Introduction

Botswana Chobe River
Photo: Claire Spottiswoode

With a good tourist infrastructure, friendly people and over 500 regularly occurring species, Botswana offers many opportunities for the birdwatcher. It also contains the Okavango delta, one of the jewels of Africa and home to an amazing variety of wildlife. Birdwatching however, can start in and around the capital, Gaborone.

Formerly the British protectorate of Bechuanaland, Botswana adopted its new name upon independence in 1966. Following a long period of political stability and capital investment, it has one of the most successful economies in Africa and one of the world’s highest growth rates. It also has one of the highest known rates of HIV/AIDS infection, as well as a progressive and comprehensive programme for dealing with the disease.

The purpose of this document is to provide a summary of Botswana and its birds for birders interested in the country and potentially planning a visit. The information has been put together from a number of sources and it is intended to add new information as it becomes available. As such, readers are welcome to submit contributions by e-mail to info@africanbirdclub.org. You should note that the names of birds used in this document are those of the African Bird Club Checklist.