Africa - Algeria

Algeria is the second largest country in Africa and much of the interior is unexplored ornithologically. With over 400 species recorded including the endemic Algerian Nuthatch Sitta ledanti (found at Djebel Babor and Parc National de Taza) and some of the most important wetlands in the Mediterranean area, there is much to interest the visiting birder. Although Algeria's security situation is stabilising, there are still travel risks but French birdwatchers have been visiting the country again since 2002.

Algeria's wetlands, in particular those along the coast and on the plateau south of Constantine, are of huge importance for migratory and resident waterbirds including three globally threatened species Marbled Teal Marmaronetta angustirostris, Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca and White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala. The coastline and offshore islands are significant for breeding seabirds notably Audouin's Gull Larus audouinii. Text supplied by the African Bird Club

Marbled Teal © Gary Thoburn, from the surfbirds galleries