Itinerary

Species list

Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Only noted at Kotu ponds, where 6 on 18/11 & 30/11 and 10 on 24/11.

Long-tailed Cormorant (Phalacrocorax africanus)

Seen most days in small numbers around the Kotu area, and also noted at Abuko, Banjul-Barra, Bund Road, Tanji and Tendaba.

African Darter (Anhinga rufa)

1 flew over the Bund Road on 23/11, 1 at Pirang on 25/11, 1 flew over Tendaba peanut compound on 26/11 and at least 2 were seen many times along Kisi Bolong on 26/11.

Pink-backed Pelican (Pelecanus rufescens)

2 seen over Essau on 22/11, 150+ at Bund Road on 23/11, 12 over Tanji on 24/11. Lots seen up country, at Pirang, Brumein Bridge and Tendaba, as well as from the roadside; c150 on 25/11, c100 on 26/11 & c50 on 27/11.

Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)

Seen at Abuko on 19/11 (2) & 29/11 (4) and c10 at Bund Road on 23/11.

White-backed Night Heron (N. leuconotus)

At Abuko, an adult seen briefly from first hide on 19/11 and a juvenile was seen from the second hide on 29/11, roosting at the base of a palm directly across the pool from the hide.

Striated Heron (Butorides striatus)

Up to 3 seen on 9 dates, with 5 along Kotu stream on 30/11; noted in the Kotu area, Tanji, Bund Road, Pirang, Kisi Bolong and Abuko.

Squacco Heron (Ardeola ralloides)

5 at Pirang on 25/11, 3 along Kisi Bolong on 26/11 and 3 on Tendaba airfield on 26/11 & 27/11.

Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)

A common species, with up to c100 noted daily. First were seen from the plane before we'd even landed.

Black Heron (Egretta ardesiaca)

2 were seen in flight at Camaloo corner on 22/11, and c30 were at the Bund Road on 23/11.

Western Reef Heron (E. gularis)

Up to 10 seen most days, although c20 at Bund Road on 23/11. Noted around the Kotu stream area, but also as far up river as Tendaba. All were dark phase.

Little Egret (E. garzetta)

Surprisingly scarce. 1 at Camaloo corner on 22/11, 2 at Bund Road on 23/11, c20 at Brumein Bridge on 25/11 and 1 at Kisi Bolong and 1 at Tendaba airfield on 26/11.

Intermediate Egret (E. intermedia)

1 at Bund Road on 23/11, 1 at Pirang on 25/11, 4 at Kisi Bolong on 26/11 & 1 at Abuko on 29/11.

Great White Egret (E. alba)

c20 at Bund Road on 23/11, c10 at various locations on 25/11, c20 around Tendaba & Kisi Bolong on 26/11 and 3 on Tendaba airfield on 27/11.

Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)

Singles at various places but also c10 at Bund Road and at Kisi Bolong.

Black-headed Heron (A. melanocephala)

1-2 regularly recorded around the Kotu area and up to 7 at Abuko. 1 flew over at Yundum on 21/11 and 1 was at Pirang on 25/11.

Purple Heron (A. purpurea)

1 at Camaloo corner on 22/11, 2 at Tendaba airfield on 26/11.

Goliath Heron (A. goliath)

1 seen a little way upstream of Brumein bridge on 25/11. 3 were seen along Kisi Bolong on 26/11. 1 seen from Tendaba camp flying across the river on 27/11. 1 flushed by a plane at Yundum airport on 1/12.

Hammerkop (Scopus umbretta)

Recorded most days, from Kotu area, Abuko (where nest seen), Tanji, Tendaba and Kisi Bolong, where at least 6 were seen on 26/11.

Yellow-billed Stork (Mycteria ibis)

3 flew over Brumein Bridge on 25/11, with 4 Pink-backed Pelicans.

Woolly-necked Stork (Ciconia episcopus)

3 flew over and landed at Brumein bridge on 25/11. c10 were seen along Kisi Bolong on 26/11, mostly in flight. At least 2 were on Tendaba airfield on 26/11 & 27/11.

Sacred Ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus)

5 were on a distant tree at the Bund Road on 23/11, seen from the roof of the pumping station. Also, 1 flew over Kisi Bolong on 26/11.

African Spoonbill (Platalea alba)

Flocks flew over Tendaba camp at dawn on 26/11 (30) and 27/11 (11), presumably coming out of roost.

White-faced Whistling Duck (Dendrocygna viduata)

1 in flight from the cycle track on 18/11, 20/11 & 21/11, with c10 flying there on 22/11. 20 seen at Kotu ponds on 24/11 with 15 over the Palma Rima hotel at dusk that day (possibly same birds.) 12 were at Pirang on 25/11. A flock of 67 were seen at Kisi Bolong on 26/11, and c5 were around the airfield that evening. 52 were at Kotu ponds on 30/11.

Spur-winged Goose (Plectropterus gambensis)

1 flew over at Tendaba on 26/11 at dawn, and another flew over the camp at breakfast. That evening, 5 were seen flying over the far side of the airfield. On 27/11, 1 seen from Tendaba camp flying over the river.

Pintail (Anas acuta)

1 was at Kotu Ponds on 24/11 & 30/11.

Shoveler (A. clypeata)

1 was at Kotu Ponds on 24/11 & 30/11.

Black-shouldered Kite (Elanus caeruleus)

1 was hunting over coastal scrub to the south of the Palma Rima on 18/11, 1 seen near Tanji on 20/11 and 1 was seen over Kisi Bolong on 26/11.

Black Kite (Milvus migrans)

2 at Yundum on 21/11, 1 at Banjul and 1 at Barra on 22/11, 2 at Tanji on 24/11, 1 at Tendaba airfield on 26/11 and 1 at Yundum airport on 30/11. See also below.

Yellow-billed Kite (M. (m.) parasitus)

1 at Yundum on 21/11, 1 by the road and 1 at Brumein bridge on 25/11, 3 around Tendaba on 26/11 and 2 there on 27/11, with another 1 by the road that day. See also below.

[Black/Yellow-billed Kite (Milvus sp.)]

Due to the similarity between the two Milvus (sub)species, many Kites were not fully identified, especially at the beginning of the trip when the differences in flight silhouette weren't appreciated. Kites weren't particularly common though, compared to southern Europe for example, and probably no more than c10 were seen in any one day.

