Birds

1. Common ostrich (Struthio camelus)

Some individuals seen in pairs in Mpala on 29th and 31st Jan, and in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

2. White-faced whistling-duck (Dendrocygna viduata)

Several adults in a pond in Maasai Mara NR with lapwings and other waders on 6th Feb. A group of a dozen birds (adults and juveniles) in a pond in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

3. White-backed duck (Thalassornis leuconotus)

Two pairs with ducklings in the lily pond of Karura forest on 26th Jan.

4. Knob-billed duck (Sarkidiornis melanotos)

Two adults and three juveniles in a pond in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

5. Egyptian goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca)

The most common waterfowl during the trip. Pairs with grown goslings in Karura forest recreational areas on 26th Jan. Big groups in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb. Sporadically found in open areas close to small ponds in the savanna and on the road.

6. Helmeted guineafowl (Numida meleagris)

A group found on top of an Acacia on the way to Wildebeest Eco Camp inside the fence of Nairobi NP on 25th Jan. Distant calls heard in the moist savanna in Ilpolei (north of Mpala) at dusk. Few individuals seen in the Mara North area on different dates.

7. Vulturine guineafowl (Acryllium vulturinum)

Different groups on 27th Jan in the airstrip of Mpala, where they are subject of behavioral and social studies.

8. Yellow-necked spurfowl (Pternistis leucoscepus)

One individual heard and seen in Mpala campsite on 30th Jan. A group of four seen at dusk in the Mpala plains on 1st Feb.

9. Lesser flamingo (Phoeniconaias minor)

Two individuals in bad shape in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb. Big groups visit the area when the waters are alkaline due to isolation of Lake Oloiden from Lake Naivasha.

10. Little grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Some individuals in the lily pond of Karura forest on 26th Jan.

11. Feral pigeon (Columba livia domestica)

Wiorldwide introduced but rather uncommon in Kenyan urban settlements, where its niche is covered by native speckled pigeon. Four individuals flying over in Garoda beach on 8th Feb.

12. Speckled pigeon (Columba guinea)

Most individuals seen in cities, from the car: Nairobi, including Jomo Kenyatta airport and Naivasha. Five individuals sitting on the poles of a wooden boma at. dawn in Kileleoni on 3rd Feb.

13. Dusky turtle-dove (Streptopelia lugens)

Several individuals come to the pond of Wildebeest Eco Camp in Nairobi to drink and bath on different dates. One bird in Karura forest on 26th Jan.

14. Red-eyed dove (Streptopelia semitorquata)

Lone individuals seen in Wildebeest Eco Camp, Mpala plains and KWSTI Naivasha on different dates.

15. Ring-necked dove (Streptopelia capicola)

Particularly common in Mpala, where seen almost every day. Also seen in KWSTI Naivasha on 5th Feb.

16. Laughing dove (Spilopelia senegalensis)

Quite common during the day game drives in Mpala. Heard and seen from the campsite on most days during our stay in Mpala.

17. Emerald-spotted wood-dove (Turtur chalcospilos)

Heard daily from the Mpala campsite but only seen on one occasion on 29th Jan. Heard and seen in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb and Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

18. Tambourine dove (Turtur tympanistria)

Only heard in of Arabuko Sokoke NP on 10th Feb, as several individuals called from different spots in the forest.

19. Namaqua dove (Oena capensis)

Individuals and pairs flushed from the roadside in few occasions during the game drives in Mpala on different dates.

20. Black-faced sandgrouse (Pterocles decoratus)

Eight individuals coming to drink in a pond in Mpala next to a ranch on 30th Jan.

21. Kori bustard (Ardeotis kori)

Three individuals seen in different dates in Mpala, including a lone male displaying on 31st Jan. Two individuals seen in Maasai Mara NP on 6th Feb, including an extremely tame bird in bad shape.

22. White-bellied bustard (Eupodotis senegalensis)

One individual in a game drive in Mpala on 31st Jan. Part of the group saw a displaying male in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

23. Fischer’s turaco (Tauraco fischeri)

Heard calls of individuals in a nest close to the trail in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

24. White-bellied go-away-bird (Crinifer leucogaster)

Present in Mpala, where several birds were seen daily, including an individual roosting in an Acacia in the campsite at night on 28th Jan.

25. White-browed coucal (Centropus superciliosus)

Several birds heard in the forested areas around Lake Oloiden, including one seen in Sopa Lodge on 2nd Feb. Few individuals heard in Arabuko Sokoke NP on Feb 9th and Mwamba research area on 11th Feb.

26. Klaas’s cuckoo (Chrysococcyx klaas)

An adult feeding a young bird in a big Acacia tree in Wildebeest Eco Camp on 25th Jan.

27. Red-chested cuckoo (Cuculus solitarius)

Two individuals heard and seen around the Mpala campsite on 28th Jan.

28. Nyanza swift (Apus niansae)

Over a dozen of individuals flying over our accomodation and visiting holes in the buildings of KWSTI Naivasha throughout our stay.

29. Little swift (Apus affinis)

Very common in different places, including urban settlements (e.g., Jomo Kenyatta airport, Naivasha…) and seen on different dates. Some pairs nest in the Talek gate of Maasai Mara NR.

30. White-rumped swift (Apus caffer)

A small group flying over Mpala campsite on 31st Jan. Half a dozen flying over Talek plains in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

31. African palm swift (Cypsiurus parvus)

Few individuals seen in areas with palm trees on different dates, including Karura forest, Arabuko Sokoke NP, Mida Creek…

32. Eurasian moorhen (Gallinula chloropus)

One bird at the lily pond of Karura forest on 26th Jan.

33. Red-knobbed coot (Fulica cristata)

A single bird in the open water of Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb.

34. Black crake (Zapornia flavirostra)

Two individuals seen in the water lilies of the area connecting lakes Oloiden and Naivasha on 2nd Feb.

35. Gray crowned-crane (Balearica regulorum)

Small groups seen on the road close to Nairobi, Laikipia and Nakuru on different dates. A small flock past the Talek gate in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

36. Spotted thick-knee (Burhinus capensis)

Four individuals spotted during a night game. drive on 4th Feb in North Mara. Local women report good numbers of this species in the grass fields around Lekiji community in Laikipia.

