus)

The yellow-throated longclaw is a small but colorful bird, easily identified by its bright yellow throat and chest, contrasted by a black necklace-like marking. These birds are ground-dwelling and are often found in open grasslands, where they hunt for insects. Their melodious, whistling calls make them easy to locate, even in tall grass, and they are often seen perched on low shrubs or fence posts.

Tips:

Yellow-throated longclaws are diurnal and are often seen walking through grasslands or perched on low vegetation.
Look for their bright yellow throat and listen for their distinctive, melodic calls.
Their colorful appearance and graceful movements make them a delight to observe in open grassy areas.

16. Red-Necked Spurfowl (Pternistis afer)

The red-necked spurfowl, also known as the red-necked francolin, is a ground-dwelling bird with a distinctive red throat and legs. These birds are usually seen foraging on the ground for seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. Red-necked spurfowls are often found in pairs or small groups, and their loud, cackling calls can be heard throughout the day, especially in the early morning.

Tips:

Red-necked spurfowls are most often seen on the ground, foraging in open grasslands or near water sources.
Their bright red necks and legs make them easy to spot, especially when paired with their loud calls.
Look for them in pairs or small groups, as they tend to stay close together when foraging.

17. African Pygmy Falcon (Polihierax semitorquatus)

The African pygmy falcon is the smallest bird of prey in Africa, but it is known for its boldness and hunting prowess. Despite its small size, this falcon preys on insects, small birds, and reptiles. The African pygmy falcon is often seen perched on acacia trees or telephone poles, scanning the ground for prey. These falcons are also known for their symbiotic relationship with weaver birds, as they often nest in abandoned weaver nests.

Tips:

African pygmy falcons are diurnal and are often seen perched on high vantage points like trees or poles.
Look for their small size, grey upperparts, and white underparts, which make them easy to distinguish.
Their bold hunting behavior and swift flight make them exciting to watch as they dive for prey.

18. Rüppell’s Griffon Vulture (Gyps rueppelli)

The Rüppell’s griffon vulture is a large scavenger, known for its impressive wingspan and high-altitude flight capabilities. These vultures are often seen circling high above the savanna, searching for carcasses to scavenge. Rüppell’s griffon vultures play a vital role in the ecosystem by cleaning up after predators and helping to prevent the spread of disease. They are social birds and often gather in large groups around kills.

Tips:

Rüppell’s griffon vultures are diurnal and are often seen soaring high in the sky, looking for food.
Look for their large wingspans and distinctive dark plumage as they circle overhead.
Watching a group of vultures descend on a carcass is a fascinating display of nature’s clean-up crew in action.

19. Malachite Kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus)

The malachite kingfisher is a tiny, brightly colored bird with brilliant blue and orange plumage. These small kingfishers are usually found near water, where they perch on reeds or branches, scanning for small fish, frogs, and aquatic insects. Despite their size, malachite kingfishers are expert hunters, diving into the water with precision to catch their prey.

Tips:

Malachite kingfishers are most often seen near rivers, lakes, or marshes, perched on reeds or branches.
Look for their bright blue and orange plumage, which stands out against the green of wetland vegetation.
Their quick, darting dives into the water are a joy to watch, especially when they return with a catch.

20. Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis)

The pied kingfisher is one of the most widely distributed kingfishers in Africa, known for its striking black and white plumage and hovering flight pattern. These kingfishers are often seen hovering above water before diving in to catch fish. Pied kingfishers are highly skilled hunters and can even catch prey in mid-air. They are social birds and are often seen in pairs or small groups along riverbanks.

Tips:

Pied kingfishers are diurnal and are most commonly seen near rivers and lakes, hovering over the water before diving.
Look for their black and white markings, which make them easy to identify, even from a distance.
Watching their precise hovering and diving behavior is one of the highlights of any birdwatching experience near water.

21. Shikra (Accipiter badius)

The shikra is a small but fierce bird of prey, known for its sharp eyesight and quick, agile flight. These hawks are expert hunters, preying on small birds, rodents, and insects. Shikras are often seen darting through trees or open areas in pursuit of prey. Their grey upperparts and pale underparts make them easy to spot in flight, and they are known for their piercing calls during the breeding season.

Tips:

Shikras are diurnal and are often seen flying quickly through trees or open areas in search of prey.
Look for their swift, agile flight and listen for their high-pitched calls, which are often heard before they are seen.
These small hawks are highly territorial, so you may spot them chasing away other birds of prey from their hunting grounds.

