Systematic list of birds

 E = endemisk for Kenya

Common Ostrich   Struts   (Struthio camelus)
A few sightings throughout the whole trip: 1 male near the Lake Nakuru Lodge, Lake Nakuru 20/11, 8 at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 1 near the entrance gate to Masai Mara 28/11, 15 in Masai Mara 29/11 (5 ad. + 10 juv.), 2 in Masai Mara 30/11 and finally 2 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Black-necked Grebe   Svarthalsdykker   (Podiceps nigricollis)
Only seen at Lake Bogoria 23/11, but here it was very common; a total of 200 was estimated this day.

Little Grebe   Dvergdykker   (Tachybaptus ruficollis)
Only a few sightings: about 25 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 2 at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and 6 at Lake Baringo 22/11.

Great White Pelican   Hvitpelikan   (Pelecanus onocrotalus)
Quite common at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and not counted here. Also 10 at Lake Baringo 21/11, 5 at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 3 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 1 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12. It should be noted however that we saw great numbers of pelicans at Kisumu the evening of 27/11, but these were not specifically identified (i.e. either Great White or Pink-backed Pelican, or both).

Pink-backed Pelican   Rosenpelikan   (Pelecanus rufescens)
1 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 10-15 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11, 3 here the following morning and 5+ at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12. See also comment under the previous species.

Long-tailed Cormorant   Langhaleskarv   (Phalacrocorax africanus)
Our first sighting was of 2 birds at Limuru Pond 18/11. Then followed 8 at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 1 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 15 at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu both 27/11 and 28/11, 2 at the Mzima Springs, Tsavo West NP 2/12 and 1 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Great Cormorant   Storskarv   (Phalacrocorax carbo)
About 30 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 2 at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 20/11, 8 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 2 here the following morning.

Little Bittern   Dvergrørdrum   (Ixobrychus minutus)
Two sightings, both from the papyrus reeds at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha: 1 here 19/11 and 2 the following morning.

Black-crowned Night-heron   Natthegre   (Nycticorax nycticorax)
Our only sighting was of 2 birds sitting in some mangroves at Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11.

Cattle Egret   Kuhegre   (Bubulcus ibis)
Common and widespread: seen in good numbers at suitable habitat on a total of 11 days throughout the trip (not recorded in forested areas in western Kenya or at the coast). We did not estimate any number for the species on several days.

Little Egret   Silkehegre   (Egretta garzetta)
Fairly common: 3 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 1-2 daily at Lake Baringo 21/11-23/11, 70 at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11 and also numerous here 28/11 (not counted), 45 in Tsavo West NP 1/12 and finally 3 seen en route to Nairobi 6/12.

*Dimorphic Egret   Madagaskarsilkehegre  (Egretta (g.) dimorpha)
2 were found at the mouth of the Sabaki River 3/12. This species is strictly marine, as opposed to the Little Egret, but is often considered conspecific with the latter (e.g. Clements).

Squacco Heron   Topphegre   (Ardeola ralloides)
2 at the Limuru Pond 18/11, 9 at Lake Baringo 22/11 and singles at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 28/11.

Green-backed Heron   Krabbehegre   (Butorides striatus)
2 sightings on the trip: 1 at a pond near the Lake Baringo cliffs 22/11 and 1 at the Sabaki River 3/12.

Yellow-billed Egret   Duskhegre   (Mesophoyx intermedia)
1 at Lake Naivasha 20/11, 3 at the shore of Lake Baringo 21/11 and 1 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11 were our only sightings.

Great Egret   Egretthegre   (Ardea alba)
Surprisingly few were seen by us: 3 at Limuru Pond 18/11 and 2 at the Sabaki River 3/12.

Grey Heron   Gråhegre   (Ardea cinerea)
Seen regularily throughout the trip although in low numbers; only 1-3 birds in a single day, except 20+ noted 3/12 (Sabaki River and Mida Creek). Largely absent in the western and southwestern parts of the trip.

Purple Heron   Purpurhegre   (Ardea purpurea)
Only a few sightings: singles seen at the Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 20/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 1 at Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11.

Goliath Heron   Goliathegre   (Ardea goliath)
Scarily enough we did not see any at Lake Naivasha 19/11-20/11, but fortunately we found 2 at Lake Baringo 22/11. These birds allowed us to come quite close by, and consequently we spend a lot of film and videotape on them.

Black-headed Heron   Svarthodehegre   (Ardea melanocephala)
As expected the most frequently encountered Heron, although nowhere recorded in good numbers. Most days 1-4 were noted although as many as 10 logged 3/12 (Sabaki River and Mida Creek).

Hamerkop   Skyggefugl   (Scopus umbretta)
2-5 daily at (or near) Mt. Kenya 16/11-18/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 22/11, 4 at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 1 at Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and very common at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu; 30 noted 27/11 but not counted 28/11. Also 2 in Masai Mara 30/11, 1 in Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 1 near Nairobi 6/12.

White Stork   Stork   (Ciconia ciconia)
Our first sighting was of a rather impressive flock with appr. 500 birds over Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11 and apart from these only 1 bird seen at the Sabaki River 3/12.

Black Stork   Svartstork   (Ciconia nigra)
1 seen at a roadside pool between Nairobi and Thika 16/11 and 1 at Lake Nakuru 20/11.

Woolly-necked Stork   Ullhalsstork   (Ciconia episcopus)
Several sightings throughout the trip: 6 en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 22/11, 2 flying over Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11 and 3 en route to Voi 5/12.

Marabou Stork   Marabustork   (Leptoptilus crumeniferus)
Common and widespread, although largely absent at Mt. Kenya and at the coast. Our best days were 20/11 (50 at Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru), 29/11 (50 in Masai Mara) and 1/12 (100 in Nairobi and in Tsavo West NP).

African Open-billed Stork   Afrikagapenebb   (Anastomus lamelligerus)
Only recorded at Lake Victoria: 6-7 birds seen over the lake at Dunga Point and also over Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11.

Yellow-billed Stork   Gulnebbstork   (Mycteria ibis)
Common the first two weeks of the trip with up to 25 birds in 1 day (20/11, Lake Nakuru). Largely absent at Mt. Kenya and Kakamega Forest and on the extention week only seen on 3/12 (10 birds at the Sabaki River and Mida Creek).

Sacred Ibis   Helligibis   (Threskiornis aethiopicus)
Common and widespread and seen on most days on the first half of the trip (but absent in the western forests and in Masai Mara). 30 birds at Mt. Kenya 17/11 and at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11 was our highest daily total. 10 birds noted 3/12 (Sabaki River and Mida Creek) and 6/12 (Ndala Ranch and transport to Nairobi) were our only sightings on the extention week.

Hadada Ibis   Hadadaibis   (Bostrychia hagedash)
Very common and seen on all days througout the trip except 26/11 (Kakamega Forest) and 3/12 (Sabaki River and Mida Creek). 10 birds in Nairobi 16/11, 15 at Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 10 at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11 made up our highest daily totals.

Glossy Ibis   Bronseibis   (Plegadis falcinellus)
Only a few sightings: 120 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 2 at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 22/11, 1 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11 and 1 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

African Spoonbill   Afrikaskjestork   (Platalea alba)
Only seen sporadically: 15 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 2 at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 5 at Crater Lake later the same day, 11 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11 and 5 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

Greater Flamingo   Flamingo   (Phoenicopterus ruber)
Several thousand flamingos were present at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and most of these belonged to the following species, but the Greater Flamingo was evidently also present; we did not bother to estimate how many. About 30 also seen at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12 and 50 at Mida Creek, Watamu 5/12.

Lesser Flamingo   Dvergflamingo   (Phoenicopterus minor)
Our first sighting was of 200 birds at Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11. Several thousand naturally also present at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and Lake Bogoria 23/11.

Fulvous Whistling-Duck   Brunplystreand   (Dendrocygna bicolor)
8 at Lake Baringo 22/11 and 25 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11 were our only observations.

White-faced Whistling-Duck   Maskeplystreand   (Dendrocygna viduata)
Slightly more common than the previous species: 4 seen en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 20 noted 18/11 (pond between Naro Moru and Karatina and Limuru Pond), 2 at Lake Baringo 22/11, 2 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12 and 2 seen at Mida Creek, Watamu 5/12.

White-backed Duck   Hvitryggand   (Thalassornis leuconotus)
Driving towards Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11 we had a stop at a pond, good for ducks, and we saw as many as 4 White-backed Ducks here. One was still present here 18/11.

Spur-winged Goose   Sporegås   (Plectropterus gambensis)
A flock of 6 was seen flying low over Lake Naivasha at the Fisherman`s Camp 19/11.

Egyptian Goose   Niland   (Alopochen aegyptiacus)
Common in suitable wetlands and seen on a total of 12 days throughout the trip. The highest daily total was 100 birds, noted at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11, but the daily figures were mostly far below this (mostly single digit figures).

Cape Teal   Kappand   (Anas capensis)
Our only sighting was of 10 birds at Lake Bogoria 23/11. Most likely also present at Lake Nakuru 20/11, but the heavy rain prevented us from looking for them.

Garganey   Knekkand   (Anas querquedula)
Two observations: 6 at Limuru Pond 18/11 and 20 at Lake Bogoria 23/11.

Yellow-billed Duck   Gulnebband   (Anas undulata)
10 in pond between Karatina and Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11 and 18/11, appr. 40 at Limuru Pond 18/11 and 5 at Lake Nakuru 20/11.

Northern Pintail   Stjertand   (Anas acuta)
One pair seen at the Limuru Pond 18/11 constituted our sole observation of the species on this trip.

Red-billed Teal   Rødnebband   (Anas erythrorhyncha)
25 in pond between Karatina and Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11 (and 20 here 18/11) and appr. 40 at Limuru Pond 18/11.

Hottentot Teal   Hottentottand   (Anas hottentota)
Only two sightings of the species: 50 at the Limuru Pond 18/11 and 10 at Lake Nakuru 20/11.

Northern Shoveler   Skjeand   (Anas clypeata)
20 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 22/11 and 15 at Lake Bogoria 23/11.

Southern Pochard   Fløyelsand   (Netta erythrophthalma)
5-6 in pond between Karatina and Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11 and 6 birds present here 18/11. Later the same day also 6 at Limuru Pond.

Maccoa Duck   Kafferand   (Oxyura maccoa)
One very good sighting was that of 6 Maccoa Ducks at the Limuru Pond 18/11. This species is fairly uncommon in Kenya, but breeds fairly regularily at this pond.

Secretary Bird   Sekretærfugl   (Sagittarius serpentarius)
A fairly conspicious appearance in Masai Mara and we saw 5 birds here 29/11 and 3 the following day. 2 were also seen from the busses en route to Nairobi 6/12.

Osprey   Fiskeørn   (Pandion haliaetus)
1 at the Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 at Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12 and 1 at Mida Creek, Watamu later the same day and finally 4 noted 4/12 (Sokoke Forest and Gedi Ruins).

Black-shouldered Kite   Svartvingeglente   (Elanus caeruleus)
Seen daily with 1-4 birds the first week of the trip except 21/11. Also 10 noted 23/11 (Lake Bogoria and during transport to Kitale), singles in Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11, 1 at the Athi Plains 1/12 and 1 at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Black Kite   Svartglente   (Milvus migrans)
Common and widespread, mostly in urbanized areas, and most days we did not estimate any number for the species on the daily log.

Hooded Vulture   Hettegribb   (Necrosyrtes monachus)
One bird eating on carcass just as we were to leave Masai Mara 30/11 was our only sighting.

African White-backed Vulture   Hvitryggribb   (Gyps africanus)
Surprisingly we saw this species only in Masai Mara; 30 birds 29/11 and 2 the following day.

Rüppell's Griffon Vulture   Skjellgribb   (Gyps rueppellii)
Few were seen: about 25 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 (breeding on the cliffs) and 4-5 in Masai Mara 29/11.

Lappet-faced Vulture   Øregribb   (Torgos tracheliotos)
Only seen by us in Masai Mara: 6 birds 29/11 and 2 the following morning.

White-headed Vulture   Hvithodegribb   (Trigonoceps occipitalis)
One very good sighting in Masai Mara was of 2 White-headed Vultures perched in an acacia tree. A good sighting even though seen at a distance and through heat haze.

*Black-chested Snake-Eagle   Svartbrystslangeørn   (Circaetus pectoralis)
One imm. found at the mouth of the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

Bateleur   Gjøglerørn   (Terathopius ecaudatus)
Our first was seen as we approached Masai Mara 28/11 and then 5 in Masai Mara 29/11, 1 here 30/11 and 2 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

African Harrier-Hawk   Klatrehauk   (Polyboroides typus)
1 in our hotel garden in Nairobi 16/11, 1 at the Mt. Kenya youth hostel 18/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 1 at the Gedi Ruins, Watamu 4/12.

Pallid Harrier   Steppehauk   (Circus macrourus)
Two sightings: 1 male seen en route to Masai Mara 28/11 and 1 in Tsavo West NP 1/12.

Montagu's Harrier   Enghauk   (Circus pygargus)
1 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 1 at the Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 en route to Masai Mara 28/11 (where one Pallid Harrier also was seen) and 1 in Masai Mara 30/11.

Eurasian Marsh Harrier   Sivhauk   (Circus aeruginosus)
A few scattered sightings: 1 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 17/11, 2 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, 2 at Lake Baringo 22/11 and singles at Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 28/11.

Gabar Goshawk   Gabarhauk   (Micronisus gabar)
1 bird seen in the Kakamega Forest 25/11 was the only sighting of the trip; this bird was unfortunately only seen by one observer.

Dark Chanting-Goshawk   Mørksanghauk   (Melierax metabates)
1 bird seen in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 was either this species or the following one. Certain Dark Chanting Goshawks were 1 at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 1 in Masai Mara 30/11.

*Eastern Pale Chanting-Goshawk   Østsanghauk   (Melierax poliopterus)
1 seen from the bus between Athi River and Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 4 inside the national park 2/12.

African Goshawk   Bantuhauk   (Accipiter tachiro)
Our only sighting was of one bird seen flying high over Nairobi the morning of 16/11.

Shikra   Shikrahauk   (Accipiter badius)
Surprisingly many were seen on the trip: 1 at the Elgeyo escarpment 23/11, 1 at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11, 1 at Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 2 here 28/11 and finally 1 at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Great Sparrowhawk   Nonnehauk   (Accipiter melanoleucus)
3 in Kakamega Forest 27/11 and 1 at the Gedi Ruins, Watamu 4/12 was perhaps slightly fewer sightings than expected.

*Lizard Buzzard   Øglehauk   (Kaupifalco monogrammicus)
1 seen perched in the Sokoke Forest 4/12 was our sole sighting, although this species is by no means uncommon at the Kenyan coast.

Common Buzzard   Musvåk   (Buteo buteo)
4 in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11, 1 at the Mt. Kenya youth hostel 18/11, 2 at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and 1 seen en route to Masai Mara 28/11.

Augur Buzzard   Augurvåk   (Buteo augur)
Quite common and seen on many sites, but apart from 20 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 10 around Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru 20/11 and 10 en route to Masai Mara 28/11, no more than 3 birds recorded in one single day. Not seen by us in the northern Rift Valley or at the coast.

Mountain Buzzard   Flekkvåk   (Buteo oreophilus)
One was seen in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 and was one of several good birds here this day.

African Fish Eagle   Flodørn   (Haliaeetus vocifer)
Quite common, particularily at Lake Naivasha: 12 around Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 3 at Crater Lake the same day, 2 at Fisherman`s Camp 20/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 21/11, 3 at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 6 birds at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu both 27/11 and 28/11 and 2 at Mida Creek, Watamu 3/12.

*Palm-nut Vulture   Palmegribb   (Gypohierax angolensis)
At the Gedi Ruins, Watamu we found a nest with one young 4/12, and on several occasions we also saw one adult feeding the young bird.

Lesser Spotted Eagle   Småskrikørn   (Aquila pomarina)
1 seen from the bus after we left Masai Mara for Nairobi 30/11.

Tawny Eagle   Savanneørn   (Aquila rapax)
1 seen as we approached the Sekeneni Gate of Masai Mara 28/11 and 2 birds seen inside the reserve both 29/11 and 30/11. Our last sighting was of 1 bird in Tsavo West NP 1/12.

Steppe Eagle   Steppeørn   (Aquila nipalensis)
1 seen in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 was followed by 15 at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and 20 at Lake Bogoria 23/11. Singles also seen daily 29/11-2/12 in Masai Mara and Tsavo West NP.

Wahlberg's Eagle   Bantuørn   (Aquila wahlbergi)
Only one definite record: 1 dark morph seen between Karatina and Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11.

Verreaux's Eagle   Klippeørn   (Aquila verreauxii)
After some searching of the cliffs in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 we finally found 1 adult bird with 1 juv. here. Another adult was seen near the entrance to the national park.

African Hawk-Eagle   Afrikahaukørn   (Hieraaetus spilogaster)
One ad. bird was seen as it flew across a small valley in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 and this was our only observation.

Ayres's Hawk-Eagle   Flekkørn   (Hieraaetus ayresii)
Our first sighting was of an adult near the Lake Baringo cliffs 21/11 and also 2 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Long-crested Eagle   Toppørn   (Lophaetus occipitalis)
Only a handful observations: 1 en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 1 seen from the bus 18/11, 3 at Lake Nakuru and en route to Lake Baringo 20/11, 2 en route to Kitale 23/11, 1 near Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 1 bird on nest within our hotel grounds at Kakamega Forest 26/11.

African Crowned Eagle   Kronørn   (Stephanoaetus coronatus)
One imm. bird was seen in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11, actually at the same place where we saw an African Hawk Eagle a few minutes later. Also this bird was seen fairly briefly as it flew by.

Martial Eagle   Kampørn   (Polemaetus bellicosus)
Our first sighting was of an ad. that sat perched in a tree close to the road in Masai Mara 30/11; after we had admired it for a few minutes it took to the wings and disappeared. 2 birds were also seen in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Pygmy Falcon   Afrikapygméfalk   (Polihierax semitorquatus)
One ad. displayed itself very nicely, although briefly, sitting on some telephone wires at Lake Baringo 21/11. 1 bird was also seen at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and 2 birds in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Lanner Falcon   Slagfalk   (Falco biarmicus)
Several were seen: 2 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 21/11, 2 here 22/11 and 1 near Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

Peregrine Falcon   Vandrefalk   (Falco peregrinus)
Our only sighting was of 2 birds at Lake Baringo 22/11.

Eleonora's Falcon   Eleonorafalk   (Falco eleonorae)
1-3 Eleonora`s Falcons were noted daily at Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya between 16/11 and 18/11; all of these were seen hunting around our lodge. Additionally we saw 2 at Lake Baringo 22/11.

*Amur Falcon   Amurfalk   (Falco amurensis)
Only one sighting, although quite a spectacular one: early morning 2/12 we saw at least 280 migrating at low height past the Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP. These had presumably been pushed down by the rainy weather that prevailed that morning.

