Trip Report Malawi 07 - d3n0rgqlxm83jq.cloudfront.net · the proverbial “cherry on the cake”!...

Malawi and Zambia 2007

Trip Report

17th November to 08th December 2007 (22 days)

Tour Participants: Roger Dodds, Brian and Margaret Sykes.

Trip Report Compiled by: Rainer Summers

Tour Summary

Malawi is a small country in south-central Africa that has great ornithological potential. Despite being

landlocked, and covering a relatively small area, a wide range of altitudinal and habitat variation results

Malawi and Zambia 2007 Trip Report 2

in a great selection of birds for the itinerant birder. Our tour combined the avian highlights of Malawi

with the added bonus of South Luangwa in Zambia, this world renowned safari destination serving as

the proverbial “cherry on the cake”!

We started our adventure in Malawi’s capital,

Lilongwe. Travelling out from the airport provided us

with our first bird, a lonesome Side-striped Jackal!

Continuing southwards, we ended up in tea-growing

country, and eventually arrived at Thyolo, our

destination for the next two days. Before arriving at the

lodge, our first owl materialised in the form of a

Spotted Eagle Owl near the side of the road. Our next

two days were spent exploring the beautiful, but

unfortunately vastly reduced forest on Thyolo

Mountain. The excellent selection of birds here helped

us forget about this sad state of environmental affairs

and views were had of a number of excellent species

including: stunning Bar-tailed Trogon, the highly

sough-after Green-headed Oriole, Orange Ground

Thrush, Black-fronted Bushshrike, Grey Cuckooshrike

(this being virtually the only site remaining in Malawi

to see this species), huge Silvery-cheeked Hornbill,

African Broadbill, Ayre’s Hawk-Eagle, Cape (Malawi)

Batis, Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler,

Livingstone’s Turaco, Bertram’s Weaver, glowing

Red-throated Twinspot, and views, albeit brief, of

Thyolo Alethe. After two lovely days spent in the

forest (and at our marvellous accommodations nearby!), we headed for the heat of the Upper Shire area

for Liwonde National Park (NP).

Liwonde NP protects an attractive section of palm, baobab, Acacia and mopane strewn

woodland in the south-east of Malawi. This diverse vegetation and the wandering Shire River along

with its floodplains provide habitat for a plethora of birds (and a good selection of classic African big

game). Striking out from our comfortable lodge, we were treated to sightings of a number of special

birds with the woodland areas producing the ubiquitous Böhm’s Bee-eater, colourful Lilian’s Lovebird,

Western Banded Snake Eagle, Arnot’s Chat, the sought-after Racket-tailed Roller and Speckle-throated

Woodpecker. The Shire River and its accompanying riverine forest and floodplain habitats proved to be

a great hit, with excellent sightings of Red-necked Falcon, Dickinson’s Kestrel, Eurasian Hobby, a

group of dainty Livingstone’s Flycatcher, Collared Palm Thrush, Spur-winged and Long-toed Lapwing,

Square-tailed Nightjar, Palmnut Vulture, migrant European Honey Buzzard, African Barred Owl, and a

bird often near the top of most wanted lists, the enigmatic Pel’s Fishing Owl! A particularly special

find was a single Brown-breasted Barbet, an incredibly difficult species to find, and one of the most

desired species for birders travelling to Malawi! Mammalian highlights of the area included a lovely

interaction with a small bachelor herd of African Elephant drinking and swimming in the Shire River,

Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest, impressive Sable Antelope and large numbers of Hippo in the Shire River.

Our next stop was at the wonderful Miombo Woodland covering the undulating terrain at

Dzalanyama. Birding in this habitat involves finding flocks in the Brachystegia woodland and we were

treated to some excellent birding! Specials we encountered here included Grey-headed Kingfisher,

Pale-billed Hornbill, Whyte’s Barbet, Green-backed and Stierling’s Woodpecker (the latter a very

sought after bird), Retz’s Helmetshrike, White-breasted Cuckooshrike, Souza’s Shrike, African Golden


Oriole, Rufous-bellied Tit, African Penduline Tit, Yellow-bellied Hyliota, Green-capped Eremomela,

Red-capped Crombec, Spotted Creeper, Miombo Rock Thrush, Miombo Scrub Robin, Miombo Rock

Thrush, Miombo Double-collared Sunbird, Orange-winged Pytilia, Striped Pipit, Reichard’s Seedeater

and Black-eared Seedeater. Although the

accommodations are rustic the hearty meals,

amazing solitude of the woodlands and incredible

specials make this birding destination a must!

From the miombo of Dzalanyama, we

headed to the higher altitude Viphya Plateau, an

area famous (or infamous) as being the largest

continuous area of plantations in Africa. Despite

this, we headed to a secluded locale covered in

grassland, stunted miombo and tiny remnants of

montane forest in amongst large areas of pine

afforestation. The region in and around the gardens

of our accommodations provided some lovely

birding, and here we saw Red-rumped Swallow,

Schalow’s Turaco, Olive Woodpecker, Eurasian Blackcap, Southern Mountain Greenbul, White-eyed

Slaty Flycatcher, Bronzy Sunbird and Eastern (Forest) Double-collared Sunbird here. Grassland and

wetland habitats nearby provided White-headed Saw-wing, Small Buttonquail, Black Coucal, Marsh

(Anchieta’s) Tchagra, and dainty Yellow-bellied Waxbill, while stunted mixed woodlands nearby gave

us views of unusual looking youngi race of Bar-throated Apalis, unimpressive Garden Warbler and

Trilling Cisticola.

After the serenity of Viphya, we drove onward to the famous Nyika Plateau, an area of rich and

seemingly endless grasslands and patches of beautiful montane forest. Slow walks and drives through

the wetland studded grasslands turned up numerous good birds, including Montane Widowbird, the

beautiful but endangered Blue Swallow, Black-lored and Churring Cisticola, huge Wattled Crane,

Mountain Yellow Warbler, Angola Swallow, Jackson’s Pipit, fly-by Rufous-chested Sparrowhawk, and

handsome Augur Buzzard. The small dams on plateau were holding some interesting birds in the form

of Common Ringed Plover and Green Sandpiper, while nearer our accommodations we saw Yellow-

browed Seedeater, Dusky Turtle Dove and Baglafecht Weaver. The stunning forest patches both on the

Malawian and Zambian side of the plateau are home to a number of specials, and here we saw Brown-

headed and Chapin’s Apalis, sought-after White-chested Alethe, African Olive Pigeon, Scarce Swift,

Sharpe’s Greenbul, Cinnamon Bracken Warbler, Olive-flanked Ground Robin, and Ludwig’s Double-

collared Sunbird, while despite their noisy vocalisations, sightings of Moustached Tinkerbird and

Fülleborn's Boubou were not forthcoming. Grassland and

miombo near the plateau turned up a single Amur Falcon and

a few White-backed Vultures, while the star of the show (not

in the looks department through!) was the drab Brown

Parisoma.

The short, rough road down the plateau led us to

Vwaza Marsh Wildlife Reserve, a small park that protects

miombo, mopane (the most northerly area of mopane in the

world) and Acacia woodland, and wetland habitat (not to

mention unbearable numbers of Tsetse flies!). The woodland

birding here was very good and we saw Icterine Warbler,

Meyer’s Parrot, Brubru, Miombo Blue-eared Starling (some

of their distinctive youngsters were also seen), and a Martial


Eagle being mobbed by a Lesser Spotted Eagle. Alongside Lake Kazuni, a pan below our

accommodations, we scoped Collared Pratincole, African Spoonbill and Yellow-billed Egret, while

nearby monkeys cavorted in the trees and skittish breeding herds of African Elephant drifted through

the woodland.