22. Black-Headed Heron (Ardea melanocephala)

The black-headed heron is a large wading bird known for its striking black head and grey body. These herons are often found near water, but they are also comfortable foraging in grasslands, where they hunt for insects, small mammals, and amphibians. Their patient hunting style, where they stand motionless before striking at prey with lightning speed, makes them a captivating sight in the Mara.

Tips:

Black-headed herons are diurnal and can often be seen stalking through shallow water or tall grass.
Look for their tall, stately figures standing still before they strike at prey with their sharp bills.
Their distinctive black head and long legs make them easy to spot in open areas, whether near water or in grasslands.

23. Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath)

The goliath heron is the largest heron species in the world, standing at nearly 1.5 meters tall. This massive bird is a true giant of the water’s edge, using its size and strength to catch large fish. Goliath herons are solitary and are often seen wading through shallow waters, patiently waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Their impressive size and powerful presence make them one of the most memorable birds to encounter in the Mara.

Tips:

Goliath herons are diurnal and are usually found near large bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, and marshes.
Their sheer size makes them easy to spot from a distance, especially when they stand motionless in the water, waiting for fish.
Watching a goliath heron in action is a spectacular sight, particularly when they catch large fish with their powerful beaks.

24. Secretary Bird (Sagittarius serpentarius)

As we revisit the secretary bird, it’s important to appreciate its unique combination of elegance and hunting prowess. Known for its long legs and sharp talons, this bird is an expert at hunting snakes, stomping them with powerful kicks. The secretary bird is often seen striding across the open savanna, using its height to scan for prey. Their graceful movements and striking appearance make them a true icon of African birdlife.

Tips:

Secretary birds are diurnal and are often seen walking in open grasslands, scanning for snakes and small mammals.
Their distinctive quill-like head feathers and long legs make them easy to identify, even from a distance.
Secretary birds are highly photogenic, especially when hunting, so keep your camera ready.

25. African Harrier-Hawk (Polyboroides typus)

The African harrier-hawk is a large, versatile bird of prey known for its double-jointed legs, which allow it to reach into tree crevices to catch prey such as birds, small mammals, and reptiles. Harrier-hawks are often seen flying low over the ground or perched in trees, searching for nests to raid. Their unique hunting style and striking appearance, with grey and white plumage and a bright yellow face, make them fascinating to watch.

Tips:

African harrier-hawks are diurnal and are most often seen flying low over the grasslands or perched in trees, scanning for prey.
Look for their distinctive yellow facial skin and broad wings as they glide or perch high in the canopy.
Their ability to use their legs to extract prey from difficult places is a unique behavior worth observing.

26. African Green Pigeon (Treron calvus)

The African green pigeon is a striking bird with a bright green body and red feet, often found in forested areas and woodlands. These pigeons feed primarily on fruit, and they are often seen perched in fig trees or other fruit-bearing trees. Their soft cooing and colorful plumage make them a favorite among birdwatchers, especially during the fruiting season when they gather in large numbers.

Tips:

African green pigeons are diurnal and are most easily seen in fruiting trees, especially fig trees, where they feed.
Look for their bright green plumage and listen for their soft cooing calls.
These pigeons are often seen in pairs or small flocks, especially during the fruiting season when food is abundant.

27. Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri)

The southern ground hornbill is a large, terrestrial bird with black plumage and a distinctive red facial patch. These birds are highly social and are often seen in groups, foraging for insects, small mammals, and reptiles on the ground. Ground hornbills are known for their deep, booming calls, which can be heard from great distances. Their impressive size and strong social bonds make them one of the most interesting birds in the Mara.

Tips:

Southern ground hornbills are diurnal and are often seen walking through open savannas in groups.
Their large size and black plumage, combined with their bright red facial skin, make them easy to spot.
Listen for their deep, booming calls, which are used for communication between group members over long distances.

28. Grey-Backed Fiscal (Lanius excubitoroides)

The grey-backed fiscal is a small, predatory bird that belongs to the shrike family, known for its aggressive hunting behavior. These birds are often seen perched on fence posts or low trees, scanning the ground for insects, small mammals, and birds. They are known for impaling their prey on thorns or sharp objects, earning them the nickname “butcher birds.” The grey-backed fiscal is identifiable by its grey back, black mask, and white underparts.