Grey Kestrel   Skiferfalk   (Falco ardosiacus)
Our only sighting was of 2 or 3 birds at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11. The first of these was seen far away through our telescopes, but later we saw 2 birds together at close distance.

Eurasian Kestrel   Tårnfalk   (Falco tinnunculus)
Only a handful observations: 1 in Hell`s Gate NP 19/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 22/11, 2 at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 2 at Kongelai escarpment 25/11 and 1-2 birds Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11.

Coqui Francolin   Kokifrankolin   (Francolinus coqui)
The folks in one of the busses saw a group of 4 Coqui Francolins in Masai Mara 29/11. Unfortunately this was our only sighting.

Shelley's Francolin   Miombofrankolin   (Francolinus shelleyi)
3 birds were seen by us in the grasslands outside our lodge in Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya late in the evening 17/11.

Crested Francolin   Krattfrankolin   (Francolinus sephaena)
3 birds in the gardens around Robert`s Camp, Lake Baringo 22/11 was our first sighting of the species. After this not noted again until 2/12 when 1 bird was seen from our busses just outside Tsavo West NP.

Scaly Francolin   Skyggefrankolin   (Francolinus squamatus)
One single observation: 2 birds near the lake in Lake Nakuru NP 20/11. Nakuru seems to be a fairly reliable place to see this bird.

Jackson's Francolin   Kikuyufrankolin   (Francolinus jacksoni)
One bird was seen from the jeep in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 and later the same day 2 were found near the entrance-gate to the national park. All of these were rather shy birds and not everyone got to see them.

*Yellow-necked Spurfowl   Gulstrupefrankolin   (Francolinus leucoscepus)
Very common and conspicious in Tsavo West NP: 40 very noted from our busses at dusk 1/12 while we were driving towards our lodge and we logged a total of 15 birds 2/12.

Red-necked Spurfowl   Rødstrupefrankolin   (Francolinus afer)
In an area with recently burnt grassland in Masai Mara, we saw a total of 7 birds 30/11. The birds were not together, but in two groups a few hundre meters apart.

*Crested Guineafowl   Parykkperlehøne   (Guttera pucherani)
A flock of 5 birds suddenly appeared on the Mida Trail, Sokoke Forest 5/12. They quikly disappeared, however, and were not seen again, at great frustration to the members of the group that were walking after the others and dipped out on them.

*Vulturine Guineafowl   Gribbperlehøne   (Acryllium vulturinum)
One bird was seen very briefly from one of the busses just west of Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Helmeted Guineafowl   Hjelmperlehøne   (Numida meleagris)
Fairly common in all national parks with suitable habitat; our best days were 19/11 (50 birds in Hell`s Gate NP) and 20/11 (40 birds in Nakuru NP). Good numbers also recorded at Lake Bogoria, Masai Mara and Tsavo West NP.

White-spotted Flufftail   Prikkdunrikse   (Sarothrura pulchra)
Down at the pumphouse at Isecheno Forest Station, Kakamega Forest we heard a total of 3 calling birds late evening 25/11. These birds, famous for their skulking behaviour, did not show themselves, however. The pumphouse seems to be a good spot for this species.

Black Crake   Svartrikse   (Amaurornis flavirostris)
Fairly common at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha, and we saw about 8 birds at the lakeshore 19/11 and 1 bird here the following morning. Also 5 birds at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11.

Common Moorhen   Sivhøne   (Gallinula chloropus)
Uncommon: 2 birds en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 1 at Limuru Pond 18/11 and 2 at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11.

Red-knobbed Coot   Knoppsothøne   (Fulica cristata)
Only recorded by us at two sites: 2 birds in pond west of Karatina, Mt. Kenya 16/11 and one bird here 18/11 and about 60 birds in Limuru Pond 18/11.

Grey Crowned Crane   Gråkrontrane   (Balearica regulorum)
Scattered observations, most from Western Kenya: 2 birds en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 6 en route to Kitale 23/11, about 25 in and near Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 5 en route to Kakamega 25/11, 2 en route to Masai Mara 28/11 and 6 birds at the Athi Plains, Nairobi 1/12.

Kori Bustard   Koritrappe   (Ardeotis kori)
One of the highlights in Hell`s Gate NP 19/11 was probably the sighting of 2 Kori Bustards; both showed themselves very well for our photo- and video-cameras. Other sightings were 2 birds just outside Masai Mara upon arrival here 28/11, 1 bird inside the gamereserve 30/11 and 1 seen from the busses en route to Nairobi 6/12.

Black-bellied Bustard   Svartbuktrappe   (Eupodotis melanogaster)
Two observations, both from Masai Mara: 2 birds seen just outside the reserve late evening 28/11 and 1 male inside the reserve the following day.

White-bellied Bustard   Savannetrappe   (Eupodotis senegalensis)
A handful sightings, most from Masai Mara: 4 seen outside the reserve late evening 28/11, 3 in the reserve 29/11 and another 3 birds 30/11. Our last sighting was of one single bird seen from the busses as we approached Nairobi 6/12.

African Jacana   Afrikabladhøne   (Actophilornis africanus)
Frequently seen in low numbers at suitable habitat. Our highest numbers were 10 birds at pond west of Karatina, Mt. Kenya 16/11 and appr. 100 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11.

*Greater Painted-snipe   Riksesnipe   (Rostratula benghalensis)
During breakfast at Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 2/12 we discovered one Greater Painted-snipe walking at the shore of the waterhole.

*Crab-plover   Krabbeeter   (Dromas ardeola)
One seen in the heat-haze near the mouth of Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12; this was nothing compared to the numbers seen at Mida Creek later the same day. We did not bother to estimate any numbers, but there were hundreds.

Black-winged Stilt   Stylteløper   (Himantopus himantopus)
Scattered observations: 15 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 30 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, common at Lake Bogoria 23/11, up to 15 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 28/11 and at least 25 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

*Pied Avocet   Avosett   (Recurvirostra avosetta)
Our only sighting was of 5 birds at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

Water Thick-knee   Vanntriel   (Burhinus vermiculatus)
Two birds seen at Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11 had apparently tried to nest there, but the eggs had been destroied by some kids (according to a local). At the Sabaki River, Malindi we saw a total of 8 birds 3/12.

Spotted Thick-knee   Flekktriel   (Burhinus capensis)
Our first sighting was of two birds near the Lake Baringo cliffs 21/11. The following day we had 2 birds at another site some 5 kms to the north (while we were actually looking for Lichtenstein`s Sandgrouse).

Two-banded Courser   Tobelteløper   (Rhinoptilus africanus)
During our transport to Nairobi 30/11 we had a few stops at short-grass plains (the Loita Plains) in order to find Two-banded Coursers and we did actually find 2 birds.

Heuglin's Courser   Fagerløper   (Rhinoptilus cinctus)
One of the highlights on any birdwatching trip to Lake Baringo is the Heuglin`s Courser, and thanks to our skilful, local guides we did not have any trouble finding them. We saw a total of 3 birds near the Lake Baringo cliffs 27/11.

Temminck's Courser   Savanneløper   (Cursorius temminckii)
A few observations in Masai Mara: 6 birds seen here 29/11 and 3 birds at another site inside the reserve the following day.

*Collared Pratincole   Brakksvale   (Glareola pratincola)
One sighting: 6 birds seen at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

Long-toed Plover   Langtåvipe   (Vanellus crassirostris)
One sighting of 6 birds at Lake Baringo 22/11 was our only record of the species.

Blacksmith Plover   Smedvipe   (Vanellus armatus)
A few records throughout the trip: one seen en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 4 seen on the journey back to Nairobi 18/11 and 2 at Limuru Pond the same day, 5 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, about 10 at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and 4 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

Spur-winged Plover   Sporevipe   (Vanellus spinosus)
Most of our records were from the Rift Valley: 8 birds at Lake Baringo 21/11, about 40 22/11 and 1  23/11, as well as 18 at Lake Bogoria 23/11. Apart from this only 3 birds near Kisumu 28/11 and about 30 around Malindi and Watamu 3/12.

Black-headed Plover   Svarttoppvipe   (Vanellus tectus)
Two Black-headed Plovers near Lake Baringo 21/11 was a nice bonus here. They were found in dry scrubland a few kms north of Kampi ya Samaki.

Crowned Plover   Kronvipe   (Vanellus coronatus)
The most common and widespread Lapwing, although absent in northern parts of the Rift Valley, Western Kenya and at the coast. Our best days were 17/11 (25 birds around Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya) and 18/11 (10 birds seen en route to Lake Naivasha).

*Grey Plover   Tundralo   (Pluvialis squatarola)
Only recorded at the Sabaki River, Malindi: 20 birds noted here 3/12.

Pacific Golden Plover   Sibirlo   (Pluvialis fulva)
As a nice surprise at Lake Bogoria 23/11, one observer had a Pacific Golden Plover flying overhead, calling. Unfortunately it was not found again.

Ringed Plover   Sandlo   (Charadrius hiaticula)
A few observations: 1 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 5 at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and 2 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11. At Sabaki River, Malindi it was very numerous when we visited 3/12 and we did not bother to estimate any number.

Little Ringed Plover   Dverglo   (Charadrius dubius)
One single observation: 2 birds at Lake Nakuru 20/11.

Three-banded Plover   Hvitkranslo   (Charadrius tricollaris)
3 birds were found at the hot springs at Lake Bogoria 23/11, but the rest of our sightings were all on the extention week: 3 at the waterhole at Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 2/12, 2 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12 and 6 at Mida Creek, Watamu 5/12.

*White-fronted Plover   Strandlo   (Charadrius marginatus)
Only two sightings, both on the same day (3/12) on the extention week: 3 birds at the Sabaki River, Malindi and 1 at Malindi Beach.

*Lesser Sandplover   Mongollo   (Charadrius mongolus)
At the Sabaki River, Malindi we noted at least 10 birds 3/12 (although a thourough scan would undoubtly have produced many more).

*Greater Sandplover   Ørkenlo   (Charadrius leschenaultii)
4 birds were seen at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12 and later the same day another 2 were found at Mida Creek, Watamu. At Mida Creek we further saw a flock of 15 birds 5/12.

Little Stint   Dvergsnipe   (Calidris minuta)
A few scattered observations: 1 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 30 at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and 1 at Mida Creek, Watamu 5/12. In addition we found the Little Stint to be very numerous at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12 (thousands).

*Curlew Sandpiper   Tundrasnipe   (Calidris ferruginea)
Only seen at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12, but here the Curlew Sandpiper and the Little Stint were the most common waders.

*Sanderling   Strandløper   (Calidris alba)
Only one sighting: 8 birds flying by near Malindi Beach 3/12.

Ruff   Brushane   (Philomachus pugnax)
About 150 were noted at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and also quite numerous at Lake Bogoria 23/11. Apart from this only a few scattered sightings of 1-3 birds.

Common Snipe   Enkeltbekkasin   (Gallinago gallinago)
Only one sighting: 3 birds found in flooded fields at Lake Baringo 22/11.

Black-tailed Godwit   Svarthalespove   (Limosa limosa)
Our only sighting was of 10 birds at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11.

*Whimbrel   Småspove   (Numenius phaeopus)
About 10 Whimbrels were noted at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

*Eurasian Curlew   Storspove   (Numenius arquata)
One sighting throughout the trip: 30 birds at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

Marsh Sandpiper   Damsnipe   (Tringa stagnatilis)
A few observations, scattered evenly throughout the trip: 3 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 5 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, 4 at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 1 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11, 1 in Tsavo West NP 2/12 and 5 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

*Common Greenshank   Gluttsnipe   (Tringa nebularia)
2 sightings: 1 at Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 2/12 and 5 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

Green Sandpiper   Skogsnipe   (Tringa ochropus)
1 seen en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 1 at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 2 at Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Wood Sandpiper   Grønnstilk   (Tringa glareola)
20 birds at Limuru Pond 18/11, 10 at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and 20 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12 were our highest daily totals. Elsewhere only 1-3 birds were noted.

Common Sandpiper   Strandsnipe   (Actitis hypoleucos)
Up to 20 birds were seen at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11 and also quite common at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12. Apart from these sightings only 1-4 birds were noted in one single day.

*Terek Sandpiper   Tereksnipe   (Xenus cinereus)
Only one sighting on this trip: about 20 birds were seen at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12. This is a site where the species normally occurs in fairly good numbers.

*Ruddy Turnstone   Steinvender   (Arenaria interpres)
One sighting: 10 birds seen at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

*Sooty Gull   Sotmåke   (Larus hemprichii)
About 10-15 Sooty Gulls were present at Malindi Beach 3/12. Rather surprisingly we did not see any at the Sabaki River.

*Heuglin's Gull   (Larus heuglini)
2 immature birds were seen at Malindi Beach 3/12 and this constituted our only sighting. The taxonomic status of this form is unclear, but has recently been split by Clements and others.

Lesser Black-backed Gull   Sildemåke   (Larus fuscus)
One sighting: 2 birds seen near the Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11.

Grey-headed Gull   Gråhodemåke   (Larus cirrocephalus)
A little bit surprisingly only seen by us at Lake Nakuru 20/11, but here on the other hand it was quite numerous; 200 were seen at the lakeshore when we waited for the rainy weather to pass.

Gull-billed Tern   Sandterne   (Sterna nilotica)
Fairly common: 10 at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Nakuru 19/11, 30 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, 50 at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 15 here 28/11 and about 50 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

*Caspian Tern   Rovterne   (Sterna caspia)
Fairly numerous at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12 and we logged 30 birds here this day.

*Lesser Crested Tern   Bengalterne   (Sterna bengalensis)
One bird was seen perched at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12 and this was our only sighting. Unfortunately we did not see any Greater Crested Terns here.

*Saunder's Tern   Araberdvergterne   (Sterna saundersi)
Very numerous at the Sabaki River, Malindi when we visited 3/12. Flocks of hundreds were seen several times and we estimated a total of 1000 birds here this day.

Whiskered Tern   Hvitkinnsvartterne   (Chlidonias hybridus)
Three observations: 1 at the Limuru Pond 18/11, 20 at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha and 15 at the Crater Lake 19/11 and also 20 at Fisherman`s Camp 20/11. We were astonished to see that the bird at the Limuru Pond still was in summer plumage.

White-winged Tern   Hvitvingesvartterne   (Chlidonias leucopterus)
One bird at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and 30 at Lake Baringo 22/11. More common at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu: 50 birds here 27/11 and 100 birds 28/11.

African Skimmer   Afrikasaksenebb   (Rhyncops flavirostris)
We were both surprised and thrilled to find 10 Skimmers on the mudflats at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11. The local fishermen apparently knew these birds very well.

African Green-Pigeon   Afrikagrønndue   (Treron calva)
A few sighting throughout the trip: 2 birds near the Youth Hostel, Mt. Kenya 18/11, 2 at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11 and 3 near our lodge at Kakamega Forest later the same day, 3 here 26/11 and 1 single bird 27/11, 5 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 2 at Mida Creek, Watamu 3/12.

Tambourine Dove   Tamburindue   (Turtur tympanistria)
Fairly common in the western forests: 20 seen in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 1-5 birds daily in Kakamega Forest 25/11-27/11.

Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove   Grønnflekkalvedue   (Turtur chalcospilos)
Fairly common in suitable habitat: 3-6 birds daily at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 22/11, 1 at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 1-3 daily in Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11, 1 at Mida Creek, Watamu 3/12, 6-7 in Sokoke Forest 4/12 and at least 10 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Blue-spotted Wood-Dove   Blåflekkalvedue   (Turtur afer)
Surprisingly few were noted, only 2 single birds seen in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 (We would have expected to see some in Kakamega Forest as well).

Namaqua Dove   Maskedue   (Oena capensis)
Our first sighting was of one bird in the gorge in Hell`s Gate NP 19/11. More common in the northern Rift Valley: 40 birds logged at Lake Baringo 21/11, 25 birds here 22/11 and 15 were seen at Lake Bogoria 23/11. On the last day of the trip we had 3 birds at Ndala Ranch, Voi.

Speckled Pigeon   Spragledue   (Columba guinea)
Very common and widespread; seen almost daily the two first weeks of the trip near human habitation with up to 20 birds in one day. Not seen the days we spend in Kakamega Forest. The species is not so common in Eastern Kenya and was not seen by us on the extention week, except 3 or 4 birds in Nairobi 1/12.

Olive Pigeon   Gulbrilledue   (Columba arquatrix)
One sighting: one single bird seen inside Mt. Kenya NP 17/11. The bird sat perched in a dead tree and allowed prolonged views.

Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeon   Krittnakkedue   (Columba delagorguei)
One pleasant finding was that of 2 male and 1 female Bronze-naped Pigeons at the Naro Moru River, near the youth hostel, Mt. Kenya 18/11. The species is not that rare, but can be quite hard to find as it is shy.

Red-eyed Dove   Rødøyedue   (Streptopelia semitorquata)
We had the following observations: 8 in our hotel gardens, Nairobi 16/11, 1 in Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 17/11, 5 here 18/11, 30 at Fisherman`s Camp and Hell`s Gate NP, Naivasha 19/11, 1 near Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 2 at Kongelai escarpment 25/11. Also quite common at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and here we did not try to estimate any number for the log.

African Mourning Dove   Klagedue   (Streptopelia perspicillata)
Very common in the northern Rift Valley with more than 50 birds recorded daily at Lake Baringo and Lake Bogoria 21/11-23/11. Other sightings were 2 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11, 5 here 28/11, 3-4 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 1-2 here 30/11.

Ring-necked Dove   Savannedue   (Streptopelia capicola)
The most common and widespread dove. Seen almost daily throughout the trip except in the northern Rift Valley, where it seems to be replaced by the Afr. Mourning Dove. Less than 10 birds seen in one single day, except 16 birds 19/11 (Lake Naivasha and Crater Lake) and 30 birds 2/12 (Tsavo West NP).

Dusky Turtle Dove   Rustvingedue   (Streptopelia lugens)
Few were recorded, except at Crater Lake, Naivasha 19/11, where it was very common. We estimated 300 birds here, all in the near vicinity of a waterhole. Apart from these birds 1 was seen from the bus en route to Masai Mara 28/11 and 1 bird in Masai Mara 29/11.

Laughing Dove   Palmedue   (Streptopelia senegalensis)
In the northern Rift Valley, i.e. Lake Baringo and Lake Bogoria, the species was very common and we did not try to put any number on the daily log. Seen regularily also elsewhere, except on Mt. Kenya or the forested parts of Western Kenya, but only in low numbers.

Red-fronted Parrot   Rødpannepapegøye   (Poicephalus gulielmi)
Very common on Mt. Kenya with appr. 50 birds seen here 17/11, most of these in the area around the national park gates. At the youth hostel we saw at least 15 birds 18/11.

Brown Parrot   Gulissepapegøye   (Poicephalus meyeri)
Two sightings: 2 birds at the entrance to Lake Bogoria National Reserve 23/11 and likewise 2 birds in Masai Mara 30/11.