African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)

2 were seen well in flight and later perched at Brumein bridge on 25/11. At Tendaba, 1 was heard on 26/11 and 27/11, and also 1 seen fishing out over the river Gambia from Tendaba camp on 27/11.

Hooded Vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus)

By far the commonest raptor in the Gambia. Hooded Vultures were seen before leaving the plane at Yundum on arrival, and then seen every day of the trip. The highest day total was estimated at c300 on 25/11, but no real counts were made. Birds were not as numerous on the coast, but still common. Particularly good views could be obtained at the hyena enclosure at Abuko.

White-backed Vulture (Gyps africanus)

c15 were seen over Brumein bridge on 25/11, 1 was high over Kisi Bolong on 26/11 & c15 were seen on 27/11 at various stops along the road.

Ruppell's Griffon Vulture (G. rueppelli)

2 flew over Brumein Bridge on 27/11.

White-headed Vulture (Aegypius occipitalis)

1 immature flew over Brumein Bridge on 25/11. This is a rather scarce species in the Gambia. It is quite a small vulture, with a distinctive pale belly patch.

Palm-nut Vulture (Gypohierax angolensis)

These were one of the more regularly recorded raptors, and were noted at Palma Rima hotel, Bijilo, Abuko, Kotu stream and Kotu ponds, Tanji (pair with juvenile), Pirang, along the road going upcountry, Brumein bridge and Tendaba.

Short-toed Eagle (Circaetus gallicus)

1 was seen over Kisi Bolong on 26/11. 2 birds claimed to be this species by Baba by the road on 25/11 looked unusual; although they had the right jizz for this species, they also had very dark underwing coverts; a similar bird was seen by the road on 27/11 also. Beaudouin's Snake Eagle was thought to be a possibility, but the books were not helpful in this respect. Otherwise, Martial Eagle fitted on plumage features, but the obvious Snake Eagle jizz seemed wrong.

Brown Snake Eagle (C. cinereus)

1 seen over the road on 25/11, at Km 97. 2 were over Kisi Bolong on 26/11. 1 was seen high over the road near Brumein bridge on 27/11.

Western Banded Snake Eagle (C. cinerascens)

1 was seen over the road on 25/11, carrying a snake, at Km 92.

Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus)

An adult male was seen over Brumein Bridge on 25/11; probably the best bird of the trip!

Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus)

1 at Tanji on 24/11. 1 by the road and 1 at Pirang on 25/11. 1 at Tendaba camp on 26/11 and another at Tendaba airfield on 26/11 & 27/11. 1 at Yundum airport on 30/11.

Montagu's Harrier (Circus pygargus)

A ringtail was over Kisi Bolong on 26/11. Also, a distant ringtail over Tendaba airfield on 27/11 could have been Montagu's or Pallid.

Dark Chanting Goshawk (Melierax metabates)

A pair were seen by the roadside at Km 77 on 25/11. 1 was at Brumein bridge and another was seen during a puncture stop about 10 miles west of there on 27/11. A pair, perhaps 3, were seen well at the Abuko extension on 29/11.

Gabar Goshawk (Micronisus gabar)

1 was seen briefly in flight over Tendaba airfield on 26/11, but seen again there on 27/11, when good perched views were obtained.

Harrier Hawk (Polyboroides typus)

A fairly common raptor, noted around the cycle track and the Kotu stream (adults and a juvenile), Abuko, Brumein bridge, Brufut woods and along the roadside upcountry.

Lizard Buzzard (Kaupifalco monogrammicus)

Commonly seen along the cycle track and also regularly perched in palms within the hotel itself. Also noted at Bijilo, Tanji, Tendaba and Abuko.

Grasshopper Buzzard (Butastur rufipennis)

4 were seen along the roadside on 25/11, at Kms. 87, 95, 97 & 105. On 26/11, 3 were over Kisi Bolong and 3 were on Tendaba airfield. 1 at Tendaba airfield & 2 noted by the road on 27/11.

West African Goshawk (Accipiter (tachiro) toussenelli)

1 was at Tendaba (near airfield) on 27/11, and another was seen well on the golf course on 28/11.

Shikra (A. badius)

The commonest small hawk, noted in small numbers around the Kotu area, Essau, Pirang, Tendaba and Bijilo, as well as by the roadside upcountry.

[West African Little Sparrowhawk (A. erythropus)]

A small hawk with a white rump seen briefly in the thick forest at Abuko on 19/11 was almost certainly this species, but views were too brief to rule out Gabar Goshawk with 100% certainty.

Wahlberg's Eagle (Hieraaetus/Aquila wahlbergi)

1 at Essau on 22/11 and 1 seen at Tendaba airfield on 26/11 & 27/11. This small eagle can actually be mistaken for a Black Kite quite easily if the tail shape isn't seen well.

African Hawk Eagle (H. spilogaster)

3 were seen over the road, about 10 miles west of Brumein Bridge, on 27/11.

Long-crested Eagle (Spizaetus occipitalis)

1 seen perched by the roadside on 25/11, at Km 92, was one of the star birds of the trip. Also, more distant views of 1 at Tendaba airfield on 27/11.

Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)

Singles noted at Abuko, Brufut, Tanji, Essau & Bund Road. 3 from the road on 25/11 and c3 around Tendaba & Kisi Bolong on 26/11, with 1 at Tendaba on 27/11.

Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus)

Singles were seen at Bijilo on 18/11 and at Yundum on 17/11 & 21/11.

Grey Kestrel (F. ardosiaceus)

Excellent views of a pair just outside the Palma Rima hotel on 18/11, with another seen well at Bijilo later that day; this latter bird was seen to take a young bird (a dove?) from a nest and eat it. 1 seen by the roadside near Camaloo corner on 22/11, 1 at Bund Road on 23/11, 1 along the cycle track, mobbed by Blue-bellied Rollers, on 24/11 and 1 at Brumein bridge on 25/11.

Red-necked Falcon (F. chicquera)

Singles were seen over the Palma Rima on 19/11 and at Yundum on 21/11, and 2 were at Pirang on 25/11. All were only flight views, and a little disappointing, but the rufous throat of this race made identification fairly straightforward.

African Hobby (F. cuvieri)

Singles at Tanji on 20/11 & Yundum on 21/11. A pair were at Tendaba on 25/11 and singles seen twice (same bird?) around Tendaba on 26/11.

Lanner (F. biarmicus)

On 26/11, 3 were seen over Tendaba peanut compound. Later, 1 flew over at breakfast, and another was seen perched near the peanut compound whilst we were on the boat.