Tips:

Grey-backed fiscals are diurnal and are often seen perched in open areas, scanning for prey.
Look for their black mask and grey back, which make them easy to distinguish from other shrikes.
Their habit of impaling prey on thorns is a unique behavior that is fascinating to witness.

29. Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl (Bubo lacteus)

The Verreaux’s eagle-owl, also known as the giant eagle-owl, is the largest owl in Africa, easily recognized by its pink eyelids and formidable size. These nocturnal birds of prey are often seen roosting in large trees during the day and hunting at night. Verreaux’s eagle-owls prey on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, and their deep hooting calls can be heard at dusk and through the night.

Tips:

Verreaux’s eagle-owls are best seen during night drives or early morning when they are returning from a night of hunting.
Look for their large size, pink eyelids, and distinctive deep hoots, which can be heard from afar.
These owls often perch in large trees near water or open savannas, providing excellent opportunities for close-up viewing.

30. White-Browed Coucal (Centropus superciliosus)

The white-browed coucal is a shy, ground-dwelling bird with brown and black plumage, easily identified by its distinctive white eyebrow stripe. These birds are often found in dense vegetation, where they forage for insects, small mammals, and reptiles. Coucals are known for their haunting, bubbling calls, which can be heard at dawn and dusk. Despite their reclusive nature, they are often spotted as they clamber through bushes in search of prey.

Tips:

White-browed coucals are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, when they forage for food.
Look for their distinctive white eyebrow and listen for their bubbling calls, which are often heard before the bird is seen.
They are often found in dense vegetation, making them easier to hear than to spot, but their unique behavior makes them worth the search.

31. Hadada Ibis (Bostrychia hagedash)

The hadada ibis is a large, noisy bird known for its loud, honking calls, which are often heard at dawn and dusk. These ibises are commonly found in wetlands, gardens, and grasslands, where they use their long, curved bills to probe the ground for insects, worms, and snails. Their iridescent green wings and characteristic calls make them one of the most recognizable birds in the Mara.

Tips:

Hadada ibises are diurnal and are often seen foraging in open areas, using their long bills to dig for food.
Listen for their loud, honking calls, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Their iridescent green wings and distinctive calls make them easy to identify, even from a distance.

32. African Scops Owl (Otus senegalensis)

The African scops owl is a small, camouflaged owl known for its ability to blend seamlessly into tree bark. These tiny owls are nocturnal and are often heard more than they are seen, as their soft, monotonous calls echo through the night. Scops owls feed on insects and small vertebrates, and their ability to remain motionless during the day makes them difficult to spot.

Tips:

African scops owls are best seen during night drives or early morning when they are returning from hunting.
Listen for their soft, repetitive calls, which are often the first sign of their presence.
Look for them in trees where their bark-like plumage helps them blend into the surroundings, making them a challenge to spot.

33. Augur Buzzard (Buteo augur)

The augur buzzard is a medium-sized bird of prey with striking plumage that includes a bright white chest and a dark back with a rusty red tail. These birds are often seen soaring over open grasslands or perched on high vantage points, scanning the ground for small mammals, birds, and reptiles. Augur buzzards are known for their distinctive calls and their impressive hunting skills.

Tips:

Augur buzzards are diurnal and are often seen soaring in wide circles above the savanna or perched on trees.
Look for their contrasting white chest and rusty red tail, which make them easy to identify.
Their aerial displays and strong, piercing calls make them a thrilling bird to observe in flight.

Bird categories;

Here is a categorization of Masai Mara birds based on their family groupings;

1. Ostriches

Common Ostrich (Struthio camelus): The largest bird on earth, often seen roaming the open plains of the Mara.

2. Grebes

Little Grebe (Tachybaptus capensis): A small, freshwater bird that dives to catch fish.

3. Pelicans, Cormorants & Darter

Long-tailed (Reed) Cormorant (Phalacrocorax africanus): A common sight near water, often seen drying its wings.
African Darter (Anhinga rufa): Known for its snake-like neck when swimming, it hunts fish by spearing them underwater.

4. Herons, Egrets & Bitterns

The wetlands of the Masai Mara are prime habitats for various species of herons and egrets.

