Photos with this report (click to enlarge) | |||
 Gabela Helmet-shrike |
 Red-crested Turaco |
 Ludwig’s Double-collared Sunbird |
|
 McKinnon's Shrike |
 White-tailed Shrike |
 Angola Slaty-Flycatcher |
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Angola holds about 30 special birds but was unsafe for over 30 years due to civil war. This ended in 2002 but as the infrastructure had been largely destroyed and some of the country land-mined, few birders have visited. In Oct 2003 Claire Spottiswoode, Callan Cohen and Michael Mills had a successful short visit, and were followed by Adam Riley of Rockjumper in Nov 2004, Ian Sinclair in Jan 2005 and Nik Borrow with BirdQuest in Nov/Dec 2005. Both Adam and Nik stated that the roads were the worst they had ever encountered. Since then no other group has been as the only ground agent was killed in a car crash and only now are the roads being upgraded as the country struggles to recover. The other problem is that despite widespread poverty, everything is very expensive, apart from essential food and drink. I decided to join a Rockjumper recce tour www.rockjumperbirding.com because I had long wanted to go there and it was relatively cheap, short and led by David Hoddinott whom I knew to be an excellent guide. Neil Bostock agreed to join me, the other participants being Daniel Mirecki from London and Dennis Jordan and Irene Rasmussen from South Africa. The trip was a success in that we saw all the key birds at the sites visited with two exceptions, Monteiro’s Bushshrike and Pulitzer’s Longbill. We camped every night except one, Neil and I sharing a tent. Facilities were good and food excellent, all organized by Eben Delport and wife from Walvis Bay, Namibia. They had driven with their crew of two and David Hoddinott from Namibia in two 4x4s to meet us in Luanda. The roads were a varied mixture from good tarmac to diabolical, with baked mud with deep pot-holes. The trip was timed to be at the start of the rainy season when birds would be vocal but not wet enough to seriously upset travel. In the event it was probably too dry as some birds were not very vocal, but at least the roads were not excessively muddy, although deep pot-holes were still problematic in places.
Visa
The first major hurdle was getting a visa because we only had a few weeks to apply for it and did not realize how tortuous the process was, at least in UK. To cut a long story short, it was necessary to spend all morning at the Angola Embassy in London on a Mon or Tues (09.30-13.00) with passport and the various papers needed – see www.angola.org.uk, to see someone who checked that they were in order before faxing them to Angola for official approval. Maria Estrela was very helpful there after I was repeatedly fobbed off by someone else. We did get the passports back with visas just in time 2 or 3 weeks later, after giving the Embassy a Prepaid Special Delivery Self Addressed envelope in addition to the £40 fee.
Sites
There are some 30 birds either endemic or very difficult to see anywhere else accessible, and only one good bird guide - Pedro vaz Pinto. We basically visited three sites to the south of Luanda: Kissama NP, Kumbira forest and Tundavala Escarpment with a day trip to Namibe. There is one other key site here, Mount Moco, which we passed when driving from Kumbira to Lubango. The other important area we did not visit is the Calandula region, northeast of Luanda.
Doing it alone may be possible as it seems safe and friendly now but the problem would be the language, particularly in the more remote parts, and there is still a risk from land mines in some areas. You would have to be prepared to camp and self-cater, and transport could be time-consuming. The northern part of Kissama could be visited with a hire car. There is ample accommodation and a restaurant, but all very expensive, which is why we camped. Tundavala and Namibe should be easy to reach by bus to Lubango, but the big problems in the south are Kumbira where most of the endemics are and Mt Moco, both of which are tricky to locate. Kumbira is best accessed by turning south to Conda at Mile 17 on the Gabela Road. A track leaves Conda on its north-western side and skirts the northern end of Njelo Mountain. It enters secondary forest and abandoned coffee plantations after about 5 km, and reaches the village of Kumbira Primero (11˚08.2'S 14˚17.8'E) after 8 km. It should be possible to hire a guide into the forest here and get permission to camp. Access by car is said to be only possible during the dry season, from April to late October. If you can hike up to above the tree-line the Tundavala specials such as Cave Chat can also be found.
Braun’s Bush-shrike Laniarius brauni and White-headed Robin-chat Cossypha heinrichi were found by Sinclair et al in Uige Province 30 km north of Calandula, with Black-tailed Cisticola and Anchieta's Barbet in nearby miombo woodland. The road most of the way is good now apparently.
Itinerary
14th October: Luanda transfer to Kissama National Park via Kwanzo River.
15th October: Kissama NP north all day.
16th October: Drive through Kissama NP to the southern section.
17th October: Kissama to Kumbira forest via coastal Sumbe, along the wide floodplain of the Queve River into the rainforest zone on the Gabela road.
18th & 19th October: Kumbira forest, Gabela.
20th & 21st October: Kumbira forest to Lubango. After early morning birding, drive all day and night to Lubango and a further 16km to the Tundavala Escarpment. After exploration here, drive to the Leba Escarpment to camp.
22nd October: Day trip to Namibe and return.
23rd October: Lubango to Luanda to Johannesburg.
The rest of this report is an expanded and edited version of what was written by David Hoddinott - see
http://www.rockjumperbirding.com/wp-content/media/Trip-Report-Angola-Oct-20101.pdf
Trip log
The meeting point was Jo’burg airport for the morning flight to Luanda. We met Daniel there but the Dennis and Irene missed the flight because, as we later discovered, their flight from Durban was diverted due to bad weather! They joined us a day later. We arrived at Luanda at almost the same time as a BA flight from London, which might have been a cheaper and quicker option but would not have given us the opportunity for some birding in South Africa after the tour. It took a long time to get through Immigration – we should have joined the Diplomatic line, as all of the substantial number of Chinese did. We were met by David and the crew of 4 from Namibia. From the airport we made our way through the bustling Angolan capital, inhabited by 4-5 million, showing signs of a growing economy with many new buildings and lots of construction underway. After slowly easing our way through the hectic traffic and out of the city we managed a brief stop along the mudflats and picked up Greater Flamingo and African Spoonbill. Our first major stop en route to Kissama National Park was the Kwanzo River and here we enjoyed great views of our first endemic, Bubbling Cisticola, and several Angola Swallows, plus the first of many Palmnut Vultures.