Double-spurred Francolin (Francolinus bicalcaratus)

A common bird, with up to 6 noted most days. Often seen around the cycle track and the golf course, and also noted at Abuko, Brufut, Yundum, the MRC grounds, Pirang and Tendaba.

Stone Partridge (Ptilopachus petrosus)

2 were seen at Bijilo on 28/11, and c6 were flushed in the Abuko extension on 29/11.

[Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris)]

A pair with 1 juvenile were seen in the MRC grounds, but were probably of dubious origin, according to a Gambian birder.

Black Crake (Porzana flavirostra)

1, probably an immature due to dull bare-part colouration, was seen from the second hide at Abuko on 29/11.

Crowned Crane (Balearica pavonina)

At Pirang on 25/11, we had distant flight views of 1 then close flight views of 2 more. At least one was heard at Tendaba airfield on 26/11.

African Jacana (Actophilornis africana)

At least 1 adult was seen at the main hide at Abuko on 19/11 & 29/11; it had 2 young which stayed around the lily pool behind the hide. Also, 2 adults were seen at the lily-covered pool along the cycle track on 20/11.

Oystercatcher (Haemotopus ostralegus)

2 Barra Fort on 22/11 and 12 flew south at Kotu on 1/12.

Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus)

At Kotu ponds, c40 on 18/11, c100 on 24/11 & c80 on 30/11. 2 at Tanji on 20/11, c50 at Bund Road on 23/11, 1 at Pirang on 25/11, 3 on Tendaba airfield on 26/11 & 2 there on 27/11.

Avocet (Recurvirostra avosetta)

c20 were at the Bund Road on 23/11 and 1 was at Kisi Bolong on 26/11.

Senegal Thick-knee (Burhinus senegalensis)

At the Kotu stream, 3 on 18/11, 8 on 21/11, 1 on 24/11 & 1 on 28/11. 2 at Tanji on 20/11 & 24/11. 16 at Pirang on 25/11.

Temminck's Courser (Cursorius temminckii)

2 were seen in a bare field at Yundum on 21/11.

Little Ringed Plover (Charadrius dubius)

1 Bund Road on 23/11 and 1 on Tendaba airfield on 27/11.

Ringed Plover (C. hiaticula)

10 at Tanji on 20/11, 1 at Kotu stream on 21/11, c120 at Bund Road on 23/11, 5 at Tanji on 24/11 and 16 on Kotu stream on 30/11.

Kentish Plover (C. alexandrinus)

3 at Tanji on 20/11 with 1 there on 24/11, and 4 Barra Fort on 22/11.

White-fronted Sandplover (C. marginatus)

2 Barra Fort on 22/11.

Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola)

A common wader but not numerous, with max. being c10 at Bund Road. Even noted up at Tendaba airfield.

Spur-winged Plover (Vanellus spinosus)

Common throughout; up to 30 seen daily with 104 counted on Kotu stream on 30/11.

Black-headed Plover (V. tectus)

Up to c10 noted on the golf course on each visit. Also, 2 on the roof of a derelict building outside the Palma Rima on 20/11, 3 at Yundum on 21/11 and c20 at the MRC grounds on 23/11.

Wattled Plover (V. senegallus)

Up to 5 regularly seen in the Kotu area, with c30 at the MRC grounds on 23/11 and by far the biggest count of 109 on the Kotu stream on 30/11. Also noted at Abuko, Pirang and Tendaba.

Knot (Calidris canutus)

Singles were seen at Tanji on 20/11 & Bund Road on 23/11.

Sanderling (C. alba)

c40 at Tanji on 20/11 with 4 there on 24/11. Also, c20 at Barra on 22/11.

Little Stint (C. minuta)

At least 50, probably many more, were at the Bund Road on 23/11.

Curlew Sandpiper (C. ferruginea)

At least 70 were at the Bund Road on 23/11.

Ruff (Philomachus pugnax)

At Kotu ponds, 1 on 18/11, c10 on 24/11 & 15 on 30/11. Also c30 at Bund Road on 23/11.

Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa)

2 on Kotu stream on 17/11, 1 there on 20/11 & 28/11 and 9 on 30/11. c50 at Bund Road on 23/11.

Bar-tailed Godwit (L. lapponica)

c50 were at the Bund Road on 23/11.

Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus)

One of the commonest wintering waders, with up to 10 seen most days but c30 at Kisi Bolong on 26/11 and 22 on Kotu stream on 30/11.

Curlew (N. arquata)

1 at the Kotu stream on 17/11 was the only record.

Redshank (Tringa totanus)

1-3 seen most days, around any areas of water; 10 on Kotu stream on 30/11.

Marsh Sandpiper (T. stagnatilis)

2 were at the Kotu ponds on 18/11 & 24/11, with 10 there on 30/11, and 2 were at Pirang on 25/11.

Greenshank (T. nebularia)

Up to 4 seen most days, but c30 seen on Tendaba airfield on 26/11 & 11 Kotu stream on 30/11.

Green Sandpiper (T. ochropus)

1 at Abuko on 19/11, 1 flew over the Palma Rima on 23/11 and 2 Kotu stream on 30/11.

Wood Sandpiper (T. glareola)

At Kotu ponds, 1 on 18/11, 4 on 24/11 & 15 on 30/11. Also 1 at Kisi Bolong on 26/11.

Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos)

Fairly common; up to 10 seen most days.

Turnstone (Arenaria interpres)

Common on the coast, with max. being c20 at Tanji on 20/11.

Pomarine Skua (Stercorarius pomarinus)

1 was seen from the Banjul-Barra ferry on 22/11.

Arctic Skua (S. parasiticus)

2 were seen harrying terns offshore at Kotu point on 28/11.

Black-headed Gull (Larus ridibundus)

1 from the Banjul-Barra ferry on 22/11, 6 at Bund Road on 23/11 and 1 Kotu ponds 30/11.

Grey-headed Gull (L. cirrocephalus)

Up to c50 seen along the coast around the hotels, with c200 around Banjul on 22/11 & c500 at the Bund Road on 23/11.

Slender-billed Gull (L. genei)

3 were at the Bund Road on 23/11.

Lesser Black-backed Gull (L. fuscus)

At least 5 were seen from the Banjul-Barra ferry on 22/11. 1 offshore at hotel on 1/12.