37. Eurasian oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus)

Two distant individuals with sacred ibis in the shore of Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

38. Black-bellied plover (Pluvialis squatarola)

An important number of young and winter plumage birds resting in the south tip of Garoda beach in Watamu at dusk on 8th Feb. Great concentrations in Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

39. Common ringed plover (Charadrius hiaticula)

About a dozen scattered among the waders of Mida Creek on 10th Feb. Small groups during the mornings in Garoda beach on different dates.

40. Three-banded plover (Charadrius tricollaris)

An individual in a small sandy shore down the river by Mpala campsite on Jan 28th. One individual in a small puddle in the plains of Mara North on 4th Feb and another one in a small wet area in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

41. Blacksmith lapwing (Vanellus armatus)

Two individuals in the front lawn of Sopa Lodge on 2nd Feb.

42. Spur-winged lapwing (Vanellus spinosus)

Three birds in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

43. Crowned lapwing (Vanellus coronatus)

Different small groups in the Mpala plains and in Mara North on different dates — some seen at night during game drives.

44. Wattled lapwing (Vanellus senegallus)

One bird in a small pond in Maasai Mara NR along with whistling-ducks on 6th Feb.

46. Tibetan sand-plover (Anarhynchus atrifrons)

Half a dozen individuals among the waders in Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

46. Greater sand-plover (Anarhynchus leschenaultii)

Hundreds roosting at dusk at the south tip of Garoda beach on 8th Feb along with other waders. Numerous among the waders of the muds in Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

47. White-fronted plover (Anarhynchus marginatus)

A distant individual spotted on the opposite side of the Mida Creek from the visitors center on 10th Feb.

48. African jacana (Actophilornis africanus)

Several birds seen in the water lily-covered area and some birds flying over the water of Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb.

49. Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus)

Very numerous in flocks flying south (towards the creek) from Garoda beach at dawn on several days. Few birds roosting in a numerous wader mix flock in the southern tip of the beach on 8th Feb. Half a dozen of birds in Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

50. Eurasian curlew (Numenius arquata)

Two individuals roosting in a waders mixed flock on Garoda beach on 8th Feb. Several birds in Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

51. Bar-tailed godwit (Limosa lapponica)

A single individual spotted roosting in a mixed wader flock at the south tip of Garoda beach on 8th Feb.

52. Terek sandpiper (Xenus cinereus)

Three birds roosting at dusk in Garoda beach south tip on 8th Feb. About eight birds among the waders feeding on the mud flats of Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

53. Common sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos)

Individuals seen in several wetlands visited in Kenya interior on different dates. An individual walking on top of hippos in the Mara River on 6th Feb.

54. Green sandpiper (Tringa ochropus)

One bird in a creek crossing in Mara North on 5th Feb. One individual in a puddle in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

55. Wood sandpiper (Tringa glareola)

One individual in a puddle in Maasai Mara NR with other waterbirds on 6th Feb. Three birds in a pond in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

56. Common greenshank (Tringa nebularia)

Some individuals feeding on mud flats of Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

57. Curlew sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea)

Small groups seen in the mud flats of Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

58. Sanderling (Calidris alba)

At least two individuals roosting in a large waders flock in the south end of Garoda beach on 8th Feb.

59. Little stint (Calidris minuta)

Quite abundant in the mud flats of Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

60. Crab-plover (Dromas ardeola)

Hundreds flew back and forth and roosted at the south end of Garoda beach on Feb 8th. Several dozens hunting crabs in Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

61. Temminck’s courser (Cursorius temminckii)

A single individual spotted at sunset on the road between Talek (Maasai Mara NR) and Mara North on 6th Feb.

62. Gray-hooded gull (Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus)

Several individuals seen from the boat and shore in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb.

63. Gull-billed tern (Gelochelidon nilotica)

Quite abundant in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb; Garoda beach on different dates; and Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

64. Lesser crested tern (Thalasseus bengalensis)

Some birds fishing along the shore in the coast of Garoda beach on different dates, and Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

65. Great crested tern (Thalasseus bergii)

One individual seen flying relatively close to the shore in Garoda beach on 11th Feb.

66. Abdim’s stork (Ciconia abdimii)

A fairly large group, of over 25 birds, in a small pond off the road between Narok and Mara North on 3rd Feb.

67. Saddle-billed stork (Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis)

Two birds gave spectacular views from the boat in lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb.

68. Marabou stork (Leptoptilos crumenifer)

Locally common. Good numbers were seen in Nairobi on Jan 26th, Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb and especially Talek before entering Maasai Mara NR on 5th and 6th Feb.

69. Yellow-billed stork (Mycteria ibis)

An individual approached from the boat in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb and several birds flying over the lake later that day.

70. Long-tailed cormorant (Microcarbo africanus)

Fairly common in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb.

71. White-bellied cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo lucidus)

Numerous in Lake Oloiden, where seen fishing and drying their plumage in groups on 2nd Feb.

72. Great white pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus)

A very large group of over 40 individuals seen in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb.

73. Pink-backed pelican (Pelecanus rufescens)

Several birds were seen solitary or in small groups in Lake Oloiden, especially at the pier, on 2nd Feb.

74. Hamerkop (Scopus umbretta)

A nest over a yellow-fever Acacia in Mpala, where no birds were seen. Six birds seen in total in Lake Oloiden and Naivasha area on 2nd Feb. Also seen in Mara North plains and in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

75. Little egret (Egretta garzetta)

Some birds in Lake Oloiden fishing at its connection point with lake Naivasha on 2nd Feb. A bird seen on the road on 5th Feb. Small groups seen in Mida Creek and Garoda beach on 10th Feb.

76. Western cattle egret (Ardea ibis)

Good numbers seen among wild game, including wildebeest and buffalos, in Mpala, Mara North and Maasai Mara NR, on different dates.

77. Great egret (Ardea alba)

Present in good numbers in Naivasha area, where most birds were seen in the connection point between Lake Oloiden and Lake Naivasha on 2nd Feb.

78. Yellow-billed egret (Ardea brachyrhyncha)

Two birds fishing on the lilies of the pier of Lake Oloiden along with a great egret on 2nd Feb.

