Birds of Marakele National Park

Vital information for the avid bird watcher.

Marakele plays host to one of the world's largest colonies of the endangered Cape vulture. Somewhat 800 breeding pairs nest on the Kransberg mountain cliffs and groups of them may be seen in the air. Besides the Cape Vultures, the park offers a perfect oppurtunity for ticking off many other raptors riding the thermals generated by the Waterberg Cliffs. Marakele has more than 280 bird species on record with some of the most sought-after birds for every bird watcher. Migratory birds are present from November to April.

Best time for bird watching

In order to maximize bird watching opportunities it would be best to visit Marakele during the migrant season, which occurs from November to April. There isn't however a bad time of year to visit the park, since bird watching is very good throughout the year. June to September are however the best months for observing wildlife other than the bird species.

Best parks for Birding

Marakele is great for general birding, while Marataba situated in park is a real birding hotspot, offering almost as many species in a much smaller area with an incredible number of specials. The Waterberg cliffs are also is well-known for its vultures.

Notable Birds

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Cape Vulture

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Little Bee-Eater

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Black Crake

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African Harrier Hawk

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Jackal Buzzard

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Mocking Cliff-Chat