Gull-billed Tern (Gelochelidon nilotica)

Singles seen at the Kotu stream on 18/11, 28/11 & 30/11, Tanji on 20/11, from the Banjul-Barra ferry on 22/11 and at Tendaba on 26/11.

Caspian Tern (Hydroprogne caspia)

1 seen offshore near the hotel on 17/11 & 30/11. 2 at Tanji on 20/11 with 1 there on 24/11. 3 were around the Banjul-Barra ferry on with 15 at Barra fort on 22/1, and at least 80 were roosting at the Bund Road on 23/11. 1 at Tendaba on 26/11. 1 at Kotu stream on 28/11.

Royal Tern (Sterna maximus)

Birds specifically identified as Royal Terns were noted at Tanji on 20/11, off Kotu on 21/11 & 28/11, from the Banjul-Barra ferry on 22/11 (5), at Bund Road on 23/11 and at Tendaba on 26/11. Some other birds were not separated from Lesser Crested Tern. Singles unless noted.

Lesser Crested Tern (S. bengalensis)

2 were at Tanji on 20/11 & 24/11. Singles noted from Banjul-Barra ferry on 22/11, at Bund Road on 23/11 and offshore at Kotu on 28/11 & 1/12. A few others weren't separated from Royal Tern.

Sandwich Tern (S. sandvicensis)

Small numbers were regularly seen offshore, with the max. being c70 on 1/12, and c20 from the Banjul-Barra ferry on 22/11.

Common Tern (S. hirundo)

Offshore at the hotel, 2 were seen on 18/11, 1 on 28/11 and 30 on 1/12.

Little Tern (S. albifrons)

2 at Barra on 1/12, c30 were at the Bund Road on 23/11 and 1 was offshore at Kotu on 30/11.

Whiskered Tern (Chlidonias hybridus)

2 were at the Bund Road on 23/11.

Black Tern (C. niger)

1 was at Kotu ponds on 18/11 with 10 there on 24/11 & 8 on 30/11. Offshore at Kotu, 1 on 21/11, 10 on 28/11, 16 on 30/11 & 10 on 1/12. Also, 5 from Banjul-Barra ferry on 22/11.

Four-banded Sandgrouse (Pterocles quadricinctus)

2 were seen at dusk on 26/11 on Tendaba airfield (terminal 3); flight views only.

Feral Rock Dove (Columba livia)

Not common; a few seen in Serrekunda, Banjul and some other villages.

Speckled Pigeon (C. guinea)

A common bird throughout; 5-30 birds seen daily.

Red-eyed Dove (Streptopelia semitorquata)

Common, with up to 10 birds seen daily. Probably more, since many doves were not specifically identified.

Mourning Dove (S. decipiens)

1 at Palma Rima on 20/11, 4 were at the Bund Road on 23/11 with another near the water tower at Bakau that evening. Otherwise, singles at Pirang on 25/11 and Kisi Bolong on 26/11 were the only records, although this species may well have been overlooked.

Vinaceous Dove (S. vinacea)

Another common dove, with up to 10 birds seen daily.

Palm Dove (S. senegalensis)

The commonest dove in The Gambia (in fact, one of the commonest birds). Recorded daily, with perhaps c30-40 birds being seen on average.

Black-billed Wood Dove (Turtur abyssinicus)

Singles on the golf course on 17/11 and on the cycle track on 17/11, 20/11, 21/11 & 28/11. 3 at Tanji on 20/11 & 1 there on 24/11. 1 at Bijilo on 28/11.

Blue-spotted Wood Dove (T. afer)

Only recorded at Abuko, where 1 on 19/11 & 5 on 29/11, and Pirang, where 1 on 25/11.

Namaqua Dove (Oena capensis)

Scarce on the coast, although singles seen near the Palma Rima on 17/11 & 18/11 with 2 on 30/11. 1 at Essau on 22/11 & 1 at Bund Road on 23/11. More numerous inland, with 4 on 25/11, 6 on 26/11 (including 5 over the swimming pool at Tendaba) & 2 on 27/11.

Bruce's Green Pigeon (Treron waalia)

Seen at Tendaba on 26/11 (3) & 27/11 (2).

Brown-necked Parrot (Poicephalus robustus)

2 flew over Kisi Bolong on 26/11.

Senegal Parrot (P. senegalus)

1 at the cycle track on 17/11 & 21/11, 1 at Tanji & 2 at the golf course on 20/11, 4 at the MRC grounds on 23/11, 5 at Pirang on 25/11, c10 at Tendaba on 26/11 with c5 there on 27/11 and 2 at Abuko on 29/11.

Ring-necked Parakeet (Psittacula krameri)

Fairly common throughout, with the best counts being c30 at Tanji and Pirang.

Grey Plantain-eater (Crinifer piscator)

A common bird on the coast, but less so inland; up to 17 recorded daily except for 26/11 (Tendaba).

Violet Turaco (Musophaga violacea)

Only seen at Abuko, where 2 on 19/11 & 4 on 29/11.

Green Turaco (Tauraco persa)

Only seen at Abuko, with 3 on 19/11 & 2 on 29/11.

Levaillant's Cuckoo (Oxylophus levaillantii)

At least 4 were seen at Yundum on 21/11.

Didric Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx caprius)

Juveniles were at Barra fort on 22/11 and in the Abuko extension on 29/11.

Klaas' Cuckoo (C. klaas)

Only noted at Abuko, where there was an adult male and a juvenile on 19/11 and at least 8 birds in the extension on 29/11.

African Cuckoo (Cuculus gularis)

1 was seen well by the roadside about 5 miles west of Brumein bridge on 25/11, at a puncture stop.

Yellowbill (Ceuthmochares aereus)

1 was seen well though briefly in the Abuko extension on 29/11; a quality bird!

Senegal Coucal (Centropus senegalensis)

A common bird, with up to 10 seen daily (except 19/11).

Barn Owl (Tyto alba)

1 was seen by the roadside about a mile north of Brumein bridge on 27/11.

Verreaux's Eagle Owl (Bubo lacteus)

Excellent views of a pair in the Abuko extension on 19/11 with 1 seen here also on 29/11. Also, 1 was flushed at Tanji on 24/11 (being mobbed by Blackcap Babblers) and 1 was seen at dusk on 26/11 on Tendaba airfield. 1 calling at dusk at Brufut on 30/11.