79. Gray heron (Ardea cinerea)

Some individuals seen in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb. A bird in the pond of Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb. One bird fishing on the tidal pools of Garoda beach in Watamu on 11th Feb.

80. Black-headed heron (Ardea melanocephala)

First seen on arrival at Jomo Kenyatta airport. At least one bird in the lily pond of lake Karura on 26th Jan. A bird sits next to a vervet monkey in a dead tree off the Mara River side in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb. An adult and a juvenile fly over in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

81. Goliath heron (Ardea goliath)

One individual seen in Lake Oloiden at its connection point with Lake Naivasha, on 2nd Feb.

82. African sacred ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus)

Some birds flying over in Nairobi as seen from Jomo Kenyatta airport and from taxi rides across the city. Only one bird in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb. Three distant birds in the mud plains of Mida Creek with oystercatchers on 10th Feb.

83. Hadada ibis (Bostrychia hagedash)

Widespread, seen in different places with a certain moisture level inland Kenya regardless of human presence, including Nairobi, Maasai Mara NR, Mpala campsite, Lake Oloiden and Arabuko Sokoke NP on different dates.

84. Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius)

A very distant bird around the Talek gate of Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb, after vainly trying to find the species in its territories in Laikipia on days before.

85. Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)

Three individuals in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb. A cooperative bird fishing in Garoda beach on 11th Feb provided great looks.

86. Black-winged kite (Elanus caeruleus)

Two birds seen in croplands on the road in Laikipia on 1st Feb.

87. Palm-nut vulture (Gypohierax angolensis)

One adult flying over the mangrove forest in Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

88. European honey-buzzard (Pernis apivorus)

An intermediate morph bird flying over the forest in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

89. Lappet-faced vulture (Torgos tracheliotus)

Several individuals seen flying over our accommodation in Mara North, as well as on game drives in Mara North and Maasai Mara NR on different dates, in some cases quite close.

90. Hooded vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus)

One adult flying over in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

91. White-backed vulture (Gyps africanus)

A bird flying over Lake Oloiden right before entering the boat on 2nd Feb.

92. Rüppell’s griffon (Gyps rueppelli)

Two birds flying over Mpala campsite on 28th Jan.

93. Bateleur (Terathopius ecaudatus)

A juvenile flying over our accommodation in Mara on 4th Feb. At least three pairs seen in flight in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

94. Martial eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus)

Two adults seen on different occasions on the yellow-fever Acacia trees next to the river at Mpala campsite and surroundings. A juvenile bird flies over the path in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

95. Tawny eagle (Aquila rapax)

Quite numerous in Laikipia, where seen daily in Mpala and on the road in and out the area.

96. Steppe eagle (Aquila nipalensis)

One adult flying in the distance during a game drive in Mara North on Feb 5th.

97. African hawk-eagle (Aquila spilogaster)

A single bird flying close, harassed by a martial eagle, around the Mpala campsite on 31st Jan.

98. Lizard buzzard (Kaupifalco monogrammicus)

A bird heard calling in the forest in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

99. Eastern chanting-goshawk (Melierax poliopterus)

A bird flying into a nearby tree at dusk in Mpala plains on 31st Jan.

100. Western marsh harrier (Circus aeruginosus)

At least three different birds spotted in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb.

101. Pallid harrier (Circus macrourus)

We observed birds of different plumages in Mara North and especially Maasai Mara NR on different dates.

102. Montagu’s harrier (Circus pygargus)

Good looks of a male in Maasai Mara NP on 6th Feb.

103. African goshawk (Accipiter tachiro)

A bird flying over in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb, very close to us over the path and holding a prey.

104. Black goshawk (Accipiter melanoleucus)

One individual calling and seen flying in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

105. Yellow-billed kite (Milvus migrans aegyptius)

The most numerous raptor, seen in different habitats in all the visited regions, including urban areas.

106. African fish-eagle (Ichthyophaga vocifer)

Very numerous in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb, where numerous pairs called in their small territories.

107. Steppe buzzard (Buteo buteo vulpinus)

A bird in Karura forest on 26th Jan. A bird flying with an Augur buzzard in Kileleoni on 4th Feb.

108. Augur buzzard (Buteo augur augur)

Good views in different places and dates: Mpala campsite and plains, Mara North and the boundaries of Naivasha Raptor Centre.

109. African barn owl (Tyto alba poensis)

A bird heard continuously overnight from 31st Jan to 1st Feb from our tent in Mpala campsite.

110. Sokoke scops-owl (Otus ireneae)

A pair roosting in the vegetation in Arabuko Sokoke NP forest on 9th Feb, one individual of rufous morph and the other showing gray morph.

111. Grayish eagle-owl (Bubo cinerascens)

One bird seen during a night game drive in Mpala on 29th Jan.

112. Spotted eagle-owl (Bubo africanus)

A bird found during daytime roosting in the foliage of a small tree in Maasai Mara NR, where it is uncommon, on 6th Feb.

113. African wood-owl (Strix woodfordii)

Three birds at roosting site around the headquarters of Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

114. Speckled mousebird (Colius striatus)

Quite common in different places and dates. Groups were seen in Mpala campsite, Wildebeest Eco Camp, Mida Creek and KWSTI.

115. Blue-naped mousebird (Urocolius macrourus)

A group of four birds, including two juveniles, in the shrublands of Mpala on 31st Jan.

116. African hoopoe (Upupa epops africana)

A single bird flies away from the ground in the Naivasha Raptor Center on 2nd Feb.

117. Green woodhoopoe (Phoeniculus purpureus)

Several groups seen in Mpala. A group seen in Sopa Lodge of Naivasha on 2nd Feb.

118. Von der Decken’s hornbill (Tockus deckeni)

Present in Mpala area, where seen daily, even at the campsite.

119. Northern red-billed hornbill (Tockus erythrorhynchus)

Seen daily at Mpala campsite, where it seemed more inquisitive and used to human presence than Von der Decken’s.

120. Malachite kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus)

Two individuals visit the pond in Wildebeest Eco Camp on different days. One bird in flight seen in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb.

121. Striped kingfisher (Halcyon chelicuti)

The only ‘non-aquatic’ kingfisher seen in the trip. A bird sitting on a dead tree in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 6th Feb.

122. Giant kingfisher (Megaceryle maxima)

One bird seen from the pier on Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb.