From Vwaza Marsh we drove back to the capital Lilongwe, before preparing to head into

Zambia to the amazing South Luangwa NP. The tall mixed woodlands, Luangwa River and numerous

shallow lagoons play host to an amazing array of life, and it is this which makes it such an incredible

safari destination. Birding the rich woodlands provided Abdim’s and White Stork, Common and

Levaillant’s Cuckoo, stately Southern Ground Hornbill, Bennett’s and Bearded Woodpecker, and great

raptor watching (Dark Chanting Goshawk, Shikra, Steppe Eagle, Verreaux’s Eagle Owl, Peregrine

Falcon, Hooded Vulture, White-headed Vulture were all seen well). The shallow Luangwa River and

beautiful tree-lined lagoons held Hottentot Teal, Saddle-billed, Marabou, Goliath Heron, Black Heron,

White-crowned Lapwing, Greater Painted Snipe, Marsh Sandpiper, African Skimmer, Swallow-tailed,

White-fronted and Southern Carmine Bee-eater, with two birds of particular interest being a stunning

Dwarf Bittern, and later a highly co-operative Pel’s Fishing Owl! Mammals were very numerous, and

we saw the localised Crawshay’s Zebra and Thornicroft’s Giraffe, African Civet, Lion, lazing Hyaena

and a stunning Leopard (the valley living up to its reputation as one of the better Leopard viewing areas

in Africa!).

South Luangwa served as a fabulous end to the trip while the varied habitats and numerous

avian and mammalian inhabitants throughout made for an incredible tour in this wonderful corner of

Africa!

Photo Credits: South Luangwa woodland scene, Böhm’s Bee-eater, Dzalanyama scenery, Miombo Rock Thrush and

Dwarf Bittern. All photos by Rainer Summers.

Annotated List of Birds

Nomenclature and taxonomy follows the IOC List of Birds of the World. Please cite: Gill, F. and M.

Wright. 2006. Birds of the World: Recommended English Names. Princeton NJ: Princeton University

Press.

Guineafowl Numididae

Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris

This gamebird was seen in good numbers in various localities throughout the tour. NOTE: The nominate East African N. m. meleagris (Helmeted Guineafowl) is sometimes regarded as distinct from the

western N. m. galeata (West African Guineafowl) and the southern N. m. mitrata (Tufted Guineafowl – the form which we

recorded).

Francolins, Spurfowl and allies Phasianidae Coqui Francolin Francolinus coqui

Heard in Vwaza Marsh GR.

Red-necked Spurfowl Pternistis afer

Seen at a few scattered localities throughout the tour.

Swainson's Spurfowl Pternistis swainsonii

A bushveld species, it was recorded in South Luangwa NP.

Common Quail Coturnix coturnix

Two birds were seen on Nyika Plateau.


Ducks, Geese, Swans Anatidae Fulvous Whistling Duck Dendrocygna bicolour

This lovely duck was seen in Liwonde NP.

White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata

Possessing a characteristic beautiful call, we saw this species along the Shire River.

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus

Frequently recorded at wetland localities throughout the tour.

Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis

An enormous bird, it was seen at many wetland localities during the trip.

Knob-billed (Comb) Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos

Possessing a strange appendage atop its beak, we recorded it in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.

Yellow-billed Duck Anus undulata

Seen at Viphya and Vwaza.

Red-billed (Duck) Teal Anas erythrorhyncha

Recorded in a dam en route to Viphya from Dzalanyama.

Hottentot Teal Anas hottentota

This beautiful duck with a powder blue bill was seen at a lagoon in South Luangwa.

Southern Pochard Netta erythrophthalma

We sighted this species on a dam en route to Viphya from Dzalanyama.

Grebes Podicipedidae Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis

Seen on an impoundment in Viphya.

Storks Ciconidae Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis

We recorded good numbers in wetland areas in the latter half of the trip.

African Openbill Anastomus lamelligerus

Seen at a few wetland sites throughout the tour, with maximum numbers in Liwonde NP.

Abdim’s Stork Ciconia abdimii

A foraging flock of these birds was found in a grassy area outside of South Luangwa NP.

White Stork Ciconia ciconia

A flock of these lovely birds were found in South Luangwa NP.

Saddle-billed Stork Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis

Great views were had of this amazing bird from our lodge’s deck near South Luangwa NP.

Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus

A single bird was seen in Liwonde NP, with large numbers later recorded in South Luangwa NP.

Ibises & Spoonbills Threskiornithidae Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus

Seen at various wetland localities throughout the tour.

Hadada (Hadeda) Ibis Bostrychia hagedash

This raucous bird was seen in Liwonde NP and later in South Luangwa NP.

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus

We saw good numbers along the Shire River in Liwonde NP.

African Spoonbill Platalea alba

First seen in the shallow pan at Vwaza Marsh GR.


Herons, Bitterns Ardeidae Grey Heron Ardea cinerea

Seen at scattered wetland localities throughout the tour.

Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala

We saw this handsome, terrestrial bird at a number of scattered localities.

Goliath Heron Ardea goliath

The world’s largest heron, we recorded a single individual in South Luangwa NP.

Great Egret Ardea albus

This species was recorded in Liwonde NP. NOTE: The nominate Old World Great Egret may be split from the New World A. a. egretta which would become American

Egret.

Black Heron Egretta ardesiaca

A single bird was seen from our lodge near South Luangwa NP.

Yellow-billed (Intermediate) Egret Egretta intermedia

Recorded between Dzalanyama and Viphya, and later at Vwaza Marsh Game Reserve (GR).

Little Egret Egretta garzetta

First seen along the Shire River. NOTE: Clements lumps Little, Western Reef E. gularis and Madagascar’s Dimorphic Egret E. dimorpha into a single

species. This treatment is not widely accepted.

Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides

Recorded in Liwonde National Park.

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis

Seen at scattered localities throughout the tour. NOTE: This group may be split into 2 species, the nominate Common Cattle Egret and the Asian/Australasian Eastern

Cattle Egret E. coromanda.

Striated (Green-backed) Heron Butorides striatus

Seen along the Shire River.

Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax

Good numbers were seen in Liwonde NP along the Shire River.

White-backed Night Heron Gorsachius leuconotus

We experienced great views of this highly sought after species in Liwonde NP.

Dwarf Bittern Ixobrychus sturmii

A secretive and stunning bird, we had excellent views of an individual in South Luangwa NP.

Hamerkop Scopidae Hamerkop Scopus umbretta

This strange avian was recorded at a number of wetland localities throughout the tour.

Cormorants Phalacrocoracidae Great (White-breasted) Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo

Recorded along the Shire River in Liwonde National Park (NP)

Reed (Long-tailed) Cormorant Phalacrocorax africanus

We also saw this, a smaller cousin of the previous species, in Liwonde NP.

Anhingas Anhingidae Darter Anhinga melanogaster

A single bird was seen in Liwonde NP.


NOTE: The resident African form P. rufa is sometimes lumped with the Asian P. melanogaster and the enlarged species

called Darter.

Falcons & Kestrels Falconidae Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni

A single bird was scoped in South Luangwa NP.

Dickinson’s Kestrel Falco dickinsoni

Generally associated with palm and woodland savanna, we saw two birds in Liwonde NP.

Red-necked Falcon Falco chicquera

This dashing falcon was seen alongside the Shire River in Liwonde NP.

Amur (Eastern Red-footed) Falcon Falco amurensis

A single female was seen on the Nyika Plateau.

Eurasian Hobby Falco subbuteo

This stunning bird was seen on a number of occasions in woodland habitat.

Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus

First seen near Zomba Mountain.

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus

We had brilliant scope views of a specimen in South Luangwa NP.

Kites, Hawks, Eagles & Vultures Accipitridae Osprey Pandion haliaetus

A single bird was seen carrying a fish while birding at the Geelbek hide at West Coast NP.

European Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus

Three of this scarce Palaeartic migrant were seen in Liwonde NP.

Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus

This dainty raptor was recorded in low numbers at a few scattered localities.

Black [Yellow-billed] Kite Milvus [migrans] aegyptius

Seen on a number of different days on the tour. NOTE: We saw the Yellow-billed form, which is usually lumped with Black Kite, M.migrans. Black Kite is a Palaeartic

migrant (nonbreeding in our region), while Yellow-billed is an Afrotropical migrant (breeding in our region).