Little Bittern (Ixobrychus minutus): A small, secretive heron that prefers dense reed beds, known for its camouflage.
Dwarf Bittern (Ixobrychus sturmii): Similar to the Little Bittern, this bird is active during rainy seasons and also favors reed beds.
Black-crowned Night-Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax): A nocturnal feeder often found near water bodies, recognizable by its black cap and back.
Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis): Often seen near large mammals, feeding on insects disturbed by their movements.
Little Egret (Egretta garzetta): A slender, white egret with black legs and a yellow bill, often seen in shallow waters.
Common Squacco-Heron (Ardeola ralloides): A small heron with a pale brown plumage, often found in marshes and wetlands.
Rufous-bellied Heron (Ardeola rufiventris): A small heron known for its reddish-brown belly, typically found in marshy areas.
Striated (Green-backed) Heron (Butorides striatus): A small heron with a greenish back, often seen hunting small fish along riverbanks.
Intermediate (Yellow-billed) Egret (Mesophoyx intermedia): A medium-sized egret distinguished by its yellow bill and pure white plumage.
Great (White) Egret (Casmerodius albus): A large white heron with a yellow bill and black legs, commonly seen stalking fish in shallow waters.
Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea): A tall, slender heron with grey plumage and a sharp bill, often seen along riverbanks.
Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea): A large heron with a purplish-brown plumage, typically found in reed beds.
Goliath Heron (Ardea goliath): The largest heron species, often seen wading through deeper waters hunting large fish.
Black-headed Heron (Ardea melanocephala): A medium-sized heron with a distinctive black head and grey body, commonly found in open grasslands.

5. Hamerkop & Shoebill

Hamerkop (Scopus umbretta): Recognizable by its hammer-shaped head and elaborate nests.

6. Storks

Known for their long legs and necks, these large wading birds are often spotted in the Masai Mara.

White Stork (Ciconia ciconia): A large migratory bird with white plumage and black wingtips, often seen in wetlands and grasslands.
Black Stork (Ciconia nigra): A shy, solitary stork with black plumage and a red bill, typically found near water bodies.
Abdim’s Stork (Ciconia abdimii): A small stork with a dark body and white belly, common in open savannas.
Woolly-necked Stork (Ciconia episcopus): Recognizable by its white woolly neck, often found in wetland areas.
Saddle-billed Stork (Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis): A large, colorful stork with a distinctive yellow “saddle” on its red bill.
Marabou Stork (Leptopilos crumeniferus): A large, bald-headed scavenger often seen at carcass sites, known for its massive size.
African Openbill Stork (Anastomus lamelligerus): Known for its unique open bill, specialized for feeding on mollusks.
Yellow-billed Stork (Mycteris ibis): A tall, white stork with a yellow, downward-curved bill, frequently seen near water bodies hunting for fish.

7. Ibises & Spoonbills

These waterbirds are often found in shallow waters where they feed by probing the mud.

Sacred Ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus): A distinctive wading bird with a white body and bare black head, often seen foraging in shallow waters.
Hadeda Ibis (Bostrychia hagedash): Known for its loud, distinctive call, this ibis has a dull, greyish-brown body and is commonly found in open areas and wetlands.
Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus): A striking ibis with iridescent green and purple plumage, often seen feeding in marshes and wetlands.
African Spoonbill (Platalea alba): This large white bird is easily recognizable by its long, flat spoon-shaped bill, used to sift through mud for food.

8. Ducks & Geese

Waterfowl are common in the marshes and rivers of the Mara.

White-faced Whistling-Duck (Dendrocygna viduata): Known for its distinctive white face and high-pitched whistling call, often seen in large flocks around water bodies.
Spur-winged Goose (Plectropterus gambensis): A large, black-and-white goose with spurs on its wings, commonly found near wetlands.
Egyptian Goose (Alopochen aegyptiacus): Easily recognized by its eye patch and brownish-gray body, frequently found near water.
Comb (Knob-billed) Duck (Sarkidiornis melanotus): Notable for the large knob on the male’s bill, typically found in lakes and ponds.
Northern Pintail (Anas acuta): A sleek, migratory duck with a long, pointed tail, commonly seen during winter months.
Red-billed Teal (Anas erythrorhyncha): A small, greyish-brown duck with a distinctive red bill, usually seen in shallow water.
Hottentot Teal (Anas hottentota): A small, compact duck with a dark head and pale body, often found in marshes and ponds.