Pearl-spotted Owlet (Glaucidium perlatum)

One was seen well on the cycle track on 18/11, having been whistled up by a Gambian birder; a second bird was also heard calling at the same time. 1 seen Brufut on 30/11.

Long-tailed Nightjar (Scotornis climacurus)

Seen at dusk around the ruins of the old casino outside the Palma Rima on 17/11 (2), 27/11 (2) and 29/11 (3), but only seen well perched on the last evening. Also, 1 flew past the Kotu bridge at dusk on 21/11.

Mottle-throated Spinetailed Swift (Telecanthura ussheri)

Fairly frequently seen, often flying at lower levels than other swifts, although this may have been due to it being overlooked when higher with Little Swifts. Recorded at Yundum on 21/11 (3), Essau on 22/11 (2), Tanji on 24/11 (1), by the roadside on 25/11 (1), Tendaba on 26/11 (1) & 27/11 (1), Bijilo on 28/11 (1) & Abuko on 29/11 (1).

Pallid Swift (Apus pallidus)

4 over Bijilo on 18/11, c50 over Yundum on 21/11, 2 over Barra on 22/11, 1 over Bund Road on 23/11 and 2 over Tanji on 24/11. No Common Swifts were noted, but a few might have been overlooked in the large flock.

Little Swift (A. affinis)

Overall, the commonest swift in the country, not as common as Palm Swift around the hotels. Large flocks were noted at Banjul (c500) and around villages up country, with several hundred around Brumein bridge.

Palm Swift (Cypsiurus parvus)

Up to c30 seen most days, but c50 on 17/11 & c100 on 18/11, around the Kotu area. Less common up country.

Woodland Kingfisher (Halcyon senegalensis)

3 at Abuko on 19/11, 1 Barra on 22/11, Bund Road on 23/11, 3 Tanji on 24/11, 1 Tendaba on 25/11 and 2 Kotu area on 30/11.

Blue-breasted Kingfisher (H. malimbica)

2 at Tendaba on 25/11, 5 at Kisi Bolong on 26/11 and 1 Kotu stream on 28/11.

Striped Kingfisher (H. chelicuti)

Singles at Tanji on 20/11, Essau on 22/11 and near the Senegambia hotel on 30/11, with 2 at Yundum on 21/11.

Malachite Kingfisher (Alcedo cristata)

Singles at Kotu (by the beach) on 17/11, Abuko on 19/11 & 29/11, Bund Road on 23/11 and Pirang on 25/11, with 3 along Kisi Bolong on 26/11.

Pygmy Kingfisher (Ceyx picta)

At Abuko, 5 on 19/11 & 2 on 29/11. Also, singles at Tanji on 24/11 & Bijilo on 28/11.

Pied Kingfisher (Ceryle rudis)

Common around any areas of water, with up to 10 seen daily.

Giant Kingfisher (Megaceryle maxima)

At Abuko, 2 on 19/11 & 1 on 29/11. Also, 1 at Pirang on 25/11.

Little Bee-eater (Merops pusillus)

Fairly common, with up to 18 noted on 9 dates; seen at Kotu area, Bijilo, Abuko, Yundum, Essau and Tanji, but not recorded up country.

Swallow-tailed Bee-eater (M. hirundineus)

Less common than Little Bee-eater but still fairly common. Recorded at Abuko on 19/11 (2) & 29/11 (c10), Tanji on 20/11 (2) & 24/11 (5) and at the golf course on 28/11 (5).

Blue-cheeked Bee-eater (M. superciliosus)

4 over Abuko on 19/11 with c20 there on 29/11, 3 over Essau on 22/11, c50 at the Bund Road on 23/11 and c5 over Kisi Bolong on 26/11.

Carmine Bee-eater (M. nubicus)

At least 3 were seen over Kisi Bolong on 26/11; a good record since this species apparently isn't often seen any further downstream than Basse any more.

Abyssinian Roller (Coracias abyssinica)

1 was near the Kotu stream on 19/11 and 5 were around Essau & Barra on 22/11. On the trip up country, 5 on 25/11 (Pirang, Tendaba, roadside), 4 on 26/11 (Tendaba) and 5 on 27/11 (Tendaba and roadside).

Rufous-crowned Roller (C. naevia)

1 in the casino scrub near the Palma Rima on 17/11 and maybe the same one a little further south the next day, halfway to the Senegambia hotel. 2 at Yundum on 21/11, 3 by the roadside up country on 25/11 and 2 at Tendaba on 27/11. 1 Brufut 30/11.

Blue-bellied Roller (C.cyanogasta)

1 at the airport and 2 by the road on 16/11, 1 by the road on 19/11 & 22/11, 2 along the cycle track on 20/11 & 24/11 with 1 there and 3 at Yundum on 21/11, 3 at Pirang & 3 by the roadside on 25/11 and 1 at Tendaba airfield on 27/11.

Broad-billed Roller (Eurystomus glaucurus)

1 on the golf course on 17/11, 2 near Bakau water tower on 23/11, 1 at Tanji on 24/11, 1 Tendaba on 26/11, 2 at Abuko on 29/11 and 2 Brufut 30/11.

Hoopoe (Upupa epops)

1 near Tendaba airfield on 27/11 was the only record; not seen well enough to racially identify.

Green Wood Hoopoe (Phoeniculus purpureus)

Common throughout, including the area around the hotels, with up to c30 recorded on 10 dates.

Pied Hornbill (Tockus fasciatus)

Only recorded at Abuko on 19/11 (2), Tanji on 24/11 (1) and Brufut on 30/11 (2).

Grey Hornbill (T. nasutus)

A common bird throughout, but not as numerous as Red-billed Hornbill, with up to 5 recorded most days.

Red-billed Hornbill (T. erythrorhynchus)

Common everywhere, with up to c20 seen daily.

Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird (Pogoniulus bilineatus)

Only 1 was seen, at Tanji on 24/11. Another was heard calling here at the same time, and one had also been heard calling at the Medical Research Station on 23/11, but couldn't be seen.

Vieillot's Barbet (Lybius vieilloti)

At Tanji, 1 on 20/11 & 3 on 24/11, 1 at Essau on 22/11, 1 Tendaba on 26/11 and 2 Brufut on 30/11.

Bearded Barbet (L. dubius)

4 at Abuko on 19/11 with 3 there on 29/11, 1 at Tanji on 20/11 with 2 there on 24/11, 1 at Yundum on 21/11, 3 at Pirang on 25/11, 3 at Tendaba on 27/11, 3 Kotu stream and 1 Brufut on 30/11.