*Orange-bellied Parrot   Oransjebukpapegøye   (Poicephalus rufiventris)
2 birds were seen at the Ndala Ranch, Voi on the very last day of the trip, 6/12.

[Yellow-collared Lovebird   Svarthodet dvergpapegøye   (Agapornis personatus)]
One bird was seen at the Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha early morning 20/11. The population here is not wild, but contains of introduced or escaped birds.

Great Blue Turaco   Kjempeturako   (Corythaeola cristata)
The Great Blue Turaco must for many have been one of the highlights at Kakamega Forest. We saw this magnificent bird well on several occasions: 1 bird 25/11, 2 the following day and a total of  9 birds the last morning, 27/11.

Ross's Turaco   Rødtoppturako   (Musophaga rossae)
Our first sighting was of 3 birds at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11. This was the very same spot we had White-crested Turaco`s (see below). The following day we saw 1 in Kakamega Forest, in area not far from the Ikuywa bridge.

*Fischer's Turaco   Rødnakketurako   (Tauraco fischeri)
As a very nice bonus in Sokoke Forest 5/12 we were fortunate enough to find a magnificent Fischer's Turaco.

Hartlaub's Turaco   Blåkroneturako   (Tauraco hartlaubi)
The Hartlaub's Turaco turned out to be fairly common at Mt. Kenya; the first evening in Naro Moru, 16/11, we had 1 bird within the hotel grounds, in Mt. Kenya NP we saw no less than 20 birds 17/11 and 3 birds near the youth hostel 18/11. In the Taita Hills we recorded 5 birds 6/12.

White-crested Turaco   Hvithodeturako   (Tauraco leucolophus)
Our target species at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11 was the White-crested Turaco, and we found a total of 5 birds here without a problem.

White-bellied Go-away-bird   Hvitbukturako   (Criniferoides leucogaster)
Quite a few sightings: up to 25 birds a day in the Lake Baringo area 20/11-23/11, 5 at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11, 2 en route to Tsavo West NP 1/12, 5 inside the national park 2/12 and 10 birds at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Bare-faced Go-away-bird   Masketurako   (Corythaixoides personata)
Only seen in Masai Mara: 10 birds here 29/11 and at least 10 the following day.

*Black-and-white Cuckoo   Jakobinergjøk   (Oxylophus jacobinus)
One bird was seen near the Mtito Andei gate of Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 2 birds inside the national park 2/12.

*Great Spotted Cuckoo   Skjæregjøk   (Clamator glandarius)
Driving out of Tsavo West NP 2/12 we flushed one young Great Spotted Cuckoo from the road (was nearly hit by our bus).

Red-chested Cuckoo   Rødbrystgjøk   (Cuculus solitarius)
A few scattered observations: 1 heard at our lodge in Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 3 heard (and one seen well) near the youth hostel, Mt. Kenya 18/11, 2 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1 heard in Tsavo West NP 2/12 and finally 1 heard at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

*Black Cuckoo   Svartgjøk   (Cuculus clamosus)
Our first sighting was of 2 birds near the Mtito Andei gate of Tsavo West NP 1/12 and the following day we heard one inside the national park as well.

Asian Lesser Cuckoo   Smågjøk   (Cuculus poliocephalus)
As a very good bonus in Saiwa Swamp NP we found an Asian Lesser Cuckoo here 24/11. This species is apparently very rare in Kenya away from the coast.

African Emerald Cuckoo   Smaragdgjøk   (Chrysococcyx cupreus)
We heard one bird in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 and at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12. At our lodge in Kakamega Forest we also got a short glimpse of one shy bird 26/11.

Klaas's Cuckoo   Grønngjøk   (Chrysococcyx klaas)
The most common and widespread cuckoo; we saw or heard several throughout the trip, but nowhere in great numbers. Apart from 5 birds in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 only 1-3 birds noted in one single day.

Diderik Cuckoo   Diderikgjøk   (Chrysococcyx caprius)
A total of four sightings: 1 at the Fisherman`s Camp 19/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 22/11, 1 in Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 1 en route to Watamu 2/12.

Yellowbill   Malmgjøk   (Ceuthmocares aereus)
Our first record conserned a very shy individual near our lodge at Kakamega Forest 26/11, but the following day we had 3 birds that were slightly more cooperative. We were also fortunate to see one at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12; birds at the coast belong to a distinct subspecies, australis, that may consitute a distinct species.

White-browed Coucal   Hvitbrynsporegjøk   (Centropus superciliosus)
Fairly common: our first sighting was of one bird at the Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11, then singles at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 22/11, 2 birds at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 28/11 and 1 in Masai Mara 30/11. On the extention week seen daily (except 1/12) with 1-5 birds.

Blue-headed Coucal   Blåhodesporegjøk   (Centropus monachus)
This species can sometimes be a little tricky, but we managed to see 2 birds in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 1 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11. Saiwa Swamp NP seems to be a particularily good place for this bird.

*Barn Owl   Tårnugle   (Tyto alba)
Looking down a horribly deep well inside the Gedi Ruins compound, Watamu 4/12, we found one pair of Barn Owl apparently breeding inside a cavity there. However, after an initial look they hid inside the cavity and were not seen again.

*Sokoke Scops-Owl   Sokokeugle   (Otus ireneae)
In the Sokoke forest we played the calls of this endemic owl after sunset 4/12, and the owl responded fairly quikly. After a short search in the bush we found 2 adults and 2 juv.

African Scops-Owl   Akasieugle   (Otus senegalensis)
One bird was heard calling near our camp site in Masai Mara the nights of 28/11 and 29/11, as well as early in the morning 30/11.

Northern White-faced Scops-Owl   (Ptilopsis leucotis)
One of the highlights at Lake Baringo was the sighting of a Northern White-faced Scops-Owl 22/11. This bird, found by our local guides, sat perched in a tree near the Lake Baringo cliffs.

Spotted Eagle-Owl   Flekkhubro   (Bubo africanus)
 At Ndala Ranch, Voi we saw one bird 6/12.

Greyish Eagle-Owl   (Bubo cinerascens)
At the Lake Baringo cliffs we saw 2 birds on a day-time roost 21/11

Verreaux's Eagle-Owl   Gråhubro   (Bubo lacteus)
At the Robert`s Camp, Lake Baringo one pair was breeding outside one of our bungalows and we saw 2 adults and one juv. here 21/11 and 22/11. Also seen at the Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP late evening 1/12 (seen around the floodlit waterhole).

Pearl-spotted Owlet   Savanneugle   (Glaucidium perlatum)
One bird was found inside the grounds of Robert`s Camp, Lake Baringo in full daylight 22/11 and the same bird was seen here the following morning.

African Wood Owl   Panugle   (Strix woodfordii)
One bird was seen very briefly as it flew across the hotel garden at Kakamega Forest at dawn 27/11. Unfortunately most of the group missed out on this one.

*Fiery-necked Nightjar   Ildnakkenattravn   (Caprimulgus pectoralis)
Driving the Upper Mida Trail, Sokoke Forest after dusk 4/12, looking for the scops owl, we flushed at least 4 Fiery-necked Nightjars from the road, and later a few of these were heard calling as well.

Montane Nightjar   Fjellnattravn   (Caprimulgus poliocephalus)
Our first day of this trip, 16/11, was rounded off very nicely as we found 3 Montane Nightjars at our lodge near Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya. The birds were found just before it got dark and seen perched and hunting over the garden.

Plain Nightjar   Sahelnattravn   (Caprimulgus inornatus)
Of all the nightjars found at the Lake Baringo cliffs 21/11 were also 2 Plain Nightjars.

*Eurasian Nightjar   Nattravn   (Caprimulgus europaeus)
At the Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 1/12 we saw many nightjars hunting over the waterhole. Most of these were Slender-tailed Nightjars, but one of these turned out to be a Eurasian Nightjar.

Slender-tailed Nightjar   Kilehalenattravn   (Caprimulgus clarus)
In dry area between Lake Baringo and the Lake Baringo cliffs we found lots of nightjars 21/11 and about 15 of these were Slender-tailed. Quite remarkable to find so many nightjars perched in such a small area. At the Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP we also saw about 5 birds hunting over the waterhole 1/12.

Long-tailed Nightjar   Langhalenattravn   (Caprimulgus climacurus)
One of the real highlights at the Lake Baringo cliffs 21/11 was a female Long-tailed Nightjar. This species is uncommon that far south in Kenya (breeds only in far north-western Kenya).

*Mottled Spinetail   Baobabseiler   (Telecanthura ussheri)
One bird seen flying over the Vasco de Gama Point, Malindi Beach 3/12 was our only sighting.

Scarce Swift   Dvergseiler   (Schoutedenapus myoptilus)
Only seen on Mt. Kenya 17/11. We had a total of 10-15 birds, seen at the entrance gate and a few kms below this.

African Palm Swift   Afrikapalmeseiler   (Cypsiurus parvus)
Our first sighting was of 10 birds at Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11 and also 5 in Tsavo West NP 1/12. At the coast the species was common and we logged it daily 3/12-5/12, but without putting any number estimates on the daily log.

Eurasian Swift   Tårnseiler   (Apus apus)
2 birds at the Crater Lake, Naivasha 19/11 and at least 2 at the Lion Hill Lodge, Lake Nakuru NP 20/11. Also 15 in Masai Mara 29/11.

Nyanza Swift   Klippeseiler   (Apus niansae)
25 birds were identified to this species in Hell`s Gate NP, Naivasha 19/11, although we saw surprisingly few swifts here this day. The following day we had 10 at the Lion Hill Lodge, Lake Nakuru NP.

Mottled Swift   Granittseiler   (Apus aequatorialis)
3 birds at the Blue Pools Hotel, Thika 16/11 were too swift to most of us, but fortunately we found a few later: 2 at Hell`s Gate NP and 1 at Crater Lake, Naivasha 19/11 and 1 en route to Lake Nakuru 20/11.

White-rumped Swift   Kafferseiler   (Apus caffer)
Three sightings: 4 seen flying overhead at a brief stop en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 30 in Masai Mara NP 29/11 and 10 in Masai Mara 30/11.

Horus Swift   Horusseiler   (Apus horus)
At least 10 were seen in Masai Mara 29/11 together with White-rumped Swifts. Also 1 in Tsavo West NP 1/12.

Little Swift   Småseiler   (Apus affinis)
Common and widespread and seen virtually every day throughout the trip. Mostly we did not estimate any numbers for the daily log, but 500+ noted 16/11, most of these in Nairobi.

Alpine Swift   Alpeseiler   (Apus melba)
One sighting: 7-10 birds seen near the entrance gate to Mt. Kenya NP 17/11, flying together with many swifts of several species.

Speckled Mousebird   Brunmusfugl   (Colius striatus)
A very common and widespread species seen by us every day except 4/12 (Sokoke Forest and Gedi Ruins). Most days between 15 and 25 were recorded.

Blue-naped Mousebird   Blånakkemusfugl   (Urocolius macrourus)
Seen on several occasions. Decidedly most common around Lake Baringo with up to 15 birds a day 21/11-23/11, but also 1 near Kisumu 28/11, 10 in Masai Mara 30/11 and 5 in Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 2/12.

Narina Trogon   Narinatrogon   (Apaloderma narina)
One pair was found near the entrance gate to Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 and admired by all of us. Singles also noted in the Sokoke Forest 4/12 and 5/12.

Grey-headed Kingfisher   Gråhodeisfugl   (Halcyon leucocephala)
As many as 5 seen en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 2 seen while we were driving back to Nairobi 18/11, 1 near Lake Bogoria 23/11, 2 in Tsawo West NP 2/12 and 2 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Woodland Kingfisher   Lundisfugl   (Halcyon senegalensis)
2 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 6 at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11 and 2 in Masai Mara 29/11.

Striped Kingfisher   Savanneisfugl   (Halcyon chelicuti)
Seen on 4 days: 3 in Masai Mara 29/11, 1 here 30/11 and singles in Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 2/12.

Malachite Kingfisher   Tiaraisfugl   (Alcedo cristata)
We had the following sightings: 1 at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11, singles at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 23/11, 1-2 at Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1-3 birds at Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 28/11, 2 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 1 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

African Pygmy Kingfisher   Pygmeisfugl   (Ispidina picta)
Three sightings: 4 at Lake Baringo 22/11 and 1 here the following day and 2 in Kakamega Forest 26/11.

Giant Kingfisher   Kjempeisfugl   (Megaceryle maxima)
One bird seen at the shore of Lake Naivasha 19/11 remained our only sighting until we had another bird at the Mzima Springs, Tsavo West NP 2/12. As the first sighting was a little bit disappointing we were happy with the bird in Tsavo as it sat perched and alowed prolonged study at close quarters.

Pied Kingfisher   Terneisfugl   (Ceryle rudis)
Seen regularily at fresh-water sites: up to 4 birds at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 20/11, up to 6 at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 22/11, 6 birds at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11 and as many as 30 on these sites the following day, 2 birds in Tsavo West NP 2/12 and 4 around Watamu and Malindi 3/12.

Eurasian Bee-eater   Bieter   (Merops apiaster)
Seen at a few occasions: 1 in Lake Nakuru NP 20/11, 10 at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 20 around Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 3 en route to Kakamega 25/11 and 10 in Tsavo West NP 1/12.

Blue-cheeked Bee-eater   Blåkinnbieter   (Merops persicus)
Two sightings: 2 birds seen at a distance near the shore of Lake Baringo 22/11 and a flock of 15 at Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11.

*Northern Carmine Bee-eater   Karminbieter   (Merops nubicus)
Three sightings, all near Watamu: 6 birds in tree near Mida Creek 3/12, 3 at the Gedi Ruins 4/12 and 15 near Mida Creek 5/12 (same place as 2 days earlier).

White-throated Bee-eater   Sebrabieter   (Merops albicollis)
Fairly common in the southern and western parts: 4 birds at Kongelai escarpment 25/11, 15 at Kakamega Forest 26/11, 50 birds logged 27/11 (Kakamega Forest and Kisumu), 5 at Hippo Point 28/11 and two birds seen en route to Masai Mara later same day. On the extention week we noted about 50 at Mida Creek 3/12, 1 near Sokoke Forest 4/12 and 2 at Mida Creek 4/12.

White-fronted Bee-eater   Hvitpannebieter   (Merops bullockoides)
Only seen near Lake Naivasha: at least 30 seen in Hell`s Gate NP 19/11, 3 at Fisherman`s Camp 20/11 and further 3 en route to Lake Nakuru later in the morning.

Blue-headed Bee-eater   Brunryggbieter   (Merops muelleri)
One of the gems in Kakamega Forest is the Blue-headed Bee-eater and we found one near the pumphouse at Isecheno Forest Station late evening 25/11. The bird sat perched in a dead tree.

Little Bee-eater   Dvergbieter   (Merops pusillus)
Our first sighting was of one single bird at Lake Bogoria 23/11, then 1 at Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11, up to 10 daily in Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11, 5 in Tsavo West NP 2/12, and 1 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater   Bergbieter   (Merops oreobates)
Fairly common at Mt. Kenya, with up to 15 birds noted here daily 16/11-18/11; most of these were seen around our lodge in Naro Moru. Also seen daily with 3-5 birds in Kakamega Forest 25/11-27/11.

*Eurasian Roller   Blåråke   (Coracias garrulus)
Quite common in Tsavo West NP and driving towards the Kilaguni Lodge late evening 1/12 we flushed about 30 birds from the road. Only 2 birds, however, were seen the following day. Our last sightings were of 1 bird at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12 and further 4 birds seen from the busses en route to Nairobi the same day.

Lilac-breasted Roller   Savanneråke   (Coracias caudata)
Quite common and widespread, although not seen at Mt. Kenya, Kakamega Forest or Kisumu. Apart from this up to 10 birds were seen on a daily basis. Our best day was 23/11 with 10 birds (Lake Bogoria and transport-leg to Kitale).

Rufous-crowned Roller   Striperåke   (Coracias naevia)
One bird was seen briefly from one of the busses while we were driving to the hot springs in Lake Bogoria 23/11. On the last day of the entire trip, 6/12, another bird was seen at Ndala Ranch, Voi.

*Broad-billed Roller   Brednebbråke   (Eurystomus glaucurus)
One bird was seen from one of the busses while we driving back to Nairobi 6/12, and this was our only sighting of the species.

Hoopoe   Hærfugl   (Upupa epops)
Birds belonging to (sub-)species africana were seen on several occcasions: 4 birds in Hell`s Gate NP, Naivasha 19/11, 3 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, 2 birds at Lake Baringo both 21/11 and 22/11 and singles in Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11. 1 bird of the Palaearctic form epops was noted in Hell`s Gate NP, Naivasha 19/11. These two forms are now often regarded as distinct species, but are not recognized by Clements.

Green Wood-hoopoe   Grønnkakelar   (Phoeniculus purpureus)
Several observations: 3 at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 20/11, 4 at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 11 here 22/11, 3 at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 5 at Kongelai escarpment 25/11 and 2 in Masai Mara 29/11.

White-headed Wood-hoopoe   Hvithodekakelar   (Phoeniculus bollei)
Only one sighting: 5 birds in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11. The species is fairly common in Kenyan highland forests.

Common Scimitarbill   Sørsabelnebb   (Rhinopomastus cyanomelas)
1 bird was noted at the Crater Lake, Naivasha 19/11 and another in Lake Nakuru NP 20/11.

Abyssinian Scimitarbill   Nordsabelnebb   (Rhinopomastus minor)
2 birds were seen in Hell`s Gate NP 19/11 and at Ndala Ranch, Voi it turned out to be fairly common 6/12; 10 birds were logged.

*Southern Ground Hornbill   Rødmaskehornfugl   (Bucorvus leadbeateri)
While enjoying breakfast at Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 2/12 3 Southern Ground Hornbills turned up on the plains.

Red-billed Hornbill   Rødnebbtoko   (Tockus erythrorhynchus)
1 bird seen near Lake Baringo 20/11, 3-6 birds daily at Lake Baringo 21/11-23/11, 2 at Kongelai escarpment 25/11, 4-5 birds in Tsavo West NP 2/12 and 10 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Von der decken's Hornbill   Savannetoko   (Tockus deckeni)
2 birds daily in Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11, 1 en route to Tsavo West NP 1/12, 2 in Tsavo West NP 2/12 and 5 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 3/12.

Jackson's Hornbill   Turkanatoko   (Tockus jacksoni)
A few sightings, mostly from the Rift Valley: 2 at Lake Baringo 21/11, at least 10 here 22/11,  5 at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and at least 5 at Kongelai escarpment 25/11.

Crowned Hornbill   Bantutoko   (Tockus alboterminatus)
Only two sightings: 2 birds at our lodge at Naro Moru seen both 16/11 and 17/11.

African Grey Hornbill   Gråtoko   (Tockus nasutus)
Four sightings throughout the trip: 4 birds at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 5 at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11, at least 6 birds in Tsavo West NP 2/12 and 1 seen from the bus en route to Nairobi 6/12.

