Taking the Imfolozi Birding Route

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Birding

African White backed Vulture

The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is made up of two reserves, joined by a corridor, covers an area of just under 100 000 hectares, making it one of the larger reserves in South Africa. Its large size, range of habitats and the presence of large mammals have ensured a large number of bird species. 400 species have been recorded, making it one of the best birding spots in South Africa.

Most of the reserve is characterised by rolling hills scattered with thorn trees, with riverine forest covering the drainage lines. The Hluhluwe section contains forest patches and more tropical plant species. The Imfolozi sector has more open areas than the Hluhluwe sector.

Raptors are one of the premier attractions, with 47 species recorded. Specials include large numbers of African White-backed Vultures, and Africa's largest eagle the Martial, in addition to Tawny, African Crowned, African Fish, Steppe, Lesser-Spotted, and African Hawk Eagles as well as the striking Bateleur.

Woodland and thornveld specials include Purple-crested Turaco, Striped Kingfisher, Lilac-breasted Roller, Yellow-billed and Ground Hornbill, Bearded Woodpecker, Flappet Lark, Red-breasted Swallow, Grey Penduline Tit, Burnt-necked Eremomela, Bushveld Pipit, Gorgeous Bush Shrike, Yellow-billed Oxpecker, Green-winged Pytilia and Long-tailed Paradise-Whydah.

Wetland specials include African Finfoot, Dwarf Bittern, Black Coucal, Saddle-billed, Woolly-necked and Black Stork, Pygmy Goose, Comb Duck.