Black-throated Honeyguide (Indicator indicator)

1 at Bijilo on 18/11, 2 at Abuko on 19/11 and 1 there on 29/11.

Wryneck (Jynx torquilla)

1 on the cycle track outside the Palma Rima on 20/11.

Fine-spotted Woodpecker (Campethera punctuligera)

The second-commonest woodpecker, after Grey. 1 on the golf course on 17/11, 2 near the Palma Rima on 20/11, 1 at Yundum on 21/11, 1 at Tendaba on 25/11, 2 there on 26/11 and 1 at Abuko on 29/11.

Buff-spotted Woodpecker (C. nivosa)

1 was seen in the main forest at Abuko on 19/11.

Golden-tailed Woodpecker (C. abingoni)

1 in the thick forest at Abuko on 19/11.

Cardinal Woodpecker (Dendropicos fuscescens)

1 at Tanji on 24/11 was the only record.

Grey Woodpecker (D. goertae)

The commonest woodpecker. 2 at the cycle track on 18/11 & 20/11 with 1 there on 28/11, 3 at Abuko on 19/11 with 2 there on 29/11, 2 at Tanji on 20/11, 1 at Yundum on 21/11, 1 at Kisi Bolong on 26/11 and 1 at Bijilo on 28/11.

Brown-backed Woodpecker (D. obsoletus)

1 Brufut Woods on 30/11.

Chestnut-backed Finch-lark (Eremopterix leucotis)

3 Essau on 22/11. A pair were seen in a roadside field on 25/11 during a puncture stop, about 5 miles west of Brumein bridge.

Crested Lark (Galerida cristata)

1 on the beach near the hotel on 17/11, 2 at Tanji on 20/11 & 24/11 and 4 at Pirang on 25/11.

Sand Martin (Riparia riparia)

1 at Pirang on 25/11, 2 at Brumein bridge on 27/11, 1 Yundum airport on 1/12.

Red-chested Swallow (Hirundo lucida)

Usually c10 around the Kotu stream and also noted in small numbers at Yundum airport, Banjul, Bund Road, Pirang and Tendaba.

Wire-tailed Swallow (H. smithii)

1 at the Kotu bridge on 18/11 & 30/11, with c5 at Pirang on 25/11.

Pied-winged Swallow (H. leucosoma)

2 at Yundum on 21/11, 1 Tanji on 24/11, 10 at Pirang on 25/11, 1 Kisi Bolong on 26/11 and 4 at Abuko on 29/11.

Mosque Swallow (H. senegalensis)

On 25/11, 2 were seen well at Pirang shrimp farm, and another was seen a little further inland from the van.

Red-rumped Swallow (H. daurica)

c20 around Tendaba on 25/11 & 26/11.

House Martin (Delichon urbica)

c5 were seen at Pirang shrimp farm and 4 at Brumein bridge on 25/11.

Fanti Saw-wing (Psalidoprocne obscura)

3 at Abuko on 19/11 with c10 there on 29/11, 1 at Yundum on 21/11, 1 at Essau on 22/11, 3 at Tanji on 24/11 and 15 at Brufut on 30/11.

Plain-backed Pipit (Anthus leucophrys)

1 at Pirang on 25/11 and 2 on Tendaba airfield on 27/11.

Tree Pipit (A. trivialis)

1 behind Palma Rima hotel on 1/12.

Yellow Wagtail (Motacilla flava)

Most records were of birds calling in flight. 2 at Tanji on 20/11 but c25 there on 24/11, 2 at Essau on 22/11, 2 at Bund Road on 23/11, 4 at Pirang on 25/11 and 2 at Tendaba on 26/11.

White Wagtail (M. alba)

Uncommon. 2 at Banjul on 22/11, 1 at Bund Road on 23/11 and 5 around Tendaba on 26/11 & 27/11. 2 at Yundum airport on 1/12.

Red-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike (Campephaga phoenicea)

A female was seen in the Abuko extension on 29/11.

Common Bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus)

One of the commonest birds in the country, with up to 30 birds seen daily.

Little Greenbul (P. virens)

Only noted at Abuko, where 10 on 19/11 & 3 on 29/11.

Grey-headed Bristlebill (Bleda canicapilla)

1 was seen well in the main forest at Abuko on 19/11.

Nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos)

1-2 heard calling at Tanji on 20/11.

Snowy-crowned Robin Chat (Cossypha niveicapilla)

At least 1 was at Bijilo on 28/11 and 3 were seen at Abuko on 29/11.

White-crowned Robin Chat (C. albicapilla)

1 in the grounds on the Palma Rima hotel at dawn on 17/11 was the only record.

Redstart (Phoenicurus phoenicurus)

Singles were noted at Palma Rima on 17/11, Tanji on 20/11 and Abuko on 19/11 & 29/11 (2).

Whinchat (Saxicola rubetra)

3 at Yundum on 21/11 & 2 at Essau on 22/11.

Ant Chat (Myrmecocichla aethiops)

1 was seen a few 100m east of Essau on 22/11.

Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe)

1 was at Pirang shrimp farm on 25/11.

West African Thrush (Turdus (olivaceus/ pelios) chiguancoides)

Common at Abuko, where c30 on 19/11 & c10 on 29/11. Also, 1 at Yundum on 21/11, 3 at MRC grounds on 23/11, 3 at Tanji on 24/11 and 4 Brufut on 30/11.

Grasshopper Warbler (Locustella naevia)

1 by Palma Rima on 1/12, in tail moult. Rare in The Gambia?

Singing Cisticola (Cisticola cantans)

1 on the cycle track on 20/11, 21/11 & 2 there 30/11, with 2 at the Abuko extension on 29/11.

Winding Cisticola (C. galactotes)

1 near the Kotu stream on 18/11 & 28/11 and 2 at Pirang on 25/11.

Zitting Cisticola (C. juncidis)

1 along the cycle track on 21/11 & 24/11, 2 at the Bund Road on 23/11 and 2 at Pirang on 25/11.

Siffling Cisticola (C. brachyptera)

1 was seen well at Tanji on 20/11 & 24/11.

Tawny-flanked Prinia (Prinia subflava)

The commonest warbler; up to 5 noted on 9 dates in the coastal areas, but not up country.

Grey-backed Camaroptera (Camaroptera brevicaudata)

1 in the main forest at Abuko on 19/11, 1 Tanji on 24/11 and 3 Brufut on 30/11.