123. Pied kingfisher (Ceryle rudis)

The most common kingfisher. Good numbers seen fishing in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb and Garoda beach on different dates.

124. White-fronted bee-eater (Merops bullockoides)

Daily seen in the KWSTI Naivasha facilities during our stay. A bird sat in the cables over the Talek gate of Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

125. Little bee-eater (Merops pusillus)

Birds flying on the banks of the Mara River in the wildlife crossing point in Maasai Mara NR, where there is probably a colony, on 6th Feb.

124. Cinnamon-chested bee-eater (Merops oreobates)

Fairly common in Nairobi area, where seen in Wildebeest Eco Camp and surroundings and in open areas of Karura forest on 26th Jan.

127. White-throated bee-eater (Merops albicollis)

Two very distant birds in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb. Five birds in the trees of Garoda beach at dawn on 11th Feb.

128. European bee-eater (Merops apiaster)

Groups were heard as birds flew overhead in different places and dates: Wildebeest Eco Camp, Arabuko Sokoke NP, Mara North and Mida Creek.

129. Lilac-breasted roller (Coracias caudatus)

The national bird of Kenya. Only one bird seen in Mpala plains on 30th Jan. More common around Naivasha, where seen daily. Close up looks in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

130. D’Arnaud’s barbet (Trachyphonus darnaudii)

A distant bird on top of a Euphorbia in Mpala area on 31st Jan.

131. Green barbet (Cryptolybia olivacea)

Several birds were heard and seen in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

132. Green tinkerbird (Pogoniulus simplex)

We managed close looks of one bird in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

133. Yellow-rumped tinkerbird (Pogoniulus bilineatus)

A bird seen in Sopa Lodge in Naivasha on 2nd Feb. Calls heard on several occasions in Mwamba research area in Watamu, where one was briefly seen on 11th Feb.

134. Red-fronted tinkerbird (Pogoniulus pusillus)

Several birds heard in Mwamba research area on different occasions.

135. Spot-flanked barbet (Tricholaema lacrymosa)

Good looks of a bird in Wildebeest Eco Camp on 25th Jan. A cooperative bird provided great photographic opportunities in the garden of accommodation of Kileleoni on 3rd Feb.

136. Lesser honeyguide (Indicator minor)

One bird seen in the vegetation of Mpala campsite on 30th Jan.

137. Cardinal woodpecker (Dendropicos fuscescens)

A female around our tent in Wildebeest Eco Camp on 25th Jan.

138. Mountain gray woodpecker (Dendropicos spodocephalus)

Seen daily at Mpala campsite, where a pair seemed to have set their territory.

139. Nubian woodpecker (Campethera nubica)

One bird late in the afternoon in Mpala plains on 27th Jan.

140. Eurasian kestrel (Falco tinnunculus)

One bird in Mount Mukenya on 29th Jan. Distant kestrels seen in Mpala, North Mara and Maasai Mara NR could not be identified.

141. Gray kestrel (Falco ardosiaceus)

Several individuals seen in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

142. Meyer’s parrot (Poicephalus meyeri)

Two birds seen together in the shrublands of Mpala on 28th Jan.

143. Black cuckooshrike (Campephaga flava)

A female seen in Mpala campsite vegetation on 31st Jan.

144. Eurasian golden oriole (Oriolus oriolus)

Good numbers seen in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

145. African black-headed oriole (Oriolus larvatus)

Seen often among the Acacia trees around Mpala campsite. Quite abundant in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

146. Short-tailed batis (Batis mixta)

A pair seen in the dense understory of Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

147. Chinspot batis (Batis molitor)

Different individuals seen in Wildebeest Eco Camp, Mpala campsite and Naivasha Raptor Center.

148. Pale batis (Batis soror)

A bird seen in a dead tree in the open with a black-backed puffback and an ashy flycatcher in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

149. Chestnut-fronted helmetshrike (Prionops scopifrons)

Several monospecific groups seen in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

150. Black-backed puffback (Dryoscopus cubla)

A male seen in the open on a dry tree in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb. Good looks of a female in Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

151. Zanzibar boubou (Laniarius sublacteus)

Two individuals heard in the thick forest in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

152. Fork-tailed drongo (Dicrurus adsimilis adsimilis)

Good looks of different birds in Mpala on different dates, Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb; Mida Creek on 10th Feb; and Mwamba research area on 11th Feb.

153. African crested flycatcher (Trochocercus cyanomelas)

One individual seen in a mixed-species flock in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

154. African paradise-flycatcher (Terpsiphone viridis)

Good looks of birds in all different plumages, including white-morph and rufous-morph males, throughout our stay in Mpala campsite.

155. Gray-backed fiscal (Lanius excubitoroides)

Fantastic looks of two birds in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

156. Long-tailed fiscal (Lanius cabanisi)

One bird seen from outside the limits of Nairobi NP from the road on 25th Jan.

157. Northern fiscal (Lanius humeralis)

The most abundant shrike, as some were seen from the road throughout our itinerary. Adults fed a juvenile in the garden of our accommodation in Kileleoni throughout our stay.

158. White-rumped shrike (Eurocephalus ruppelli)

Seen on several occasions in Mpala. Four individuals were seen around a tawny eagle with superb starlings on 31st Jan.

159. House crow (Corvus splendens)

An introduced species in Watamu. Seen daily in Mwamba research area and in Watamu town.

160. Cape crow (Corvus capensis)

Two birds on top of a pole on the road past Longonot town towards Nairobi on 3rd Feb.

161. Pied crow (Corvus albus)

Several individuals seen in Nairobi area on different dates. Some birds visited the bomas around our accommodation in Mara early in the mornings.

162. Fan-tailed raven (Corvus rhipidurus)

At least three individuals in Mt Mukenya close to Mpala on 29th Jan.

163. White-bellied tit (Melaniparus albiventris)

A bird near our tent in Wildebeest Eco Camp on 25th Jan. Two birds seen in the morning of 3rd Feb in KWSTI Naivasha.

164. Fischer’s sparrow-lark (Eremopterix leucopareia)

Great looks of some birds in Mpala plains on 29th Jan.

