At Zamsato, our identity takes wing ? in the form of the elegant and rare African Skimmer, the bird that proudly graces our logo. This sleek, black-and-white beauty with a fiery orange bill isn’t just a symbol — it’s an invitation ? to explore Zambia’s wild places through the eyes of its most fascinating residents: birds ?.
Zambia is a birder’s paradise ?, boasting over 750 species of birds, from wetland giants to forest jewels and dry woodland endemics. In this article, we spotlight Zambia’s most sought-after birds ? and where to find them — including the stunning African Skimmer itself, one of the most intriguing skimmers around.
THE AFRICAN SKIMMER: OUR SPIRIT IN FLIGHT ?️
With its unique feeding technique — flying just inches above the water with its lower mandible slicing through the surface — the African Skimmer is one of the continent’s most spectacular river birds ?. They nest in colonies on exposed sandbanks during the dry season, when water levels are low and fishing is easiest ?.
Where to See It:
Zambezi River (Livingstone & Lower Zambezi) ?: Best spotted from July to October during boat cruises at dawn or dusk, where the sight of skimmers can be breathtaking.
Liuwa Plain ?: For seasoned adventurers, this remote park offers rare Skimmer sightings along its waterways.
ZAMBIA’S MOST SOUGHT-AFTER BIRDS ?
Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex)
Few birds stir the imagination like the prehistoric-looking Shoebill ?. Towering, solitary, and eerily silent, it is one of Africa’s most iconic and mysterious birds.
Found in: Bangweulu Wetlands ? — canoe safaris ? between May and July offer the highest chances.
Zambian Barbet (Lybius chaplini)
Zambia’s only endemic bird ?, the Chaplin’s Barbet (Zambian Barbet), is a fruit-loving species with a localized range.
Found in: Miombo woodland areas west of the line of rail between Kabwe and Kalomo.
Taita Falcon (Falco fasciinucha)
One of Africa’s rarest raptors ?, fast, fierce, and highly localized.
Found in: Batoka Gorge near Victoria Falls ? — best seen early morning ?.
Black-cheeked Lovebird (Agapornis nigrigensis)
Endangered, vibrant small parrot ?; green body, black cheeks, strong pair bonds.
Found in: Southern Kafue NP to Zambezi River in Mopane and thorntree woodlands ?.
BEYOND THE ICONS: MORE BIRDING HAVENS TO EXPLORE ?
Zambia’s avian riches extend well beyond the star species. The country offers diverse habitats and a wealth of birding treasures ?✨.
Kasanka National Park – Largest fruit bat migration ? plus forest birds and wetland species.
Mwinilunga (Northwest Zambia) – Rare bird paradise ?. Expect Angola Lark, Grimwood’s Longclaw, and more.
Mutinondo Wilderness – Miombo woodland ? for Anchieta’s Sunbird, Pale-billed Hornbill and others.
South Luangwa & Lower Zambezi National Parks – Iconic parks with 400+ bird species ?. Highlights: Lilian’s Lovebird, Pel’s Fishing Owl, kingfishers, bee-eaters, raptors ?.
Tailored Birding Safaris with Zamsato ?
Chasing lifers like the Shoebill or photographing the Skimmer in golden light? We’ll craft the perfect birding adventure for you ?. From canoe safaris ? in Bangweulu to boat cruises on the Zambezi ? — let’s go!
Let the African Skimmer guide your journey ?.
Contact us today to plan a birding safari that soars above expectations ?. It’s time to dive into the world of skimmers and more.