*Trumpeter Hornbill   Trompeterhornfugl   (Bycanistes bucinator)
Only seen on the extention week: 2 birds in the Sokoke Forest 4/12.

Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill   Gråkinnhornfugl   (Bycanistes subcylindricus)
Quite common in the western forests, particularily in Kakamega Forest: 2 birds seen just outside Saiwas Swamp NP 24/11, at least 10 in Kakamega Forest 25/11, 15 birds here 26/11 and 25 birds 27/11.

*Silvery-cheeked Hornbill   Sølvkinnhornfugl   (Bycanistes brevis)
Close to the entrance of the Gedi Ruins, Watamu we had a flock of 6 birds 4/12 and later 1 bird at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Grey-throated Barbet   Gråstrupeskjeggfugl   (Gymnobucco bonapartei)
Fairly common in Kakamega Forest and seen daily here: 3 birds 25/11, at least 10 birds 26/11 and 10 birds 27/11.

*Green Barbet   Olivenskjeggfugl   (Stactolaema olivacea)
Several seen at the coast, mainly in Sokoke Forest: 6 birds in the Sokoke Forest 4/12, 3 at the Gedi Ruins the same day and 5 in the forest 5/12.

Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird   Gulgumpkopperslager   (Pogoniulus bilineatus)
Quite common and seen frequently during the first two weeks; our best days were 17/11 with 4 birds at Mt. Kenya and 26/11 with 5 in Kakamega Forest. On the extention week only one recorded: 1 bird heard in the Sokoke Forest 5/12. Birds in the west belong to the subspecies jacksoni and coastal birds to fischeri. The two subspecies are vocally distinct.

Red-fronted Tinkerbird   Rødpannekopperslager   (Pogoniulus pusillus)
1 heard at the Crater Lake, Naivasha 19/11, 4 at Lake Baringo 21/11, 1 here 22/11 and 1 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Yellow-spotted Barbet   Skjellskjeggfugl   (Buccanodon duchaillui)
Quite common in the western forests: 1 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 2-3 birds in Kakamega Forest 25/11 and 5 birds here both 26/11 and 27/11.

Hairy-breasted Barbet   Hårbrystskjeggfugl   (Tricholaema hirsuta)
One observation: 1 bird seen briefly in Kakamega Forest our last morning here 27/11.

Red-fronted Barbet   Diademskjeggfugl   (Tricholaema diademata)
Only seen at Lake Baringo: 1-2 birds at Robert`s Camp 21/11 and 2 birds here both 22/11 and 23/11. The same birds were probably seen several days.

Spot-flanked Barbet   Tåreskjeggfugl   (Tricholaema lachrymosa)
2 birds were found breeding at the Blue Pools Hotel, Thika 16/11. Later also seen in Masai Mara (2 birds 29/11) and in Tsavo West NP (1 bird 1/12).

Black-throated Barbet   Krattskjeggfugl   (Tricholaema melanocephala)
Fairly common at Lake Baringo and Lake Bogoria: 2 birds at Lake Baringo both 21/11 and 22/11 and 5 birds recorded at Lake Bogoria 23/11. Finally 2 or 3 birds at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

White-headed Barbet   Hvithodeskjeggfugl   (Lybius leucocephalus)
1 bird was seen at the Crater Lake, Naivasha 19/11, but as many dipped on this we were fortunate enough to find 3 birds at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11.

Black-billed Barbet   Svartnebbskjeggfugl   (Lybius guifsobalito)
One sighting: two birds seen at Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11. This species is fairly common in Kisumu.

Double-toothed Barbet   Totannskjeggfugl   (Lybius bidentatus)
A total of 5 birds was recorded by us in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 3 birds the following day at the Kongelai escarpment.

Yellow-billed Barbet   Praktperleskjeggfugl   (Trachylaemus purpuratus)
Only recorded by us in Kakamega Forest: 2 birds 26/11 and 1 bird at our lodge 27/11. With the second sighting most of us, if not all, got this bird.

Red-and-yellow Barbet   Termittperleskjeggfugl   (Trachyphonus erythrocephalus)
2 birds were seen daily by us at Robert`s Camp, Lake Baringo 21/11-23/11. Also 2 birds at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

D'Arnauds Barbet   Småperleskjeggfugl   (Trachyphonus darnaudii)
Fairly common: up to 6 daily at Lake Baringo 21/11-23/11, 1 at Kongelai escarpment 25/11, 10 birds in Masai Mara 29/11, 5 here 30/11, 2 near Mtito Andei Gate, Tsavo West NP 1/12 and at least 15 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12. The birds at Masai Mara are of the subspecies usambiro, regarded as a distinct species by some authors (but not Clements).

Greater Honeyguide   Honninglos   (Indicator indicator)
As many as three sightings: one pair in Hell`s Gate NP 19/11, 1 female in Lake Nakuru NP 20/11 and 1 male at Kongelai escarpment 25/11.

Lesser Honeyguide   Gråvokseter   (Indicator minor)
1 bird near the youth hostel, Mt. Kenya 18/11 and 1 at Lake Baringo 22/11 were our only sightings.

Red-throated Wryneck   Rustvendehals   (Jynx ruficollis)
1 bird was found in the garden of the youth hostel, Mt. Kenya 18/11, but was unfortunately only seen by one observer. The rest tried to relocate it for some time, but with no luck.

Nubian Woodpecker   Akasiespett   (Campethera nubica)
The most widespread and common woodpecker; seen regularily the two first weeks with up to 4 birds in one day (22/11, Lake Baringo), although not recorded at Kakamega, Kisumu or Masai Mara. On the extention week only one sighting: 2 birds at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

*Mombasa Woodpecker   Swahilispett   (Campethera mombassica)
Two sightings: 1 male in Sokoke Forest 4/12 and another bird in Sokoke Forest 5/12.

Brown-eared Woodpecker   Brunørespett   (Campethera caroli)
One of the highlights our last morning in Kakamega Forest 27/11 was a splendid Brown-eared Woodpecker that showed itself very well.

Buff-spotted Woodpecker   Rødnakkespett   (Campethera nivosa)
One bird was seen by one observer in Kakamega Forest our last morning here 27/11.

Cardinal Woodpecker   Kardinalspett   (Dendropicos fuscescens)
Common and widespread; seen daily in the Rift Valley with up to 3 birds recorded in 1 day (20/11, Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru), but also noted at Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and in Kakamega Forest 26/11. On the extention week only two sightings: 1 in Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 5 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Bearded Woodpecker   Skjeggspett   (Dendropicos namaquus)
Two sightings: 1 male at Crater Lake, Naivasha 19/11 and 1 in Kakamega Forest 27/11.

Grey Woodpecker   Askehodespett   (Dendropicos goertae)
One seen near Mt. Kenya en route to Lake Naivasha 18/11, 1 at Crater Lake, Naivasha 19/11, 1 in Lake Nakuru NP 20/11 and 1 at Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11. The taxonomy of this species is unclear, but there is an growing consensus that it should be split in 3 different species, 2 of which occurs in Kenya (this view supported by e.g. Clements). It seems likely that all the birds we saw belong to the form rhodeogaster and thus belongs to the Grey-headed Woodpecker (Dendropicos spodocephalus).

African Broadbill   Svartkronebrednebb   (Smithornis capensis)
One of the highlights in Kakamega Forest 27/11 was possibly 2 or 3 African Broadbills, even though we actually never saw them. We could only hear them repeatedly, but were not able to locate them in the dense forest.

*Singing Bush Lark   Savannelerke   (Mirafra cantillans)
1 bird seen at the Athi Plains 1/12 was the only sighting throughout the trip.

Rufous-naped Lark   Melankolilerke   (Mirafra africana)
Fairly common in Masai Mara: 1 seen en route to the reserve 28/11, 10 birds in Mara 29/11 and 15 birds 30/11. 3 birds were also seen at the Athi Plains, Nairobi 1/12.

*Red-winged Lark   Rødvingelerke   (Mirafra hypermetra)
Driving to the Mzima Springs, Tsavo West NP 2/12 we saw 3 birds close to the road (same spot as the Pink-breasted Larks).

Fawn-coloured Lark   Krattlerke   (Mirafra africanoides)
2 birds noted on the grasslands outside our lodge at Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 17/11 and 2 birds outside the Masai Mara National Reserve 30/11.

*Pink-breasted lark   Rosenbrystlerke   (Mirafra poecilosterna)
3 birds were seen in Tsavo West NP 2/12, halfway between Kilaguni Lodge and Mzumi Springs.

*Somali Short-toed lark   Somalidverglerke   (Calandrella somalica)
10 birds at the Athi Plains, Nairobi 1/12. These birds belong to the subspecies athensis which is often regarded as a distinct species, Athi Short-toed Lark (Calandrella athensis). This form has not been split by Clements.

Red-capped Lark   Rustdverglerke   (Calandrella cinerea)
While looking for the Sharpe's Longclaw at the Kinangop Plateau 18/11 we found 5 Red-capped Larks here. 2 birds were also seen outside Masai Mara 30/11.

*Short-tailed Lark   Korthalelerke   (Pseudalaemon fremantlii)
We found at least 4 birds at the Athi Plains, Nairobi 1/12 (exact figures were difficult to obtain because of the skulking behaviour of these birds).

Fischer's Sparrow-Lark   Masailerke   (Eremopterix leucopareia)
10 birds were found on short stop just outside Masai Mara 30/11 and 2 birds at the Athi Plains, Nairobi the following day.

African Pied Wagtail   Afrikaerle   (Motacilla aguimp)
Common and widespread: 1-15 birds were logged on most days throughout the trip, except 20 birds on 27/11 (Kakamega Forest and Kisumu).

White Wagtail   Linerle   (Motacilla alba)
1 bird seen at the Limuru Pond 18/11 was a minor surprise as the bird is scarce throughout Kenya.

Grey Wagtail   Vintererle   (Motacilla cinerea)
1 bird noted 17/11 (Mt. Kenya), 1 at Limuru Pond 18/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 22/11 and 3 at Kakamega Forest 26/11.

Mountain Wagtail   Bergerle   (Motacilla clara)
Our first sighting was of 2 birds in the gorge in Hell`s Gate NP, Naivasha 19/11 and then not seen again until 2/12 with 2 birds at the Mzumi Springs, Tsavo West NP.

Yellow Wagtail   Gulerle   (Motacilla flava)
Quite common and widespread, seen on many occasions throughout the trip with up to 10 birds in one single day (Lake Nakuru 20/11 and Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11). Subspecies of the birds were rarely noted by us, but 1 bird at the Limuru Pond 18/11 showed the characters of lutea.

Red-throated Pipit   Lappiplerke   (Anthus cervinus)
Only one sighting: about 15 birds at the Kinangop Plateau 18/11 (Sharpe`s Longclaw site).

Grassland Pipit   Savannepiplerke   (Anthus cinnamomeus)
1 bird at the Kinangop Plateau 18/11, 1 at the Crater Lake, Naivasha 19/11, 15 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 5 here the following day were our only sightings during the first two weeks. On the extention week we saw at least 10 at the Athi Plains, Nairobi 1/12, 2 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12 and 2 near Watamu 5/12.

Long-billed Pipit   Langnebbpiplerke   (Anthus similis)
1 seen during a stop at the Loita Plains, outside Masai Mara 30/11. This site was also good for other pipits and larks.

Plain-backed Pipit   Brannpiplerke   (Anthus leucophrys)
Surprisingly few were seen by us: 3 in the grasslands outside our lodge at Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 17/11, 5+ at Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 6-7 birds in Masai Mara 29/11.

Tree Pipit   Trepiplerke   (Anthus trivialis)
1 at Mt. Kenya 17/11, 2 in Lake Nakuru NP 20/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 1 in Kakamega Forest 26/11.

*Sokoke Pipit   Sokokepiplerke   (Anthus sokokensis)
We were not quite so successful with this near-endemic as we had hoped for: our only sighting was of one bird flying past us while calling in Sokoke Forest 5/12. Not exactly a mega-tick.

Yellow-throated Longclaw   Gulstrupepiplerke   (Macronyx croceus)
We made the following observations: 10+ in Masai Mara 29/11, 5 birds in Masai Mara 30/11 and 5 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

Sharpe's Longclaw   Kikuyupiplerke   (Macronyx sharpei)
Driving to Lake Naivasha 19/11 we made a stop at the Kinangop Plateau to have a look at the Sharpe`s Longclaw (Kenyan endemic). We found two birds without much trouble and although shy birds they allowed us to come close for photography and videofilming.

Rosy-breasted Longclaw   Skarlagenpiplerke   (Macronyx ameliae)
Only one sighting: 2 birds in Masai Mara 29/11. This bird is frequently recorded in Maaai Mara, and thus seems to be fairly common here.

*Pangani Longclaw   Tornpiplerke   (Macronyx aurantiigula)
Only recorded by us in Tsavo West NP: 5-6 birds seen between Kilaguni Lodge and Mzumi Springs 2/12.

Banded Martin   Hvitbrynsandsvale   (Riparia cincta)
One single bird seen at Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 1 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11.

Plain Martin   Brunstrupesandsvale   (Riparia paludicola)
Fairly common: seen daily at Mt. Kenya with up to 15 birds (17/11), also quite common at Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru 19/11 and 20/11. Singles noted at Lake Baringo 22/11 and in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

Sand Martin   Sandsvale   (Riparia riparia)
One sighting of one single bird in Lake Nakuru NP 20/11.

Wire-tailed Swallow   Trådhalesvale   (Hirundo smithii)
2 birds near Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 17/11, 2 at Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11, 2 here 28/11, 2 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 6 in Masai Mara 30/11.

Barn Swallow   Låvesvale   (Hirundo rustica)
Common and widespread, seen regularily throughout the trip. Our highest daily totals were 100+ at Crater Lake, Naivasha 19/11 and 50 birds logged 30/11 (Masai Mara and Nairobi). We did not estimate numbers every day, though.

*Ethiopian Swallow   Savannesvale   (Hirundo aethiopica)
A flock of appr. 10 birds was seen at the Vasco de Gama Point, Malindi Beach 3/12. The species is fairly common at the coast.

Red-rumped Swallow   Amursvale   (Hirundo daurica)
15 birds noted 18/11 (Mt. Kenya and Limuru Pond), 3 in Lake Nakuru NP 20/11, 6-7 in Masai Mara 29/11, 2 in Masai Mara 30/11, 10 birds logged 1/12 (Athi Plains and Tsavo West NP) and 5 at the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12.

Mosque Swallow   Halsbåndsvale   (Hirundo senegalensis)
Noted on several days: 9 at Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 17/11, 15 near the youth hostel, Mt. Kenya 18/11, 15 birds seen later the same day, 1 in Lake Nakuru NP 20/11, 2 near Lake Bogoria 23/11 and 1 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

Rufous-chested Swallow   Rustsvale   (Hirundo semirufa)
One sighting: 2 birds seen from one of the busses in Masai Mara 29/11.

Lesser Striped Swallow   Bredstripesvale   (Hirundo abyssinica)
5 birds at Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11, 20+ at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11, 5 in Masai Mara 30/11, 4-5 at the Athi Plains, Nairobi 1/12, 10 in Tsavo West NP 2/12, 5 near Watamu and Malindi 3/12 and about 50 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Rock Martin   Ravinesvale   (Hirundo fuligula)
Our first sighting was of 3 birds over our hotel in Nairobi 16/11, then 40 in Hell`s Gate NP, Naivasha 19/11, 5-10 in Lake Nakuru NP 20/11, 2 at Lake Baringo 22/11, 2 at Elgeyo escarpment 23/11 and 5 in Masai Mara 29/11.

Common House Martin   Taksvale   (Delichon urbica)
3 sightings: 1 bird on Mt. Kenya 18/11, 5 at the Crater Lake, Naivasha 19/11 and 1 in Lake Nakuru NP 20/11.

Black Saw-wing   Sørsagsvale   (Psalidoprocne holomelas)
Very common on Mt. Kenya: 10 birds around our lodge at Naro Moru 16/11, 75 birds in the national park 17/11 and 10 at the youth hostel 18/11. Also 10 birds at the Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 20/11 and about 100 at Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

White-headed Saw-wing   Hvithodesagsvale   (Psalidoprocne albiceps)
Very common, although only seen in Kakamega Forest: 50 birds here 25/11 and the two following days we did not bother to estimate any number for the daily log.

Ansorge's Greenbul   Pygmébylbyl   (Andropadus ansorgei)
Not too uncommon in Kakamega Forest: 1 bird at the pumphouse 25/11, 3-4 birds 26/11 and 5 the last morning 27/11.

Yellow-whiskered Greenbul   Mustasjebylbyl   (Andropadus latirostris)
The most common and widespread Bulbul: 2 birds in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11, 5 at the youth hostel, Mt. Kenya 18/11, 10 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 5 in Kakemega Forest 25/11, 20 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 15 here 27/11.

Slender-billed Greenbul   Smalnebbylbyl   (Andropadus gracilirostris)
Seen two days at Mt. Kenya: 2 birds in the national park 17/11 and 1 near the youth hostel 18/11. Slightly more common in the west: 2 birds in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 2 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 1 here our last morning 27/11.

Shelley's Greenbul   Skyggebylbyl   (Andropadus masukuensis)
Only seen in Kakamega Forest: 2 birds 26/11 and 3 birds the morning of 27/11.

Eastern Mountain Greenbul   Østfjellbylbyl   (Andropadus nigriceps)
Common on Mt. Kenya as we saw 20 birds in the national park 17/11 and further 2 near the youth hostel 18/11.

*Stripe-cheeked Greenbul   Stripekinnbylbyl   (Andropadus milanjensis)
Fairly common in the Taita Hills, and we recorded 8-10 birds here during our short visit 6/12.

*Zanzibar Sombre Greenbul   Krattbylbyl   (Andropadus importunus)
One sighting only: 2 birds in the scrub near the mouth of the Sabaki River, Malindi 3/12. This species is fairly common and conspicious at the coast of Kenya.

Cabanis's Greenbul   Jungelbylbyl   (Phyllastrepus cabanisi)
5 birds seen along the road near our lodge in Kakamega Forest the morning of 27/11.

*Tiny Greenbul   Knøttbylbyl   (Phyllastrepus debilis)
4-5 birds seen in the Sokoke Forest 5/12 was our only sighting. Rather shy they were difficult to see well, but finally all were satisfied.

Northern Brownbul   Kjerrbylbyl   (Phyllastrepus strepitans)
Two sightings: a flock of 7 in dense thicket at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 2 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

*Yellow-bellied Greenbul   Gulbukløvbylbyl   (Chlorocichla flaviventris)
Only seen on the extention week: 10+ in the Sokoke Forest 4/12 and 5 in the forest 5/12.

Joyful Greenbul   Jubelløvbylbyl   (Chlorocichla laetissima)
Quite common in Kakamega Forest: 10+ logged here 26/11 and 15 the following morning.