African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer

A handsome eagle, it was seen alongside the Shire River and later in South Luangwa NP.

Palmnut Vulture Gypohierax angolensis

This sought after species was seen daily along the Shire River.

Hooded Vulture Nycrosyrtes monachus

We had good views of this small vulture was seen in South Luangwa NP

White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus

First seen on the Nyika Plateau, and later in good numbers in South Luangwa NP.

White-headed Vulture Aegypius occipitalis

This bright vulture was recorded in South Luangwa NP.

Black-chested (breasted) Snake-Eagle Circaetus pectoralis

This species was recorded close to Dzalanyama. NOTE: This resident Central and Southern African species is regarded by some authorities to be a form of Short-toed Eagle

C. gallicus.

Brown Snake-Eagle Circaetus cinereus

A single bird was seen at Dzalanyama.

Western Banded Snake Eagle Circaetus cinerascens

We sighted this raptor in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.


Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus

A classic bushveld eagle, it was recorded in savanna areas covered in the tour.

Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus

This beautiful bird was seen cruising the grasslands on the Nyika Plateau.

Montagu’s Harrier Circus pygargus


African Harrier-Hawk Polyboroides typus

First sighted in Liwonde NP.

Dark Chanting Goshawk Melierax metabates

Two birds were recorded in tall woodland in South Luangwa NP.

Gabar Goshawk Micronisus gabar

Seen in Lilongwe and Vwaza Marsh GR (guide only).

African Goshawk Accipiter tachiro

A forest associated bird, it was seen on Thyolo Mountain.

Shikra Accipiter badius

We sighted a single bird in tall, riverine woodland in South Luangwa NP.

Rufous-chested Sparrowhawk Accipiter rufiventris

One bird was seen while driving along the Nyika Plateau.

Black Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus

The largest Accipiter in the sub-region, we saw a few individuals on Thyolo Mountain.

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo

Seen in a number of localities throughout the tour. Note: The form we recorded, Steppe Buzzard Buteo vulpinus,

is regarded as a split by some authorities. IOC does not, however, ratify this split. Augur Buzzard Buteo augur

A striking buzzard, it was seen on the Nyika Plateau.

Lesser Spotted Eagle Aquila pomarina

A single bird was seen mobbing a Martial Eagle in the northern section of Vwaza Marsh GR.

Steppe Eagle Aquila nipalensis

This large migrant raptor was seen in South Luangwa NP. NOTE: The nominate African Tawny Eagle A. r. rapax may be split from the Asian Tawny Eagle A. r. vindhiana.

Wahlberg's Eagle Aquila wahlbergi

A small eagle, we first recorded it in Liwonde NP.

African Hawk-Eagle Aquila spilogaster

This rapacious bird was first spotted near to Nyika Plateau, and then later near South Luangwa NP.

Ayre’s Hawk-Eagle Aquila ayresii

An uncommon eagle, we had great views of an individual over Thyolo Mountain.

Martial Eagle Polemaetus bellicosus

This impressive bird was seen in Vwaza Marsh GR.

Long-crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis

Recorded in Liwonde NP.

Flufftails Sarothruridae Buff-spotted Flufftail Sarothrura elegans

(In)famous for its skulking abilities, we heard it at night in the garden at Thyolo.


Rails, Crakes & Coots Rallidae Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostris

Good views of this vivid bird were had along the Shire River.

Red-knobbed Coot Fulica cristata

Seen daily on a dam on the Nyika Plateau.

Cranes Gruidae Grey Crowned Crane Balearica regulorum

We had excellent views of these stunners in the wetland area below our lodge near South Luangwa NP.

Wattled Crane Grus caranculata

A very special bird, we saw one in a grassland area on the Nyika Plateau.

Buttonquails Turnicidae Small Buttonquail Turnix sylvatica

Good views were had on the Viphya Plateau.

Thick-knees Burhinidae Water (Dikkop) Thick-knee Burhinus vermiculatus

We had excellent views of this waterside bird on a boat ride along the Shire River.

Stilts & Avocets Recurvirostridae Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus

We recorded this lanky wader in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.

Plovers & Lapwings Charadriidae

Long-toed Lapwing Vanellus crassirostris

A bright lapwing, we found a few specimens alongside the Shire River.

Blacksmith Lapwing Vanellus armatus

A few birds were seen in the latter half of the tour.

Spur-winged Lapwing Vanellus spinosus

A handsome bird, we recorded it along the Shire River. Thought to be currently expanding its range

southwards.

White-crowned Lapwing Vanellus albiceps

We had excellent views of these floodplain associated species near South Luangwa NP.

African Wattled Lapwing Vanellus senegallus

This large, and often noisy lapwing was seen in Liwonde NP, and later in Vwaza Marsh GR.

Grey (Black-bellied) Plover Pluvialis squatarola

Birds were alongside the Luangwa River. Only seen inland when on migration.

Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula

A single bird was seen alongside a dam on the Nyika Plateau.

Kittlitz's Plover Charadrius pecuarius

We recorded a few birds alongside Kazuni Pan in Vwaza Marsh GR.

Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris

Seen in at Kazuni Pan, and later at lagoons in South Luangwa NP.

Painted-Snipes Rostratulidae


Greater Painted Snipe Rostratula benghalensis

Seen alongside the Shire River, and later from our lodge near the Luangwa River.

Jacanas Jacanidae Lesser Jacana Microparra capensis

Less common than its larger counterpart, we recorded two birds en route from Dzalanyama to Viphya.

African Jacana Actophilornis africanus

Also known as the “lily trotter”, we saw birds in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.

Sandpipers, Snipes Scolopacidae

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis

Three individuals were seen at lagoons in South Luangwa NP.

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia

Recorded at a number of wetland situations throughout the tour.

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochrops

A single bird was found in a small lake atop the Nyika Plateau.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola

We saw a number of birds at scattered wetland sites throughout the tour.

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos

Also seen at many of the wetland sites we visited during the tour.

Ruff Philomachus pugnax

A fairly variable wader, we sighted birds in Liwonde NP and at South Luangwa NP.

Pratincoles Glareolidae Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola

Two birds were seen on a floodplain in Vwaza Marsh GR.

Gulls, Terns and Skimmers Laridae

Grey-headed Gull Larus cirrocephalus

A few birds were seen while passing over a fishing town en route to Dzalanyama.

White-winged Tern Chlidonias leucopterus

A few birds were seen in Liwonde NP.

African Skimmer Rynchops flavirostris

We were very fortunate to see two birds as they flew along the Luangwa River.

Doves & Pigeons Columbidae

Common (Feral) Pigeon Columba livia

This exotic was seen in various urban/suburban situations throughout the trip.

African Olive (Rameron) Pigeon Columba arquatrix

This large forest pigeon was seen at Viphya and later on the Nyika Plateau.

Dusky Turtle Dove Streptopelia lugens

Very restricted in Malawi, we recorded this bird on the Nyika Plateau.

Mourning Collared (African Mourning) Dove Streptopelia decipiens

Possessing a comical call, we sighted this species at Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.

Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata

Sighted at a number of localities throughout the tour.

Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola


This species was seen for a good portion of the tour, and is also in possession of a wonderful call.

Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis

We only bumped into this species in South Luangwa NP.

Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos

Seen fairly regularly during the tour.

Blue-spotted Wood Dove Turtur afer

A single bird was seen at our lunch stop in Dedza.

Tambourine Dove Turtur tympanistria

A few birds were seen in the lovely forest on Thyolo Mountain.

Namaqua Dove Oena capensis

Seen near to and later within Liwonde NP.

African Green Pigeon Treron calva

We first encountered this pretty, parrot like pigeon in Liwonde NP.

Parrots Psittacidae

Lilian’s Lovebird Agapornis lilianae

We experienced excellent views of this colourful avian in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.

