Birdwatching at Ol Pejeta Conservancy: A Seasonal Guide

While Ol Pejeta Conservancy is best known for its rhinos, elephants, lions and big game, a lesser known boast is that it’s also one of central Kenya’s most rewarding destinations for birdwatching. With diverse habitats ranging from open savannah to riverine woodland and acacia groves, the conservancy supports an extraordinary variety of birdlife throughout the year including endemic and migratory species.

Whether you’re a dedicated birder with an extensive birding list, the birder who loves to obsess over the LBJs (little brown jobs) or simply someone who enjoys spotting wildlife in all its forms, birdwatching at Ol Pejeta offers all safari-goers a peaceful, immersive bird watching experience.

Why Ol Pejeta Is Special for Birdwatching

Ol Pejeta’s varied ecosystems create ideal conditions for both resident and migratory bird species. The vast open grasslands attract raptors and ground birds, while rivers and acacia woodland areas support a multitude of songbirds, waterbirds and forest species including rarer species like the Abyssinian scimitarbill and Blue-naped mousebird.

 Our guides are all keen birders and having a private vehicle use for your safari at The Safari Cottages means there’s time to stop, observe, and listen. This sort of flexibility breaths glorious life into “a slow safari” and allows guests to enjoy our colourful birdlife as part of the living landscape and not just as another mark on a tick list.

Resident Birds You Can See Year-Round

One of our favourite things about our days at The Safari Cottages is the cacophony of birdlife that pulls you from the depths of your slumber at dawn each day; a riot of babblers, starlings and bulbuls to name a few. You don’t need to wander too far from your safari cottage find come of the more commonly spotted bird species on Ol Pejeta. These include…

• Glossy and superb starlings eyeing up any crumbs left on the lunch table

• Secretary birds striding across open plains, they are incredible but it’s the Kori bustards who truly rule the open grassland areas

• Hornbills, kingfishers and weavers chattering in woodlands and river systems

• Eagles and vultures soaring above the savannah in search of their next meal

Seasonal Migratory Birds at Ol Pejeta

If the plethora of birdlife already on offer isn’t enough to satisfy your very fascination in  Kenya’s birdlife then you’ll be thrilled to hear that there are also certain times of year that migratory birds appear in the skies and trees of the conservancy, adding even greater diversity to Ol Pejeta’s bird population.

November to April is the main migratory season in Laikipia, when birds from Europe and northern Africa arrive in Kenya. During these months, birdwatchers can enjoy increased species diversity and vibrant breeding plumage. Keep your eyes peeled for European bee-eaters, Montagus and Marsh Harriers, Abdims storks and Steppe eagles.

Best Habitats for Birdwatching at Ol Pejeta

Different habitats attract different species, making exploration part of the experience and Ol Pejeta makes such a wonderful birding location with thanks to the diversity in its landscapes.

• Riverine areas: park up with a cup of coffee and look out for kingfishers, herons and waders

• Open plains: you’ll find secretary birds, crowned cranes, bustards, larks, pipits and raptors in abundance

• Woodland: sunbirds, hornbills, weavers and hoopoes flitter in the foliage

• Wetlands and water points: ideal spaces to spot storks, ibis and ducks

**Moving between different habitats on game drives allows for varied and rewarding bird sightings throughout the day, but remember to take your time and linger at each location; when you slow down you see so much more.

Tips for Beginner Birdwatchers on Safari

You don’t need to be an expert birder to enjoy birdwatching at Ol Pejeta, but a few simple tips can really help enhance the experience:

• Bring binoculars for better viewing; your guide will carry a pair which they are happy to share but it’s always helpful to have your own on hand for quick and easy access

• Use a basic bird guide like a book or an identification app. The ‘Birds of East Africa’ book by Terry Stevenson and John Fanshawe is Andy’s pick, or The African Bird Club; Birds of Africa app is a good start for beginners/one-time safari visitors

• Take time to listen — many birds are heard before they’re seen and your guide can help you identify bird calls

• Ask your guide questions — local knowledge adds depth and perspective to every sighting; a great chance to understand the circle of life and just how intricately involved it in birds are (click here to meet our guides)

Plan a Birdwatching Safari at Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages

Whether you’re a passionate birder or simply someone who appreciates nature’s quieter moments, The Safari Cottages offer a birdwatching experience on Ol Pejeta that feels immersive, peaceful, and deeply rewarding. Plus private vehicle use means you can take your time at special sightings, or get stuck in and search for that one species that continues to evade you!