Yellow-throated Leaf-love   Gulstrupeløvbylbyl   (Chlorocichla flavicollis)
One sighting: 2 birds in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11. These birds were quite shy, however, and unfortunately everybody did not see them.

Common Bulbul   Hagebylbyl   (Pycnonotus barbatus)
Very common, and seen on every day throughout the trip. Our highest daily total was 30 birds (Lake Naivasha area, 19/11), but most days we did not count them, nor did we estimate any numbers.

Red-tailed Bristlebill   Maskarabørstebylbyl   (Bleda syndactyla)
A few sightings from Kakamega Forest: singles here 25/11 and 26/11 and 2 birds 27/11.

Black-lored Babbler   Tøyleskriketrost  (Turdoides sharpei)
The species was only noted by us at Lake Naivasha, but here it was common: 25 birds recorded here 19/11, most of these at Fisherman`s Camp and also 3 birds at Fisherman`s 20/11.

Brown Babbler   Savanneskriketrost  (Turdoides plebejus)
Common at Lake Baringo where seen daily: 5 birds 21/11, 20 22/11 and 8 the last morning 23/11.

Arrow-marked Babbler   Pilskriketrost  (Turdoides jardineii)
One bird seen briefly at breakfast at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and a total of 15 birds at Lake Nakuru 20/11. The birds at Lake Nakuru occured at the various lodges and was most common at Lionhill Camp.

Northern Pied Babbler   Masaiskriketrost  (Turdoides hypoleucus)
Driving from Mt. Kenya towards Nairobi 18/11 we had a random roadside stop to eat our lunch packages. Enjoying our food we were accompanied by a Northern Pied Babbler, the only sighting of the entire trip. Other babblers heard in the bushes were most likely of this species.

Rufous Chatterer   Umbraskriketrost  (Turdoides rubiginosus)
Surprisingly the most frequently encountered Turdoides Babbler. Seen daily at Mt. Kenya, mostly near the Naro Moru River Lodge 16/11-18/11, with up to 5 birds a day. Also recorded daily at Lake Baringo with 5 birds 21/11 and 22/11 and 3 birds 23/11.

*Scaly Chatterer   Blåbrilleskriketrost  (Turdoides aylmeri)
2 birds were seen on the last day of the trip 6/12 at the Ndala Ranch, Voi.

Pale-breasted Illadopsis   Småløvtimal  (Illadopsis rufipennis)
Only seen in the western forests: 4 birds recorded in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and singles in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 27/11.

White-starred Robin   Stjerneskvett   (Pogonocichla stellata)
Quite common in Mt. Kenya NP and we recorded as many as 10 birds here 17/11. We had to wait until 6/12 before we saw the species again: 2 birds seen near Wundanyi, Taita Hills this day.

Equatorial Akalat   Ekvatorakalat   (Sheppardia aequatorialis)
A few sightings from Kakamega Forest: 1 bird here 26/11 and 3 birds the following day 27/11.

Grey-winged Robin   Gråvingetrosteskvett   (Cossypha (Sheppardia) polioptera)
Fairly common in the western forests: 5 birds in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 5 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 1 in Kakamega Forest 27/11.

Cape Robin-Chat   Kaffertrosteskvett   (Cossypha caffra)
2 birds in our hotel garden in Nairobi our first morning 16/11 and quite common at Mt. Kenya with 2-4 birds seen daily here 17/11-19/11. Our last sighting was of one bird in the same hotel garden in Nairobi 30/11.

Rüppell's Robin-Chat   Bergtrosteskvett   (Cossypha semirufa)
2 birds were seen in the parkland around the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya the morning 18/11 and further 2 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

White-browed Robin-Chat   Hvitbryntrosteskvett   (Cossypha heuglini)
A few sightings throughout the trip: 2 birds at the Blue Posts Hotel, Thika 16/11, 1 near Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 18/11, 1 at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11 and 2 in parkland around a lodge in Masai Mara 29/11 (name of lodge unknown).

Blue-shouldered Robin-Chat   Blåvingetrosteskvett   (Cossypha cyanocampter)
One bird was seen well in Kakamega Forest 26/11. Unfortunately this bird was only seen by one observer, so most dipped on this shy species.

Snowy-headed Robin-Chat   Snøkronetrosteskvett   (Cossypha niveicapilla)
Three sightings: 5 at Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 2 here 27/11.

Brown-chested Alethe   Brynbrystalete   (Alethe poliocephalus)
One bird was seen well in Kakemega Forest 27/11. Several sightings of birds that flew off the forest road as we approached were probably also this species.

*Red-tailed Ant-Thrush   Rødhalemaurtrost   (Neocossyphus rufus)
We found this species with surprising ease in Sokoke Forest: 4 birds noted 4/12 and 2 birds 5/12.

Spotted Morning-Thrush   Flekkpalmeskvett   (Cichladusa guttata)
Common at Lake Baringo with 15 birds 21/11, 20 birds noted 22/11 and 2 birds 23/11. Many of these birds were seen at the Robert`s Camp. Our last sighting was of 3 birds at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

*Rufous Bush Chat   Hekkskvett   (Cercotrichas galactotes)
One bird was seen at the parking lot at the Mzima Springs, Tsavo West NP 2/12. The species is regularily seen in the Tsavo national parks.

White-browed Scrub-Robin   Hvitbrynkrattskvett   (Cercotrichas leucophrys)
Only numerous at Lake Baringo; we recorded 8-10 birds near the cliffs 21/11. Also a single in Masai Mara 30/11 and 2 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

*Eastern Bearded Scrub-Robin   Kanelkrattskvett  (Cercotrichas quadrivirgata)
Not so hard to find as expected: singles in Sokoke Forest and the Gedi ruins 4/12 and 2 in Sokoke Forest 5/12.

African Stonechat   Afrikasvartstrupe   (Saxicola torquata)
Few were seen: one seen en route to Nairobi 18/11, 1 at Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 2 noted the last day of the trip, 6/12.

Whinchat   Buskskvett   (Saxicola rubetra)
One sighting: 1 single bird in Masai Mara 29/11.

Northern Wheatear   Steinskvett   (Oenanthe oenanthe)
Fairly common: 4 at Lake Baringo 22/11, 5 en route to Kisumu 27/11, up to 5 daily in Masai Mara 29/11-30/11 and singles at the Athi Plains and Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 2/12 respectively.

Pied Wheatear   Svartstrupesteinskvett   (Oenanthe pleschanka)
Seen regularily, although in low numbers: 1 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, 4 at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 1 here 23/11, 1 at Kongelai escarpment 25/11, 1 seen en route to Kisumu 27/11 and singles noted in Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11.

Isabelline Wheatear   Isabellasteinskvett   (Oenanthe isabellina)
The most common and widespread Wheatear; seen regularily throughout the first two weeks with 10-15 birds at Lake Baringo 21/11, 15 here 22/11 and 25+ in Masai Mara 30/11 as the best days. Far less common on the extention week; 1 in Tsavo West NP 2/11 and 1 near Mida Creek, Watamu 3/11 were our only sightings.

Abyssinian Black Wheatear   Sotsteinskvett   (Oenanthe lugubris)
Common and conspicious in Hell`s Gate NP and we noted 15 birds here 19/11. Our only sighting elsewhere was of one single bird at Lake Bogoria 23/11. This form is often regarded as a form of Mourning Wheatear  Sørgesteinskvett  (Oenanthe lugens);
a view supported by Clements.

Capped Wheatear   Beltesteinskvett   (Oenanthe pileata)
Our first sighting was of 1 single bird at the Kinangop Plateau 19/11 and later we saw another at the Loita Plains (30/11).

Brown-tailed Rock Chat   Brunstjert   (Cercomela scotocerca)
The Lake Baringo cliffs is a well-known site for this species, and we did indeed find 3 birds here 22/11.

Northern Anteater Chat   Termittskvett   (Myrmecocichla aethiops)
Common and widespread. We noted the species in low numbers throughout the first two weeks, except on Mt. Kenya, at Lake Baringo or in the westernmost part of Kenya. High numbers logged 19/11 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha (30-40) and at Lake Nakuru 20/11 (not counted). The species was not recorded on the extention week.

Sooty Chat   Sotskvett   (Myrmecocichla nigra)
Fairly common in Masai Mara; we noted 10 birds here both 29/11 and 30/11.

White-shouldered Cliff Chat (Mocking Chat)   Sangklippeskvett    (Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris)
4 birds noted at the Lake Baringo cliffs 22/11; a classic site for this species in Kenya. A male and a female were also found at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11.

Common Rock-Thrush   Steintrost   (Monticola saxatilis)
A few scattered sightings: 1 near the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 17/11, 1 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 2 at Lake Baringo 21/11 and singles in Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11.

Little Rock-Thrush   Dvergsteintrost   (Monticola rufocinereus)
One shy bird at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya the morning of 18/11 eluded some members of the group, but fortunately we saw 2 more birds at the Lionhill Camp, Lake Nakuru 20/11.

Olive Thrush   Auroratrost   (Turdus olivaceus)
Several noted in Nairobi our first morning 16/11 and common on Mt. Kenya; 15 birds logged here both 17/11 and 18/11. Also 5 near our hotel in Kisumu 27/11, 3 in Nairobi 30/11 and 2 here 6/12.

African Thrush   Landsbytrost   (Turdus pelios)
Fairly common in the west: 8 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1 in Kakamega Forest 25/11, 7-8 here 26/11 and 2 27/11 and also 1 in Kisumu 27/11.

*Taita Thrush   (Turdus (olivaceus) helleri) E
One very shy bird was seen near Wundanyi, Taita Hills the last day of the trip 6/12. Unfortunately this bird was only seen by one observer and the two others in this small group dipped on it. This form is not recognized by all authors (e.g. Clements), but lumped with the Olive Thrush,  Auroratrost  (Turdus olivaceus).

*Bare-eyed Thrush   Brilletrost   (Turdus tephronotus)
This bird turned out to be quite common at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12 and as many as 10+ were recorded.

Spotted Flycatcher   Gråfluesnapper   (Muscicapa striata)
A few sighting in the first half of the trip: 1 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, 1-2 birds daily at Lake Baringo 21/11-22/11, 1 at Kongelai escarpment 25/11 and 1 in Masai Mara 29/11. On the extention week noted daily with 1-4 birds.

African Dusky Flycatcher   Smussfluesnapper   (Muscicapa adusta)
1 at Blue Post Hotel, Thika 16/11, 4 on Mt. Kenya 17/11 and 5-10 noted at Mt. Kenya 18/11. Then not seen again until 24/11 when 5 were logged at Saiwa Swamp NP, then 2-3 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 27/11 and 1 in Masai Mara 29/11.

Swamp Flycatcher   Sumpfluesnapper   (Muscicapa aquatica)
Common in the papyrusreeds at the shore of Lake Victoria; 10+ were logged from Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu 27/11 and 28/11.

Ashy Flycatcher   Askefluesnapper   (Muscicapa caerulescens)
Two sightings, both from Kakamega Forest: singles seen here 25/11 and 26/11.

White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher   Brillefluesnapper   (Melaenornis fischeri)
Common on Mt. Kenya and in the western forests. 3 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 40 in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 and 5 near Naro Moru and the Youth Hostel 18/11. At Saiwa Swamp NP and in Kakamega Forest 1-2 birds seen daily 24/11-27/11. Apart from these sightings only noted at Lake Nakuru (5 birds 20/11).

Northern Black Flycatcher   Svartfluesnapper   (Melaenornis edolioides)
Three sightings: 1 at Kongelai escarpment 25/11, 1 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 4-5 in Masai Mara 29/11.

African Grey Flycatcher   Tornfluesnapper   (Bradornis microrhynchus)
We saw the following: 2 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 1 in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11, 3 at Lake Baringo 21/11, 1 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 2 at the Mtito Andei gate, Tsavo West NP 1/12.

Pale Flycatcher   Blekfluesnapper   (Bradornis pallidus)
One bird in the parkland around the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 17/11 and 18/11, 1 at Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 at Lake Baringo 21/11, 2 in Masai Mara 30/11 and 1 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Silverbird   Sølvfluesnapper   (Empidornis semipartitus)
1 was seen by a few at Lake Bogoria 23/11, but vanished before everyone could have a look at it. Fortunately we found a pair in Masai Mara 30/11 that was seen by all.

Sedge Warbler   Sivsanger   (Acrocephalus schoenobaenus)
One sighting only: 5 birds seen on boattrip from Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11.

African Reed Warbler   Afrikarørsanger   (Acrocephalus baeticatus)
Only noted from Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu: 1 bird here 27/11 and 2 the following day.

Greater Swamp Warbler   Papyrussanger   (Acrocephalus rufescens)
Our only sighting was of 7-8 birds on the boattrip from Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11.

Lesser Swamp Warbler   Kaffersanger   (Acrocephalus gracilirostris)
One skulking individual was seen in the papyrus reeds at the shore of Lake Naivasha the morning of 19/11.

Olivaceous Warbler   Bleksanger   (Hippolais pallida)
Only seen at Lake Baringo: 2 birds noted in dry scrubland between the lake and the cliffs 21/11 and one bird in same habitat a little further north 22/11. These birds belong to the eastern form, often regarded as a distinct species; Eastern Olivaceous Warbler (Hippolais pallida). This split is recognized by e.g. Clements.

*Upcher's Warbler   Gråsanger   (Hippolais languida)
Our only sighting was of a shy and retiring bird near the Mtito Andei Gate, Tsavo West NP 1/12.

*Common Whitethroat   Tornsanger   (Sylvia communis)
One bird near the Mtito Andei Gate, Tsavo West NP 1/12 was our only sighting on the trip.

Garden Warbler   Hagesanger   (Sylvia borin)
2 birds seen in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and singles in Kakemega Forest 26/11 and 27/11.

Blackcap   Munk   (Sylvia atricapilla)
A few sightings: singles at Mt. Kenya 17/11 and 18/11, 2 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and singles in Kakemega Forest 26/11 and 27/11.

Willow Warbler   Løvsanger   (Phylloscopus trochilus)
Widespread, but uncommon: singles in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, Lake Nakuru 20/11 and at Lake Baringo 21/11, 6-7 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 2 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 1 bird in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Uganda Woodland Warbler   Budongosanger   (Phylloscopus budongoensis)
Not too uncommon in Kakamega Forest: 2 birds here 26/11 and 8 the following morning.

Brown Woodland Warbler   Umbrasanger   (Phylloscopus umbrovirens)
Our first sighting was of one bird at the youth hostel, Mt. Kenya 18/11 (seen down at the river) and the following day we noted 3 birds in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha.

Chiffchaff   Gransanger   (Phylloscopus collybita)
Two sightings: 1 seen in the garden of our hotel in Nairobi 16/11 and then 2 at the Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11.

Little Rush Warbler   Bantusanger   (Bradypterus baboecala)
Appeared to be quite common in Saiwa Swamp NP, as we saw a few birds here and several were heard singing. We logged a total of 10 birds here 24/11.

Cinnamon Bracken-Warbler   Kanelsanger   (Bradypterus cinnamomeus)
A little bit surprisingly we saw only one on the whole trip; one bird seen in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11.

*Evergreen Forest Warbler   Regnskogsanger   (Bradypterus lopezi)
Near Wundanyi, Taita Hills we heard 1 bird in full song 6/12, but this bird, with a characteristic skulking behaviour, remained unseen.

Black-faced Rufous Warbler   Maskerustsanger   (Bathmocercus rufus)
Although 4 birds were seen in Kakamega Forest 27/11, it took some time before everyone got satisfying views of these notorious skulkers.

Mountain Yellow Warbler   Fjellklorsanger   (Chloropeta similis)
Quite common on Mt. Kenya and we logged 10 birds here 17/11. Apart from these we made only one more sighting of the species; 1 bird in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

Hunter's Cisticola   Kikuyugressanger   (Cisticola hunteri)
Very common on Mt. Kenya: we logged 30 birds 17/11 (from inside the national park) and 10 birds 18/11 (youth hostel area). Not recorded by us elsewhere.

Chubb's Cisticola   Umbragressanger   (Cisticola chubbi)
10-15 birds were seen in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 5 in Kakamega Forest 26/11. The species is locally common in western Kenya.

*Tiny Cisticola   Alvegressanger   (Cisticola nanus)
1 bird was seen briefly en route to the Mzima Springs, Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Winding Cisticola   Skurregressanger   (Cisticola galactotes)
Only one sighting: 3 birds at Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11. Unfortunately we did not see the Carruther`s Cisticola, which also occurs here (although the papyrus-reeds where this species has been seen on several occasions earlier had now largely been destroyed).

Stout Cisticola   Grovgressanger   (Cisticola robustus)
Seen by us in Masai Mara: 3 here 29/11 and 1 bird 30/11.

Rattling Cisticola   Torngressanger   (Cisticola chiniana)
A few scattered observations: 3 birds in scrubland outside the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 17/11, 2-3 seen on short stop en route to Lake Baringo 20/11, 5-10 at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and 1 at roadside stop en route to Tsavo West NP 1/12. The Rattling Cisticola was thus the most frequently encountered cisticola on the trip.

Ashy Cisticola   Grågressanger   (Cisticola cinereolus)
One bird was seen on burned grassland in Masai Mara 29/11 and actually distracted us while we were watching a group of lions. This species is apparently not common so far west in Kenya.

Pectoral-patch Cisticola   Brungressanger   (Cisticola brunnescens)
Fairly common in suitable habitat: 1-2 birds on grassland outside the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 17/11, 10-15 seen in Hell`s Gate NP 19/11 and 10 on the Athi Plains 1/12. Most of these were seen in display flight.

Desert Cisticola   Ørkengressanger   (Cisticola aridulus)
2 birds were found when we had a short, but productive, birding stop at the Loita Plains 30/11.

Tawny-flanked Prinia   Okerflankeprinia   (Prinia subflava)
1 bird seen en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 3 on Mt. Kenya 17/11, 1 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 2 in Kakamega Forest 26/11.

White-chinned Prinia   Hvitstrupeprinia   (Prinia leucopogon)
Our first observation was of 2 birds in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11; then followed 5 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 1 here 27/11.

Banded Prinia   Haukprinia   (Prinia bairdii)
3 seen in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 2 here 27/11. These birds were fairly shy, but eventually everybody got to see them.

Grey Wren-Warbler   Gråsmettsanger   (Calamonastes simplex)
Singles seen at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 22/11 (scrubland near the Lake Baringo cliffs) were not followed until we saw 1 bird in Tsavo West NP 1/12, 2 birds here 2/12 and 5 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Grey-backed Camaroptera   Villnissanger   (Camaroptera brachyura)
Very common throughout the trip. We logged between 1 and 5 birds on most days of the trip and our best days were 24/11 (5 birds in Saiwa Swamp NP) and 5/12 (5+ noted at sites around Watamu, incl. Sokoke Forest).