Kissama National Park protects an area of approximately 1.2 million hectares. The habitat is predominantly vast areas of thicket studded with large Acacia trees and some very impressive Baobabs. On its northern border it is flanked by the vast wetlands and mangrove swamps of the Kwanzo River. Mammals have been reintroduced to the park since their populations were decimated during the civil war. On entering the park we found we had it to ourselves, with very little traffic other than construction vehicles working on the roads. We spent considerable time birding the thickets around our camp and the gallery forest along the Kwanzo River. With the help of local guides we had good views of the shy Grey-striped Francolin, a highly sought-after endemic, along with White-fronted Wattle-eye, Angola Batis, Red-backed Mousebird (must surely be the commonest endemic), a large flock of Golden-backed Bishops, Rufous-tailed Palm-Thrush, Black-bellied Bustard, Rüppell’s Parrot, Violet Wood-Hoopoe, Pallid Honeyguide, Bearded Woodpecker, Brown-crowned Tchagra, Swamp Boubou, Carp’s Black Tit, Green Crombec and migrant Spotted Flycatcher.
From here we headed south along a sandy track to the remote and seldom visited southern sector of the park. It was very dry due to recent drought conditions; hence birding activity was particularly low. On finally arriving at our destination we set up camp near a dry riverbed and birded for 4 hours after lunch. Very little was seen apart from a splendid Martial Eagle and a large troop of Samango Monkeys. The following morning, however, we were soon watching a small flock of the very rarely seen Gabela Helmetshrikes – our main target. We headed back for breakfast, finding Black Scimitarbill nearby, and birded for an hour while the camp was “broken”. I found the Helmetshrikes again, feeding in a baobab and photogenic this time. Bidding farewell to Kissama, we made our way to Gabela, a long haul south via coastal Sumbe where the crew stocked up on supplies, then stopped to view the spectacular Queve Falls before we reached the town of Conda. We saw Mottled and Böhm’s Spinetails, several Bateleurs, a pair of African Hawk-Eagle and Wattled Starlings on the way. The great Kumbira forest, situated on the western side of Njelo Mountain, loomed out of the mist, appearing a lot closer than it proved to be. The entry road was very poor and slow-going, so it was dusk by the time we reached the camp site, our home for the next three nights, near a mission hacienda and a football field.
In the morning we were soon watching a stunning Red-crested Turaco sunning itself atop a large dead tree. During our two full days in this badly hacked forest we saw a good selection of sought-after species, including African Broadbill displaying, the stunning Yellow-bellied Wattle-eye, Gabela and Four-coloured (Perrin’s) Bushshrikes, Yellow-throated Nicator, Falkenstein’s and Pale-olive Greenbuls, Hartert’s Camaroptera, Gabela Akalat, Forest Scrub-Robin and Black-faced Canary. Notable absentees were Pulitzer’s Longbill and Monteiro’s Bushshrike – neither of which were heard calling. Other interesting species seen in the area included African Goshawk, Crowned Eagle – a pair displaying, Blue Malkoha, Trumpeter Hornbill, Western Tinkerbird, Hairy-breasted and Yellow-billed Barbets, Elliot’s and Brown-eared Woodpeckers, Chestnut Wattle-eye, Many-coloured Bushshrike, Pink-footed Puffback, Petit’s Cuckooshrike, Dusky Tit, Red-tailed Bristlebill, Southern Hyliota, Fraser’s Rufous-Thrush, Brown-chested Alethe, Carmelite and Superb Sunbirds, Brown-capped Weaver, Red-faced Crimsonwing, Red-headed Bluebill and Orange-cheeked Waxbill.
After a final early morning effort for the longbill, we made our way slowly back along the arduous entry road. Shortly after leaving, the tow-hitch broke off the back of the vehicle that was pulling the trailer and so we had to switch the trailer to another vehicle, which took two hours or so. Whilst repairs were in progress we did find a male Bannerman’s Sunbird, another sought-after species. Since this was a short tour we knew we had a very long drive down to the south, to the great Tundavala Escarpment 760km away. Some of the route was on recently tarred roads, in good condition, but there was a really bad section that took several hours to complete. En route we saw an African Marsh Harrier that was well out of range, a Grey Kestrel and a pair of Small Buttonquails, which obligingly walked slowly across the road in front of us. After a mammoth all day and night journey, we finally arrived at the Tundavala Escarpment (2200 metres asl) at 5a.m.to a gorgeous dawn. The most dramatic scenery in the country was here - huge cliffs dropping over 1,000m onto the coastal plain below. Everyone’s spirits lifted as we were soon watching Ludwig’s Double-collared and Oustalet’s Sunbirds. Then a scarce Angola Slaty Flycatcher appeared, shortly followed by Yellow-crowned Canary. Other species seen here included the striking Angola Cave Chat, several Short-toed Rock-Thrushes, Landana Firefinch, Angola Swee Waxbill and 100s of Alpine and Mottled Swifts. As we had seen all the key birds here, we dropped down to the peaceful southern city of Lubango, that had escaped the ravages of the war, and camped along the breath-taking Leba Escarpment at 1600m. After relaxing around here, seeing a few birds such as White-tailed Shrike, we drove back to Lubango, stopping for Fülleborn's Longclaw, and then up towards Tundavala to look for miombo woodland which could hold other species we had not seen. Unfortunately, it appeared to have all been chopped down since Adam was here 6 years ago.
The following day we took one of the best roads in Angola for some 100km down to the seaside village of Namibe, a fascinating drive from the high escarpments to the northern Namib Desert coastline. The scenery became progressively more arid until we entered the Namib Desert’s gravel plains. A significant number of near-endemics shared by Namibia and Angola occur along this route and were the main focus of our birding here. Some of the species seen included Pale Chanting Goshawk, Rosy-faced Lovebird, Bradfield’s Swift, Monteiro’s and Damara Red-billed Hornbills, Acacia Pied and Black-collared Barbets, Carp’s Black Tit, Benguela Long-billed and Gray’s Larks, Bare-cheeked Babbler, Meves’s and Pale-winged Starlings, Tractrac Chat and Cinderella Waxbill. On our final morning we transfered to Lubango airport for our flight back to Luanda, saying farewell to our superb Namibian crew. We then had a lengthy wait for our international flight to Jo’burg and spent some of it birding outside the airport, with Red-backed Mousebird, Palmnut Vulture, two large swifts amongst the many Little and White-rumped, Wire-tailed Swallow and White-breasted Sunbird. On arrival, Neil and I were picked up by nearby Backpackers Lodge and spent the following two days birding with a hire-car, successfully seeing African Grass-Owl, Taita Falcon, Cape Parrot and Short-clawed Lark.
http://jonathanhornbuckle.webs.com/
BIRDS: Gill, F. and M.Wright. 2010. IOC Birds of the World: Recommended English Names. Princeton NJ: Princeton University Press. Version 2.6 generated on 10-01-2010. When the taxonomy differs from that of Clement’s, the Clement’s name is in brackets or differences explained in a note below the species.
