10. The Rift Valley Lakes, KenyaFor the birds: A chain of alkaline lakes, supporting blue-green algae on which huge flocks of flamingo feed.>/p>
For the birders: Lake Nakuru has probably done more than any other place to promote birding in Africa. It is possible to see up to 1,400,000 lesser flamingos here, along with 9000 greater flamingos and other species such as sacred ibis and African fish eagle. Steaming Lake Bogoria has another flock of flamingos, while Lake Baringo offers a superb opportunity to stroll around the lakeshore and through woodland and savannah where numerous species can be seen, including Hemprich's and Jackson's hornbills. Bird BrainFour ways to improve your birding skills:
Make sure you have a good bird identification guide. There are numerous books available, all with excellent illustrations. To find the best guide for your destination, go to www.nhbs.com
Swot up on bird calls by listening to one of the many CDs and cassettes on the market ( www.wildsounds.com ). Using these recordings to attract a bird to you should only be undertaken in moderation to avoid unnecessary disturbance. Use local bird guides to show you around. In many African countries there are local birdwatchers who will help you to find birds. Take a look at www.birdingpal.com
Allow plenty of time! There are many places where you can see 100 species before breakfast - but be prepared to wait much longer for those 'hard-to-see forest skulkers'. Copyright © 2004 Travel Africa Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the permission of the author is prohibited. | 