Smaller Green-backed Eremomela (Eremomela pusilla)

3 at Yundum on 21/11, 1 at Essau on 22/11, 1 at Tendaba on 26/11, 1 at Abuko on 29/11 and 1 Brufut on 30/11.

Northern Crombec (Sylvietta brachyura)

1 at Bijilo on 18/11, 2 (adult feeding juvenile) at Tanji on 24/11 and 1 at Abuko on 19/11 & 29/11. On 30/11, 1 on cycle track and 2 Brufut.

Moho (Hypergerus atriceps)

Singles at Abuko on 19/11 (where there was a nest in palms opposite the second hide) & Bijilo on 28/11.

Olivaceous Warbler (Hippolais pallida)

1 at Tanji on 20/11 with 5 there on 24/11, 1 Yundum on 21/11, 1 at Essau on 22/11, 1 at Bund Road and 2 near the MRC grounds on 23/11, 1 at Tendaba on 27/11 and 1 cycle track 30/11.

Melodious Warbler (H. polyglotta)

1 at Tanji & 1 at the cycle track on 20/11, 1 Yundum on 21/11, 2 at Tanji & 1 at the Palma Rima on 24/11, 1 at Brumein bridge on 25/11, 1 hotel on 28/11, 2 at Abuko on 29/11 and 2 Kotu stream and 2 Brufut on 30/11.

Subalpine Warbler (Sylvia cantillans)

1 at Tanji & 1 at the cycle track on 20/11, 3 at the Bund Road on 23/11, 2 at Pirang on 25/11, 1 at the Kotu stream on 28/11 and 3 there on 30/11.

Whitethroat (S. communis)

Singles at Tanji on 20/11 & 24/11 and at Abuko on 29/11.

Garden Warbler (S. borin)

1 in the Abuko extension on 29/11, 1 Brufut on 30/11.

Blackcap (S. atricapilla)

1 at Palma Rima on 17/11, 2 at Abuko on 19/11, 1 at the cycle track on 20/11 & 30/11, 3 at Essau/Barra on 22/11, 1 near the MRC grounds on 23/11 and 1 at Tendaba on 27/11.

Bonelli's Warbler (Phylloscopus bonelli)

Singles at Essau on 22/11 and at Tendaba on 27/11, 2 cycle track on 30/11.

Chiffchaff (P. collybita)

Singles at MRC grounds on 23/11 & Tendaba on 25/11. 2 Kotu stream on 30/11.

Willow Warbler (P. trochilus)

1 at the golf course on 17/11 & 2 at Yundum on 21/11.

Black Flycatcher (Melaenornis edolioides)

4 at Tanji on 20/11 & 24/11, 1 on the cycle track on 18/11 & 20/11 and 1 at Yundum on 20/11. 1 Brufut on 30/11.

Pied Flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca)

1 female-type in Abuko extension on 29/11.

Lead-coloured Flycatcher (Myioparus plumbeus)

1 Abuko extension on 29/11.

Senegal Batis (Batis senegalensis)

A pair were seen at Yundum on 21/11.

Scarlet-spectacled Wattle-eye (Platysteira cyanea)

3 at Abuko on 19/11 & 5 there on 29/11. Also, singles heard at Bund Road on 23/11, Tanji on 24/11, Tendaba on 25/11 & Kisi Bolong on 26/11.

African Paradise Flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis)

2 at Abuko on 19/11 & 1 there on 29/11, 1 Brufut on 30/11.

Red-bellied Paradise Flycatcher (T. rufiventer)

3 at Abuko on 19/11 & 2 there on 29/11.

Blackcap Babbler (Turdoides reinwardtii)

1 at Palma Rima on 16/11, 1 along the cycle track on 17/11 & 4 there on 18/11, 2 at the MRC grounds on 23/11 and 3 at Tanji on 24/11.

Brown Babbler (T. plebejus)

Commonly seen in small parties at all sites near to the coast, but not seen up country; up to 20 seen on 9 dates.

Yellow Penduline Tit (Anthoscopus parvulus)

At least 5 were seen at Yundum on 21/11.

Mouse-brown Sunbird (Anthreptes gabonicus)

At least 5, probably more, were seen along Kisi Bolong on 26/11.

Violet-backed Sunbird (A. longuemarei)

A flock of at least 5 were seen at Tanji on 24/11.

Collared Sunbird (A. collaris)

2 were seen at Abuko on 19/11.

Scarlet-chested Sunbird (Nectarinia senegalensis)

2 at Yundum on 21/11 and 1 at Essau on 22/11.

Variable Sunbird (N. venusta)

The second commonest sunbird, with up to 8 noted on 9 dates (max. 8 at Tanji on 24/11). Not noted up country.

Splendid Sunbird (N. coccinigastra)

Along the cycle track, 1 on 21/11, 2 at 24/11 and 3 on 18/11, 20/11 & 30/11. 5 Brufut on 30/11.

Beautiful Sunbird (N. pulchella)

Commonest sunbird; up to 6 seen every day (except for 27/11).

Yellow White-eye (Zosterops senegalensis)

At least 3 were seen on the edge of Tendaba village on 27/11.

African Golden Oriole (Oriolus auratus)

Singles at Tanji on 20/11, Yundum on 21/11 & Abuko on 29/11. 2 at Tendaba on 26/11.

Long-crested Helmet Shrike (Prionops plumata)

A flock of 8 of these stunning birds was seen at Tanji on 20/11.

Gambian Puff-back Shrike (Dryoscopus gambensis)

A pair were seen along Kisi Bolong on 26/11; also, a probable was briefly glimpsed at Tanji on 20/11.

Black-crowned Tchagra (Tchgra senegala)

1 at Tanji on 20/11 & 2 there on 24/11, 2 at Yundum on 21/11 and 1 by the Kotu stream on 30/11. 1 Brufut on 30/11.

Common Gonolek (Laniarus barbarus)

A common but skulking bird throughout, usually only heard. Up to 10 were noted on 12 dates.

Yellow-billed Shrike (Corvinella corvina)

Common throughout; up to 10 birds noted daily.

Woodchat Shrike (Lanius senator)

2 at Essau on 22/11 & 1 at Tanji on 24/11.

Fork-tailed Drongo (Dicrurus adsimilis)

Relatively common, with 2-3 noted on 7 dates and 6 on 21/11. Noted at the cycle track, Tanji, Yundum, MRC grounds, Pirang, Tendaba and Abuko.