E = Endemic, NE = Near-endemic
Common Ostrich Struthio camelus
An introduced pair in Kissama NP.
Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris
10 at Tundavala.
Grey-striped Francolin (E) Pternistis griseostriatus
One seen well at Kissama NP and 2 singles seen fleetingly by others at Kissama South and Kumbira Forest.
Hartlaub’s Spurfowl (Francolin) (NE) Pternistis hartlaubi
One was heard calling on the Leba Scarp.
Red-necked Spurfowl (Francolin) Pternistis afer
This is Angola’s most widespread and commonly seen francolin - first recorded in Kissama NP, with another on the day trip down to Namibe.
Yellow-billed Duck Anas undulata
One flying overhead near the Leba Scarp.
Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus
50 on the mudflats en route from Luanda to Kissama.
Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus
Two at a floodplain en route from Kissama to Conda.
African Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus
Three birds near Luanda.
African Spoonbill Platalea alba
One on the mudflats en route from Luanda to Kissama.
Striated Heron Butorides striata
One in Kissama NP and another on the day trip to Namibe.
[Western] Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis
A flock of six in Luanda with scattered sightings elsewhere.
NOTE: This group is sometimes split into 2 species, the nominate Western Cattle Egret and the Asian/Australasian Eastern Cattle Egret (E. coromanda). This split is not recognised by Clements.
Grey Heron Ardea cinerea
One bird en route to Kissama NP and two between Kissama and Conda.
Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala
Two birds near the Leba escarpment.
Goliath Heron Ardea goliath
One flying over the wetland in Kissama NP.
Purple Heron Ardea purpurea
One near the Kwanzo River.
Little Egret Egretta garzetta
One bird en route to Kissama NP.
Hamerkop Scopus umbretta
One near Conda with further sightings near the Leba escarpment and on the Namibe day trip.
Reed (Long-tailed) Cormorant Microcarbo africanus
One during the drive from Kissama to Conda.
Black-winged (-shouldered) Kite Elanus caeruleus
Small numbers of this widespread raptor were seen at scattered sites throughout the tour.
African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer
One at the Kwanzo River, several in Kissama NP and 1 en route to Conda.
Palmnut Vulture Gypohierax angolensis
Common with almost daily sightings throughout the tour.
Hooded Vulture Necrosyrtes monachus
Two in Kissama NP.
Black-chested Snake Eagle Circaetus pectoralis
One in Kissama NP and another during the drive to Namibe.
Brown Snake Eagle Circaetus cinereus
One in Kissama NP.
Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus
Two in Kissama NP and a further four en route to Conda.
African Marsh Harrier Circus ranivorus
One between Conda and Tundavala - rarely recorded in Angola.
African Harrier-Hawk (Gymnogene) Polyboroides typus
First seen in Kissama NP with almost daily sightings thereafter.
Pale Chanting Goshawk Melierax canorus
Two near Namibe. This is near the northern limit of its range.
Gabar Goshawk Micronisus gabar
One in Kissama NP.
African Goshawk Accipiter tachiro
Singles seen on all three days at Kumbira Forest.
Shikra Accipiter badius
Singles in Kumbira Forest and en route from Kumbira Forest to Tundavala.
Little Sparrowhawk Accipiter minullus
One in Kissama NP.
Lizard Buzzard Kaupifalco monogrammicus
Five were seen during the tour, most around Kumbira Forest.
Augur Buzzard Buteo augur
One in Kissama NP and 3 on the Leba Escarpment.
African Hawk-Eagle Aquila spilogaster
A pair in southern Kissama NP.
Wahlberg's Eagle Aquila wahlbergi
One during the Namibe day trip.
Martial Eagle Polemaetus bellicosus
Fine views of a sub-adult in Kissama NP.
Long-crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis
Several at Kumbira Forest.
Crowned Eagle Stephanoaetus coronatus
A pair initially heard calling were seen flying over Kumbira Forest.
Rock Kestrel Falco rupicolus
Two in Kissama NP with others on the trip to Namibe.
NOTE: Clements has not split the distinctive Rock Kestrel, F. rupicolis of southern and central Africa, from the more widespread migrant Common Kestrel, F. tinnunculus, which is accepted by some authorities.
Grey Kestrel Falco ardosiaceus
Singles en route from Kissama to Conda and on the drive from Conda to Tundavala.
Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus
One during the day trip to Namibe.
Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus
A single in Kissama NP.
Black-bellied Bustard (Korhaan) Lissotis melanogaster
Two males in Kissama NP.
Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostra
Good views of one during the day trip to Namibe.
Common/Small (Kurrichane) Buttonquail Turnix sylvaticus
A pair walked across the road near Conda.
African Wattled Lapwing Vanellus senegallus
One near the Leba Escarpment.
Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus
One on the mudflats en route from Luanda to Kissama NP.
Royal Tern Thalasseus maximus
Up to twenty off Porto Amboim.
Common Tern Sterna hirundo
One bird off Porto Amboim.
Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata
Several in Kissama NP and 2 during the day trip to Namibe.
Ring-necked (Cape Turtle-) Dove Streptopelia capicola
Widespread and common throughout, particularly in the drier woodlands.
Laughing (Palm) Dove Spilopelia senegalensis
Only recorded in western Angola at Luanda and Namibe.
Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos
A few at Kissama NP and en route to Namibe.
Blue-spotted Wood Dove Turtur afer
Only heard at Kumbira Forest.
African Green Pigeon Treron calvus
One at Kissama NP and up to 20 at Kumbira Forest and during the Namibe trip.
Rosy-faced Lovebird (NE) Agapornis roseicollis
One near Namibe.
Rüppell’s Parrot (NE) Poicephalus rueppellii
Several in Kissama NP and six during the Namibe day trip. A localized species endemic to Namibia and Angola.