Meyer's Parrot Poicephalus meyeri

Seen in woodland at Vwaza Marsh GR.

Brown-headed Parrot Poicephalus cryptoxanthus

A number of birds were seen in Liwonde NP.

Turacos Musophagidae

Livingstone’s Turaco Tauraco livingstonii

A colourful bird, we saw a number of birds on Thyolo Mountain.

Schalow’s Turaco Tauraco schalowi

Similar in appearance to the previous species, we recorded it on the Viphya area.

Purple-crested Turaco Turaco porphyreolophus


Grey Go-away-bird Corythaixoides concolor

This dry bushveld species, in possesession of a distinct “go away!” call was sighted in Vwaza.

Cuckoos and Coucals Cuculidae

Senegal Coucal Centropus senegalensis

A single individual was seen in South Luangwa NP.

White-browed Coucal Centropus superciliosus

A single bird was seen near to Vwaza Marsh GR.

Burchell’s Coucal Centropus burchelli

A few birds were recorded in the former half of the tour.

Black Coucal Centropus grillii

A single bird was seen in grassland and rank vegetation near Viphya.

Levaillant’s Cuckoo Clamator levaillantii

A single bird was seen in South Luangwa NP.

Dideric Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius


Klaas’s Cuckoo Chrysococcyx klaas


Two birds were seen on Thyolo Mountain.

African Emerald Cuckoo Chrysococcyx cupreus

This birds “Pretty Georgie” call was all that betrayed its presence, and it was unfortunately not seen.

Black Cuckoo Cuculus clamosus

We only heard this species while in South Luangwa.

Red-chested Cuckoo Cuculus solitarius

Its characteristic “Piet-my-vrou” call was heard at Dzalanyama and Viphya, but no sighting was

forthcoming.

Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus

We were very fortunate to sight a rare hepatic form bird in South Luangwa.

Typical Owls Strigidae African Scops Owl Otus senegalensis

Possessing a beautiful call, we only heard this bird while in South Luangwa NP.

Spotted Eagle-Owl Bubo africanus

We first recorded this species at Thyolo, and later at Nyika Plateau.

Verreaux's Eagle-Owl Bubo lacteus

This huge bird was seen on consecutive nights in South Luangwa NP.

Pel’s Fishing Owl Scotopelia peli

A highly sough after owl, we had brilliant views of a bird on the Shire River, and later of another bird

in a floodplain area from our lodge in the South Luangwa area.

African Wood Owl Strix woodfordii

Two lovely birds were seen in our garden at Thyolo.

Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium perlatum

This small bird was heard at Vwaza Marsh GR.

African Barred Owlet Glaucidium capense

A stunning bird, we saw a few individuals in riverine vegetation along the Shire River.

Nightjars Caprimulgidae

Square-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus fossii


Pennant-winged Nightjar Macrodipteryx vexillarius

A bird was briefly sighted at Vwaza Marsh GR.

Swifts Apodidae

Scarce Swift Schoutedenapus myoptilus

A few birds where seen over the Nyika Plateau while at Manyanjere Forest.

African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus

Recorded frequently in the vicinity of palms, such as in Liwonde NP. NOTE: The nominate African form of the Palm Swift is considered to be distinct from the Malagasy form C. p. gracilis by

some authorities.

Common Swift Apus apus

A number of huge flocks of this swift were seen in Malawi.

African Black Swift Apus barbatus

A scattered birds were recorded during the trip in more mountainous areas..

Little Swift Apus affinis

First recorded at the airport in Lilongwe.


White-rumped Swift Apus caffer

We sighted our first individuals in Lilongwe.

Mousebirds Coliidae

White-backed Mousebird Colius colius

First seen at our lunch stop in Dedza.

Red-faced Mousebird Urocolius indicus

A bushveld bird, we recorded it in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.

Trogons Trogonidae Bar-tailed Trogon Apaloderma vittatum

An absolute stunner, we saw individuals on Thyolo Mountain.

Rollers Coraciidae

Racket-tailed Roller Coracias spatulatus

A highly sought after bird, we saw this beauty in Mopane woodland in Liwonde NP.

Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudata

We saw it on the first day driving out of Lilongwe. Seen in bushveld regularly thereafter.

European Roller Coracias garrulus

We recorded this migrant for the first time in Liwonde NP.

Broad-billed Roller Eurystomus glaucurus

A noisy species, we sighted it in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.

Kingfishers Alcedinidae

Grey-headed Kingfisher Halcyon leucocephala

A beautiful bird, with our first sighting in Miombo woodland at Dzalanyama.

Brown-hooded Kingfisher Halcyon albiventris

A single bird was found perched while in Livingstone.

Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti

A smallish terrestrial kingfisher, we first recorded it in Zomba.

Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis

A beautiful bird, we recorded it in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.

Malachite Kingfisher Alcedo cristata

A few of these “jewels of the waterway” were seen along the Shire River.

African Pygmy Kingfisher Ispidina picta

Also a “looker”, we saw this bird at Thyolo and Dzalanyama.

Giant Kingfisher Megaceryle maxima

Small numbers were seen along the Shire River.

Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis

Many were seen along the Shire River.

Bee-eaters Meropidae

Swallow-tailed Bee-eater Merops hirundineus

Two birds were seen in tall woodland near South Luangwa NP.

Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus

Seen at a variety of locations throughout the tour.

White-fronted Bee-eater Merops bullockoides


A pretty bird, we recorded it in South Luangwa NP.

Böhm’s Bee-eater Merops boehmi

Excellent views were had of this range-restricted bird.

Olive (Madagascar) Bee-eater Merops superciliosus

This migrant was seen in Liwonde NP. European Bee-eater Merops apiaster

Seen at a number of localities during the tour.

Southern Carmine Bee-eater Merops nubicoides

We were delighted by these stunning creatures at their nesting colony along the Luangwa River.

Hoopoes Upupidae

African Hoopoe Upupa africana

Seen on the first day, and then later in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP. NOTE: The Hoopoe complex has had a confusing taxonomic history, with one to four species being recognized by various

authorities. Clements splits the group into two forms, Madagascar U. marginalis and Eurasian U. epops The white-winged

African forms are often split by other authorities as West African Hoopoe U. senegalensis with the fourth species being

African Hoopoe U. africana. However, the most generally accepted treatment is that of three species, Madagascar,

Eurasian and African.

Woodhoopoes Phoeniculidae

Green (Red-billed) Wood-hoopoe Phoeniculus purpureus

A noisy bird, we sighted it in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.

Common Scimitar-bill Rhinopomastus cyanomelas

A few individuals were seen in Liwonde NP.

Hornbills Bucerotidae

Crowned Hornbill Tockus alboterminatus

A single bird was recorded on a game drive in Liwonde NP.

Pale-billed Hornbill Tockus pallidirostris

Generally restricted to Miombo woodland, we recorded this species at Dzalanyama.

African Grey Hornbill Tockus nasutus

We saw this species in bushveld habitat in Liwonde.

(Southern) Red-billed Hornbill Tockus erythrorhynchus

This bushveld species was recorded in Liwonde NP, Vwaza Marsh GR and South Luangwa NP. NOTE: Red-billed Hornbill has recently been split into several species, the nominate T. erythrorhynchus which we

observed and Damara Hornbill T. damarensis which occurs in Western Namibia.

Trumpeter Hornbill Ceratogymna bucinator

Seen on Thyolo Mountain and in Liwonde NP.

Silvery-cheeked Hornbill Ceratogymna brevis

The largest “arboreal” hornbill in the area, we recorded it on Thyolo Mountain.

Ground Hornbills Bucorvidae Southern Ground Hornbill Bucorvus leadbeateri

This amazing bird was seen regularly in South Luangwa NP.

Barbets Capitonidae

White-eared Barbet Stactolaema leucotis

Seen in forest on Thyolo Mountain.


Whyte’s Barbet Stactolaema whytii

Usually associated with miombo woodland, we saw a single specimen in Dzalanyama.