165. Fawn-colored lark (Calendulauda africanoides)

Seen and heard in different points of Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

166. Rufous-naped lark (Corypha africana)

Closeup looks in Mara North on different dates and Maasai Mara NR, where the species is quite common, on 6th Feb. Birds seen in Laikipia might actually be sentinel lark (Corypha athi), a taxon split after the trip.

167. Eastern nicator (Nicator gularis)

Singular, very skulking species heard on 9th Feb in Arabuko Sokoke, where we managed brief looks of one bird.

168. Gray-backed camaroptera (Camaroptera brachyura brevicaudata)

Widespread and seen in many locations and dates throughout the trip. Good looks of territorial birds singing in Mpala campsite.

169. Buff-bellied warbler (Phyllolais pulchella)

Two individuals in the trees of Wildebeest Eco Camp on 25th Jan.

170. Yellow-breasted apalis (Apalis flavida)

Two birds seen in the Naivasha Raptor Center on 2nd Feb.

171. Black-headed apalis (Apalis melanocephala)

One bird in a mixed flock in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

172. Tawny-flanked prinia (Prinia subflava)

Quite common and seen on different dates. Particularly good views in Karura forest and Mpala campsite.

173. Gray-capped warbler (Eminia lepida)

Two birds singing loud and briefly seen skulking in the gardens of Wildebeest Eco Camp on 25th Jan.

174. Red-faced cisticola (Cisticola erythrops)

At least three birds around the lily pond of Karura forest on 26th Jan.

175. Rattling cisticola (Cisticola chiniana)

Quite common, seen in different places and dates inland Kenya. Particularly well seen around Naivasha.

176. Winding cisticola (Cisticola marginatus)

One bird seen in the vegetation of Talek Plains of Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

177. Stout cisticola (Cisticola robustus)

Good looks of one bird in Maasai Mara NR near the Mara river crossing on 6th Feb.

178. Zitting cisticola (Cisticola juncidis)

At least one bird in the grasslands of Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

179. Lesser swamp warbler (Acrocephalus gracilirostris)

Birds heard in the lily pond of Karura forest on 26th Jan.

180. White-headed sawwing (Psalidoprocne albiceps)

One bird flying over a creek in Mara North on 5th Feb. Another bird in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

181. Black sawwing (Psalidoprocne pristoptera)

At least one bird flying over the lily lake of Karura forest on 26th Jan.

182. Plain martin (Riparia paludicola)

Widespread and seen well in Naivasha, Mara North and Maasai Mara NR on different dates.

183. Red-throated rock martin (Ptyonoprogne rufigula)

Several birds were heard and seen in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

184. Barn swallow (Hirundo rustica)

Present in many moist areas and seen on different dates. Especially numerous in Lake Oloiden on 2nd Feb, in big flocks mixed with plain martins.

185. Ethiopian swallow (Hirundo aethiopica)

Good numbers flying over the sea and shore in Garoda beach every day of our stay.

186. Wire-tailed swallow (Hirundo smithii)

Seen in different areas. Fledglings were being fed on top of the tents of Mpala campsite.

187. African red-rumped swallow (Cecropis melanocrissus)

Great views in KSWTI Naivasha in the morning of 3rd Feb. Some red-rumped swallows could belong to the European species (Cecropis daurica).

188. Lesser striped swallow (Cecropis abyssinica)

Widespread and seen on most days. A pair had a nest built under the sink of the toilet at Mpala campsite.

189. Mosque swallow (Cecropis senegalensis)

Four individuals around the tents in Mpala campsite on 30th Jan.

190. Sombre greenbul (Andropadus importunus)

Detected among two mixed flocks in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

191. Slender-billed greenbul (Stelgidillas gracilirostris)

One bird in a mixed flock in Karura forest on 26th Jan.

192. Tiny greenbul (Phyllastrephus debilis)

One individual heard in Arabuko Sokoke NP among a mixed flock on 9th Feb.

193. Fischer’s greenbul (Phyllastrephus fischeri)

Birds spotted in two mixed flocks in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

194.1 Common bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus tricolor)

Very common and widespread inland across Kenya and seen on most dates even in urban gardens.

194.2 Dodson’s bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus dodsoni)

Seen on different days in Mwamba research area and in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 6th Feb.

195. Willow warbler (Phylloscopus trochilus)

Wintering birds seen in Wildebeest Eco Camp on 25th Jan, Mpala campsite on 31st Jan and Naivasha Raptor Center on 2nd Feb.

196. Yellow flycatcher (Erythrocercus holochrous)

A monospecific group and some birds in a mixed flock in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

197. Brown parisoma (Curruca lugens)

A bird in the Acacia trees of Wildebeest Eco Camp on 25th Jan.

198. Kikuyu white-eye (Zosterops kikuyuensis)

The only bird species endemic to Kenya seen in this trip, localized to the central highlands of the country. A bird seen in a flock mixed with greenbuls in Karura forest on 26th Jan.

199. Scaly babbler (Turdoides squamulata)

A bird heard in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb, pointed out by our guide Jonathan.

200. Red-billed oxpecker (Buphagus erythrorhynchus)

Seen on many occasions, associated to big herbivore mammals, in all visited places inland Kenya. A group associated to the cattle of the bomas next to our accommodation in Mara sat on the roof and twigs in the garden on occasions.

201. Wattled starling (Creatophora cinerea)

About a dozen on the road before Thomson Falls on 1st Feb. A juvenile bird in the bomas next to our accommodation on 5th Feb.

202. Red-winged starling (Onychognathus morio)

The only two birds seen were spotted right on arrival at Jomo Kenyatta airport on 25th Jan.

203. Black-bellied starling (Notopholia corusca)

Several birds seen in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

204. Hildebrandt’s starling (Lamprotornis hildebrandti)

Quite common in Mpala, where seen almost every day. Also seen in the Talek gate of Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

205. Rüppell’s starling (Lamprotornis purpuroptera)

Fledglings exploring their surroundings and being fed by their parents in Mpala campsite provided great looks throughout our stay.

206. Superb starling (Lamprotornis superbus)

Widespread. Good numbers seen every day in all kinds of habitats, including urban areas.

207. Greater blue-eared starling (Lamprotornis chalybaeus)

Groups on top of the Acacia trees on the river in the Mpala campsite several days. Also seen in the Naivasha Raptor Center on 2nd Feb and the garden of Kileleoni on 5th Feb.