Red-crested Turaco (E) Tauraco erythrolophus
Excellent views of this spectacular Angolan endemic at Kumbira Forest, with at least 5 on the first day but more often heard than seen.
Grey Go-away-bird (Lourie) Corythaixoides concolor
Up to thirty in Kissama NP and one en route to Namibe.
Gabon Coucal Centropus anselli
A very elusive species, heard at Kumbira Forest and only seen by JH.
Senegal Coucal Centropus senegalensis
One in Kissama NP.
White-browed Coucal Centropus superciliosus
Three sightings at scattered localities, the best being one en route from Kissama to Conda.
NOTE: Clements and IOC do not recognize the split of the southern dark-browed Burchell’s Coucal C. burchelli from the northerly White-browed Coucal C. superciliosus. We recorded the latter form.
Blue Malkoha (Yellowbill) Ceuthmochares aereus
This skulking species was seen well in Kumbira Forest.
NOTE: Yellowbill is sometimes split into two species, Green Malkoha (C. australis) occurring in southeastern Africa and Blue Malkoha (C. aereus) of Central and Western Africa. We observed the latter form. Clements does not recognize this split.
Klaas's Cuckoo Chrysococcyx klaas
One seen at Kissama NP and 2 at Kumbira Forest where it was frequently heard.
African Emerald Cuckoo Chrysococcyx cupreus
This forest and forest edge species was heard only at Kumbira Forest.
Olive Long-tailed Cuckoo Cercococcyx olivinus
Heard calling from our camp in Kumbira Forest.
Red-chested Cuckoo Cuculus solitarius
One adult was seen in Kissama NP.
[Western] Barn Owl Tyto alba
One was heard and seen briefly at the Leba Escarpment.
African Wood Owl Strix woodfordii
A pair was heard calling near our camp in Kumbira Forest.
Rufous-cheeked Nightjar Caprimulgus rufigena
Three during the drive from Conda to Tundavala.
Fiery-necked Nightjar Caprimulgus pectoralis
One at Kissama NP.
Mottled Spinetail Telacanthura ussheri
Several in Kissama NP.
Böhm’s (Bat-like) Spinetail Neafrapus boehmi
Several in Kissama NP.
African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus
Fairly common in any area where large palms occur and recorded almost daily, with highest counts
of 20+ in Kissama NP.
Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba
At least thirty at the Tundavala Escarpment and several on the Leba Scarp.
Mottled Swift Tachymarptis aequatorialis
A large flock at the Tundavala Escarpment.
Swift sp (NE) Apus sp
Up to thirty large swifts daily over Kissama NP were initially thought to be Mottled but were considered to be the enigmatic swifts breeding on buildings in Luanda (and probably cliffs elsewhere in the area). They are very large all dark swifts with notched inner wings. Sinclair et al attribute them to Fernando Po Swift A.sladeniae that Clements considers a form of African Swift A. barbatus, but they are definitely NOT this species (N. Borrow pers com). No specimens have ever been collected and further work may prove it to be a new species.
Bradfield’s Swift (NE) Apus bradfieldi
A flock of fifteen at the Leba Escarpment.
Little Swift Apus affinis
Seen at many localities, particularly large numbers were recorded during the drive from Kissama NP
to Conda.
White-rumped Swift Apus caffer
Several near Luanda and a few in Kissama NP.
Red-backed Mousebird (E) Colius castanotus
Many sightings including several at the airport in Luanda. The commonest of the
Angolan endemics.
Red-faced Mousebird Urocolius indicus
Flocks of these social mousebirds were seen in the dry country of Kissama NP and en
route to Namibe.
Narina Trogon Apaloderma narina
One was heard calling at Kumbira Forest.
Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudatus
Several were seen in Kissama NP.
NOTE: The Ethiopian C. c. lorti might be split as Blue-breasted Roller.
Brown-hooded Kingfisher Halcyon albiventris
One en route from Kissama NP to Conda.
Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti
Two on both full days in Kissama NP.
Blue-breasted Kingfisher Halcyon malimbica
Only heard in dense forest along the Kwanzo River.
Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis
Three in Kissama NP.
African Pygmy-Kingfisher Ispidina picta
Several in Kissama NP and Kumbira Forest.
Malachite Kingfisher Corythornis cristatus
One on the day trip to Namibe.
Swallow-tailed Bee-eater Merops hirundineus
Singles in Kissama NP and during the trip to Namibe.
Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus
Fairly common throughout the Northern region, with 2 during the trip to Namibe.
Olive (Madagascar) Bee-eater Merops superciliosus
A few in Kissama NP and six en route to Namibe.
European Bee-eater Merops apiaster
A flock of ten in Kissama NP.
African (Eurasian) Hoopoe Upupa africana
Good views of one during the trip to Namibe.
NOTE: The Hoopoe complex has had a confusing taxonomic history, with one to four species being recognised by various authorities. Clements splits the group into two forms, Madagascar (U. marginalis) and Eurasian (U. epops). The white-winged African form is often split by other authorities as West African Hoopoe (U. senegalensis) with the fourth species, the one we observed, being African Hoopoe (U. africana). However, the most generally accepted treatment is that of three species, Madagascar, Eurasian and African.
Violet Wood Hoopoe (NE) Phoeniculus damarensis
Small numbers daily in Kissama NP.
Black Scimitarbill Rhinopomastus aterrimus
Three in Kissama NP.
Crowned Hornbill Tockus alboterminatus
A few daily in Kissama NP and fairly common in Kumbira Forest.
Monteiro’s Hornbill Tockus monteiri
A pair during the drive to Namibe.
Damara Red-billed Hornbill (NE) Tockus damarensis
A single of this dark-eyed, white faced hornbill was seen in dry country near Namibe.
NOTE: Some authorities split the Red-billed Hornbill complex into 5 full species, nominate Northern from northern Tanzania to Mali, Damara T. damarensis of northern Namibia and southern Angola, Southern T. rufirostris of southern and south-central Africa, Tanzanian T. ruahae of central Tanzania and Western T. kempi of Senegamibia. Clements does not recognize these splits.
Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill (NE) Tockus leucomelas
Up to ten daily in Kissama NP and others in the dry area en route to Namibe.
NOTE: The diminutive Angolan dry-country form of this widespread species may represent a new species of hornbill based on differences in soft parts, plumage and vocalization.
Trumpeter Hornbill Bycanistes bucinator
At least four in Kumbira Forest of this rarely recorded species in the area.