9. Secretarybird

Secretarybird (Sagittaruis serpentaruis): This long-legged bird of prey hunts on foot, often in open savanna areas.

10. Vultures

Scavengers essential to the ecosystem, vultures are frequently seen at kills, cleaning up carcasses.

African White-backed Vulture (Gyps africanus): A common scavenger, typically seen in large groups at carcasses, contributing to the ecosystem by cleaning up remains.
Rüppell’s Vulture (Gyps rueppellii): Known for flying at high altitudes, this species often feeds alongside other vultures at kills.
Lappet-faced Vulture (Torgos tracheliotus): The largest vulture in Africa, with a powerful beak capable of tearing through tough hides.
White-headed Vulture (Trigonoceps occipitalis): A rare, solitary scavenger distinguished by its pale head and pink face.
Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus): A small vulture known for using tools like rocks to break open eggs.
Hooded Vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus): A small, lightweight vulture that often feeds on scraps left behind by larger vultures.

11. Eagles, Kites, Harriers, Hawks & Relatives

These powerful raptors dominate the skies of the Mara.

African Fish-Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer): Known for its iconic call, often seen swooping down to catch fish.
Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus): Africa’s largest eagle, known for its strength in hunting large prey such as small antelope.

12. Falcons & Kestrels

These agile hunters are fast and precise in capturing prey mid-flight.

Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus): Famous for its incredible speed during dives, making it the fastest bird in the world.
Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculatus): Often seen hovering while searching for small mammals.

13. Quails, Francolins & Guineafowl

Ground-dwelling birds that often inhabit grassy or scrubby areas.

Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris): Easily recognizable by its blue and red head and often seen in large groups.

14. Cranes & Bustards

These large ground birds are known for their elaborate courtship displays.

Grey Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum): A striking bird with a golden crest, often seen near water.
Kori Bustard (Ardeotis kori): The heaviest flying bird, often seen walking through the grasslands.

15. Jacana & Stilt

African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus): Known as the “Jesus bird” for its ability to walk on floating vegetation.
Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus): A slender bird with long, pink legs, often seen wading in shallow water.

16. Thick-knees

Water Thick-knee (Burhinus vermiculatus): A nocturnal bird often found near water, its cryptic plumage providing excellent camouflage.

17. Coursers

Ground-nesting birds often found in open grasslands.

Temminck’s Courser (Cursorius temmincki): A small bird with a distinctive white eyebrow, often seen running through dry areas.

18. Plovers, Lapwings & Painted Snipe

Wading birds often found along riverbanks or open water bodies.

Blacksmith Lapwing (Vanellus spinosus): Known for its loud, metallic “clink” calls, often seen defending its territory near water.
Greater Painted Snipe (Rostratula benghalensis): A striking bird with bold markings, often found in marshy areas.

19. Sandpipers & Relatives

These small, fast-moving shorebirds are often seen probing mud for invertebrates.

Little Stint (Calidris minuta): A tiny bird that migrates from Europe and Asia to spend winters in Africa.

20. Terns

Terns are elegant, long-winged seabirds often seen gliding over water.

White-winged Tern (Chlidonias leucopterus): A small, graceful bird often seen foraging over wetlands.

21. Pigeons & Doves

These ubiquitous birds are found throughout the Mara.

African Green Pigeon (Treron calva): A fruit-eating pigeon often seen perched high in trees.
Laughing Dove (Streptopelia senegalensis): Known for its soft, cooing call, often found in pairs.

22. Parrots

Meyer’s Parrot (Poicephalus meyeri): A small, stocky parrot with green and blue plumage, often seen in woodlands.

23. Turacos

Ross’s Turaco (Musophaga rossae): A striking bird with vibrant plumage, known for its bright red and blue feathers.

24. Cuckoos & Coucals

Jacobin Cuckoo (Oxylophus jacobinus): A migratory cuckoo often seen parasitizing nests of other bird species.

25. Owls

Verreaux’s Eagle Owl (Bubo lacteus): Africa’s largest owl, known for its pink eyelids and haunting call.

26. Nightjars

Eurasian Nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus): A nocturnal bird that feeds on insects in flight.

27. Swifts

African Palm Swift (Apus parvus): A small, fast-flying bird often seen darting around palm trees.

28. Mousebirds

Speckled Mousebird (Colius striatus): A sociable bird often seen in large groups, feeding on fruits.