Yellow-breasted Apalis   Gulbrystapalis   (Apalis flavida)
Fairly common and widespread: 1 in our hotel garden in Nairobi 16/11, 1 on Mt. Kenya 18/11, 2 noted at Lake Naivasha 19/11 (Hell`s Gate NP and Crater Lake), 1 at Lake Bogoria 23/11, 2 in Masai Mara 29/11, 2 in Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 1 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Chestnut-throated Apalis   Brunstrupeapalis   (Apalis porphyrolaema)
Appeared to bo quite common on Mt. Kenya and we noted a total of 10 birds here 17/11; all within the national park.

Buff-throated Apalis   Sotapalis   (Apalis rufogularis)
Our only sighting was of 2 birds in Kakamega Forest 26/11. These were found in area near the Ikuywa bridge.

Grey Apalis   Gråapalis   (Apalis cinerea)
2 seen on Mt. Kenya 17/11 and at least 5 here 18/11, 1 at the Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 20/11 and 5 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

*Black-headed Apalis   Svarthodeapalis   (Apalis melanocephala)
3 in Sokoke Forest 5/12 and 2 at Wundanyi, Taita Hills 6/12

Black-throated Apalis   Svartstrupeapalis   (Apalis jacksoni)
1 male seen in the Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 was our only sighting.

Black-collared Apalis   Rustsideapalis   (Apalis pulchra)
4 noted in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 3 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 were our only sightings.

*Bar-throated Apalis   Ringapalis   (Apalis thoracica)
One of the premium birds at Wundanyi, Taita Hills 6/12 was 2 Bar-throated Apalis of the endemic form fuscigularis. This very distinct form of the Bar-throated Apalis is often regarded as a distinct species (an thus endemic to the Taita Hills), although not split by Clements.

Red-fronted Warbler   Rustpanneapalis   (Spiloptila rufifrons)
3 birds were seen at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 5 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12. 5 birds in Hell`s Gate NP 19/11 and another 5 at Fisherman`s Camp 20/11 were tentatively identified as Red-fronted Warbler, but we abandonded this when we saw the Baringo birds which were stricingly different (longer tail, different behaviour), and the identity of the first birds still remains a mystery.

Grey-capped Warbler   Svartnakkesanger   (Eminia lepida)
3 birds seen on the grounds of the Naro Moru River Lodge the morning 18/11 were then followed by 3 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1 at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11 and 1 in Masai Mara 29/11.

Northern Crombec   Savannestumpsanger   (Sylvietta brachyura)
Only recorded at Lake Baringo; 2 at the lakeshore 21/11 (north of Kampi ya Samaki) and 1 the following day.

Red-faced Crombec   Ruststumpsanger   (Sylvietta whytii)
The most common Crombec, although not very numerous: 1 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 2 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 1 at Crater Lake later the same day, 1 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, 1 at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and 3 in Masai Mara 29/11.

White-browed Crombec   Hvitbrynstumpsanger   (Sylvietta leucophrys)
2 birds seen in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and further 1 in Kakamega Forest 26/11.

Yellow-bellied Eremomela   Gulbukeremomela   (Eremomela icteropygialis)
1 bird seen in acacia scrub near the Lake Baringo cliffs 21/11 was our sole sighting.

Turner's Eremomela   Brunpanneeremomela   (Eremomela turneri)
1 skulking individual in the Kakamega Forest (Ikuywa brige) 26/11 was followed by 3 more cooperative birds in Kakamega Forest 27/11; this time in forest near our lodge.

Buff-bellied Warbler   Akasiesanger   (Phyllolais pulchella)
One nice bird seen at Lake Baringo was a Buff-bellied Warbler just outside Robert`s Camp 21/11.

Southern Hyliota   Miombohyliota   (Hyliota australis)
1 seen near the Ikuywa bridge, Kakamega Forest 26/11 was followed by 2 near our Kakamega lodge the following morning.

Montane White-eye   Bergbrillefugl  (Zosterops poliogaster)
Very common on Mt. Kenya and we logged 40 birds here 17/11 (inside the national park) and 10 birds 18/11 (youth hostel area). Our last record was of 5-10 birds near Wundanyi, Taita Hills 6/12; these birds belong to an endemic form (Zosterops (p.) silvanus), which is often treated as a separate species (although not recognized by Clements).

Yellow White-eye   Gulbrillefugl  (Zosterops senegalensis)
2 birds at the Blue Posts Hotel, Thika 16/11 were not followed until we arrived at Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and here we found the species to be quite common (no number estimate on the log this day). Then recorded almost daily with 1-10 birds until 1/12, but not seen after this date.

*Abyssinian White-eye   (Zosterops abyssinicus)
At least 3 birds were seen near the Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 2/12. These were only identified by the observer after arrival home and therefore unfortunately not pointed out to the others.

Dusky Tit   Skifermeis   (Parus funereus)
Only recorded by us in Kakamega Forest: 5 birds 26/11 and the same number recorded 27/11.

Northern Grey Tit   Somalimeis   (Parus thruppi)
2 sightings from Lake Baringo: 4 birds logged 21/11 and 2 birds 22/11.

White-bellied Tit   Hvitbukmeis   (Parus albiventris)
The most common Tit of the trip, although nowhere numerous: 1 seen at our hotel in Nairobi 16/11, 6 on Mt. Kenya 17/11, 2 at Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 2 at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and 1 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

Red-throated Tit   Masaimeis   (Parus fringillinus)
1 bird seen in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 constituted our only sighting of the species.

Mouse-coloured Penduline Tit   Brunpungmeis   (Anthoscopus musculus)
Two sightings: 1 bird seen in scrub at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and 1 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

*Little Yellow Flycatcher   Gulmonark   (Erythrocercus holochlorus)
1 observation of a total of 3 birds in Sokoke Forest 5/12.

African Blue Flycatcher   Blåmonark   (Elminia longicauda)
Several seen in the western forests: 5 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 7-8 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 2 in Kakamega 27/11.

White-tailed Crested-Flycatcher   Hvittippmonark   (Trochocercus albonotatus)
Our only sighting was of 3 birds in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11.

Dusky Crested-Flycatcher   Gråbukmonark   (Trochocercus nigromitratus)
On our last morning in Kakemega Forest 27/11 we found 1 individual of this rather shy species.

African Paradise-Flycatcher   Strimmelparadismonark   (Terpsiphone viridis)
Widespread and common. During the first two weeks 1-15 birds seen daily except 28/11 and 30/11 (Masai Mara). The best days were 22/11 (15 birds, Lake Baringo) and 24/11 (15 birds, Saiwa Swamp NP). On the extention week the only sightings were of 2 birds at the Gedi Ruins, Watamu 3/12 and 5 birds logged 6/12.

Red-bellied Paradise-Flycatcher   Rødbukparadismonark   (Terpsiphone rufiventer)
One very nice bird in Kakamega Forest was a male Red-bellied Paradise-Flycatcher 27/11. It showed no signs of being a hybrid Red-bellied x African Paradise-Flycatcher.

Chin-spot Batis   Bantubatis   (Batis molitor)
The most common and widespread Batis; 2 seen daily at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 16/11-18/11, 5 around Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1 in Kakamega Forest 25/11 and 1 in Masai Mara 29/11.

*Forest Batis   Tanzaniabatis   (Batis mixta)
5 birds were eventually found in Sokoke Forest 5/12. These birds were shy and retiring and our local guide proved to be invaluable.

Pygmy Batis   Dvergbatis   (Batis perkeo)
Fairly common in the northern Rift Valley; 7 birds at Lake Baringo 21/11, 1 here 22/11 and 2 at Lake Bogoria 23/11. Our final sighting was of a single bird at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Common Wattle-eye   Hvitvingepløsøye   (Platysteira cyanea)
Our only sightings were from Kakamega Forest; 6 birds seen here 26/11 and 2 birds 27/11.

Black-throated Wattle-eye   Svartvingepløsøye   (Platysteira peltata)
Turned out to be common in Saiwa Swamp NP and we logged 15+ here 24/11.

Chestnut Wattle-eye   Plommepløsøye   (Dyaphorophyia castanea)
3 birds seen in Kakamega Forest 27/11; these birds, 1 male and 2 females, were found in the “Zimmerman Grid” near the Isecheno forest station.

Jameson's Wattle-eye   Brunhalspløsøye   (Dyaphorophyia jamesoni)
4 birds seen in Kakamega Forest 27/11, all along the road leading to the Rondo Retreat Centre, our lodge.

African Shrike-flycatcher   Hvitbrystbias   (Bias flammulatus)
2 sightings from Kakamega Forest: 2 birds (male and female) near the Ikuywa bridge 26/11 and 1 female 27/11 (near the Isecheno forest station).

White-crested Helmetshrike   Hvittopphjelmvarsler   (Prionops plumatus)
Surprisingly many were seen on the trip: 10-15 at the Elgeyo escarpment 23/11, 10+ at the Kongelai escarpment, Kitale 25/11 and 10 at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Grey-crested Helmetshrike   Gråtopphjelmvarsler   (Prionops poliolophus)
In the afternoon 19/11 we drove up to the Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha to try to find the Grey-crested Helmet-shrike (as well as a night game-drive). The birds were found immediately after arrival; we had hardly stepped out of our busses before a group of 8 birds appeared.

*Retz's Helmetshrike   Svarthjelmvarsler   (Prionops retzii)
1 bird in Sokoke Forest 4/12 was shy and caused some trouble for us (everybody did not see it), but fortunately we had 5 here the following morning.

*Chestnut-fronted Helmetshrike   Brunpannehjelmvarsler   (Prionops scopifrons)
Very common in Sokoke Forest: 30 logged here 4/12 and 20 the following day.

Northern White-crowned Shrike   Hvitgumpvarsler   (Eurocephalus rueppelli)
Common at Lake Baringo; we logged 15 here 21/11 and the following day we did not bother to put a number on the daily log. Also recorded in Masai Mara with 3 here 29/11 and 1 single bird 30/11, and 2 birds in Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 2/12.

Magpie Shrike   Skjærevarsler   (Urolastes melanoleucus)
Surprisingly many were seen in Masai Mara; 5 noted 29/11 and 3 the following day.

Red-backed Shrike   Tornskate   (Lanius collurius)
One bird was seen at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and this was our only sighting.

Red-tailed Shrike   Rødhalevarsler   (Lanius isabellinus)
1 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 in Tsavo West NP 2/12 and 2 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Mackinnon's Fiscal   Skogbrynvarsler   (Lanius mackinnoni)
One sighting of 3 birds at forest edge near the Ikuywa bridge, Kakamega Forest 26/11.

Grey-backed Fiscal   Akasievarsler   (Lanius excubitoroides)
Common throughout the trip and seen on most days the two first weeks, although not recorded at Mt. Kenya or in the forests in the west. Most common at Lake Naivasha and 25 recorded here 19/11 and 10 the following morning. Our only sighting on the extention week was 3-4 birds seen en route to Tsavo West NP 1/12.

*Long-tailed Fiscal   Swahilivarsler   (Lanius cabanisi)
Only seen on the extention week: 20 birds recorded in Tsavo West NP 2/12, 5 near Watamu and Malindi 3/12 and 2 en route to Nairobi 6/12.

Taita Fiscal   Savannevarsler   (Lanius dorsalis)
One sighting only: 1 single bird seen near the entrance gate to Masai Mara 28/11.

Common Fiscal   Svartryggvarsler   (Lanius collaris)
A common and widespread Shrike, seen on most days throughout the trip. So common in suitable habitat that on many days we did not put any number on the daily log. Least common on the extention week and actually not seen by us at the coast.

Brubru   Brubru   (Nilaus afer)
Fairly common in the northern Rift Valley with 5-6 birds at Lake Baringo 21/11, 2 here 22/11 and 1 at Lake Bogoria 23/11. Also 1 in Masai Mara 29/11, 1 in Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 1 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Brown-crowned Tchagra   Brunkronesjagra   (Tchagra australis)
A few scattered sightings, all of singles: Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11, Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 20/11, Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 27/11.

*Three-streaked Tchagra   Tornsjagra   (Tchagra jamesi)
Only one sighting: 8 seen at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Marsh Tchagra   Sumpsjagra   (Tchagra minuta)
One sighting only: a male and a female at Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11.

Sulphur-breasted Bush-shrike   Svovelbuskvarsler   (Malaconotus sulfureopectus)
Our first sighting was of a pair at Lionhill Lodge, Lake Nakuru 20/11, then as many as 5 at Lake Baringo 22/11 and 3 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Bocage's Bush-shrike   Hvitbrynbuskvarsler   (Malaconotus bocagei)
Singles noted in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 27/11. In Kenya this species occurs only at 2 sites (Kakamega and Nandi forests).

Grey-headed Bush-shrike   Gråhodebuskvarsler   (Malaconotus blanchoti)
1 in Hell`s Gate NP 19/11, 2 at Lake Baringo 22/11 and 1 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

*Rosy-patched Bush-shrike   Blodbuskvarsler   (Rhodophoneus cruentus)
1 seen in Tsavo West NP while we were driving to the Mzima Springs 2/12. The bird just “popped up” on one of the productive, random stops we made this day.

Black-headed Gonolek   Svarthodegonolek   (Laniarius erythrogaster)
2 birds were seen on the boattrip at Dunga Point, Kisumu 28/11 (near the village). Less than five minutes earlier we had been watching the target bird of the boattrip; the Papyrus Gonolek!

Papyrus Gonolek   Papyrusgonolek   (Laniarius mufumbiri)
At Dunga Point, Kisumu we embarked on a boattrip the morning 28/12 to check the extensive papyrus-reeds for the Papyrus Gonolek; an eastern African endemic. At the end of the boattrip we did indeed find this highly prized species and we saw a total of 4 birds here.

Lühder's Bush-shrike   Brunkronebuskvarsler   (Laniarius luehderi)
Quite common in the western forests and we noted 10 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 5 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 2 here 27/11.

Tropical Boubou   Tropebobo   (Laniarius aethiopicus)
Fairly common and widespread and 1-10 birds were noted in a single day. Our best days were 19/11 (10 at Lake Naivasha, Hell`s Gate NP and Crater Lake) and 24/11 (10 in Saiwa Swamp NP).

Slate-coloured Boubou   Skiferbuskvarsler   (Laniarius funebris)
Our first sightings were at Lake Baringo and we saw 5 here 21/11 and 1 the following day. Also 2 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 10+ at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Northern Puffback   Norddunrygg   (Dryoscopus gambensis)
2 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, 2 at Elgeyo escarpment (en route to Kitale) 23/11 and 1 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

Black-backed Puffback   Sørdunrygg   (Dryoscopus cubla)
1 in our hotel garden, Nairobi 16/11, 1 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 18/11, 2 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 in Masai Mara 29/11, 1 in Tsavo West NP 2/12, 1 at Sabaki River 3/12 and 2 in Sokoke Forest 4/12.

Pink-footed Puffback   Lysbeindunrygg   (Dryoscopus angolensis)
Only recorded in Kakamega Forest: 2 birds (a male and a female) 26/11 and 1 bird 27/11.

*Eastern Nicator   Østnikator   (Nicator gularis)
We saw, or heard, several in Sokoke Forest: 2 here 4/12 and 5 birds 5/12. Although known to be a very shy bird, we did manage to get some superb views a few times.

Black Cuckoo-shrike   Svartlarveeter   (Campephaga flava)
Rather surprisingly many sightings throughout the trip: 1 in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11, 3 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 at the Elgeyo escarpment (en route to Kitale) 23/11, 4-5 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 2 at Mida Creek, Watamu 5/12 and 1 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12. The bird on Mt. Kenya was of the yellow-shouldered morph.

Petit's Cuckoo-shrike   Satenglarveeter   (Campephaga petiti)
A fair number of this species was recorded in Kakamega Forest: 3 birds 26/11 and 5 the following day.

Grey Cuckoo-shrike   Grålarveeter   (Coracina caesia)
Only seen by us in Mt. Kenya NP: 5 birds here 17/11. These birds are really quite inconspicious in the forest, but were nonetheless fairly easy to find.

Common Drongo   Savannedrongo   (Dicrurus adsimilis)
Common and widespread and recorded most days on the trip except in the western part of the country (west of the Rift Valley). The species was not counted every day, but our highest daily total was 25 birds 20/11 (Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru).

Square-tailed Drongo   Tverrhaledrongo   (Dicrurus ludwigii)
Fairly common in Kakamega Forest: 1 here 26/11 and 10 the following morning, 27/11.

*Eurasian Golden Oriole   Pirol   (Oriolus oriolus)
One male seen on the “Kararacha trail”, Sokoke Forest 5/12 was our only sighting.

*African Golden Oriole   Gullpirol   (Oriolus auratus)
2 birds seen in Sokoke Forest 5/12 together with a Eurasian Golden Oriole. This species is rare in Kenya in the winter-months.

Western Black-headed Oriole   Jungelpirol   (Oriolus brachyrhynchus)
One bird was recorded in Kakamega Forest 26/11. This is the only known site for this species in Kenya.

Black-headed Oriole   Savannepirol   (Oriolus larvatus)
Common and widespread and recorded on 7 days on the first two weeks of the trip and on 4 days on the extention week. Our highest daily total was 5 birds (19/11, Lake Naivasha sites and 3/12, sites around Watamu and Malindi). Absent on the western and southwesternmost part of the trip.

Montane Oriole   Tåkepirol   (Oriolus percivali)
One sighting of 2 birds in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 was our only observation of the species.

White-naped Raven   Kopjeravn   (Corvus albicollis)
One bird seen when we approached Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11 eluded the people in one of the busses. Fortunately we found 2 more birds around our campsite in Masai Mara 29/11 and these were enjoyed by all.

*House Crow   Huskråke   (Corvus splendens)
Common at the coast and particularily around Mombasa (where we did not even try to count them). On 3/12 we logged 30+ (birding around Watamu and Malindi) and 6/12 we logged 15. These birds are either introduced or arrived with boats to the Mombasa harbour.

Cape Rook   Smalnebbkråke   (Corvus capensis)
Common and widespread, but mostly not seen in high numbers. The best days were 23/11 when we noted 10 birds en route to Kitale and 30/11 with 10-15 birds en route to Nairobi (most seen between the towns of Narok and Mai Mahu).

Pied Crow   Hvitbrystkråke   (Corvus albus)
Decidedly the most common corvid and noted on most days throughout the trip. Most days we did not bother to put a figure on the daily log.

Fan-tailed Raven   Korthaleravn   (Corvus rhipidurus)
Only recorded in the northern Rift Valley: 4-6 seen near the Lake Baringo cliffs 21/11 and 2 birds outside our campsite at Lake Baringo 22/11.

Stuhlmann's Starling   Blåstær   (Poeoptera stuhlmanni)
Common in Kakamega Forest and 15-20 noted here 26/11 (near the Ikuywa bridge).

Red-winged Starling   Rødvingestær   (Onychognathus morio)
A few scattered sightings: 3 in Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 17/11, 2 near Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 20/11, 10 at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11 and 4 near Kisumu 27/11.