Western Tinkerbird Pogoniulus coryphaeus
Singles at Kumbira Forest and at the Leba Escarpment.
Yellow-rumped (Golden-rumped) Tinkerbird Pogoniulus bilineatus
Two at Kumbira Forest.
Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus chrysoconus
One on the Tundavala Escarpment.
Hairy-breasted Barbet Tricholaema hirsuta
Two singles seen with others heard at Kumbira Forest. The Kumbira birds represent an isolated population not recorded in any pre-war literature.
NOTE: This species is sometimes split into two species, the nominate form restricted to Upper Guinea and Streaky-throated Barbet T. flavipunctata of west-central Africa. We recorded the latter form.
Acacia Pied Barbet (NE) Tricholaema leucomelas
One was heard in Kissama NP and another seen in dry woodlands near Namibe.
Black-collared Barbet Lybius torquatus
Three en route to Namibe.
Yellow-billed Barbet Trachyphonus purpuratus
This strange forest barbet with a deep hooting call was heard and seen at Kumbira Forest.
Greater Honeyguide Indicator indicator
Singles at Kissama NP and en route to Namibe.
Pallid Honeyguide Indicator meliphilus
One of this uncommonly recorded honeyguide was seen well in Kissama NP.
Golden-tailed Woodpecker Campethera abingoni
One in Kissama NP.
Brown-eared Woodpecker Campethera caroli
Four in Kumbira Forest.
Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens
A few in Kissama NP.
Bearded Woodpecker Dendropicos namaquus
A male in Kissama NP.
Elliot’s Woodpecker Dendropicos elliotii
Two singles in Kumbira Forest.
African Broadbill Smithornis capensis
Three separate sightings of a male performing its circular display flight in Kumbira Forest; heard at the South Kissama camp-site.
Chinspot Batis Batis molitor
One seen at Tundavala.
Angola Batis (NE) Batis minulla
Several in Kissama NP and Kumbira Forest.
White-tailed Shrike (NE) Lanioturdus torquatus
Commonly on the Leba Scarp and the plains below, with eight seen in a few hours. Another species traditionally regarded as only to be seen in Namibia.
White-fronted Wattle-eye (E) Platysteira albifrons
Six in Kissama NP.
Chestnut Wattle-eye Platysteira castanea
A male and female in Kumbira Forest.
Yellow-bellied Wattle-eye Platysteira concreta
Up to five daily in Kumbira Forest.
White-crested Helmetshrike Prionops plumatus
Several flocks in Kissama NP.
Gabela (Angola) Helmetshrike (E) Prionops gabela
A flock of five was observed in the dry riverbed near our southern campsite in Kissama NP - arguably the prize find of the tour, a species seen by few people.
Grey-headed Bushshrike Malaconotus blanchoti
One heard during the drive to Namibe.
Many-coloured Bushshrike Chlorophoneus multicolor
One in Kumbira Forest.
Orange-breasted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus
First seen in Kissama NP with further sightings at Kumbira Forest.
Gorgeous (Perrin’s) Bushshrike (NE) Telophorus viridis
A male of this localized form occurring only in remote parts of Africa was observed in Kumbira Forest.
NOTE: This species is currently lumped by Clements with Four-coloured Bushshrike (T. quadricolor) of East and
Southern Africa. Some authorities regard these birds as separate species.
Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis
Two in Kissama NP and seen during the trip to Namibe.
Pink-footed Puffback Dryoscopus angolensis
This generally uncommon forest puffback was pleasantly common in Kumbira Forest.
Black-backed Puffback Dryoscopus cubla
First seen in Kissama NP, thereafter at all other major sites visited.
Gabela Bushshrike (E) Laniarius amboimensis
This attractive endemic was commonly heard in Kumbira Forest and two were seen.
NOTE: This species of the Gabela or Southern Angolan scarp and Braun’s Bushshrike L. brauni were lumped with the similar Luehder’s Bushshrike L. luehderi. This three way split is now recognized by most authorities.
Tropical Boubou Laniarius aethiopicus
One during the drive to Namibe.
Swamp (Gabon) Boubou Laniarius bicolor
Up to 10 in Kissama NP and singles on the Leba Scarp.
Petit’s Cuckooshrike Campephaga petiti
A few pairs were seen in Kumbira Forest. The females are particularly distinctive.
Mackinnon’s Shrike Lanius mackinnoni
A pair was nest-building material at Kumbira Forest.
Common Fiscal (Shrike) Lanius collaris
Several near the Leba Escarpment with further sightings of the race subcoronatus during the trip to Namibe.
NOTE: The form L. marwitzi is sometimes split off as Uhehe Fiscal occurring in East Africa.
Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus
This widespread woodland species was observed in Kissama NP and Kumbira Forest.
Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis
A few in Kissama NP and en route to Namibe.
NOTE: The forest dwelling Velvet-mantled Drongo, D. modestus of East and West Africa is now split from Fork-tailed Drongo D. adsimilis.
Blue-headed Crested Flycatcher Trochocercus nitens
Single males of this scarce, skulking bird were seen en route to and at Kumbira Forest.
Rufous-vented Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone rufocinerea
A few in Kumbira Forest. This species does seem to hybridize with the next species along the forest edge.
African Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis
A few at Kumbira Forest.
Cape (Black) Crow Corvus capensis
Two near Namibe.
Pied Crow Corvus albus
Regularly seen in small numbers throughout with a max of 40+ on the drive from Lubango to Namibe.
African Blue Flycatcher Elminia longicauda
A few in Kumbira Forest.
White-tailed Blue Flycatcher Elminia albicauda
One at the south Kissama camp-site.
Carp’s Tit (NE) Parus carpi
Three of this Namibian and Angolan endemic in Kissama NP and a pair below the Leba Scarp.
Dusky Tit Parus funereus
Up to eights daily at Kumbira Forest, a scarce bird this far south. These distinctive birds belong to a long-isolated race gabela restricted to the Gabela Scarp forests.
Yellow-throated Nicator Nicator vireo
A few at Kumbira Forest.
Rufous-naped Lark Mirafra africana
One at Tundavala.
NOTE: The Rufous-naped Lark is divided by Clements into twenty-three subspecies throughout most of Africa. Several of the northern forms have been proposed as full species including Sharpe’s Lark M. sharpii of Somalia and Malbrant’s Lark M. malbranti of Central Africa.