Moustached Tinkerbird Pogoniulus leucomystax

We unfortunately only heard this species in forest on the Nyika Plateau.

Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird Pogoniulus bilineatus

A single bird was seen in forest on Thyolo Mountain.

Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus chrysoconus

Seen well in woodland in the Okavango Panhandle.

Black-collared Barbet Lybius torquatus

A woodland species, we recorded it in Vwaza Marsh GR and South Luangwa NP.

Brown-breasted Lybius torquatus

This highly localised bird is very much sought after in Malawi and over much of its small range. We

were extremely lucky to see a single individual in Liwonde NP!

Crested Barbet Trachyphonus vaillantii

Seen near Shakawe in the Okavango Panhandle. A stunning bird.

Honeyguides Indicatoridae

Brown-backed Honeybird Prodotiscus regulus

A bird was seen alongside miombo woodland on the Viphya Plateau.

Greater Honeyguide Indicator indicator

This species was heard in a number of localities, but was unfortunately not seen.

Lesser Honeyguide Indicator minor

Heard while in South Luangwa NP.

Pallid Honeyguide Indicator meliphilus

We recorded this species on Thyolo Mountain.

Woodpeckers Picidae Bennett’s Woodpecker Campethera bennettii

A lovely bird, we saw birds on a number of consecutive days in South Luangwa NP.

Speckle-throated (Reichenow’s) Woodpecker Campethera scriptoricauda

A fairly range restricted species, we saw two birds in Liwonde NP.

Golden-tailed Woodpecker Campethera abingoni

First seen at Augrabies, and later in the northern Botswana.

Green-backed Woodpecker Campethera cailliautii

We saw four birds while birding Miombo woodland at Dzalanyama.

Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens

A small woodpecker; seen in northern Botswana and the Caprivi.

Stierling’s Woodpecker Dendropicos stierlingi

In appearance like a “mini Bearded Woodpecker”, we saw this sought after miombo specialist at

Dzalanyama.

Bearded Woodpecker Dendropicos namaquus

The largest arboreal woodpecker in the region, we sighted a single bird in South Luangwa NP.

Olive Woodpecker Dendropicos griseocephalus

The beautiful ruwenzori subspecies was the one seen by us on the Viphya Plateau.

Broadbills Eurylaimidae African Broadbill Smithornis capensis


A male bird was seen very well on Thyolo Mountain.

Wattle-eyes, Batises Platysteiridae

Cape (Malawi) Batis Batis (dimorpha) capensis

We had a number of excellent sightings in the forest on Thyolo Mountain.

Note: This bird is often split as Malawi Batis Batis dimorpha, and is restricted to Malawi and northern Mozambique. IOC

does not ratify this split.

Chinspot Batis Batis molitor

First recorded at Dzalanyama. Possesses a distinctive “three blind mice” call.

Black-throated Wattle-eye Platysteira peltata

This lovely bird was first seen in forest on Thyolo Mountain, and later in Liwonde NP.

Helmetshrikes, Bushshrikes Malaconotidae

White-crested Helmetshrike Prionops plumatus

Good numbers were recorded in Liwonde National Park.

Retz's Helmetshrike Prionops retzii

First recorded at Dzalanyama Forest Reserve.

Grey-headed Bushshrike Malaconotus blanchoti

A secretive “thug” of wooded areas, we first recorded it at Dzalanyama, and later at Viphya.

Black-fronted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus nigrifrons

This bright avian was seen on a few occasions in the forest on Thyolo Mountain.

Orange-breasted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus

Heard on a number of occasions, but seen by guide only.

Marsh (Anchieta's) Tchagra Bocagia (anchieta) minuta

A split of Marsh Tchagra, we saw these great bird at Viphya. Note: Although split by some authorities as

Anchieta’s Tchagra Bocagia anchieta, IOC does not accept this split. Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis

A few separate individuals were seen during the tour, starting at Thyolo Mountain.

Black-crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegalus

First recorded at Liwonde NP, its distinctive call was heard in a number of savanna localities thereafter.

Black-backed Puffback Dryoscopus cubla

Seen regularly from Thyolo Mountain onwards.

Fülleborn's Boubou Laniarius fuelleborni

Despite hearing a number of these skulkers in montane forest on Nyika, no views were forthcoming.

Tropical Boubou Laniarius aethiopicus

Another noisy skulker, it was heard regularly, with maximum numbers seen at Vwaza Marsh GR.

Brubru Nilaus afer

Two birds were well seen at Vwaza Marsh GR during our afternoon stroll.

Cuckooshrikes Campephagidae Grey Cuckooshrike Coracina pectoralis

Seen in forest on Thyolo Mountain. This constitutes this species only population in Malawi.

White-breasted Cuckooshrike Coracina caesia

A great bird, we saw a number of individuals in Miombo Woodland at Dzalanyama.

Black Cuckooshrike Campephaga flava

A single bird was seen in tall woodland near South Luangwa NP.


Shrikes Lanidae Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio

Recorded at scattered localities, especially in thornveld areas.

Souza’s Shrike Lanius souzae

A great bird, we recorded a fair number while at Dzalanyama.

Common Fiscal Lanius collaris

This pied bird was first recorded at en route to Liwonde National Park.

Old World Orioles Orioliidae Eurasian Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus

This bright bird was seen at a number of localities throughout the tour.

African Golden Oriole Oriolus auratus

Seen in mixed flocks in miombo woodland at Dzalanyama.

Green-headed Oriole Oriolus chlorocephalus

A beautiful and very sought after bird, we saw a few individuals at Thyolo Mountain.

African Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus

Singles were recorded at scattered localities starting with Liwonde National Park.

Drongos Dicruridae Square-tailed Drongo Dicrurus ludwigii

A noisy forest inhabitant, we recorded a few individuals in the forest on Thyolo Mountain.

Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis

Regularly recorded in non-forest environs throughout the tour.

Monarch Flycatchers Monarchidae White-tailed Crested Flycatcher Eminia albicauda

We first bumped into this bird on Zomba Mountain; it was later seen on the Nyika Plateau.

African Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis

This flashy bird was seen on a number of occasions throughout the tour.

Crows Corvidae Pied Crow Corvus albus

Frequently recorded throughout the tour.

White-necked Raven Dicrurus adsimilis

First seen at Dzalanyama, and later commonly seen on Nyika Plateau.

Tits Paridae Southern Black Tit Parus niger

First recorded at Liwonde National Park.

Rufous-bellied Tit Parus rufiventris

A total of three of these stunning birds were seen in miombo woodland at Dzalanyama.

Penduline Tits Remizidae African Penduline Tit Anthoscopus caroli

A tiny species, we saw two in a huge mixed flock at Dzalanyama.


Swallows and Martins Hirundinidae Grey-rumped Swallow Pseudhirundo griseopyga

Seen near to Dzalanyama forest reserve.

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica

Frequently recorded throughout the tour.

Angola Swallow Hirundo angolensis

A fairly localised bird, we saw three individuals on the Nyika Plateau.

Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii

Brilliant views were had of birds perched upon an eave on our accommodation at Thyolo.

Blue Swallow Hirundo atrocaerulea

This stunning, highly localised and vulnerable Intra-African migrant was seen on Nyika Plateau. At

least 300 pairs are thought to breed on the plateau.

Lesser Striped-Swallow Cecropis abyssinica

Our best sightings of this delicate bird came in the latter half of the tour.

Mosque Swallow Cecropis senegalensis

A large hirundine, we recorded it on three consecutive days in Liwonde NP.

Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica

For the most part a bird of highland areas, we recorded it in the Viphya area.

White-headed Saw-wing Psalidoprocne albiceps

A delightful creature, we recorded it in highland grassland at Viphya and Nyika.

Eastern Saw-wing Psalidoprocne orientalis

Seen over forest at Thyolo, and miombo woodland at Dzalanyama.