Bristle-crowned Starling   Parykkstær   (Onychognathus salvadorii)
2 sightings from the Lake Baringo cliffs: 3 birds 21/11 and 2 here the following day. Lake Baringo is at the southernmost part of the distribution of this NE African endemic species and remains a good place to see it.

*Black-bellied Starling   Svartbukglansstær   (Lamprotornis corruscus)
Common in and around the Sokoke Forest and we noted 2 at Mida Creek, Watamu 3/12, 15 in Sokoke Forest 4/12 and 10 in the forest 5/12.

Greater Blue-eared Starling   Blåøreglansstær   (Lamprotornis chalybaeus)
Common and widespread, although not recorded in the west, southwest or at the coast. The best days were 20/11 with 15 birds recorded at Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru and 23/11 with 20 birds logged (Lake Bogoria and transport to Kitale).

Lesser Blue-eared Starling   Småglansstær   (Lamprotornis chloropterus)
Only noted by us at the Kongelai escarpment, Kitale 25/11: here we saw a total of 60-70 birds, mostly in one flock.

Rüppell's Long-tailed Starling   Fiolettglansstær   (Lamprotornis purpuropterus)
Like the preceding species quite common and widespread although with sightings concentrated to the northern Rift Valley and the southwest (Lake Victoria and Masai Mara). The best day was 22/11 when 30 birds were seen at Lake Baringo.

Hildebrandt's Starling   Masaistær   (Lamprotornis hildebrandti)
Common in Masai Mara and Tsavo West NP: 4 seen near the entrance gate to Masai Mara 28/11, 7-8 in Masai Mara 29/11, 5 here 30/11, 2 in Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 5 in Tsavo 2/12. Finally 5 seen from the busses while driving to Nairobi 6/12.

Superb Starling   Praktstær   (Lamprotornis superbus)
Very common and seen on most days of the trip (and we did not count them regularily). Not noted the days we spend in the western forests or at the coast.

*Golden-breasted Starling   Kongestær   (Cosmopsarus regius)
One of the highlights in Tsavo West NP 2/12 was the sighting of 8-10 Golden-breasted Starlings; stunningly beautiful birds!  5 were also seen at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Violet-backed Starling   Ametyststær   (Cinnyricinclus leucogaster)
One sighting only: a male and a female in a tree with Lesser Blue-eared Starlings at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11.

Abbott's Starling   Munkestær   (Cinnyricinclus femoralis)
One of the highlights in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 was the sighting of a male and a femal Abbott`s Starling. Very nice although the sighting was a very brief one (birds were found perched in a tree, but soon disappeared).

Wattled Starling   Flikstær   (Creatophora cinerea)
Fairly common in the northern Rift Valley with 8-10 seen at Lake Baringo 21/11, 5 at Baringo 22/11 and 3-5 here 23/11. Also 1 near Kitale 24/11.

Red-billed Oxpecker   Rødnebboksehakker   (Buphagus erythrorhynchus)
Several sightings: 1 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and about 20 at Crater Lake later the same day, 5 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, 1 at Kongelai escarpment 25/11 and 8 and 2 birds in Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11, respectively.

Yellow-billed Oxpecker   Gulnebboksehakker   (Buphagus africanus)
Only recorded near, or in, Masai Mara: 8 en route to the game reserve 28/11 and 3 in the reserve 29/11.

*Plain-backed Sunbird   Smekkesolfugl   (Anthreptes reichenowi)
5 seen in the Sokoke Forest 5/12 was our sole sighting of the species.

Eastern Violet-backed Sunbird   Tornsolfugl   (Anthreptes orientalis)
Fairly common at Lake Baringo with 10 birds seen here 21/11, 5 birds 22/11 and 2 birds 23/11. Also 1 in Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 2 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

*Amani Sunbird   Hvitbuksolfugl   (Anthreptes pallidigaster)
We found this Kenyan near-endemic with relative ease in Sokoke Forest: 6-7 seen 4/12 and 1 bird 5/12.

Collared Sunbird   Smykkesolfugl   (Anthreptes collaris)
We did see rather few on this trip: 2 on Mt. Kenya 17/11, 2 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 1 in the Sokoke Forest 5/12.

Eastern Olive Sunbird   Østolivensolfugl   (Nectarinia olivacea)
3-4 in Kakamega Forest 26/11, 3 in Kakamega 27/11, 2 in Sokoke Forest 4/12 and 1 here 5/12.

Green-headed Sunbird   Grønnhodesolfugl   (Nectarinia verticalis)
Fairly common with 1 at the youth hostel, Mt. Kenya 18/11, 10 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 10 in Kakamega Forest 26/11, 2 here 27/11 and 5 in Masai Mara 29/11.

Green-throated Sunbird   Grønnstrupesolfugl   (Nectarinia rubescens)
One jewel in Kakamega Forest 26/11 was a stunning male Green-throated Sunbird. We enjoyed it a lot!

Amethyst Sunbird   Ametystsolfugl   (Nectarinia amethystina)
Two sightings: 2 in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 and a male in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

Scarlet-chested Sunbird   Skarlagenbrystsolfugl   (Nectarinia senegalensis)
Fairly common with 2-5 daily at Mt. Kenya 16/11-18/11, 3 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 2 at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 20/11, 1 at Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11 and another single in Masai Mara 29/11.

Hunter's Sunbird   Rubinsolfugl   (Nectarinia hunteri)
Three sightings: singles at Robert`s Camp, Lake Baringo 22/11 and 23/11 and 3-4 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Variable Sunbird   Gulbuksolfugl   (Nectarinia venusta)
Quite common and widespread with sightings throughout the trip, although less common in the western and southwestern parts of the country and at the coast. The best day was 16/11 with 10 birds logged (Nairobi and Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya).

Northern Double-collared Sunbird   Lundsolfugl   (Nectarinia preussi)
1 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 16/11, 4 in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 and 2 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

Eastern Double-collared Sunbird   Mellomsolfugl   (Nectarinia mediocris)
Two sightings, both from Mt. Kenya: 1 in the national park 17/11 and 5 near the youth hostel 18/11.

Olive-bellied Sunbird   Olivenbuksolfugl   (Nectarinia chloropygia)
4 birds seen in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 1 bird here 27/11.

Tacazze Sunbird   Purpurkappesolfugl   (Nectarinia tacazze)
Fairly common on Mt. Kenya with 1-4 birds seen daily here 16/11-18/11. These were seen both near Naro Moru, the youth hostel and in the national park proper.

Bronze Sunbird   Bronsesolfugl   (Nectarinia kilimensis)
Fairly common and noted in Nairobi, Mt. Kenya, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru and Kakamega Forest. By far most common on Mt. Kenya and seen here daily with up to 10 birds in one day (17/11).

Golden-winged Sunbird   Gullvingesolfugl   (Nectarinia reichenowi)
Found with relative ease on Mt. Kenya with 6 birds a few kms outside the national park gate 17/11 and 4 at the youth hostel 18/11.

Red-chested Sunbird   Rødbrystsolfugl   (Nectarinia erythrocerca)
Common at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu and we noted 15 here 27/11 and 20 on 28/11.

Marico Sunbird   Akasiesolfugl   (Nectarinia mariquensis)
Our first sighting was of 2 males and 2 females at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11 and then 1 at Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11.

*Purple-banded Sunbird   Purpurbåndsolfugl   (Nectarinia bifasciata)
3 birds at the Mida Creek, Watamu 5/12 were followed by 5 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Beautiful Sunbird   Fagersolfugl   (Nectarinia pulchella)
Fairly common in the northern Rift Valley with 3 at Lake Baringo 21/11, 2 birds here 22/11 and 5-10 noted at Lake Bogoria 23/11.

*Black-bellied Sunbird   Elvesolfugl   (Nectarinia nectarinioides)
One of the target species at the Mzima springs, Tsavo West NP 2/12 was the Black-bellied Sunbird. We found a pair with nest next to the parking lot.

House Sparrow   Gråspurv   (Passer domesticus)
2 in Nairobi 16/11, 2 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 3 seen en route to Tsavo West NP 1/12. Common around Mombasa and around Voi. This species was introduced to Mombasa in early 1900s and has since spread along the coast and inland (first in Nairobi as late as 1992).

Kenya Rufous Sparrow   (Passer rufocinctus)
Common on Mt. Kenya and in the Rift Valley: up to 20 daily on Mt. Kenya 16/11-18/11, 15 at Lake Naivasha sites 19/11 and appr. 50 at Lake Nakuru 20/11. Our only subsequent sightings were of 1 bird 30/11 and 2 birds 1/12.

Grey-headed Sparrow   Landsbyspurv   (Passer griseus)
1-2 daily in Kakamega Forest 25/11-26/11, 2 en route to Kisumu 27/11, 2 in Kisumu 28/11.

Parrot-billed Sparrow   Tykknebbspurv  (Passer gongonensis)
1 in our hotel garden in Nairobi 16/11, up to 7 daily at Lake Baringo 20/11-22/11.

Swahili Sparrow   Swahilispurv  (Passer suahelicus)
30 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 1 here the following day and 3 near Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Yellow-spotted Petronia   Savannesteinspurv   (Petronia pyrgita)
Our first sighting was of one bird at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11 and then not seen again until we arrived in Masai Mara; up to 10 birds present at our campsite 29/11 and 30/11. Our last sighting was of 10 birds at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

White-headed Buffalo-Weaver   Hvithodevever   (Dinemellia dinemelli)
Quite common in the northern Rift Valley: 10 and 8 at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 22/11 respectively and 5 at Lake Bogoria 23/11. Also 1-2 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11, 2 logged 1/12 en route to Tsavo West NP, 5+ in Tsavo West NP 2/12 and finally 15 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

*Red-billed Buffalo-Weaver   Rødnebbøffelvever   (Bubalornis niger)
Our first sighting was of 10 birds at the Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 2/12 followed by 4 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

White-billed Buffalo-Weaver   Hvitnebbøffelvever   (Bubalornis albirostris)
Only recorded at Lake Baringo, where the species was common: 15 noted 21/11, 20 birds 22/11 and 5 the last morning 23/11.

White-browed Sparrow-Weaver   Hvitbrynvever   (Plocepasser mahali)
1 seen at the Blue Posts Hotel, Thika 16/11 and later the same day 1 seen en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya, also 1 seen en route to Nairobi 18/11. In the northern Rift Valley the species was very common and we did not estimate any number the days we spend at Lake Baringo or Lake Bogoria 20/11-23/11. Our final sightings were of 1 bird in Masai Mara 30/11 and 15 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

*Black-capped Social-Weaver   Svarthettevever   (Pseudonigrita cabanisi)
Driving to our lodge in Tsavo West NP late evening 1/12 a total of about 25 Black-capped Social Weavers were seen on the road.

Grosbeak Weaver   Tykknebbvever   (Amblyospiza albifrons)
Two sightings: one male and a female in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and likewise at the Sabaki River 3/12.

Speckle-fronted Weaver   Rustnakkevever   (Sporopipes frontalis)
One flock of 8 at the Lake Baringo cliffs 21/11, a total of 10 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 15 in Masai Mara 30/11.

Baglafecht Weaver   Bergvever   (Ploceus baglafecht)
Quite common in the central highlands and parts of the Rift Valley: about 5 in the hotel garden in Nairobi 16/11, up to 30 daily on Mt. Kenya 16/11-18/11, 22 at Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 20 at Lake Nakuru 20/11. Also one in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

Slender-billed Weaver   Spissnebbvever   (Ploceus pelzelni)
4 seen at the Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu both 27/11 and 28/11.

Little Weaver   Dvergvever   (Ploceus luteolus)
A total of 5 at Lake Baringo 21/11; most of these were seen near Robert`s Camp.

Spectacled Weaver   Brillevever   (Ploceus ocularis)
Four sightings: 1 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 16/11 and 17/11, 1 at the Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 3 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

Black-necked Weaver   Svartnakkevever   (Ploceus nigricollis)
Only seen by us in Kakamega Forest: 4-5 birds here 26/11.

Black-billed Weaver   Svartbukvever   (Ploceus melanogaster)
6-7 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 5 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 were our only sightings.

African Golden Weaver   Gullvever   (Ploceus subaureus)
One weaver seen at the Naro Moru River Lodge 16/11 was thought to be this species. Also 3 en route to the Mtito Andei Gate, Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 20 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Holub's Golden Weaver   Solvever   (Ploceus xanthops)
The first one, a male, was seen at a roadside stop en route to Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11 (flat tyre) and later we found one in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

*Golden Palm Weaver   Palmevever   (Ploceus bojeri)
10 seen at the Sabaki River 3/12 and the following day 2 birds in Watamu village.

Northern Brown-throated Weaver   Kastanjestrupevever   (Ploceus castanops)
Common at Dunga Point, Kisumu where we saw about 20 birds 28/11. All of these were seen at the fringes of the papyrus reeds from the boats we hired.

Northern Masked Weaver   Rørvever   (Ploceus taeniopterus)
Common at Lake Baringo where we saw 40 birds 21/11 and an unspecified number 22/11. Many of these were seen in a huge mixed Ploceus-weaver flock near the Robert`s Camp.

Lesser Masked Weaver   Småmaskevever   (Ploceus intermedius)
2 and 10 noted at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 22/11 respectively.

Vitelline Masked Weaver   Svartmaskevever   (Ploceus velatus)
Our only sighting was of a male in Masai Mara 29/11.  (Scientific name for Vitelline Masked Weaver is changed to Ploceus vitellinus.  Claments update June 15, 2004.  Ploceus velatus covers now Southern Masked Weaver).

Black-headed Weaver   Landsbyvever   (Ploceus cucullatus)
One of the most common and widespread weavers on the trip. Seen on most sites except the western forests and at the coast, often in big flocks, but occasionally also in small groups.

Speke's Weaver   Akasievever   (Ploceus spekei)
1 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 17/11, 5 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 4-5 en route to Masai Mara 28/11.

Vieillot's Black Weaver   Svartvever   (Ploceus nigerrimus)
Only seen in Kakamega Forest: 3 birds near the Ikuywa bridge 26/11.

Yellow-backed Weaver   Svarthodevever   (Ploceus melanocephalus)
Quite common at Hippo Point and Dunga Point, Kisumu, and we noted 15 birds here 27/11 and 5 birds the following morning.

Chestnut Weaver   Kastanjevever   (Ploceus rubiginosus)
4 birds at Lake Baringo 22/11 and the following morning huge flocks of weavers were seen flying along the shore of the lake. At least some of these were Chestnut Weavers and 150 birds were suggested at the evening log-call. Small flocks also seen at Lake Bogoria the same day. The last observations concerned singles in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and at the Mzima springs, Tsavo West NP 2/12.

*Clarke's Weaver   Sokokevever   (Ploceus golandi) E
Without much hope of finding this species in the Sokoke Forest at this time of year, we did actually see one here 5/12. The bird was pointed out to us by Albert, our local guide, but the bird remained mostly out of sight. Finally we got some glimpses of it, but it was not very satisfying.

Dark-backed Weaver   Skogvever   (Ploceus bicolor)
4 seen in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 5 the following morning, also 5 in Sokoke Forest 4/12 and 10 birds 5/12. The birds in Kakamega belong to the subspecies mentalis and the coastal birds to kersteni.

Brown-capped Weaver   Brunkronevever   (Ploceus insignis)
1 in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11, 4 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 2-5 birds daily in Kakamega Forest 25/11-27/11.

Red-headed Malimbe   Rødnakkevever   (Malimbus rubricollis)
We found this species with relative ease in Kakamega Forest and recorded 2 birds here 26/11 and 27/11.

Red-headed Weaver   Rødhodevever   (Anaplectes rubriceps)
1 female at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 17/11, 1 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 2 at the Elgeyo escarpment, en route to Kitale, 23/11 and 1 at our lodge in Kakamega Forest 25/11.

Red-billed Quelea   Blodnebbvever   (Quelea quelea)
1 at Lake Baringo 22/11, 3 at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and then finally a huge flock in Tsavo West NP 2/12 which numbered several hundred.

*Zanzibar Red Bishop   Svartbrystbisp   (Euplectes nigroventris)
Our only sighting was of 5 birds in the reedbeds at the shore of the Sabaki River 3/12.

Yellow Bishop   Gulgumpbisp   (Euplectes capensis)
8 in the reedbeds in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1 seen from the bus near Kitale 25/11 and 2 seen en route to Tsavo West NP 1/12.

Fan-tailed Widowbird   Rødvingevever   (Euplectes axillaris)
Our only sighting was of a flock of 8-10 birds at Hippo Point, Kisumu 27/11. These bird were quite shy, however, and disappeared quickly.

Grey-headed Negrofinch   Gråkappeastrild   (Nigrita canicapilla)
Quite a few seen in the western forest: 3 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1 at our lodge in Kakamega Forest 25/11, 5 in Kakamega
26/11 and 2 here 27/11.

White-breasted Negrofinch   Hvitbrystastrild   (Nigrita fusconota)
2 shy birds showed themselves briefly in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and another was seen 27/11.

Green-winged Pytilia   Grønnvingeastrild   (Pytilia melba)
1 at the Lake Bogoria hot-springs 23/11, 1 at the Mtito Andei Gate, Tsavo West NP 1/12 and 4 at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

*Peters's Twinspot   Dråpeastrild   (Hypargos niveoguttatus)
1 male was seen sitting on the dirt-road at the beginning of the Mida Trail, Sokoke Forest 4/12. Although this species can be very shy and retiring this bird allowed prolonged views.

Red-headed Bluebill   Rødhodeastrild   (Spermophaga ruficapilla)
2 birds seen sitting on the road in Kakamega Forest 26/11 were followed by 5 in the forest the following day.

African Firefinch   Svartnebbamarant   (Lagonosticta rubricata)
1 male in the gorge in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 2 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 1 at the Mtito Andei Gate, Tsavo West NP 1/12.

Red-billed Firefinch   Rødnebbamarant   (Lagonosticta senegala)
2 at the parking lot of Blue Posts Hotel, Thika 16/11, 5 at Naro Moru River Lodge 18/11, 2 at Lake Baringo 21/11 and 6 here the following day.

Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu   Rødkinnastrild   (Uraeginthus bengalus)
Common and widespread and seen on most days, except in the western forest or at Kisumu, Lake Victoria. Nowhere particularily numerous, although 10 were logged the last day of the trip, 6/12, and most of these were seen at the Ndala Ranch, Voi. Apart from this day no days with more than 5 birds recorded.

Purple Grenadier   Purpurastrild   (Uraeginthus ianthinogaster)
On the first half of the trip 1-3 noted daily between 17/11 and 20/11 (Mt. Kenya and Lake Naivasha). More numerous in Masai Mara and in Tsavo West NP: 15 in Masai Mara 29/11, 8 here 30/11 and 5-10 seen in Tsavo West NP 1/12.

Yellow-bellied Waxbill   Gulbukastrild   (Estrilda quartinia)
1 pair was seen in the gorge in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11.

Crimson-rumped Waxbill   Rødgumpastrild   (Estrilda rhodopyga)
Two sightings: 1 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 17/11 and 2 in the gorge in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11.