Sabota Lark (NE) Calendulauda sabota
One of these southern larks was seen between Leba and Namibe.
NOTE: The western races of Sabota Lark are sometimes considered a separate species, Bradfield’s Lark M. bradfieldi and the form we saw would fall into this grouping. This split is not recognized by most authorities.
Benguela Long-billed Lark (NE) Certhilauda benguelensis
Eight of these extremely localized larks (only occurring in seldom visited far-northern Namibia and
southern Angola) were observed in the gravel plains east of Namibe.
Spike-heeled Lark (NE) Chersomanes albofasciata
Seven of the very pale desert form in the desolate areas south of Namibe.
Gray’s Lark (NE) Ammomanopsis grayi
Five near Namibe - a localized endemic to Namibia and Angola.
African Red-eyed (Black-fronted) Bulbul (NE) Pycnonotus nigricans
This dry country southern bulbul was common in the scrub at the base of the Leba Scarp en route to
Namibe.
Dark-capped (Black-eyed) Bulbul Pycnonotus tricolor
Recorded daily at all locations, highest count being 50+ on the edge of Kumbira Forest.
NOTE: Another very confusing polytypic species complex. Several Asian and African forms have already been
recognised as distinct species within the super-species Common Bulbul P. barbatus. The form we saw P.tricolor has been split as Dark-capped Bulbul by some authorities. Clements does not recognize this split.
Little Greenbul Eurillas virens
This usually common forest edge greenbul was only seen once, in Kumbira Forest.
Yellow-whiskered Bulbul Eurillas latirostris
Three in Kumbira Forest where its chattering call was commonly heard.
Yellow-bellied Greenbul Chlorocichla flaviventris
This large noisy greenbul was observed in Kissama NP and on the Leba Scarp.
Falkenstein’s (Yellow-necked) Greenbul Chlorocichla falkensteini
One of the commonest birds in Kumbira Forest with 10+ on both days in the forest.
Pale-olive Greenbul (NE) Phyllastrephus fulviventris
A pair of this little known Angolan near-endemic at Kumbira Forest and one the next day.
Red-tailed Bristlebill Bleda syndactylus
Brief views of two in Kumbira Forest.
Black Saw-wing Psalidoprocne pristoptera
Up to 12 of these forest edge swallows around Kumbira Forest and the Tundavala Escarpment.
NOTE: The “black” saw-wing complex, which occurs throughout Sub-Saharan Africa, has recently been lumped into a single species by most authorities.
Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica
Two were seen by some during the drive from Conda to Tundavala.
Angola Swallow Hirundo angolensis
A few at the Kwanzo River, Conda and the Lubango area.
Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii
One at Kawa Camp in Kissama NP and at Luanda airport.
Rock Martin Ptyonoprogne fuligula
First seen at Jo’burg airport, followed by several on the Tundavala and Leba Escarpments.
NOTE: This confusing polytypic complex is being reviewed for multi-species splitting. Within the African populations, two potential species exist. The southern African nominate form P. fuligula would remain as Rock Martin (including the birds we saw) and the north African birds would become Pale Crag Martin, P. obsoleta. Clements does not recognise this split.
Greater Striped Swallow Cecropis cucullata
One was seen by some on the Leba Scarp.
Lesser Striped Swallow Cecropis abyssinica
Common at Kissama NP and several elsewhere.
Rockrunner (Damara Rock-jumper) (NE) Achaetops pycnopygius
One calling on the Leba Scarp - another bird previously considered to be a Namibian special.
Long-billed (Cape) Crombec Sylvietta rufescens
Two of this drier country crombec in Kissama NP and on the Tundavala Escarpment.
Green Crombec Sylvietta virens
First seen at Kissama NP in very open habitat, and a few in Kumbira Forest.
Green Hylia Hylia prasina
Seen once well and commonly heard in Kumbira Forest.
Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus
One of this newly arrived migrant was at Kumbira Forest with further sightings of a few at Tundavala.
Bubbling Cisticola (NE) Cisticola bulliens
Another of Angola’s near-endemics, this was commonly encountered in moist woodlands and scrub throughout western and central Angola.
Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana
This widespread species was seen below the Leba Escarpment.
Wailing Cisticola Cisticola lais
Several on grassy hillsides at Tundavala.
NOTE: Lynes’s Cisticola C. distinctus which occurs in East Africa is often split from lais.
Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis
One near the Leba Escarpment.
Wing-snapping (Ayres') Cisticola Cisticola ayresii
Two in grasslands on the Tundavala Escarpment.
Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava
Singles in Kissama NP and near Kumbira Forest.
Black-chested Prinia (NE) Prinia flavicans
One of this dry country species was seen on the plains approaching Namibe.
Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida
Several in Kissama NP.
Black-throated Apalis Apalis jacksoni
Heard calling at Kumbira Forest, an attractive central African species.
Buff-throated Apalis Apalis rufogularis
Two at Kumbira Forest, a vocal canopy species.
Grey Apalis Apalis cinerea
Two at Kumbira Forest.
Grey-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brevicaudata
First recorded at Kissama NP with further sightings below the Leba Escarpment.
NOTE: Some authorities now recognise the nominate green-backed forms of this widespread African warbler as distinct from the grey-backed forms C. brevicaudata encountered in scrubby habitat throughout Angola. Clements lumps these forms together with the recently recognized Hartert’s Camaroptera, C.harterti.
Hartert’s Camaroptera (E) Camaroptera harterti
Several in Kumbira Forest, where they were one of the most vocal under-storey species.
Brown Illadopsis Illadopsis fulvescens.
Heard and seen briefly in Kumbira Forest, a skulking under-storey species.
Bare-cheeked Babbler (NE) Turdoides gymnogenys
Four during the trip to Namibe.
Chestnut-vented Warbler (NE) Sylvia subcaerulea
One near the Leba Escarpment.
African Yellow White-eye Zosterops senegalensis
Two at Kumbira Forest.
Southern (Mashona) Hyliota Hyliota australis
Up to four in Kumbira Forest.
Wattled Starling Creatophora cinerea
Several in Kissama NP.
Cape (Red-shouldered) Starling Lamprotornis nitens
Common in western and southern Angola with highest daily count of 50+ in Kissama NP.
Meves’s Starling Lamprotornis mevesii
Four of this dry country, long-tailed starling were seen below the Leba Scarp en route to Namibe.