208. Abyssinian thrush (Turdus abyssinicus)

Seen daily in Wildebeest Eco Camp and also in Karura forest on 26th Jan.

209. African dusky flycatcher (Muscicapa adusta)

Two birds in Karura forest on 26th Jan.

210. Spotted flycatcher (Muscicapa striata)

Two birds seen in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

210. African gray flycatcher (Bradornis microrhynchus)

Particularly common in KWSTI Naivasha gardens, where several pairs fed their fledglings throughout our stay. Another family group seen in Mpala on 28th Jan.

212. Ashy flycatcher (Fraseria caerulescens)

Several birds found in different points of Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

213. Silverbird (Melaenornis semipartitus)

A bird on a twig seen on the road between Mara North and Talek on 5th Feb.

214. Southern black-flycatcher (Melaenornis pammelaina)

Great views of a couple seen daily in the vegetation of the Mpala campsite.

215. White-eyed slaty-flycatcher (Melaenornis fischeri)

Individuals seen in Wildebeest Eco Camp on 25th Jan; Karura forest on 26th Jan; and Sopa Lodge on 2nd Feb.

216. Red-backed scrub-robin (Cercotrichas leucophrys)

Few individuals in the shrublands of Mpala on different dates.

217. Cape robin-chat (Dessonornis caffer)

A pair seen close to the restaurant of Wildebeest Eco Camp on different dates.

218. Rüppell’s robin-chat (Cossypha semirufa)

A pair skulking in a densely vegetated area of the garden of Wildebeest Eco Camp seen on different dates.

219. White-browed robin-chat (Cossypha heuglini)

A bird seen in Sopa Lodge in Naivasha on 2nd Feb.

220. Spotted morning-thrush (Cichladusa guttata)

Rather shy, seen at few occasions in Mpala campsite on different days.

221. Rufous-tailed rock-thrush (Monticola saxatilis)

Some pairs at the top of Mt Mukenya on 29th Jan. A male seen in the Mpala plains on 30th Jan.

222. Northern anteater-chat (Myrmecocichla aethiops)

One bird seen in the shore of Lake Oloiden and another one in Naivasha Raptor Center, both on 2nd Feb.

223. Northern wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe)

A numerous winter visitor, seen in especially good numbers in Mpala plains on different dates.

224. Capped wheatear (Oenanthe pileata)

Sporadic males spotted on the road between Mara North and Talek on 6th Feb.

225. Pied wheatear (Oenanthe pleschanka)

Some wintering birds spotted in the Mpala plains on different days.

226. Plain-backed sunbird (Anthreptes reichenowi)

One bird in a mixed-species flock in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

227. Collared sunbird (Hedydipna collaris)

Despite being widespread, we only got good views in Arabuko Sokoke NP and Mwamba research area on the last days of the trip.

228. Amani sunbird (Hedydipna pallidigaster)

A male and a female of this localized endemic seen together close to some collared sunbirds in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

229. Olive sunbird (Cyanomitra olivacea)

Seen in at least two mixed flocks in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb. Views of lone birds in Mwamba research area on 11th Feb.

230. Amethyst sunbird (Chalcomitra amethystina)

Several birds in the garden on Wildebeest Eco Camp on different days. A male early in the morning between Garoda beach and Mwamba research area on 11th Feb.

231. Scarlet-chested sunbird (Chalcomitra senegalensis)

Found almost every day in Wildebeest Eco Camp among the trees. A bird roosting at night in the garden of our accommodation in Mara on 4th Feb.

232. Bronze sunbird (Nectarinia kilimensis)

Widespread inland in Kenya and seen on different locations and dates. Especially common in Wildebeest Eco Camp, where good numbers visited the flowers in the garden daily.

233. Northern double-collared sunbird (Cinnyris reichenowi)

Stunning views of several males in the gardens of Wildebeest Eco Camp on all days.

234. Marico sunbird (Cinnyris mariquensis)

A male seen in Mpala plains on 31st Jan.

235. Variable sunbird (Cinnyris venustus)

Quite common in Wildebeest Eco Camp, where good numbers were seen every day in the gardens.

236. Speckle-fronted weaver (Sporopipes frontalis)

Good numbers locally in the scrub of the Mpala airstrip on all days visiting the area.

237. White-browed social-weaver (Plocepasser mahali)

Widespread and very common in different locations. Breeding groups in Wildebeest Eco Camp and Mpala campsite.

238. Gray-headed social-weaver (Pseudonigrita arnaudi)

Flock of about a dozen of birds in the Mpala plains on 31st Jan.

239. Red-headed weaver (Anaplectes rubriceps)

A bird in the Mpala campsite Acacia trees on 30th Jan.

240. Baglafecht weaver (Ploceus baglafecht)

The most widespread weaver. Seen almost every day on different locations.

241. Spectacled weaver (Ploceus ocularis)

Some pairs built their nests on the trees around the pond at Wildebeest Eco Camp. Two birds in Karura forest on 25th Jan.

242. Golden palm weaver (Ploceus bojeri)

A male early in the morning on 11th Jan on the vegetation between Garoda beach and Mwamba research area.

243. Lesser masked-weaver (Ploceus intermedius)

A big flock in Mpala plains during a game drive on 29th Jan.

244. Vitelline masked-weaver (Ploceus vitellinus)

Little numbers seen in the Mpala campsite on different dates.

245. Speke’s weaver (Ploceus spekei)

Different birds nesting on the trees at he gate of an elephant-fenced facility visited on 1st Feb.

246. Village weaver (Ploceus cucullatus)

Good numbers in Mara North and Thomson Falls.

247. Dark-backed weaver (Ploceus bicolor)

A male seen close to a mixed flock in Arabuko Sokoke NP, where a nest was also found, on 9th Feb.

248. White-winged widowbird (Euplectes albonotatus)

A male seen in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

249. Fan-tailed widowbird (Euplectes axillaris)

Fairly common across the grass-covered plains of Maasai Mara NR.

250. Jackson’s widowbird (Euplectes jacksoni)

Two males in different spots on a grassland in North Mara on 5th Feb.

251. Grosbeak weaver (Amblyospiza albifrons)

A pair and fledglings seen daily in the pond of Wildebeest Eco Camp.