Larks Alaudidae

Red-capped Lark Calandrella cinerea

This lark was also seen in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa. NOTE: The African Red-capped Lark complex C. cinerea, was lumped within the Greater Short-toed Lark complex C.

brachydactyla but is now considered distinct by most authorities. Several distinctive groupings have now been split off from

Red-capped Lark, including Blanford’s Lark of Ethiopia C. blanfordi.

Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix leucotis

A sparse field yielded around 15 birds. A nomadic species.

Fischer’s Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix leucopareia

A regional speciality, we found a few birds along with the previous species en route to Viphya from

Dzalanyama.

Cisticolas & Allies Cisticolidae Red-faced Cisticola Cisticola erythrops

Heard more often than seen, we recorded it best between Viphya and Nyika.

Singing Cisticola Cisticola cantans

Heard and seen at a number of localities throughout the mid-portion of the tour in rank vegetation,

Trilling Cisticola Cisticola woosnami

Recorded on the Viphya Plateau.

Black-lored Cisticola Cisticola nigriloris

We saw this species on the Nyika Plateau. Its “squeaky gate” call was frequently heard.

Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana

A noisy bird, with a call characteristic of the bushveld, it was heard more often than seen.


Churring Cisticola Cisticola njombe

Seen on consecutive days on Nyika Plateau.

Croaking Cisticola Cisticola natalensis

Heard during a birding stop en route to Viphya from Dzalanyama.

Short-winged (Siffling) Cisticola Cisticola brachypterus

Heard on the Nyika Plateau en route to Vwaza Marsh GR (guide only).

Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis

Heard at a stop en route to Viphya from Dzalanyama.

Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava

Seen at scattered localities throughout the tour.

Bar-throated Apalis Apalis thoracica

We recorded the good looking brown-headed form in forest/grassland mosaic at Viphya. Birds seen

here represent the interesting looking youngi race, which are very different in appearance to birds

further south in Africa.

Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida

A few individuals were seen in scattered localities.

White-winged Apalis Apalis chariessa

An absolute stunner and incredibly sought after, we saw a single male in Zomba.

Black-headed Apalis Apalis melanocaphala

We recorded a few individuals while birding the forest on Thyolo Mountain.

Chapin’s Apalis Apalis chapini

A fairly range restricted species, we recorded it in forest on the Nyika Plateau.

Brown-headed Apalis Apalis alticola

A single bird was seen in forest on the Nyika Plateau.

Grey-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brevicaudata

This noisy woodland species was seen at Vwaza Marsh. NOTE: Most authorities now recognize the nominate green-backed forms of this widespread African warbler as distinct

from the grey-backed forms C. brevicaudata. We encountered the grey-backed forms during our tour.

Bulbuls Pycononotidae Dark-capped Bulbul Pycnonotus (barbatus) tricolor

One of the most frequently recorded birds of the tour.

Little Greenbul Andropadus virens

We had our best view of this vocal forest bird at Thyolo Mountain.

Sombre Greenbul Andropadus importunus

A single bird was seen at Liwonde NP.

Southern Mountain Greenbul Andropadus (nigriceps) fusciceps

Recorded on Viphya and Nyika Plateaux.

Olive-headed Greenbul Andropadus (milanjensis) olivaceiceps

A single bird was seen at Thyolo; it was later more commonly seen on Zomba Mountain.

Yellow-bellied Greenbul Chlorocichla flaviventris

We recorded this noisy species in moist bushveld at Liwonde NP.

Placid Greenbul Phyllastrephus placidus

A few birds were seen on Zomba Mountain.

Terrestrial Brownbul Phyllastrephus terrestris

This drab species was seen in thick vegetation near the Luangwa River.

Yellow-streaked Greenbul Phyllastrephus flavostriatus

We watched a number of these birds, with their characteristic wing flicking(one at a time) at Thyolo.


Sharpe’s Greenbul Phyllastrephus alfredi

Recorded in forest on the Nyika Plateau. Note: IOC splits Sharpe’s Greenbul from Yellow-streaked Greenbul

Phyllastrephus flavostriatus, although this is not accepted by some authorities.

Family Uncertain Eastern Nicator Nicator gularis

Its beautiful liquid call was heard while in South Luangwa NP, but no sighting of this skulker was

forthcoming.

Livingstone’s Flycatcher Erythrocercus livingstonei

An incredible bird; we found a small flock of these beauties near camp in Liwonde NP.

Old World Warblers Sylviidae Fan-tailed Grassbird Schoenicola brevirostris

This grassland species was seen very nicely en route to our lodge on the Viphya Plateau.

Little Rush Warbler Bradypterus baboecala

Heard in reeds alongside a dam in Viphya.

Evergreen Forest Warbler Bradypterus mariae

This skulker was heard by the group (one bird seen by guide only).

Cinnamon Bracken Warbler Bradypterus cinnamomeus

A single bird was well seen in scrubby bracken on the Nyika Plateau.

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenabaenus

A single bird was seen in a roadside reedbed en route to Lilongwe from Vwaza.

Lesser Swamp Warbler Acrocephalus gracilirostris

Seen alongside the Shire River.

Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina

A single bird was seen in thornveld at Vwaza Marsh GR.

Dark-capped (African) Yellow Warbler Chloropeta natalensis

We encountered this species in marsh habitat at Viphya.

Mountain Yellow Warbler Chloropeta similes

A single bird was seen in small wetland on the Nyika Plateau.

Yellow-bellied Hyliota Hyliota flavigaster

We had a couple good sightings of this miombo species at Dzalanyama.

Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler Phylloscopus ruficapilla

A delightful bird, we recorded it in forest on Thyolo Mountain.

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus

Frequently recorded throughout the trip.

Yellow-bellied Eremomela Eremomela icteropygialis

A single bird was seen

Green-capped Eremomela Eremomela scotops

Seen very well in miombo at Dzalanyama.

Long-billed Crombec Sylvietta rufescens

A single bird was seen outside of South Luangwa NP.

Red-capped Crombec Sylvietta ruficapilla

A miombo associated bird, we saw it in Dzalanyama.

Eurasian Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla

A single male was seen in scrubby vegetation in Viphya.

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin


This Palaeartic migrant was seen on the Viphya Plateau.

Brown Parisoma Parisoma lugens

Very restricted in Malawi, we recorded it in Acacia abyssinica trees on the Nyika Escarpment.

Babblers Timaliidae Arrow-marked Babbler Turdoides jardineii

These noisy birds were first seen at Liwonde National Park.

White-eyes Zosteropidae African Yellow White-eye Zosterops senegalensis

Commonly recorded at a number of localities throughout the tour.

Treecreepers Certhiidae Spotted Creeper Salpornis spilonotus

A bizarre and highly sought after species, we recorded three in miombo at Dzalanyama.

Starlings Sturnidae

Wattled Starling Creatophora cinerea

A nomadic species, we recorded it in South Luangwa NP.

Greater Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus

An iridescent beauty, small numbers were seen in Liwonde NP.

Miombo Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis Elisabeth

A small flock were watched feeding in a fig tree in the northern section of Vwaza Marsh GR.

Meves's (Long-tailed) Starling Lamprotornis mevesii

This beautiful avian, it was regularly seen in Liwonde National Park.

Violet-backed Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster

Another stunning starling, it was recorded a scattered localities throughout the tour.

Red-winged Starling Onychognathus morio

Three were seen on the Nyika Plateau.

Waller’s Starling Onychognathus walleri

A flock was found feeding in an emergent tree on the Nyika Plateau.

Yellow-billed Oxpecker Buphagus africanus

First seen in Vwaza Marsh, and later recorded in better numbers in South Luangwa NP.

Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorhynchus

Seen in good “savanna” type habitat, we recorded it in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.

Thrushes Turdidae Miombo Rock Thrush Monticola angolensis

We were treated to excellent views of this species while at Dzalanyama.

Orange Ground Thrush Zoothera gurneyi

A beautiful resident of the forest interior.

Kurrichane Thrush Turdus libonyanus

Seen on a number of occasions in the former half of the trip.

Thyolo Alethe Alethe choloensis

This highly sought after and restricted species was briefly seen in forest on Thyolo Mountain.