Violet-backed (Plum-coloured) Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster
Common in Kumbira Forest where they appeared to be nesting, with a few en route to Namibe.
Pale-winged Starling (NE) Onychognathus nabouroup
At least thirty en route to Namibe.
Yellow-billed Oxpecker Buphagus africanus
Several during the drive to Namibe.
Fraser’s Rufous Thrush Stizorhina fraseri
Two singles in Kumbira Forest.
African Thrush Turdus pelios
Several seen daily in Kumbira Forest.
Brown-chested Alethe Pseudalethe poliocephala
One in Kumbira Forest, a shy under-storey species.
Gabela Akalat (E) Sheppardia gabela
Good views of a pair with nesting material in Kumbira Forest - one of the most difficult of the Gabela Scarp specials.
White-browed (Heuglin's) Robin-Chat Cossypha heuglini
Several below the Leba Scarp.
Red-capped (Natal) Robin-Chat Cossypha natalensis
One in Kumbira Forest.
Angola Cave Chat (E) Xenocopsychus ansorgei
One watched for some time on the Tundavala Escarpment - one of Angola’s most striking endemics.
Rufous-tailed Palm Thrush (NE) Cichladusa ruficauda
This localized species was common in Kissama NP, with one on the Leba Escarpment.
Forest Scrub Robin Erythropygia leucosticta
Heard singing daily in Kumbira Forest and after some effort obtained excellent views of one of this elusive species.
White-browed (Red-backed) Scrub Robin Erythropygia leucophrys
Three of this dry country species were seen in Kissama NP.
NOTE: This widespread African complex is being reviewed for a 3-way split, the Southern African E. leucophrys group would remain as White-browed Scrub-Robin, the Central African (E. zambesiana) would become Red-backed Scrub-Robin and the Northern African (E. leucoptera) would become White-winged Scrub-Robin. Few authorities accept these splits.
Kalahari Scrub Robin (NE) Erythropygia paena
Two of this semi-desert species on the dry plains en route to Namibe.
Mountain Wheatear (NE) Oenanthe monticola
Six of the endemic coastal Angolan race albipileata on the dry coastal plain near Namibe.
Tractrac Chat (NE) Cercomela tractrac
Two of this other desert species seen on the plains close to Namibe.
Familiar Chat Cercomela familiaris
One of this rock-loving species was observed on the Tundavala Escarpment.
Short-toed Rock Thrush (NE) Monticola brevipes
Three in the Tundavala area and another three on the Leba Scarp.
NOTE: Some authorities regard the localized race from northern South Africa, called Pretoria Rock Thrush (M.
pretoriae), to be distinct from the nominate Western populations. We observed the nominate form. This split is not accepted by Clements.
Angola Slaty Flycatcher (E) Dioptrornis brunneus
Great views of one of this little known endemic flycatcher on the Tundavala Escarpment.
Southern Black Flycatcher Melaenornis pammelaina
One during the drive to Namibe.
Chat Flycatcher (NE) Bradornis infuscatus
Three of these large desert flycatchers were observed en route to Namibe.
Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata
This Palearctic migrant was seen in Kissama NP.
Ashy (Blue-Grey) Flycatcher Muscicapa caerulescens
A few in Kissama NP and Kumbira Forest.
Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris
Several in Kumbira Forest and one in Kissama NP.
Green-headed Sunbird Cyanomitra verticalis
A few at Kumbira Forest.
Bannerman’s Sunbird (NE) Cyanomitra bannermani
We had several sightings of one of what we thought was this range-restricted bird as we left Kumbira Forest. It responded to play-back of this species’ song but apparently it should not occur here and our views were not conclusive.
(Western) Olive Sunbird Cyanomitra olivacea
Fairly commonly at Kumbira Forest.
NOTE: The Olive Sunbird species complex is split by Clemants into two full species, namely the nominate Eastern Olive-Sunbird C. obscura and the form in East and West Africa, Western Olive Sunbird (C. olivacea). There has been a review of this split and several authorities are in doubt of the validity, which is based upon the presence, or lack there-of, of pectoral tufts in the females of the various subspecies within the complex.
Carmelite Sunbird Chalcomitra fuliginosa
Good views of a male in Kumbira Forest - another sought-after species.
Amethyst (African Black) Sunbird Chalcomitra amethystina
Two sightings in Kumbira Forest.
Scarlet-chested Sunbird Chalcomitra senegalensis
Several were seen in Kissama NP and during the drive to Namibe.
Olive-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris chloropygius
Three sightings of singles from forest edge in Kumbira Forest and Leba Scarp.
Ludwig’s (Montane) Double-collared Sunbird (NE) Cinnyris ludovicensis
Several on the Tundavala Escarpment and a pair at the Leba Scarp. Two isolated races of
this species exist, the nominate from montane forests of Western Angola and whytei from montane
Malawi and ne Zambia.
Purple-banded Sunbird Cinnyris bifasciatus
Common in Kissama NP and at Kumbira Forest.
NOTE: The form N. e. tsavoensis of Kenya is sometimes split off as Tsavo Purple-banded Sunbird.
Superb Sunbird Cinnyris superbus
A few in Kumbira Forest.
Oustalet’s (Angola White-bellied) Sunbird (NE) Cinnyris oustaleti
Four at Tundavala.
White-bellied (-breasted) Sunbird Cinnyris talatala
This widespread southern counterpart of the previous species was common in the dry
lowlands en route to Namibe and seen at Luanda airport.
White-browed Sparrow-Weaver Plocepasser mahali
Six of these noisy, dry country weavers were seen in the arid plains east of Namibe.
House Sparrow Passer domesticus
This introduced species was seen in Luanda upon arrival and in Kissama NP.
Cape Sparrow Passer melanurus
Two males during the drive to Namibe.
Northern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer griseus
Common in Kissama NP and 2 at Luanda airport.
Southern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer diffusus
At least two during the drive to Namibe.
NOTE: The Grey-headed Sparrow complex P. griseus has been split into five full species with the South African form being given the name P. diffusus.
Red-billed Buffalo Weaver Bubalornis niger
Two birds in Kissama NP.
Black-necked Weaver Ploceus nigricollis
This species was particularly common in Kumbira Forest with up to 20 daily.
Holub’s Golden-Weaver Ploceus xanthops
First recorded in Kissama NP with further sightings en route to Namibe.