Piapiac (Ptilostomus afer)

Common in the Kotu area, especially on the golf course, but not seen at any other sites. Up to 20 noted on 10 dates, but c60 on 18/11.

Pied Crow (Corvus albus)

Very common in the coastal areas, but not up country; not recorded at all on 26/11 when at Tendaba all day. Up to 40 were seen most days, but a large flock of c100 flew over Yundum airport on 16/11.

[Glossy Starlings (Lamprotornis spp.)]

Largely due to the poor quality of the books for the area, many of these were left unidentified. We didn't record Splendid or Bronze-winged Glossy Starlings for certain, but possibly did see both of these also. Even our guide seemed to struggle with them, and we didn't accept his identifications at face value.]

Purple Glossy Starling (Lamprotornis purpureus)

Birds identified as this species were as follows: 3 at Senegambia hotel on 18/11, 10 along cycle track on 20/11, 2 Yundum on 21/11, 1 at MRC grounds on 24/11, around Tendaba on 25/11 (4), 26/11 (c10) & 27/11 (c5), and c10 at Abuko on 29/11.

Greater Blue-eared Glossy Starling (L. chalybaeus)

Only recorded at Tendaba, where 1 on 25/11 & c5 on 26/11.

Lesser Blue-eared Glossy Starling (L. chloropterus)

3 (including 1 moulting out of juvenile plumage) were at the Senegambia hotel on 18/11 and 1 was at Tendaba airfield on 26/11.

Long-tailed Glossy Starling (L. caudatus)

The commonest and most identifiable starling; up to 30 were noted daily throughout the country.

Chestnut-bellied Starling (Spreo pulcher)

3 were on wires by the side of Yundum football pitch on 27/11.

Yellow-billed Oxpecker (Buphagus africanus)

4 at Essau on 22/11, 3 at Pirang on 25/11, 8 at Tendaba airfield on 26/11 & 4 seen by the roadside on 27/11. Always associated with livestock.

Senegal Indigobird (Vidua chalybeata)

A pair were seen from Tendaba camp's swimming pool, in the surrounding trees, on 26/11.

Pin-tailed Whydah (V. macroura)

Single females or non-breeding males were seen near the American embassy building on 23/11, at Tendaba on 27/11, Brufut on 30/11 and airport on 1/12.

Buffalo Weaver (Bubalornis albirostris)

20 at Yundum on 21/11, 5 at Essau on 22/11, c20 were seen by the roadside on 25/11 & 27/11, c30 were around Tendaba & Kisi Bolong on 26/11 and a nesting colony of c30 was at Abuko extension on 29/11.

Chestnut-crowned Sparrow Weaver (Plocepasser superciliosus)

1 was seen well in a large tree east of Essau on 22/11; when it flew, it was accompanied by 2 others also.

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)

Small numbers were seen most days, mostly around the hotels but also at Yundum airport and Banjul.

Grey-headed Sparrow (P. griseus)

Common throughout the country, with up to 20 birds noted daily.

Bush Petronia (Petronia dentata)

1 at Essau on 22/11 and at Tendaba on 25/11 (5), 26/11 (10) & 27/11 (10).

Scaly-fronted Weaver (Sporopipes frontalis)

1 was seen poorly, at a distance, at Essau on 22/11.

Little Weaver (Ploceus luteolus/ pelzelni)

Good views of 1 (not a breeding male) at Yundum on 21/11, feeding in top of an acacia like a warbler.

Spectacled Weaver (P. nigricollis/ ocularis)

2 were at the Palma Rima hotel on 16/11 and 1 was nearby on the cycle track on 20/11. At Abuko, c30 on 19/11 & 1 on 29/11.

Vitelline Masked Weaver (P. vitellinus/velatus)

Single males were at Yundum on 21/11 & Essau on 22/11.

Village Weaver (P. cucullatus)

The commonest weaver, with up to c100 seen daily throughout the country.

Red Bishop (Euplectes orix)

Most males were still in immaculate plumage at the beginning of the trip, but some were losing it a bit by the end. Regularly noted around the Kotu area, as well as at Yundum and Essau.

Black-winged Red Bishop (E.hordeacea)

1 full-plumaged male & 2-3 female/imms. at top of Kotu stream on 30/11. The fem/imms. were bulkier, larger billed, plainer faced and had plainer mantle and wings than the Red Bishops.

Yellow-mantled Widowbird (E. macrourus)

2 breeding-plumaged males were at Yundum on 21/11.

Crimson-winged Pytilia (Pytilia phoenicoptera)

1 was seen at Abuko photo-hide on 19/11.

Senegal Firefinch (Lagonosticta senegala)

Common throughout, with up to 10 noted daily.

Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu (Uraeginthus bengalus)

Common throughout the coastal areas, with 1-5 noted daily, but not recorded up country.

Lavender Waxbill (Estrilda caerulescens)

Most were seen at the Palma Rima hotel, with 1 on 16/11, 6 on 17/11, 2 on 24/11 and 2 on 28/11. Also, 3 near the MRC grounds on 23/11, 3 at Tanji on 24/11 & 1 at Abuko on 29/11.

Orange-cheeked Waxbill (E. melpoda)

2 were seen by the drinking pool near the hyena enclosure at Abuko on 19/11 & 29/11.

Black-rumped Waxbill (E. troglodytes)

c10 were seen near Tendaba peanut compound on 26/11.

Quailfinch (Ortygospiza atricollis)

11 were seen, in flight only, at Pirang on 25/11.

African Silverbill (Lonchura cantans)

2 at the Kotu Strand hotel on 18/11, 1 near the American embassy on 23/11, 2 along the cycle track on 30/11 and 1 at the Senegambia hotel on 30/11.

Bronze Mannikin (L. cucullata)

Common at most of the coastal sites, but not seen up country or at Barra/Essau. Often seen in small flocks, with max. estimated as c50 on 23/11.

Cut-throat (Amadina fasciata)

Only seen around Tendaba. On 26/11, pairs were at the peanut compound and the airfield and on 27/11, 4 were at the airfield.

White-rumped Seedeater (Serinus leucopygius)

At least 3 were around Barra and 1 Essau on 22/11.

Yellow-fronted Canary (S. mozambicus)

4 seen at Yundum on 21/11 and 2 Brufut on 30/11.