White-chested Alethe Alethe fuelleborni


Another furtive resident of the deep forest, we saw a pair of these stunners on Nyika Plateau.

Chats, Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae White-starred Robin Pogonocichla stellata

This pretty bird was seen on Thyolo Mountain.

Olive-flanked (Robin-Chat) Ground Robin Cossypha anomala

Restricted to Montane forest in south-east Africa, we saw this sought-after species on Nyika Plateau.

Cape Robin-Chat Cossypha caffra

Heard on Zomba Mountain.

White-browed Robin-Chat Cossypha heuglini

Frequently heard at a number of localities, and seen in Lilongwe.

Collared Palm Thrush Cichladusa arquata

We got great views of this palm-associated species at Liwonde National Park.

Miombo Scrub Robin Cercotrichas barbata

We saw this beautiful bird at Dzalanyama. Restricted to the miombo belt of south-central Africa.

Bearded Scrub Robin Cercotrichas quadrivirgata

Seen at Liwonde National Park (guide only).

White-browed Scrub Robin Cercotrichas leucophrys

First recorded in scrubby vegetation on Thyolo Mountain. NOTE: This widespread African complex is being reviewed for a 3-way split, the Southern African C. l. leucophrys group

would remain as White-browed Scrub-Robin, the Central African C. l. zambesiana would become Red-backed Scrub-Robin

and the Northern African C. l. leucoptera would become White-winged Scrub-Robin. Eurasian (African) Stonechat Saxicola torquatus

Seen at a number of different localities. NOTE: Clements recognizes the split of African S. torquata and Common Stonechats S. rubicola (the latter a Palaearctic

species), which is not followed by all authorities. Further splitting may occur in both groups including the highland

Ethiopian form S. t. albofasciata that may become Ethiopian Stonechat. Familiar Chat Cercomela familiaris

This widespread species was seen in rocky areas at Dzalanyama.

Arnot’s Chat Myrmecocichla arnotti

Seen tall mopane woodland at Liwonde and miombo woodland at Dzalanyama.

White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher Dioptrornis fischeri

A highland forest species, we recorded on the Viphya Plateau in our lodges garden.

Southern Black Flycatcher Melaenornis pammelaina

Seen in woodland in Liwonde NP.

Pale Flycatcher Bradornis pallidus

First seen in at Viphya.

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata

This Palaeartic migrant was seen first seen at Liwonde NP.

Ashy Flycatcher Muscicapa caerulescens

Liwonde NP offered up our first sighting of this widespread species.

African Dusky Flycatcher Muscicapa adusta

Seen at a few scattered localities throughout the tour.

Böhm's Flycatcher Muscicapa boehmi

We saw a single specimen of this sough-after miombo endemic.

Grey Tit-Flycatcher Myioparus plumbeus

A few individuals were seen Dzalanyama.


Sunbirds Nectariniidae Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris

This small beauty was first recorded in forest at Thyolo.

Eastern Olive Sunbird Cyanomitra olivacea

A noisy (albeit dull) forest inhabitant. Note:Although IOC ratifies the split of Olive Sunbird into Eastern Olive Sunbird C. olivacea and Western Olive Sunbird C.

obscura,the genetic evidence does not support this split. Amethyst Sunbird Chalcomitra amethystine

We saw a total of four birds in miombo woodland en route to Vwaza from Nyika Plateau.

Scarlet-chested Sunbird Chalcomitra senegalensis

We had excellent views of this stunning species at Liwonde National Park.

Bronzy Sunbird Nectarinia kilimensis

Great views were had in the garden at Viphya.

Malachite Sunbird Nectarinia famosa

Good numbers were seen on the Nyika Plateau, but alas, none adorned with red pectoral tufts!

Miombo Double-collared Sunbird Cinnyris manoensis

A single bird was seen in miombo vegetation at Dzalanyama.

Ludwig’s Double-collared Sunbird Cinnyris ludovicensis

Recorded on the Nyika Plaeau.

Eastern (Forest) Double-collared Sunbird Cinnyris (fuelleborni) mediocris

A lovely bird, we recorded it near our accommodation on the Viphya Plateau.

Purple-banded Sunbird Cinnyris bifasciatus

Recorded at South Luangwa National Park.

White-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris talatala

A single bird was seen in Liwonde National Park.

Variable Sunbird Cinnyris venustus

Maximum numbers were recorded South Luangwa NP.

Old World Sparrows Passeridae White-browed Sparrow-Weaver Plocepasser mahali

Good numbers of these industrious nest-builders were seen in Liwonde NP and South Luangwa NP.

House Sparrow Passer domesticus

Seen in various urban environments.

Northern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer griseus

Reccorded in Lilongwe.

Southern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer diffusus

Very similar to the previous species, we recorded it in Liwonde NP.

Yellow-throated Petronia Petronia superciliaris

We saw this species in Liwonde NP, Dzalanyama, and then later in Vwaza Marsh Game Reserve.

Weavers and Allies Ploceidae Baglafecht Weaver Ploceus baglafecht

In Malawi, this species is restricted to the Nyika Plateau and belongs to the race nyikae. A few

individuals were seen foraging near to our accommodations.

Bertram's Weaver Ploceus bertrandi

Uncommon and restricted to highland areas of south-east Africa, it was seen at Thyolo and Viphya.

Spectacled Weaver Ploceus ocularis


Small numbers were seen in the former half of the trip.

African Golden (Holub’s Golden) Ploceus xanthops

A maximum of two were seen at Viphya.

Southern Brown-throated Weaver Ploceus xanthopterus

Common at Liwonde NP.

Lesser Masked Weaver Ploceus intermedius

Good numbers were seen in Liwonde NP.

Southern Masked Weaver Ploceus velatus

This species was recorded at Vwaza Marsh GR.

Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus

First recorded near a dam en route to Viphya from Dzalanyama.

Dark-backed Weaver Ploceus bicolor

Recorded in forest on Thyolo Mountain.

Red-headed Weaver Anaplectes melanotis

A good looking bird, we saw a few individuals in Liwonde NP and Dzalanyama.

Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea

The world’s most populous bird, we saw fairly large flocks in South Luangwa NP.

Yellow Bishop Euplectes capensis

A maximum of 10 were seen in Vwaza Marsh GR.

Montane (Buff-shouldered) Widowbird Euplectes psammocromius

A beautiful bird, we saw a number of them on Nyika Plateau.

Red-collared Widowbird Euplectes ardens

This species was seen in Viphya Plateau.

Waxbills and Allies Estrilididae Orange-winged Pytilia Pytilia afra

A gorgeous bird, we saw a pair in Miombo woodland at Dzalanyama.

Green-winged Pytilia (Melba Finch) Pytilia melba

A few solitary birds were seen, with the first bird recorded at Vwaza Marsh GR.

Red-throated Twinspot Hypargos niveoguttatus

We had excellent views of this stunning seed-eater at Thyolo and South Luangwa NP.

Red-billed Firefinch Lagonosticta senegala

We saw a few birds at Liwonde NP.

African Firefinch Lagonosticta rubricata

Seen at Viphya.

Jameson's Firefinch Lagonosticta rhodopareia

A few birds were seen at Thyolo.

Blue Waxbill Uraeginthus angolensis

We saw this bird regularly in relatively drier habitats throughout the tour.

Yellow-bellied Waxbill Estrilda quartinia

A beautiful and delicate bird, we first encountered it at Viphya.

Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild

Seen on a number of occasions.

Orange-breasted Waxbill Amandava subflava

Another good looking estrilid, we saw a total of two dozen en route from Vwaza Marsh to Lilongwe.

Bronze Mannikin Lonchura cucullata

This tiny bird was encountered for the first time at Dzalanayama.


Red-backed Mannikin Lonchura nigriceps

A smart bird, it was seen at Thyolo.

Indigobirds, Whydahs Viduidae Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura

This small bird with attitude was seen upon our exit of Thyolo en route to Liwonde.