Lesser Masked Weaver Ploceus intermedius
One male in Kissama NP and a further two during the drive to Namibe.
Southern Masked Weaver Ploceus velatus
Good views of a male during the lunch stop near Namibe.
NOTE: Clements has recently accepted the split of northern Vitelline Masked-Weaver P. vitellinus from Southern Masked Weaver P. velatus.
Village (Spotted-backed) Weaver Ploceus cucullatus
Seen in Kissama NP, Kumbira Forest and on the Namibe road. Africa’s commonest and most widespread weaver.
Dark-backed (Forest) Weaver Ploceus bicolor
Two at Kissama NP with up to 6 daily in Kumbira Forest.
Brown-capped Weaver Ploceus insignis
One bird was seen by some in Kumbira Forest, here at its most southerly range extension.
Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea
At least one in Kissama NP, when leaving Kumbira Forest and along the Namibe road.
Golden-backed Bishop (NE) Euplectes aureus
Good views of up to one hundred daily in Kissama NP.
Grey-headed Nigrita Nigrita canicapillus
Several in Kumbira Forest.
Green-winged Pytilia (Melba Finch) Pytilia melba
One near Conda and a pair during the drive to Namibe.
Red-faced Crimsonwing Cryptospiza reichenovii
A pair in Kumbira Forest - a very difficult bird to observe.
Red-headed Bluebill Spermophaga ruficapilla
Two of these stunning birds were seen in Kumbira Forest.
Landana Firefinch (E) Lagonosticta landanae
Two near Conda and a further six at Tundavala, an uncommon Angolan endemic.
Jameson’s Firefinch Lagonosticta rhodopareia
A pair at the Leba Escarpment.
Blue Waxbill (Blue-breasted Cordonbleu) Uraeginthus angolensis
Several at Kissama NP and during the drive to Namibe.
Violet-eared Waxbill Uraeginthus granatinus
A few on the Leba Escarpment.
Cinderella Waxbill (NE) Estrilda thomensis
A pair during the drive to Namibe - one of our most sought-after birds in Southern Angola, only possible elsewhere along the Cunene River on the Namibia/Angola frontier.
Angola Swee Waxbill Estrilda bocagei
At least twenty at Tundavala. The isolated Angolan race is very distinctive and will be included in the next version 2.7 of the IOC checklist.
Orange-cheeked Waxbill Estrilda melpoda
A pair of this central African species was seen feeding on grass seeds at Kumbira Forest.
Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild
Small flocks were observed at Kumbira Forest and during the drive to Namibe.
Bronze Mannikin (Munia) Lonchura cucullata
Common at Kumbira Forest and at most other sites.
Black-and-white (Bicolored) Mannikin Lonchura bicolor
Small groups of 10+ recorded at Kumbira Forest.
Mountain (Long-tailed) Wagtail Motacilla clara
A pair at the Leba Escarpment.
Fülleborn’s Longclaw Macronyx fuellebornii
One in the grassland near the Leba Escarpment.
African (Grassveld) Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus
One bird in the grasslands near the Leba Escarpment.
NOTE: African pipit taxonomy is in rather a disarray and much further research is required in the phylogeny of this grouping. Several forms which are considered subspecies are likely to become full species in their own right and several new forms are surely still to be described. The identification of two new species from an urban hockey field in Kimberley, South Africa, provides an excellent illustration regarding how little is known about African pipits.
Plain-backed Pipit Anthus leucophrys
Only recorded at Tundavala where two were seen.
Yellow-crowned Canary Serinus flavivertex
A pair at the Leba Escarpment.
NOTE: The Cape Canary species complex has been split into two, the nominate southern group would remain as Cape Canary S. canicollis and the form which occurs in East Africa and Angola has become Yellow-crowned Canary (S. flavivertex.) Clements does recognise this split.
Black-faced Canary (NE) Crithagra capistrata
This localized canary was seen in small numbers around the farm bush of Kumbira Forest.
Black-throated Canary Crithagra atrogularis
A flock of eight of these canaries was seen below the Leba Escarpment.
NOTE: This species complex is sometimes split with the Angolan form remaining in the Black-throated Canary group as opposed to Reichenow’s or Kenya Yellow-rumped Canary (S. reichenowi).
Yellow-fronted (Yellow-eyed) Canary Crithagra mozambica
Good views of one at Kumbira Forest.
Brimstone (Bully) Canary Crithagra sulphurata
Two at Tundavala.
White-throated Canary Crithagra albogularis
Two during the drive to Namibe.
Cinnamon-breasted Bunting Emberiza tahapisi
Six at Tundavala.
Golden-breasted Bunting Emberiza flaviventris
Singles in Kissama NP and during the drive to Namibe.
Dips
1. Swierstra's Francolin Francolinus swierstrai Mt Moco – very difficult
2. Anchieta's Barbet Stactolaema anchietae Calandula
3. White-headed Robin-Chat Cossypha heinrichi Calandula
4. Slender-tailed Cisticola Cisticola melanurus Calandula
5. Pulitzer’s Longbill Macrosphenus pulitzeri Kumbira forest
6. Margaret's (Boulton’s) Batis Batis margaritae Mt Moco
7. Bocage's Sunbird Nectarinia bocagii Mt Moco
8. Braun’s Bush-Shrike Laniarius brauni Calandula/ Dembos Forest
9. Monteiro’s Bush-Shrike Malacanotus monteiri Kissama NP south and Kumbira forest
Brazza's Martin Phedina brazzae and Bob-tailed Weaver Brachycope anomala have also been seen in the north.
Mammals
Chacma Baboon Papio ursinus
10 during the drive to Namibe.
Vervet Monkey Cercopithecus aethiops
These inquisitive monkeys visited our camp in Kissama NP on a daily basis. Two en route to Namibe.
Samango (Blue/Gentle) Monkey Cercopithecus mitis
Many in Kissama NP.
Congo Rope Squirrel Funisciurus congicus
2 in Kumbira Forest.
Egyptian Mongoose Ichneumia albicauda
1 in Kissama NP.
Yellow-spotted Hyrax (Dassie) Heterohyrax brucei
Several on the Tundavala and Leba Escarpments.
Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis
6 in Kissama NP.
Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus
Several in Kissama NP.
Greater Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros
2 in Kissama NP
Eland Taurotragus oryx
Up to five in Kissama NP.
Bush (Common/Grey) Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia
2 in Kissama NP.