Eritrea is not well known as a birdwatching destination. But it should be. Despite being one of the most ‘underbirded’ countries in Africa, it has an impressive checklist of over 560 species, which is increasing rapidly. Most highly prized are its Abyssinian ‘endemics’, many of which are in fact shared with Eritrea, as the Abyssinian Highlands are split between the two countries. There are approximately 32 endemic species in the Abyssinian Highlands (depending on splits), of which Eritrea shares at least 17, including Wattled Ibis, Ruppell’s (Black) Chat, Rouget’s Rail, White-backed Black Tit, Abyssinian Woodpecker and Black-winged Lovebird. Eritrea has a good range of habitat types within the borders of a small country. It has the furthest north rainforest in Africa (Filfil), the mountainous landscape (up to 3000m) around Adi Keih and Senafe, the pristine beauty of the Dahlak Island Archipelago, one of the hottest plains in the world (Danikalia), the extensive acacia woodland of the Western Lowlands (Gash Barka) and over 1000km of coastline, which is rich in migrating species in spring and autumn. Visiting birders can see all of this within a week, and often take home a species list of 250-300 birds.
- Full Equipments
- Camping and Hotel Booking
- Bus or 4x4 drive
- Sea Level - 3300m
- 1 up to 5
- Not accessible Will Chair and disability
Overview
<span style="font-family: Tahoma; font-size: small;">Filfil has many of the Abyssinian endemics, including White-cheeked Turaco, Abyssinian Woodpecker, Black-winged Lovebird, White-throated Seedeater, Banded Barbet, Ethiopian Oriole, and several of the semi-endemics; Ruppell’s Robin Chat, Erckel’s Francolin (common by the road), White-rumped Babbler and Brown-rumped Seedeater. Three species of hornbill can be seen here; Hemprich’s Hornbill (above 1000m), Northern Red-billed Hornbill (below 1000m) and African Grey Hornbill (below 800m). Little Rock Thrush is common by the road, and Eastern Grey Plantain Eater is common down in the valley. Many rainforest species are here including Narina Trogon, Tropical Boubou, African Paradise Flycatcher, Northern Puffback, Brown Woodland Warbler and White Helmet Shrike. Nubian Woodpecker is the common woodpecker species below 1200m. Raptors include Black Kite, Augur Buzzard, African Hawk Eagle, Tawny and Steppe Eagle, African Goshawk, Shikra, Lesser Kestrel and Common Kestrel. Larger mammal species include the common Greater Kudu, Bushbuck, Warthog and Leopard.</span>
