Blog Post
ENCHANTING SURROUNDINGS FOR BIRDS AND BIRD WATCHERS ALIKE
Chobe Water Villas not only offers luxurious accommodations but is also one of Africa's most remarkable birding paradises. With over 50 different bird species, ranging from the great white pelican, purple heron and bronze mannikin to the Africa scops owl, pearl spotted owlet and various types of geese, ducks, kingfisher and hornbills, this stunning location provides avid birdwatchers with a unique opportunity to witness the diverse bird life of the region.
Among the feathery celebrities of Chobe Water Villas is the iconic African Fish Eagle. Revered as the official bird of Namibia, this magnificent raptor commands attention with its piercing call and graceful aerial dives. The African Fish Eagle embodies both power and adaptability, making it a captivating sight for visitors.
Chobe Water Villas is home to many more unique birds, each showcasing its own distinctive characteristics and behaviors. Take for example the elusive African Scops-Owl, which camouflages itself among branches by leaning sideways and resembling a branch during daylight hours, to the industrious Cattle Egret, forging partnerships with large farm animals for a feast of insects. This fascinating bird has been known to fly towards smoke, catching insects fleeing a fire.
Visitors may also spot the Marabou stork, known for its cooling defecation technique and the polyandrous African Jacana, where the males incubate and take over all parental duties once the eggs are laid. Another interesting bird to observe is the Red-Billed Oxpecker who has a wonderfully symbiotic relationship with rhinoceros or zebra. The oxpeckers feast on tick and mites and the larger animals enjoy pest control!
While exploring Chobe National Park, visitors may also encounter vulnerable or endangered species such as the White-Backed Vulture, Hooted Vulture and Saddle-billed Stork
Numerous other birds at Chobe Water Villas are classified as vulnerable such as the Bateleur, Tawny Eagle and Wattled Crane. Also listed as vulnerable, the Southern Ground Hornbill is generally an uncommon resident, but you might strike it lucky and see one of these beautiful birds.
These majestic birds face threats to their survival, emphasising the importance of conservation efforts in safeguarding their habitats and populations for future generations to admire.
Depending on the time of year, nomadic bird species add an element of unpredictability to the bird landscape of Chobe Water Villas. From the vibrant hues of the Blue-cheeked Bee-eater to the elegant presence of the Woolly-necked Stork, these seasonal visitors contribute to the dynamic ecosystem of the region, enriching the birdwatching experience for all who visit.
Grouped as uncommon or migrant birds, the Blue-cheeked Bee-eater arrives as a non-breeding migrant from mid-October to late March or April, sometimes lingering until May. The European Bee-eater, another non-breeding migrant, visits from October to early April. Bohms Bee-eater is a rare vagrant, observed south of the Zambezi River.
The Woodland Kingfisher, an intra-African migrant, frequents Chobe woodlands during summer. Similarly, the Grey-headed Kingfisher is present between September and May, usually appearing singly or in pairs.
The Lesser Jacana, although resident, is nomadic in response to water levels and floating vegetation availability, while the Grey-headed Parrot is a nomadic resident, particularly during the non-breeding season. Yellow-Billed Kites, arriving as intra-African breeding migrants, can be seen from July to August, departing by March or April. Finally, both the White-faced Whistling Duck and the Fulvous Whistling Duck, common residents, display high levels of nomadism, especially in non-breeding seasons.
At Chobe Water Villas you are guaranteed an exceptional experience, especially in encountering a wide variety of stunning animals. From the majestic elephants to the formidable lion and from the dwarf mongoose to the Cattle Egret, Carmine Bee-Eater, fruit bat, vervet monkey and the elusive Pangolin. Our sanctuary hosts and abundance of fascinating creatures and we invite you to experience the magic that is wildlife with us.