Common Waxbill   Vatreastrild   (Estrilda astrild)
5 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 16/11 and 1 here 17/11, 15 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1 in Kakamega Forest 27/11, 2 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 5 at the Sabaki River 3/12.

Black-crowned Waxbill   Nonneastrild   (Estrilda nonnula)
Two sightings: 15 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and 4 in Kakamega Forest 26/11.

Black-headed Waxbill   Svarthetteastrild   (Estrilda atricapilla)
2 birds sitting on the track in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11 was our only observation.  (Kenyan subspecies kandti is now elevated to species status.  Our birds is now treated as Kandt’s Waxbill Estrilda kandti.  Clements update July 15, 2004).

Black-cheeked Waxbill   Savanneastrild   (Estrilda charmosyna)
Our only sighting was of 2 birds at Lake Bogoria 23/12.

Grey-headed Silverbill   Gråhodesølvnebb   (Lonchura griseicapilla)
2 birds at the Lake Baringo cliffs 21/11 was the only sighting on the trip.  (Genus changed to Odontospiza.  Clements update July 15, 2004).

Bronze Mannikin   Bronsemannikin   (Lonchura cucullata)
Several scattered sightings: 20 seen 16/11 (Nairobi and Thika), 20 at Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 12 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 2 in Nairobi 1/12.  (Genus changed to Spermestes.  Clements update July 15, 2004)

Black-and-white Mannikin   Svartryggmannikin   (Lonchura bicolor)
5 at the Blue Posts Hotel, Thika 16/11, 2 at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 18/11, 2 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 1 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 1 noted near Watamu 3/12.  (Genus changed to Spermestes.  Clements update July 15, 2004)

*Village Indigobird   Landsbyenke   (Vidua chalybeata)
One sighting: 4-5 birds seen at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12 (together with an amazing number of other Vidua species (see below)).

*Steel-blue Whydah   Stålenke   (Vidua hypocherina)
The sole observation of the trip was of a group of about 20 birds at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12.

Pin-tailed Whydah   Dominikanerenke   (Vidua macroura)
3 birds seen just before arrival in Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11 and 2 birds in Naro Moru 17/11. Also 8-10 birds seen at a forest edge in Kakamega Forest 26/11, 1 seen from the bus en route to Voi 5/12, 1 at Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12 and 5 birds near Wundanyi, Taita Hills the same day.

*Straw-tailed Whydah   Stråhaleenke   (Vidua fischeri)
Only one sighting on the trip: a single male at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12. Single means here by no means alone; it sat in the same bush as a group of Steel-blue and Paradise Whydah`s!

*Paradise Whydah   Paradisenke   (Vidua paradisaea)
A total of 20-30 birds were seen at the Ndala Ranch, Voi 6/12, together with Pin-tailed, Straw-tailed and Steel-blue Whydah`s!

Streaky Seedeater   Stripeirisk   (Serinus striolatus)
Particularily common at Mt. Kenya where 10-25 were noted daily 16/11-18/11. Also about 20 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 1 at Lake Nakuru 20/11.

Yellow-rumped Seedeater   Sitrongumpirisk   (Serinus reichenowi)
About 5 in our hotel garden, Nairobi 16/11, 5 at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and 2-3 at Hippo Point, Kisumu 28/11.  (Serinus reichenowi is now elevated to species status; Reichenow’s Seedeater.  Yellow-rumped Seedater Serinus xanthopygius is distributed further north in Ethiopia and Eritrea.  Clements update July 15, 2004).

Thick-billed Seedeater   Tykknebbirisk   (Serinus burtoni)
Only noted at Mt. Kenya: 3 in the national park 17/11 and 3 near the youth hostel 18/11.

Yellow-crowned Canary   Krattirisk   (Serinus canicollis)
Our only sighting was of 5 birds in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11. These birds were feeding on the ground a couple of kms from the entrance gate.

African Citril   Olivenirisk   (Serinus citrinelloides)
Surprisingly only two sightings on the entire trip: 5 in our hotel garden in Nairobi 16/11 and 2 at the Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 20/11.

Papyrus Canary   Papyrusirisk   (Serinus koliensis)
The Hippo Point at Kisumu is a site where this species is found with some regularity and we saw indeed one bird when we visited 28/11 (at least some of the group did).

Yellow-fronted Canary   Savanneirisk   (Serinus mozambicus)
2 in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 10 daily in Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11.

Brimstone Canary   Svovelirisk   (Serinus sulphuratus)
Our only sighting was of one single bird at a stop at a small pond one hour before arrival at Naro Moru, Mt. Kenya 16/11.

White-bellied Canary   Hvitbukirisk   (Serinus dorsostriatus)
Only seen by us at sites in the northern Rift Valley: 8 at Lake Baringo 21/11, 2 here 22/11 and 5 at Lake Bogoria 23/11.

Northern Grosbeak Canary   (Serinus donaldsoni)
Our only sighting was of a male at the parking lot of the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 17/11.

Cinnamon-breasted Rock Bunting   Sebraspurv   (Emberiza tahapisi)
Two sightings: a pair in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 1 at the Kongelai escarpment 25/11

Golden-breasted Bunting   Gullbrystspurv   (Emberiza flaviventris)
2-3 birds seen daily at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya 16/11-18/11, 2 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 1 in Masai Mara 29/11.

Systematic list of mammals
Systematics and English names follows
“The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals”, J. Kingdon.
and
"The New Encyclopedia of Mammals", edited by David Macdonald.

Norwegian names according to "Verdens Dyr" by Cappelen forlag.

Guereza Colobus   Kolobusape (Guereza)   (Colobus guereza)
3 seen en route to Nairobi 18/11, and up to 5 were present at Fisherman`s Camp, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 20/11. Also common in the western forest and we noted 6 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, 2 in Kakamega Forest 25/11, 5 here 26/11 and finally 15 in Kakamega 27/11.

Olive (Anubis) Baboon   Olivenbavian   (Papio anubis)
Widespread and seen by us at Lake Naivasha, Lake Baringo, near Kitale, in Masai Mara and along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway. Our best days were 20/11 with 25 seen between Naivasha and Lake Nakuru and 2/12 with 30 between Tsavo West NP and Mombasa.

*Yellow Baboon   Savannebavian   (Papio cynocephalus)
Only seen on the extention week: 10 near Sokoke Forest and Watamu 4/12, 5 here 5/12 and 5 near Voi 6/12.

Vervet Monkey   Vervetape   (Cercopithecus (aethiops) pygerythrus)
3 seen from the busses en route to Lake Nakuru 20/11, 20 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11, up to 20 daily in Masai Mara and 9 in Tsavo West NP 2/12. The ones seen in Saiwa Swamp and in Masai Mara could possibly have been Tantalus Monkeys (Cercopithecus (aethiops) tantalus).

De Brazza's Monkey   Brazzamarekatt   (Cercopithecus neglectus)
One lucky dude saw 4 De Brazza`s Monkeys in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11. This was not easily forgiven by the rest of the group.

Gentle Monkey   Diademmarekatt   (Cercopithecus (nictitans) mitis)
2 at Blue Posts Hotel, Thika 16/11, 10-15 noted in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11, 2 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11 and up to 20 daily in Kakamega Forest 25/11-27/11. Several also seen in the Sokoke Forest 4/12 and near Voi 6/12; these were Syke`s Monkeys (Cercopithecus (nictitans) albogularis).

Red-tailed Monkey   Hvitnesemarekatt   (Cercopithecus (cephus) ascanius)
Quite common in Kakamega Forest and 5-10 seen daily here 25/11-27/11.

Senegal Galago   Senegalgalago   (Galago senegalensis)
On the night game-drive at Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11 we repeatedly saw eye-reflections from the Senegal Galago. Finally the people in the first bus saw one fairly well at close quarters.

A great number of bats of many different forms were seen throughout the trip, but only a very few were identified specifically.

Egyptian Rousette Bat   (Rousettus aegyptiacus)
The mammalwatchers in our group visited a bat-cave at the Lake Baringo Cliffs 22/11 and one of the species here was identified as the Egyptian Rousette Bat.

Yellow-winged Bat   Gulvingeflaggermus   (Lavia frons)
Quite a few very seen in and around Robert`s Camp, Lake Baringo 20/11-22/11.

*Golden-rumped Elephant Shrew   Gullhalet elefantspissmus   (Rhynchocyon chrysopygus)
This species is confined to two small areas at the Kenyan coast, of which the Sokoke Forest is one. We got glimpses of this animal on two occasions in Sokoke (or some did): singles seen in the forest 4/12 and 5/12.

*Four-toed Elephant Shrew   Firetået elefantspissmus   (Petrodromus tetradactylus)
Driving to the Sokoke Scops Owl site in the Sokoke Forest after dusk 4/12 at least 6 Four-toed Elephant Shrews were seen in the lights of our bus.

Cape Hare   Kapphare   (Lepus capensis)
4 hares seen well were identified to this species at Lake Baringo 21/11, but a great number of hares remained unidentified. Hares were particularily numerous at the night game-drive at Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11, but also at Lake Baringo.

Scrub Hare   Klipphare   (Lepus saxatilis)
Definite Scrub Hares were noted at Lake Baringo 21/11 and Masai Mara 29/11, but the occurrence of the two hare-species was clouded by identification problems (as well as by lack of attention).

Spring Hare   Springhare   (Pedetes capensis)
One Spring Hare was seen in the lights of one of the busses as it ran over the road in Masai Mara late evening 28/11.

Red-legged Sun Squirrel   (Heliosciurus rufobrachium)
Several were seen in Kakamega Forest 26/11 and 27/11.

Black-backed Jackal   Skaberakksjakal   (Canis mesomelas)
1 seen as we arrived at Masai Mara 28/11 were followed by 3 in the reserve 29/11 and 1 the last day here 30/11.

Bat-eared Fox   Ørehund   (Otocyon megalotis)
At least 3 were seen on the night game-drive at Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11. They were rather shy, though, and did not allow us to come close by them.

*Ichneumon (Egyptian) Mongoose   Faraorotte   (Herpestes ichneumon)
1 was seen very well at the flood-lit waterhole at Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 1/12 together with a White-tailed Mongoose and a Verreaux`s Eagle Owl.

*Dwarf Mongoose   Dvergmangust   (Helogale parvula)
1 seen briefly at the Mzima springs, Tsavo West NP 2/12 was our only sighting (excluding one found dead at Lake Baringo 22/11).

Banded Mongoose   Sebramangust   (Mungos mungo)
6 seen in Masai Mara 29/11 and then 2-3 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

*White-tailed Mongoose   Hvithalemangust   (Ichneumia albicauda)
1 seen at the waterhole at Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 1/12 allowed prolonged views at very close quarters (a few meters). Other animals present at the same time was an Ichneumon Mongoose, an African Civet and a Common Genet, and we experienced thus a very good time this evening observing and filming these animals (from the bar!).

Spotted Hyena   Flekkhyene   (Crocuta crocuta)
1 seen near the entrance to Masai Mara 28/11 and 1 heard in the reserve late evening 29/11. Also 1 in Tsavo West NP 1/12.

*Feline Genet   Kattegenett   (Genetta felina)
1 seen at the waterhole at Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 1/12 was apparently used to a human presence; it ate foodstuff given to it just below the restaurant/bar of the lodge and allowed photographing/filming down to a few meters distance.

*African Civet   Afrikasivett   (Civettictis civetta)
1 was seen on repeated occasions near the waterhole at Kilaguni Lodge, Tsavo West NP 1/12.

Lion   Løve   (Panthera leo)
1 female was seen from the bus when we arrived at Masai Mara 28/11 and the following days (29/11 and 30/11) we saw a pack of 8 Lions inside the reserve (including 3 cubs).

Cheetah   Gepard   (Acinonyx jubatus)
One of the mammalian highlights on the trip was the sighting of two male Cheetahs in Masai Mara 29/11. Used to safari-busses and photographing tourists they allowed us to come very close by.

Black-necked Rock Hyrax   Johnstonklippegrevling   (Procavia johnstoni)
At least 20 seen in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha, 1 at Lake Nakuru, common at Lake Baringo and Lake Bogoria 22/11 and 23/11 and 1 in Tsavo West NP 1/12. The Rock Hyrax species are difficult to identify, but according to the distributions given in the Kingdon Guide, this is the only species occuring in Kenya.

Southern Tree Hyrax   Sørtregrevling   (Dendrohyrax arboreus)
A group was heard howling and growling at the Naro Moru River Lodge, Mt. Kenya the evenings of 16/11 and 18/11. These peculiar sounds caused some initial confusion, but finally we understood that they were from the Tree Hyrax. One was also seen briefly 18/11.

African Elephant   Afrikansk elefant   (Loxodonta africana)
Only seen in Masai Mara: at least two herds with a total of 30-40 29/11 and 15 the following day.

Common Zebra   Vanlig sebra   (Equus quagga)
Common between Mt. Kenya and Nairobi, in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha, at Lake Nakuru, in Masai Mara and in Tsavo West NP; we did not put any numbers on the log. Also 2 at Lake Bogoria 23/11.

Grass (White) Rhinoceros   Stumpneshorn   (Ceratotherium simum)
A total of 13 were seen at Lake Nakuru 20/11. These animals were introduced in the park some 10 years ago.

Hippopotamus   Flodhest   (Hippopotamus amphibius)
Our first sighting was of 1 animal on dry land seen on the night game-drive at Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and on our way back to our campsite later in the evening one of the busses nearly drove into one that was crossing the road. Also 1-7 seen or heard at Robert`s Camp, Lake Baringo 21/11-23/11. Our final sighting was of 20-30 animals at the Mzima Springs, Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Common Warthog   Vortesvin   (Phacochoerus africanus)
15 in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 1 en route to Masai Mara 28/11 and 5 in this reserve 29/11. Slightly less than might have been expected.

Giraffe   Sjiraff   (Giraffa camelopardalis)
A total of 17 recorded at Lake Naivasha 19/11 (Hell`s Gate NP and Crater Lake), 6 at Lake Nakuru 20/11, up to 30 daily in and near Masai Mara 28/11-30/11 and 1-4 daily in Tsavo West NP 1/12-2/12.

African Buffalo   Afrikabøffel   (Syncerus caffer)
A flock of 7 in Mt. Kenya NP 17/11, 50 at Lake Naivasha sites 19/11, common at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and in Masai Mara 29/11 and about 25 in Tsavo West NP 1/12.

Bushbuck   Skriftantilope   (Tragelaphus scriptus)
Single females at the Mt. Kenya youth hostel 18/11 and at Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11. Also about 10 in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11.

Eland   Eland   (Taurotragus oryx)
Quite common in Hell`s Gate NP 19/11, 5-10 seen at Lake Nakuru 20/11, 5+ in Masai Mara 29/11 and 10 in Tsavo West NP 2/12.

*Suni   Suni   (Neotragus moschatus)
Only recorded in Sokoke Forest: 1 here 4/12 and 2 the following morning.

Oribi   Oribi   (Ourebia ourebi)
3 near the entrance gate of Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and 2 in Masai Mara 29/11.

Klipspringer   Klippespringer   (Oreotragus oreotragus)
3 were seen in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha 19/11 up on an almost unlikely steep hillside.

Kirk's Dikdik   Kirkdikdik   (Madoqua kirkii)
Remarkably common at Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha and we saw many on the night game-drive here 19/11. Also 5 near Lake Baringo 23/11, 10-15 as we approached Masai Mara 28/11, 4 in Masai Mara 29/11, 2 in Tsavo West 1/12 and 1 here 2/12.

Waterbuck   Ellipsevannbukk (ssp Dafassavannbukk)   (Kobus ellipsiprymnus)
2 Defassa Waterbucks seen at Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11 and about 30 at Lake Nakuru 20/11. In the Kingdon guide the Defassa Waterbuck is considered conspecific with the Common Waterbuck.

Red-fronted (Thomson's) Gazelle   Thomsongaselle   (Gazella rufifrons)
Thomson`s Gazelles were abundant in Hell`s Gate NP, Lake Naivasha, at Lake Nakuru and in Masai Mara: no figures on the daily log except 10 at Lake Nakuru 20/11. In the Kingdon guide the Thomson`s Gazelle is lumped with the Red-fronted Gazelle.

Grant's Gazelle   Grantgaselle   (Gazella granti)
Common at Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru, in Masai Mara and in Tsavo West NP; noted daily at these sites, but no specific numbers were written down. Also 15 at Lake Bogoria 23/11.

Impala   Impala   (Aepyceros melampus)
Numerous at Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru 19/11 and 20/11, 4 at Lake Bogoria 23/11 and very common in Masai Mara and Tsavo West NP (noted daily between 28/11 and 2/12, but with no estimate of numbers).

Topi   Topi   (Damaliscus lunatus)
Only seen in Masai Mara, where it was common, and no numbers noted for the log 29/11 and 30/11.

Kongoni (Hartebeest)   Kuantilope   (Alcelaphus buselaphus)
5 at the Crater Lake, Lake Naivasha 19/11, 10 at Lake Nakuru 20/11 and further abundant in Masai Mara 29/11 and 30/11.

Brindled Gnu (Wildebeest)   Stripegnu   (Connochaetes taurinus)
Very common in Masai Mara and seen daily here 28/11-30/11; no numbers noted.

Systematic list of reptiles
Systematics and English names follows
“A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa”, S. Spawls et al.

Mann's Dwarf Gecko   (Lygodactylus manni)
Singles were seen at our lodge in Kakamega Forest 25/11 and 26/11.

Striped Skink   (Mabuya striata)
One was found at the Kongelai escarpment, Kitale 25/11.

*Red-headed Rock Agama   (Agama agama)
Only seen in Tsavo West NP: 1-2 at Mtito Andei Gate 1/12 and 2-3 in the national park 2/12.

Side-striped Chameleon   (Chameleo bitaeniatus)
One Chameleon crossing the road in Kakamega Forest 26/11, and that we caught for an in-hand study, turned out to be a Side-striped Chameleon.

Nile Monitor   Nilvaran   (Varanus niloticus)
Only seen at Lake Baringo: 2 inside Robert`s Camp 21/11, 3 here 22/11 and further 1 seen between Lake Baringo and Lake Bogoria 23/11.

Nile Crocodile   Nilkrokodille   (Crocodylus niloticus)
4-5 were seen daily at the shore of Lake Baringo 21/11-23/11. Also 3 in Masai Mara 29/11 and 1 at the Mzima Springs, Tsavo West NP 2/12.

Jackson's Tree Snake   (Thrasops jacksoni)
One was found in the canopy of a tree in Saiwa Swamp NP 24/11. Although of considerable size it was surprisingly difficult to see due to the dense foliage.

Speckled Sand Snake   (Psammophis punctulatus)
1 was found at the Kongelai escarpment, Kitale 25/11 and another Sand Snake at Lake Baringo 21/11 probably also belonged to this species.

Risto Skjelnes/Leif Gabrielsen

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