252. Bronze mannikin (Spermestes cucullata)

A group of about a dozen birds in the vegetation of Garoda beach on 11th Feb.

253. Black-and-white mannikin (Spermestes bicolor)

Brief views of a bird in the open area of Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

254. Common waxbill (Estrilda astrild)

A numerous group with mostly young birds seen every day in the vegetation on the riverbank next to our tent in Mara campsite.

255. Crimson-rumped waxbill (Estrilda rhodopyga)

Seen in the vegetation along the river in Mpala campsite on 28th Jan.

256. Cut-throat (Amadina fasciata)

Three birds hidden in an Acacia tree in the plains of Mpala on 27th Jan.

257. Purple grenadier (Granatina ianthinogaster)

Amazing views in the gardens of KWSTI Naivasha and our accommodation in Mara North.

258. Red-cheeked cordonbleu (Uraeginthus bengalus)

Birds seen in the roadside between Mara North and Talek and in Maasai Mara NR.

259. Red-billed firefinch (Lagonosticta senegala)

Small groups foraged on several occasions in the vegetation of Mpala campsite.

260. Pin-tailed whydah (Vidua macroura)

Displaying males in the grasslands of Mara North provided a fantastic show on different days.

261. Straw-tailed whydah (Vidua fischeri)

A male in the Mpala plains on 29th Jan. Displaying males and females seen on the road between Talek and Mara North on 5th and 6th Feb.

262. Village indigobird (Vidua chalybeata)

A numerous group of moulting birds in the shrubs of Mpala campsite.. on 31st Jan.

263. House sparrow (Passer domesticus)

Introduced in Kenya. Some birds in the pier of Lake Oloiden on 2nd. Feb. A group seen in Garoda beach on 8th Feb.

264. Kenya rufous sparrow (Passer rufocinctus)

Some groups were seen on different.. dates in Mpala plains, KWSTI Naivasha and Lake Oloiden.

265. Northern gray sparrow (Passer griseus)

Low numbers but good looks in KWSTI Naivasha, our accommodation in Mara and Maasai Mara NR.

266. Yellow-spotted bush sparrow (Gymnoris pyrgita)

A group seen in the Mpala plains on 30th Jan.

267. Mountain wagtail (Motacilla clara)

Two birds really well seen in the waterfalls of Karura forest on 26th Jan.

268. Western yellow wagtail (Motacilla flava)

Some birds seen in the bomas next to our accommodation in Mara among the cattle on 5th Feb.

269. African pied wagtail (Motacilla aguimp)

Widespread, seen in Nairobi and Naivasha areas almost daily. One bird in the bomas of Mara on 5th Feb.

270. Plain-backed pipit (Anthus leucophrys)

Good looks of different birds during game drives in Mara North and Maasai Mara NR.

271. White-bellied canary (Crithagra dorsostriata)

Good numbers in Mpala plains.

272. Brimstone canary (Crithagra sulphurata)

Good looks of birds in KWSTI Naivasha gardens on several days.

273. Streaky seedeater (Crithagra striolata)

Seen daily in the gardens of KWSTI Naivasha. One bird feeding on fruits on top of a tree in the escarpment on 7th Feb.

274. Golden-breasted bunting (Emberiza flaviventris)

A distant bird in Karura forest lily lake on 26th Jan. Terrific views of a bird in our accommodation of Mara on 3rd Feb.

Mammals

1. Lion (Panthera leo melanochaita)

A group surrounds our car at night on the road to Mpala campsite on 29th Jan. A big group of about 18 rests under a tree in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb, where a couple was seen later.

2. Spotted hyaena (Crocuta crocuta)

Seen and heard on different nights, including in a hyena calling station in Mpala, in our accommodation in Mara and in Mpala campsite. Up to three different individuals seen in Maasai Mara NR on daylight, one of them sleeping in the grass.

3. Striped hyaena (Hyaena hyaena)

Seen in the hyaena calling station in Mpala on 28th Jan. Some individuals came to feed on a goat carcass we installed in Mpala and fought with spotted hyaenas.

4. White-tailed mongoose (Ichneumia albicauda)

Seen by some on different dates. I managed good views during a night game drive on 4th Feb in North Mara.

5. Banded mongoose (Mungos mungo)

A group of five seen on the road close Talek on 6th Feb.

6. Black-backed jackal (Lupulella mesomelas)

Quite abundant and seen on different occasions in Mpala and Mara in the open on daylight.

7. African wild dog (Lycaon pictus)

One of the highlights of the trip. After following them for days, we managed terrific views of a pod in Mpala on 31st Jan. An individual visited the goat carcass near our accommodation in Mpala.

8. Bat-eared fox (Otocyon megalotis)

Seen during a night game drive in Mpala on 30th Jan. Two seen at sunset in Mpala the day later.

9. Rock hyrax (Procavia capensis)

Seen in the slopes of Mt Mukenya on 29th Jan.

10. Bush hyrax (Heterohyrax brucei)

Seen almost daily in Mpala by all the group, as some individuals rested in the rock fence of Mpala headquarters.

11. Savanna elephant (Loxodonta africana)

Several groups seen day and night in Mpala and Mara. In Maasai Mara NR, some groups were very numerous. A male made us ran away from it as it crossed the road close to us in Arabuko Sokoke NP, where it remains in low numbers.

12. Grant’s zebra (Equus quagga boehmi)

Quite widespread. Groups seen all over Laikipia, Nakuru and Tarok counties.

13. Grévy’s zebra (Equus grevyi)

Very scarce and endangered, endemic to central Kenya and Ethiopia. Some groups seen in Mpala. One individual came close to the campsite on 28th Jan.

14. Common warthog (Phacochoerus africanus)

Abundant and seen (almost) daily inland. Good numbers in KWSTI Naivasha, where used to people.

15. Common hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius)

First two individuals seen out of the water during a night game drive in Mpala, where extensive footprint trails had been found prior to it. Numerous in Lake Oloiden, where it has a conflictive relationship with the human community of the lake. Also seen in Mara River.

