For a raptor enthusiast, northern Tanzania is exceptional. Open country, big thermals, plenty of prey and a steady flow of migrants mean you can see a dozen species of birds of prey in a single morning.
Eagles
Tawny Eagle and Bateleur are seen almost daily in the savanna parks, the Bateleur tilting from side to side on its short tail. Martial Eagle, Africa’s largest eagle, hunts the Serengeti and Tarangire. In the forest of Arusha National Park, African Crowned Eagles hunt monkeys. Long-crested Eagles sit on roadside poles near farmland.
Vultures
White-backed, Rüppell’s, Lappet-faced and Hooded Vultures gather at kills in the Serengeti. Many African vultures are now endangered, so every sighting matters.
Harriers and migrants
From November to March, Pallid and Montagu’s Harriers from Europe and Asia hunt low over the grasslands, especially on the Lark Plains and the Serengeti. Steppe Eagles and Lesser Kestrels also arrive, sometimes in big numbers.
Small raptors
Pygmy Falcon, the smallest raptor in Africa, lives around buffalo-weaver nests in dry country. Gabar Goshawk, Shikra and African Harrier-Hawk are common in woodland.
Where to go
The Lark Plains and Arusha National Park make an excellent short raptor trip. The Serengeti adds the big eagles and vultures. The 2-day birding tour is where our guest saw 22 species.
Your questions answered
When is the best season for raptors?
November to March, when the Palearctic migrants arrive.
Do I need a telescope?
It helps but isn’t essential. Good binoculars are enough for most sightings.
Are vultures still common?
They’re still seen daily in the Serengeti, but numbers are falling across Africa.
