Species of Zambia
Understanding the
BirdsWe Protect
Zambia is home to some of Africa’s most remarkable birdlife—rare endemics, long-distance migrants, wetland specialists, and forest icons that define the country’s natural identity. At BirdWatch Zambia, we monitor these species to understand their needs, protect their habitats, and guide conservation action across the country.
Species of Zambia
Zambia is home to more than 788 recorded bird species, making it one of Africa’s premier birdwatching destinations. This extraordinary diversity comes from the country’s wide range of habitats—from lush wetlands and river systems to woodlands, grasslands, and forested escarpments.
Iconic species such as the African Fish Eagle, Grey-crowned Crane, and Shoebill highlight the richness of Zambia’s avifauna. The country also supports important populations of waterfowl, raptors, songbirds, and notably, several vulture species, which play a crucial ecological role.
Zambia’s vast mosaic of national parks, game management areas, and wetlands—including the Zambezi River, Bangweulu Wetlands, and Lake Tanganyika—provides vital habitat for both resident and migratory birds. Rarer species like the Taita Falcon, Slaty Egret, and Blue Swallow further underline the country’s significance in global bird conservation.
Whether in the northern forests or the southern floodplains, Zambia offers safe refuge for both common and threatened species, reinforcing its importance as a conservation stronghold.
A Landscape Built for Birdlife
Our Conservation Role
BirdWatch Zambia has long been committed to safeguarding bird species and their habitats. Since its establishment, the organisation has focused on protecting wild populations, restoring ecosystems, and ensuring long-term biodiversity health. Through the BirdLife Partnership, over 13,000 Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs/KBAs) have been identified worldwide—42 of these are in Zambia, including 18 of the country’s 20 national parks.
Protecting Key Sites That Sustain Biodiversity
Sites such as Lochinvar National Park, renowned as a birding hotspot, form a crucial network that supports thousands of species. These IBAs are essential for the survival of migratory and resident birds, offering safe places to feed, breed, and rest. Conservation of these areas benefits not only birds but entire ecosystems, safeguarding countless other plant and animal species.
Our Flagship Species
Flagship species are iconic birds that symbolize Zambia’s natural heritage. Charismatic, culturally significant, or ecologically important, they help raise awareness and support for broader conservation goals. Protecting these species creates a ripple effect that benefits entire ecosystems. Zambia’s flagship birds include Lilian’s Lovebird, Black-cheeked Lovebird, Zambian Barbet (endemic), Grey-crowned Crane, African Fish Eagle, Southern Ground Hornbill, Secretary Bird, Shoebill, Taita Falcon, Blue Swallow, Wattled Crane, Slaty Egret, and various endangered vulture species.