16. African buffalo (Syncerus caffer caffer)

A very large group far in the distance seen from Mt Kileleoni on 4th Feb. Closer looks in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

17. Common eland (Tragelaphus oryx)

Good views of cows resting in KWSTI Naivasha and of some groups seen in Mara North and Maasai Mara NR.

18. Greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros)

A group came close to Mpala campsite on 30th Jan.

19. Suni (Nesotragus moschatus)

Some individuals seen in Karura forest on 26th Jan and in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

20. Harvey’s duiker (Cephalophus harveyi)

Some individuals observed in Karura forest on 26th Jan.

21. Impala (Aepyceros melampus melampus)

Very numerous and seen almost every day inland.

22. Gerenuk (Litocranius walleri)

Exciting views of a group of four on the road to Lekiji in Mpala on 29th Jan.

23. Grant’s gazelle (Nanger granti)

Numerous in Mpala, Naivasha and Mara area, where seen on many days.

24. Thomson’s gazelle (Eudorcas thomsonii)

Good numbers seen all over the trip, perhaps especially in Mara area.

25. Günther’s dik-dik (Madoqua guentheri)

Small groups among our tents seen daily in Mpala campsite. Abundant in Mpala area.

26. Cavendish’s dik-dik (Madoqua kirkii cavendishi)

Few individuals seen in Mara North. Also present in Naivasha area.

27. Waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus)

Numerous in Lake Oloiden and Naivasha area. Also seen on different occasions in Mara area.

28. East African oryx (Oryx beisa)

A group seen in Mpala plains close to giraffes, ostriches and plains zebras on 29th Jan.

29. Kongoni (Alcelaphus buselaphus cokii)

Close up looks of some individuals in Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

30. Topi (Damaliscus lunatus jimela)

Seen daily in low numbers in Mara North, more numerous inside Maasai Mara NR on 6th Feb.

31. Common wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus)

Sedentary individuals with calves in Mara seen on all days of our stay in the area.

32. Reticulated giraffe (Giraffa reticulata)

Seen daily on our stay in Laikipia, providing amazing views.

33. Maasai giraffe (Giraffa tippelskirchi)

Present in the Naivasha and Mara North areas, on different occasions.

34. Northern lesser galago (Galago senegalensis)

Seen almost every night in the Mpala campsite, obtaining great looks around the toilet bushes at night.

35. Olive baboon (Papio anubis)

Groups seen in many of the places visited inland of Kenya. Subject of the conflict Aina and I have observed, involving crop raiding organized by their troops.

36. Vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus)

Widespread inland and seen almost daily in most visited areas.

37. Blue monkey (Cercopithecus mitis kolbi)

One individual seen in Wildebeest Eco Camp on 25th Jan.

38. Sykes’s monkey (Cercopithecus [mitis] albogularis)

Very numerous in Mwamba research area, seen daily around our tent.

39. Mantled guereza (Colobus guereza)

A group seen on very tall trees from Sopa Lodge in Naivasha on 2nd Feb.

40. African savanna hare (Lepus victoriae)

Seen during night game drives in Mpala and Mara North.

41. Cape hare (Lepus capensis)

Detected mostly early in the morning and before dusk in Mpala area. Also found in trail camera footage.

42. Eastern springhare (Pedetes surdaster)

Good numbers in the Mpala plains at night during a game drive in Mara North on 4th Feb.

43. Striped ground squirrel (Euxerus erythropus)

Seen daily by some group members in the Mpala campsite. I only managed brief looks on 31st Jan.

44. Red bush squirrel (Paraxerus palliatus)

Great looks at some individuals in Arabuko Sokoke NP on 9th Feb.

45. Golden-rumped sengi (Rhynchocyon chrysopygus)

Endemic to Arabuko Sokoke NP and few other coastal forest patches. Several individuals seen throughout the day on 9th Feb.

46. Yellow-winged bat (Lavia frons)

The only confidently identified bat species. Two individuals around the toilets of Mpala campsite on 27th Jan at night.

Reptiles

1. Helmeted terrapin (Pelomedusa subrufa)

Several individuals most likely belonging to this species seen in a puddle in Mara North on 4th Feb.

2. Nile monitor (Varanus niloticus)

An individual seen from Mpala campsite in the river vegetation on 28th Jan. Monitors visited the area next to our tent in Mwamba research area.

3. Common house gecko (Hemidactylus mabouia)

Fairly abundant in Mpala campsite, Nairobi and Watamu, where seen on different buildings during different nights.

4. Kenya dwarf gecko (Lygodactylus keniensis)

Two geckos in the electric installation for the elephant gate we visited in Laikipia on 1st Feb.

5. White-headed dwarf gecko (Lygodactylus mombasicus)

Quite abundant in the facilities of Mwamba research area, where seen daily.
A gecko in the boardwalk of Mida Creek on 10th Feb.

6. Kenyan rock agama (Agama lionotus)

Briefly seen on the road driving around Mpala on several days.

7. Mwanza flat-headed rock agama (Agama mwanzae)

Several lizards seen on the road between Talek and Mara North.

8. Jackson’s chameleon (Trioceros jacksonii)

A male and a pregnant female resting during several nights in a bush of Wildebeest Eco Camp gardens.

9. Jackson’s forest lizard (Adolfus kibonotensis)

Lizards seen in Wildebees Eco Camp and in Karura forest.

10. African striped skink (Trachylepis striata)

Quite abundant in the gardens of Wildebeest Eco Camp.

11. Spotted bush snake (Philothamnus semivariegatus)

A beautiful snake in the grass around our accommodation in Mara on 5th Feb.

12. Sudanese sand snake (Psammophis sudanensis)

Two snakes mating in the Mpala campsite on 28th Jan.

13. Plumbeous centipede-eater (Aparallactus lunulatus)

An individual seen as we hiked up Mt Mukenya on 29th Jan.

14. Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus)

Few individuals seen in the river crossing of Maasai Mara NR.

Amphibians

1. African common toad (Sclerophrys gutturalis)

A big individual in Wildebeest Eco Camp on 26th January at night. Toads seen in Mara (genus Sclerophrys) could not be identified to species level.

2. Anchieta’s ridged frog (Ptychadena anchietae)

A frog in Wildebeest Eco Camp during the day in Wildebeest Eco Camp on 26th January. Despite frogs being abundant, this is the only confidently identified species.