Introduction

Abyssinian Roller Coracias abyssinicus
Tanji and Bijol Islands Reserve, The Gambia
Photo: Ian Nason

A combination of a good tourist infrastructure, travel connections and knowledgeable people make The Gambia one of the primary birdwatching destinations in Africa. With a checklist of over 500 species and readily accessible sites, this small country offers a great introduction to African birding as well as retaining its appeal for those who have visited the country on previous occasions.

The purpose of this document is to provide a summary of The Gambia 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.

These pages have undergone a major revision in January 2008 by incorporating information from the Gambia Birding Group.The Gambia Birding Group is a not for profit organisation which: provides information about practical aspects of visiting The Gambia for wildlife trips and about birding throughout The Gambia; supports conservation for wildlife; provides contact points for birders and naturalists visiting The Gambia. Because of falling membership, the Gambia Birding Group is unable to remain a cost effective organisation, is being wound up and its assets transferred to the African Bird Club but you can still visit its website at Gambiabirding for the foreseeable future.

Last page update 8th January 2008