29. Trogons

Narina Trogon (Apaloderma narina): A beautiful, brightly colored bird that inhabits forested areas.

30. Kingfishers

Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis): Known for hovering above water before diving to catch fish.

31. Bee-eaters

European Bee-eater (Merops apiaster): A vibrantly colored bird that catches insects mid-air.

Continuing from the detailed Masai Mara bird categories:

32. Rollers

European Roller (Coracias garrulus): Known for its bright blue and orange plumage, often spotted in open savanna areas.
Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus): A vibrant bird with lilac, turquoise, and green feathers, often seen perched on trees, scanning for insects.

33. Hoopoes & Scimitarbills

African Hoopoe (Upupa africana): Recognizable by its crest and distinctive “hoo-hoo” call, often foraging on the ground for insects.
Common Scimitarbill (Rhinopomastus cyanomelas): Known for its long, curved bill, used to extract insects from bark and crevices.

34. Hornbills

Southern Ground Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri): A large, terrestrial bird known for its deep, booming calls and striking red facial skin.
Von der Decken’s Hornbill (Tockus deckeni): A small, black-and-white hornbill often seen in pairs, foraging for insects.

35. Barbets & Tinkerbirds

Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird (Pogoniulus bilineatus): A small bird with a vibrant yellow rump, often seen in forests and wooded areas.
Spot-flanked Barbet (Tricholaema diademata): Known for its bold black spots and loud, ringing call.

36. Honeyguides

Greater Honeyguide (Indicator indicator): Famously leads humans and animals to honeybee nests, benefiting from the wax and larvae left behind.

37. Woodpeckers & Wrynecks

Nubian Woodpecker (Campethera nubica): A striking bird with a red crown and spotted wings, known for its drumming behavior on trees.
Golden-tailed Woodpecker (Campethera abingoni): Recognizable by its golden tail feathers and distinctive tapping on tree trunks.

38. Larks & Sparrow-Larks

Rufous-naped Lark (Mirafra africana): A small bird with a distinctive rufous-colored nape, often seen singing from prominent perches.
White-tailed Lark (Mirafra albicauda): Known for its characteristic white tail feathers, often found in open grasslands.

39. Swallows & Martins

Banded Martin (Riparia cincta): A small bird often seen flying low over water, catching insects.
Grey-rumped Swallow (Pseudhirundo griseopyga): Recognizable by its pale grey rump and agile flight patterns.

40. Trogons

Narina Trogon (Apaloderma narina): A brightly colored bird, often found in woodlands and forests, known for its vibrant green and red plumage.

Reference;

Below are the references for the information provided in the bird guide:

Borrow N, Demey R. Birds of Kenya and Northern Tanzania. Princeton University Press; 2001.
Sinclair I, Ryan P. Birds of Africa South of the Sahara: A Comprehensive Illustrated Field Guide. 2nd ed. Struik Nature; 2010.
Stevenson T, Fanshawe J. Field Guide to the Birds of East Africa: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi. 2nd ed. Bloomsbury Publishing; 2020.
Zimmerman DA, Turner DA, Pearson DJ. Birds of Kenya and Northern Tanzania. Christopher Helm Publishers Ltd; 1999.
Chittenden H, Allan D, Weiersbye I. Roberts Geographic Variation of Southern African Birds. The Trustees of the John Voelcker Bird Book Fund; 2016.
Skeen R, Skeen M. East Africa Birds: A Folding Pocket Guide to Familiar Species in Kenya, Tanzania & Uganda. Waterford Press; 2001.
Galeotti P, Penteriani V. “Habitat use of Verreaux’s eagle owl in East Africa: Factors influencing high population density.” Journal of Raptor Research. 2008;42(3):184-191.
Collar NJ, Boesman P. BirdLife International. Handbook of the Birds of the World. African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer); 2020. https://www.hbw.com/species/african-fish-eagle-haliaeetus-vocifer. Accessed September 20, 2024.
Kemp AC, Kemp MI. The Birds of Prey of Africa and Its Islands. Academic Press; 1971.
Stuart C, Stuart M. A Field Guide to the Tracks and Signs of Southern, Central and East African Wildlife. Struik Publishers; 2000.
Mara Triangle Conservancy. Bird List. Mara Triangle Conservancy website. https://www.maratriangle.org/maratriangle/bird-list/. Published 2024. Accessed September 27, 2024.