Wagtails and Pipits Motacillidae

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea

An unexpected find, it was seen at the trout farm on Zomba Plateau.

Mountain Wagtail Motacilla clara

We recorded this species in Thyolo.

African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp

Seen frequently throughout the tour.

Yellow-throated Longclaw Macronyx croceus

Heard in the Viphya area.

African Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus

Seen on a number of occasions in scattered locales throughout the trip. 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 rights and several

new forms are surely still to be described.

Jackson’s Pipit Anthus latistriatus

A scarce and localised bird, we recorded it on Nyika Plateau.

Long-billed Pipit Anthus similis

Awe saw a single bird on the Nyika Plateau.

Striped Pipit Anthus lineiventris

Three birds were seen on a rocky slope in Miombo woodland at Dzalanyama.

Buffy Pipit Anthus vaalensis

Seen along the floodplain of the Luangwa River (guide only).

True Finches Fringillidae Southern Citril Crithagra hyposticta

Small numbers were seen in highland areas (i.e. Thyolo and Viphya).

Yellow-fronted (Yellow-eyed) Canary Crithagra mozambica

Most frequently recorded in the former half of the tour.

Brimstone Canary Crithagra sulphurata

A single of this large canary was seen on the Nyika Plateau.

Reichard's Seedeater Crithagra reichardi

Found in Miombo woodland, we saw this species at Dzalanyama.

Black-eared Seedeater Crithagra mennelli

Recorded in Miombo at Dzalanyama.

Yellow-browed Seedeater Crithagra whytii

A flock of around ten birds was seen on the Nyika Plateau. A restricted and sought-after species.

Buntings Emberizidae


Cinnamon-breasted Bunting Emberiza tahapisi

Recorded at a few scattered localities throughout the trip.

Golden-breasted Bunting Emberiza flaviventris

A single was seen woodland at Vwaza Marsh.

Cabanis's Bunting Emberiza cabanisi

We got very good views of this miombo inhabitant at Dzalanyama.

Annotated List of Mammals

Note: Names and taxonomical order of the land mammals follow that of “The Kingdon Field Guide to

African Mammals” by Jonathan Kingdon (2007). Additional names are given in parenthesis and are

likely to appear in other popular field guides.

Baboons & Monkeys Cercopithecidae Yellow Baboon Papio cynocephalus

Seen quite regularly in wooded habitats throughout the trip.

Vervet Monkey Cercopithecus aethiops

These inquisitive monkeys were seen at Liwonde and Vwaza Marsh.

Blue Monkey Cercopithecus mitis

A good looking creature, we recorded it at Thyolo and later on the Nyika Plateau.

Galagos or Bushbabies Galagonidae Greater Galago (Thick-tailed Bushbaby) Otolemur crassicaudatus

Seen very briefly by some in South Luangwa NP while on a night drive.

Fruit Bats Pteropodidae Straw-coloured Fruit Bat Eidolon helvum

A few were seen as they flew out to forage at dusk while near Thyolo Mountain.

Insect (Insectivorous) Bats Suborder Microchiroptera We encountered various small, insectivorous bats in a number of localities, especially the more humid,

northern areas of the tour. They are generally very difficult to identify unless in the hand.

Soft-furred Elephant Shrews Macroscelidinae Four-toed Elephant Shrew Petrodromus tetradactylus

This nervous, agile creature was seen in Liwonde NP.

Hares & Rabbits Leporidae Scrub Hare Lepus saxatilis

A few were seen on night drives in Liwonde and Nyika.

Squirrels Sciuridae Tanganyika Mountain Squirrel Paraxerus lucifer lucifer

This beautiful squirrel was seen in Manyanjere Forest on the Nyika Plateau.

Smith’s Bush (Tree) Squirrel Paraxerus cepapi

A delightful creature, we sighted individuals in Halali Camp, and in northern Botswana.


Mutable Sun Squirrel Heliosciurus mutalilis

A squirrel seen in forest on Thyolo Mountain is thought to belong to this species.

Porcupines Hystricidae Porcupine Hystrix africaeaustralis

We encountered a group of four while in South Luangwa NP.

Dogs & Allies Canidae Side-striped Jackal Canis adustus

The first creature of the trip, one ran across the road close to the airport near Lilongwe.

Mongooses Herpestidae Slender Mongoose Herpestes sanguinea

Seen on travel days on two occasions as it sprinted in front of us.

Banded Mongoose Mungos mungo

Around twelve were seen in South Lungwa.

White-tailed Mongoose Ichneumia albicauda

A single was seen in South Luangwa NP; a large nocturnal mongoose.

Hyaenids Hyaenidae Spotted Hyaena Crocuta crocuta

After initially hearing this fascinating mammal at Liwonde, we saw a total of three in South Luangwa.

Genets & Civets Viverridae Blotched (Large-spotted) Genet Genetta tigrina

Recorded in South Luangwa NP

African Civet Civettictis civetta

A single was well seen as it ate frogs on the road in South Luangwa NP.

Cats Felidae Leopard Panthera pardus

We were very lucky to obtain great views of an individual in South Luangwa half-heartedly hunting

Puku, and later cornering a Large-spotted Genet, which very bravely dissuaded the aforementioned

leopard from eating it!

Lion Panthera leo

We recorded a total of five in South Luangwa NP.

Elephants Elephantidae African Elephant Loxodonta africana

We were particularly lucky with regards our encounters with these beasts, with excellent view of ele’s

swimming, eating and just strolling about (this included both tuskers and family groups).

Zebras Equidae Common (Burchell’s) Zebra Equus quagga burchelli

Seen on the Nyika Plateau.

Crawshay’s Zebra Equus quagga crawshayi


A relatively localized subspecies, it was well seen in South Luangwa NP.

Hippopotomuses Hippopotamidae Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibious

Good numbers were seen in Liwonde, Vwaza Marsh and South Luangwa NP. Strangely, a fair number

of dead individuals were seen in South Luangwa NP, an area famous for enormous numbers of this

semi-aquatic monster.

Pigs Suidae Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus

Seen at the savanna locales of Liwonde, Vwaza Marsh and South Luangwa.

Giraffes Giraffidae Thornicroft’s Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis thornicrofti

This distinct subspecies of giraffe restricted to the Luangwa Valley was seen very well on a number of

occasions. Interestingly, some experts are considering splitting some of the subspecies of giraffe, so

Thornicroft’s may soon be regarded as a species on its own!

Bovids & Horned Ungulates Bovidae African (Cape) Buffalo Syncerus caffer

A large bovid, it was seen in South Luangwa NP.

Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus

Often secretive, we recorded this species in Liwonde, Nyika and later in South Luangwa NP.

Greater Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros

This stunning, spiral horned antelope was seen in Liwonde and Vwaza Marsh.

Eland Taurotragus oryx

We got our best views of this, the world’s largest antelope while on the Nyika Plateau.

Bush Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia

Record on the Nyika Plateau.

Klipspringer Oreotragus oreotragus

These nimble, rock associated antelope were seen on the Nyika Plateau.

Southern Reedbuck Redunca arundinum

A number were seen on the Nyika Plateau.

Puku Kobus vardoni

Very good numbers were seen in South Luangwa NP.

Waterbuck Kobus ellipsiprymnus

We recorded good numbers in Liwonde NP.

Impala Aepyceros melampus

Frequently seen in savanna areas throughout the tour.

Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest Alcelaphus buselaphus lichtensteinii

This difficult to see species was recorded in Liwonde NP.

Roan Antelope Hippotragus equinus

We recorded excellent numbers of this species on the Nyika Plateau, an area which must qualify as one

of the best in the world to see this usually uncommon antelope.

Sable Antelope Hippotragus niger

The smaller cousin of the previous species was seen in Liwonde NP. Undoubtedly one of the most

handsome of all antelope!

Trip Report Malawi 07 - d3n0rgqlxm83jq.cloudfront.net · the proverbial “cherry on the cake”!...

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